Ra Residence | The Reasons to Choose Serviced Apartment

Have you just discovered the all time worst kept secrets of the hospitality industry? Not only is staying in a serviced apartment less expensive, it provides you with more space, more privacy, and more freedom than staying in a hotel room! But what is it - “a serviced apartment”?

Indeed the name varies between different countries, between different languages and even within the same language, moreover,  the services provided also vary, blurring product descriptions and concepts. This lack of clarity is challenging for the industry because clients might be misled in their expectations of the level of services.

The present article aims at bringing clarity and at conveying to clients what they have as a right to expect from serviced apartments in comparison to hotel rooms. The term ‘serviced apartment’ is traditionally used to describe an apartment alternative to hotel stamping accommodation  for short/long stay leisure or business travelers.

Ra Residence | Serviced Apartment Trend for 2016

Visit www.raresidence.com for your option to stay in Jakarta! 

 

With the last 12 months being an exceptional year of growth, Piers Brown looks at his top 6 serviced apartment trends for 2016.

1. Step up from insularity

A major travel buyer recently said the sector is "very good at talking to each other, but not so good at talking to the people who want to use its services" - a worrying reflection on how serviced apartments are perceived in some important parts of the distribution chain.

With the UK serviced apartment sector predicted to double in size within two years by Savills, expect growth in new entrants, company takeovers, an influx of media coverage, fresh accreditation schemes, new trade association attention, and industry awards to recognise best practice and achievement. With the inevitable increase in competition from new incumbents, expect to see a more transparent, broad - minded and unbiased approach from sector stalwarts (at risk of being left behind) to drive the industry forward.

Ra Residence | Happy Chinese New Year 2016!

Chinese New Year marks the first day of the New Year in the Chinese calendar, which differs from the Gregorian calendar. It is also known as the Spring Festival or the Lunar New Year. Every year is represented by a zodiac animal sign. 

 

What Do People Do?

Chinese New Year is the most important and longest of all Chinese festivals, celebrated in Chinese communities worldwide. Chinese New Year activities include: making offerings to household deities, wearing new clothes, particularly in red, hosting a large banquet for family and friends and taking part in lion and dragon dances, as well as festive parades featuring acrobatic demonstrations, beating gongs, and clashing cymbal. 

Ra Residence | Welcome to Modern City Jakarta!

Home to over 10 million people, Jakarta is a city of contrasts; the traditional and the modern, the sacred and the worldly. Its population comprises of all ethnic groups in the Indonesian archipelago, living under the national motto: Bhineka Tunggal Ika, meaning:  Unity in Diversity.

Spanning an area of 661 square kilometers (255 sq mi) Jakarta is one of the world's largest cities. Capital of the Republic of Indonesia, Jakarta is an autonomous province consisting of five municipalities, namely : Central Jakarta, North, West, East and South Jakarta and the District of Pulau Seribu or the Thousand Islands.

Ra Residence | Useful Tips: Do's and Don'ts in Jakarta

Jakarta, the capital city of the Republic of Indonesia, is a special territory enjoying the status of a province, consisting of Greater Jakarta, covering an area of 637.44 square km. Located on the northern coast of West Java, it is the center of government, commerce and industry and as such has an extensive communications network with the rest of the country and the outside world. As Indonesia's main gateway, the Soekarno-Hatta International Airport serves a growing number of international airlines and domestic flights. Jakarta is a city of contrasts; the traditional and the modern, the rich and the poor, the sacral and the worldly, often stand side by side in this bustling metropolis. Even its population, gathered from all those diverse ethnic and cultural groups which compose Indonesia, are constantly juxtaposed as an ever- present reminder of the national motto; Unity in Diversity.

Ra Residence | Business Traveler Info: Health and Safety in Jakarta

Dehydration and Sunburn
The sun is strong throughout the year in the country. Proper care against sunburn must be constantly taken. Dehydration and loss of salt through perspiration are two other common problems for the unprepared traveller. Drink plenty of fluids and replace your salt loss and remember that alcoholic drinks make dehydration worse, not better. Make sure you pack suitable clothes for a warm humid climate.

