Entertainment within the hotel realm has transcended mere diversion to become a hallmark of luxury hospitality. It now shapes the narrative of a guest’s stay, imbuing each moment with purpose and emotion. I have observed how this evolution elevates a property’s prestige and underpins its commercial success. In a region as culturally rich and fast-evolving as Asia, the challenge for general managers is to craft experiences that honour local heritage whilst anticipating the desires of the discerning traveller.

For a general manager, entertainment is far more than an adjunct to service; it is a carefully curated programme that weaves brand identity, local collaboration and technological innovation into an unforgettable tapestry. A truly exceptional entertainment strategy not only delights but also drives loyalty, uplifts ancillary revenues and secures a hotel’s standing within a fiercely competitive market.

This feature will delve into how leading Asian hotels are embracing this paradigm shift. Through insightful interviews with ten visionary general managers, we reveal the philosophies, partnerships and data-driven tactics that transform entertainment from an afterthought into the very essence of the luxury hotel experience.

Jirarat Ninpradub

General Manager of Le Méridien Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort

Q: How do you design your entertainment offerings to balance the hotel’s brand identity with the unique cultural flavours of your location?

We design experiences that celebrate Phuket’s local heritage while reflecting our resort’s refined and family-friendly atmosphere. Guests enjoy fire shows on the beach, live Peranakan cultural tours, and local bicycle excursions. These authentic experiences are balanced with our Le Méridien brand touch—elegant, curated, and meaningful for all generations.

Q: Over the past few years, which guest entertainment trends have surprised you the most, and how has your team adapted to meet those evolving expectations?

The growing guest interest in sustainable and wellness-driven activities surprised us. Guests want to connect with nature and contribute positively. We’ve introduced garden tours, composting workshops, beach clean-ups, family yoga, and creative recycling crafts for kids. These programs create memorable, hands-on experiences that resonate with today’s eco-conscious travellers.

Q: Can you describe a standout entertainment experience at your property that not only delighted guests but also reinforced your hotel’s core values?

Our Sustainable Resort Tour has become a signature experience. Guests join our team to explore the gardens, learn about composting, and participate in planting herbs or flowers. This interactive journey reflects our values of sustainability, education, and community connection—while creating a meaningful, fun family experience.

Q: How do you measure the impact of your entertainment initiatives—through guest feedback, revenue metrics, or other KPIs—and can you share an example where that data led to a meaningful change?

We track guest feedback scores, activity participation rates, and social media engagement. For example, when feedback highlighted a strong preference for live music and interactive, eco-friendly activities, we introduced more frequent beachfront live band performances alongside family-friendly sustainable workshops. This balanced mix increased overall activity participation and enhanced guest satisfaction, especially in our family and leisure segments

Javier Gimeno

General Manager of Meliá Pattaya Hotel

Q: How do you design your entertainment offerings to balance the hotel’s brand identity with the unique cultural flavours of your location?

At Meliá Pattaya, our entertainment offerings are thoughtfully designed to reflect our Spanish-inspired brand while embracing Thai culture. We also align experiences with the unique ambiance of each outlet—whether it’s a serene spa terrace or a vibrant rooftop bar. From Thai dance paired with Mediterranean tapas to beachfront acoustic sessions, we create moments that feel both authentic and elevated. Collaborations with local artists and wellness experts ensure cultural depth, while our design-forward spaces enhance the storytelling. This balance reinforces our identity as a premium urban resort rooted in warmth, elegance, and local connection.

Q: Over the past few years, which guest entertainment trends have surprised you the most, and how has your team adapted to meet those evolving expectations?

We’ve seen a shift toward wellness-based entertainment, with guests seeking restorative and mindful experiences. Sound healing, breath work, and nature-based rituals will play a larger role in our future programming. Families are also looking for active, engaging options—so we’re introducing kids’ kickboxing lessons and spa treatments offered during breakfast for parents. These evolving expectations reflect a desire for holistic, shared experiences. Our team will continue adapting by blending wellness, movement, and cultural immersion into our entertainment calendar, ensuring every guest—whether solo, family, or leisure traveller—feels seen and inspired.

Q: Can you describe a standout entertainment experience at your property that not only delighted guests but also reinforced your hotel’s core values?

One of our most successful entertainment experiences has been the Kitchen Party at Yitong Chinese Restaurant, paired with live jazz at the Sky Bar. Guests enjoy interactive cooking, curated tastings, and a vibrant rooftop atmosphere that blends culinary artistry with soulful music. The event has received outstanding feedback and will become a monthly signature experience. It perfectly reflects our core values—warmth, creativity, and connection—while showcasing the diversity of our F&B offerings. This fusion of gastronomy and entertainment has elevated our brand presence and created a new benchmark for guest engagement.