Mosquitoes
Due to the constant humid climate, mosquitoes tend to be present throughout the year. The three most significant diseases transmitted by mosquitoes is Dengue Fever. To repel mosquitoes, ticks and other arthropods, apply an insect repellent containing DEET to your skin or clothing.

Demand for Serviced Apartments Outstripping Supply, Says New Report

4th edition of Global Serviced Apartments Industry Report published

Demand for serviced apartments is growing faster than new supply is coming on-stream, as an increasingly-mobile global workforce drives business travel and relocation activity. But whilst global apartment brands are expanding into new and emerging economies and new sub-brands are launched, the industry is no nearer the levels of standardisation in product and distribution required by corporates.

These are just two of the findings in the fourth edition of the Global Serviced Apartments Industry Report, published by Travel Intelligence Network for The Apartment Service, which includes the findings of a new survey conducted amongst corporates, TMCs and apartment operators, as well as an overview of global supply and demand trends and individual regional reports.

10 Reasons To Stay in Serviced Apartments

Serviced apartments are fast becoming a popular choice for leisure and business travellers in London and major cities around the UK. If you're looking for a place to live rather than just sleep, they're the ideal accommodation solution. But what does a serviced apartment stay include and what are the benefits?

24-hour concierge

Service by name, service by nature... and most serviced apartments provide 24-hour concierge service. Assisting guests with individual travel and social arrangements, each concierge is a master of organisation. Armed with inside knowledge of the local area and its transport links, delivery services, theatre showings and restaurants, these stress-busting wizards help make your stay something really special.

Expatriates Community Organization in Indonesia

Below is a listing of expatriate community organizations, associations, clubs and country-based societies (click for the link):

Adoptive Families of Indonesia

Al-Anon

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)

American Chamber of Commerce in Indonesia (AmCham)

American Women's Association of Indonesia (AWA)

ASEAN Women's Circle of Jakarta

Asociacion Iberoamericana

Australian & New Zealand Association (ANZA)

Belgium & Luxembourg Indonesia Club

Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts

Bridge Groups

Tips for Moving Abroad With Your Family

Visit www.raresidence.com for your option to stay in Jakarta! 

Turn relocating abroad into a positive experience for your family with these tips for making an international move with children 

We all know that moving abroad can be a stressful experience on its own – and even more so when family is added into the mix. An international relocation itself requires lengthy planning, preparation and effort – but what about preparing your family for such a big change?

Moving can be a traumatic experience for any family, regardless of the reason for the move, be it a positive one or a serious change in circumstance. Moving almost always means leaving something behind, whether memories, loved ones, family or friends. Our tips can help you ensure your moving experience is a positive one, allowing your family to focus on making new memories in their new home.

Preparing your children for the move

Whatever stage of the moving process you’re in, it can be particularly emotional and distressing for children in the family – particularly younger kids, who may feel confused by the big change. Adults tend to focus on the practicalities of the move, whereas children are more likely to see the losses that moving will bring. Each family is different, some children may take the move in their stride and even be excited about the big day, while others may be worried about changing schools or making new friends. 

Expat Guide | Jakarta Entertainment

Jakarta’s entertainment is mostly centered around malls. The nightlife is surprisingly lively. Drinks for two are around Rp. 100.000 – 200.000 (around USD 10 – 20) and to enter a club you have to rake out another Rp. 80.000 – 100.000 (around USD 8 – 10) per person.

The cinemas here are also mostly located in malls. Watching movies in Jakarta is a very cheap way to keep yourself occupied, at only Rp. 15.000 (around USD 1.5) on weekdays and Rp. 35.000 (around USD 3.5) on Fridays and weekends. State of the art, plush Blitz Megaplex offers comfy seats, big screens, surround sound and some English subtitled films.