Q: How do you measure the impact of your entertainment initiatives—through guest feedback, revenue metrics, or other KPIs—and can you share an example where that data led to a meaningful change?

We measure entertainment impact through guest feedback, attendance, and revenue uplift. For example, after launching our Kitchen Party and Sky Bar jazz nights, we saw a 30% increase in F&B revenue on event days and a surge in positive reviews mentioning atmosphere and engagement. These metrics prompted us to formalize the event as a monthly highlight. We also track social media engagement and post-event surveys to refine future offerings. By aligning entertainment with performance data, we ensure each initiative enhances both guest satisfaction and commercial success.

Marc Selinger

General Manager of Meliá Chiang Mai

Q: How do you design your entertainment offerings to balance the hotel’s brand identity with the unique cultural flavours of your location?

At Meliá Chiang Mai, we craft entertainment that blends our brand’s warmth and Spanish flair with the vibrant spirit of Chiang Mai. Our central location, surrounded by ancient temples, bustling markets, and artisan villages, allows us to curate diverse experiences — from graceful Lanna dance performances and hands-on Thai cooking classes to seasonal cultural festivals within the hotel. At MAI The Sky Bar, the city’s highest rooftop, guests enjoy live bands, DJ sets, and sunset cocktails against sweeping mountain views. This variety ensures every traveller — cultural explorer, foodie, or nightlife enthusiast — finds moments that are memorable, authentic, and uniquely Chiang Mai.

Q: Over the past few years, which guest entertainment trends have surprised you the most, and how has your team adapted to meet those evolving expectations?

In recent years, I’ve been most surprised by how much guests want variety and personalisation in their entertainment. It’s no longer enough to offer one type of activity — people want options that suit their mood and style. We’ve adapted by creating a mix of experiences, from interactive chef’s tables and rooftop wine pairings to family-friendly cooking workshops and cultural craft classes. This way, whether guests are here for a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or a business trip with a bit of leisure, they can choose entertainment that feels tailor-made for their stay at Meliá Chiang Mai.

Q: Can you describe a standout entertainment experience at your property that not only delighted guests but also reinforced your hotel’s core values?

Early this year, a real highlight for us was Spanish Culinary Week at MAI The Sky Bar, done in collaboration with LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar. We welcomed Chef Juan Ignacio García Racionero from Spain, who created an 11-dish tapas menu with cocktails to match. Guests enjoyed live music as the sun set over Chiang Mai, making it a relaxed but memorable evening. It was a great way to share our Spanish roots, connect with the local community, and offer visitors something unique — a mix of great food, warm hospitality, and a setting they couldn’t find anywhere else in the city.

Q: How do you measure the impact of your entertainment initiatives—through guest feedback, revenue metrics, or other KPIs—and can you share an example where that data led to a meaningful change?

We look at impact from multiple angles — guest satisfaction scores, event attendance, social media engagement, and, of course, F&B revenue. For example, our Pride Month ‘Glow Up!’ A Black Ruby Pride Party at MAI The Sky Bar generated a spike in rooftop bookings and strong online buzz, with photos and videos widely shared. Post-event surveys revealed guests wanted more themed nights, so we expanded our calendar to include seasonal and cultural celebrations. This data-driven approach helps us create experiences that resonate with our diverse audience while staying true to our brand’s welcoming, inclusive spirit.

Peter Laird

Director of Food and Beverage of Meliá Pattaya hotel and LAY Beach Club

Q: How do you design your entertainment offerings to balance the hotel’s brand identity with the unique cultural flavours of your location?

At our Meliá Pattaya Hotel, entertainment is a bridge between our Mediterranean heritage and Thailand’s vibrant culture. We design programs that highlight the rhythms of Spanish gastronomy and Mediterranean ambiance, while seamlessly weaving in Thai artistry and flavours. From Spanish music at breakfast with Thai tastes and aromas on the buffet line, this fusion allows us to remain authentic to our brand identity while honouring our location. Guests are invited not only to be entertained but also to immerse themselves in a narrative of cultural discovery—where Spain meets Thailand—creating a sense of belonging that is both global and deeply local.

Q: Over the past few years, which guest entertainment trends have surprised you the most, and how has your team adapted to meet those evolving expectations?