Concerts are also a popular passtime. Over the years, many music promoters have succeeded in bringing international artists to perform in Jakarta. The ticket price for attending a music concerts varies depending on the artist performing. It can range from reasonable Rp. 300.000 – 700.000 (around USD 30 – 70) to over the top at Rp. 700.000 – Rp. 2.000.000 (around USD 70 – 200).

Ra Residence | Why Staying in Serviced Apartment?

Here are some reasons why discerning executives and travellers preferrably stay in serviced apartments rather than in hotels! It has become more popular to stay in serviced apartments instead of hotels among expatriates who expect more personal services, and family travellers who prefer to stay in a two or three-bedroom apartment with a kitchen rather than connecting rooms. Serviced apartments are furnished apartments with amenities such as kitchen, bathroom, living room, and bedrooms that are rented out for either short-term or long-term stays.

Cost effectiveness of Serviced Apartments

Serviced Apartments offer competitive rates that generally reduce according to the length of your stay. Hotels charge for single or double occupancy, whereas serviced apartments charge per apartment. For example if you booked a one-bedroom apartment which can accommodate up to 2 people, you pay the same whether it is for 1 person or 2 persons. In addition, you can avoid pricy hotel breakfasts and room services by cooking for yourself using the apartment's kitchen and dining facilities. The cost effectiveness of serviced apartments is making them second home for expatriates and business executives on the move.

Jakarta | The Multicultural City

In Jakarta, local culture, Betawi, fuse with European, Indian, Chinese, and Arab influences. In the 4th century AD, Jakarta, then named Sunda Kelapa, was already known as a busy port of the Hindu Pajajaran kingdom where were settlements of traders from China, India and Arabia, as well as of ethnic groups from the many islands in the Indonesian archipelago who came to trade predominantly in pepper. During the European Age of Discovery in quest of the Spice Islands, the first Portuguese vessel anchored here in 1522 and carried home a large cargo of precious pepper.

Ra Residence | Expat Guide: Working in the Capital City

Are you thinking of working in Jakarta, also known as the “Big Durian” or “Big Apple”? Indonesia’s capital and largest city, as well as its economic and political center, has plenty of job opportunities. Our guide on working in Jakarta provides info on the economy, visas and health.

As is common for many megacities, Jakarta encompasses all walks of life from wealth to poverty. Although most people employed in Jakarta’s center and its skyscrapers are well off, the other side of the coin is a wide strip of slum landscape surrounding the city. When living and working in Jakarta, you need to be able to deal with such extremes. Working in Jakarta will, like any move to a foreign city, have its ups and downs.

Jakarta: Economic Overview

Much of the economy in Indonesia is dependent on government funding. Expatriates looking for a job in Jakarta will have more luck in the service sector, or the financial, banking and trading sectors. Jakarta is home to the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX), which has a significant influence on global markets.

Ra Residence | Expat Guide: Choosing a Preschools in Indonesia

Within large cities in Indonesia you will find a wide variety of preschool options for your young children. From informal play groups with friends, to neighborhood kindergartens (taman kanak-kanak or TK), to international standard preschools - your needs will be met.

Some preschools organize Moms and Tots programs for 1-2 year olds who are preparing to enter a preschool program. There are also many extracurricular activities, including physical play, music, art and other social opportunities for young children which are organized by community organizations or through commercial entities.

What's most important is to find the preschool experience that you feel is most appropriate for your child. If you are looking for a more Asian academic setting to prepare for elementary school or an open experience and creative play orientation, there is a school that will match your requirements.

Ra Residence | Expat Guide: Shopping in Jakarta

Shopping can be seen as a national sport for Indonesians, both honorary and native. The immense variety of shopping malls, markets and boutiques makes Jakarta a shopper’s paradise. Like most countries in Asia, Jakarta boasts extravagant world-class malls with designer stores galore, as well as smaller local designer boutiques. Renowned designers and interior decorators often visit Jakarta and showcase their latest creations both at runway shows and special exhibitions at the many malls around the city. 

Malls in Jakarta

Visiting shopping malls is a central activity in the lives of many Jakartans. Malls provide an escape from the heat, humidity and rain, and the many entertainment options makes them pivotal in the lifestyle of Jakartans and expats alike. Shopping malls in Jakarta can be described as lifestyle centres. Expats can leave the mall with a fresh new haircut, after getting a massage, enjoying international cuisine and buying stationary, a pair of shoes, and food for their pets. Malls are truly the cornucopia of shoppers, where products are bountiful, ever-changing and always following the latest trends.

Ra Residence | CITOS Cilandak Town Square

Ra Residence Simatupang Jakarta is located in strategic area with easy access and surrounded by commercial buildings and shopping mal. Cilandak Town Square is the nearest shopping center to be reached from our apartment. This mal becomes one of Jakarta's many landmarks to discover. Ra Residence Simatupang Jakarta provides vehicle for our guests who will visit Cilandak Town Square and it takes 1 minutes only to be reched. 

Ra Residence Simatupang Jakarta is located in South Jakarta’s Cilandak Barat area, a 45 minute drive from Soekarno Hatta International Airport. Warm and cozy, this serviced-apartment offers free Wi-Fi and free private parking. Ra Residence Simatupang Jakarta enjoys easy access to Cilandak Commercial Estate and Pondok Indah Shopping Mall. Overlooking the surrounding greenery, rooms at Ra Residence are equipped with flat-screen cable TV and air conditioning. Private bathrooms come with standing shower facilities. 

Ra Residence | Deepest Condolence #prayforjakarta

Our deepest condolences for all of the victim's family of Sarinah bombing this afternoon. May you all rest in peace. Please stay safe, especially all of our dear families and friends in Jakarta. Let's pray for the peaceful Jakarta and safety for everyone #PrayForJakarta
 

Jakarta Post | At least five of the 24 victims injured in the vicious attack at the Sarinah department store on Thursday were police officers, showing that the attack was aimed at the police, National Police deputy chief Com. Gen. Budi Gunawan has said.

“The five police officers were severely injured by gun or shrapnel wounds. Meanwhile, five alleged terror attackers and two civilians died. One of the fallen civilians was an expatriate,” he said as quoted by tribunnews.com in Jakarta on Friday.

Ra Residence | Apartment Living in Jakarta

In some countries, apartment living previously indicated a social or economic stigma. Many people saw it as a compromise, driven by financial and utilitarian necessity rather than social and aesthetic advantages. Common thinking was that apartment living meant too little privacy, too much noise, little or no access to personal outdoor space, undesirable neighbors and unpredictable increases in rent or condominium fees.

This is no longer the case in Jakarta. Over the past ten years Jakarta has seen an explosion in the development of a wide variety of apartment facilities. Apartment living is quickly becoming a social status symbol as many of the complexes offer very convenient and desired locations, five-star facilities and luxurious interiors, enabling the dwellers a unique city living experience. Depending on the person/family’s individual situation and lifestyle, and the ever-increasing time drain of being caught up in long delays due to traffic jams, apartment living near the work place is beginning to make more sense than owning or renting a house.

Ra Residence | Serviced partment, Temporary Housing

After your arrival in Jakarta, you and your family will be spending an enormous amount of energy trying to set up your new lives. The immediate tasks include: getting settled into your job, finding a house or apartment, getting your kids enrolled in school, buying or leasing a car, learning your way around town, hiring household staff, getting involved in the community and making new friends. 

Your company may advise or require you to stay in a hotel or serviced apartment until you are able to locate suitable housing. If this is the case, ask the company to book you in a hotel or apartment that is near the neighborhood you are most likely to live in. Hotel Kristal is a favorite choice, because it is conveniently located to the Cilandak or Pondok Indah Campus of the Jakarta Intercultural School and your children can start school from this temporary residence while you seek a permanent home.