The rise of experiential entertainment has surprised us most—guests no longer seek passive amusement but crave participation. They want cooking alongside our chefs, wellness rituals under the stars, and music that feels personal to their journey. Our team adapted by shifting from purely scheduled “shows” to curated experiences—intimate DJ sunsets, interactive fire shows, and mixology master classes on our rooftop. Technology also plays a role: entertainment for the guest is no longer just about entertaining them but also their audience with the importance of social media in today’s culture we must always be aware the individual wants the experience but wants to be able to share that experience with the world. This evolution reaffirms that entertainment is not about scale, but resonance—moments that feel handcrafted for the individual guest’s story.

Q: Can you describe a standout entertainment experience at your property that not only delighted guests but also reinforced your hotel’s core values?

One of our signature events was the Sabores del Mar: A Michelin-Starred Spanish Tapas Experience & Spanish Wine Tasting staged at our beach club. Guests enjoyed a live Thai Fire show, while chefs created dishes at interactive stations, merging tapas with Thai street flavours. Beyond dining, it becomes a performance—fire dancers, storytellers, and curated wine pairings immersed guests in a sensory celebration. This experience embodied our values of authenticity, artistry, and connection. It delighted guests because it transcended entertainment—it became a memory that united cultures and reflects our mission: luxury not as spectacle, but as soulful storytelling.

Q: How do you measure the impact of your entertainment initiatives—through guest feedback, revenue metrics, or other KPIs—and can you share an example where that data led to a meaningful change?

We measure success through a balance of guest feedback, repeat custom and revenue metrics. Post-event surveys and social listening tools provide insights into emotional impact, while spend-per-guest and booking conversions reflect commercial return. For instance, after analysing data from our live fire show, we discovered guests stayed longer and beverage sales increased when having the fire show. This insight led us to expand sunset programming and we will start to introduce seasonal performances at key times. The results proved that thoughtful entertainment isn’t just about filling a schedule—it directly enriches guest satisfaction, brand loyalty, and the hotel’s overall performance in a highly competitive market.

Jai Kishan

General Manager of New World Phu Quoc Resort

Q: How do you design your entertainment offerings to balance the hotel’s brand identity with the unique cultural flavours of your location?

At New World Phu Quoc Resort, we always begin by asking how each experience can reflect both our brand DNA—warm, heartfelt, and family-centric—and the island’s rich cultural heritage. Inspiration from local culture is central to our approach. Our entertainment calendar is built to connect guests with the essence of Phu Quoc: from Vietnamese cultural performances and cooking classes with local ingredients, to family-friendly activities such as karaoke and bowling. At the same time, we stay true to our focus on togetherness and inclusivity by creating experiences that resonate across generations—where children, parents, and grandparents can all participate. For us, entertainment is not just about fun; it’s about transforming Phu Quoc into a living story that guests can experience, share, and take home.

Q: Over the past few years, which guest entertainment trends have surprised you the most, and how has your team adapted to meet those evolving expectations?

The biggest surprise has been how quickly entertainment has shifted from passive to participatory. Guests no longer want to simply watch—they want to join in, co-create, and share. Post-pandemic, this desire for authentic connection has become even stronger. We’ve adapted by expanding water-based fun at our new waterpark, enlarging the Kid’s Club to better serve families, and some wellness-as-entertainment with activities such as sunrise yoga, kayaking, and water scooters. At the same time, we’ve invested in The Hub, which combines bowling, karaoke, and vibrant social spaces under one roof. The goal is to give guests compelling reasons to stay within the resort while still feeling deeply connected to the island’s sense of fun and vitality.

Q: Can you describe a standout entertainment experience at your property that not only delighted guests but also reinforced your hotel’s core values?

One of the most memorable highlights is our Starry Nights series, hosted from November to April during peak season. Held at our Resort Square, these evenings feature dinner buffets paired with live performances by our in-house band and talented local artists. Guests enjoy a vibrant mix of traditional music, folk dances, and contemporary rhythms under the open sky, with authentic Phu Quoc flavours woven into the dining experience. What makes Starry Nights truly special is the collaboration aspect—we bring together local talent, local food, and our own brand of heartfelt hospitality, aligning perfectly with Rosewood’s pillar of Collaboration. Guests don’t just watch; they clap, sing along, and sometimes even join the dance floor, creating shared memories across families and cultures. It’s not just entertainment—it’s an authentic, living connection to the island and to one another.

Q: How do you measure the impact of your entertainment initiatives—through guest feedback, revenue metrics, or other KPIs—and can you share an example where that data led to a meaningful change?

We measure success through a combination of guest satisfaction scores, repeat bookings, incremental revenue, and social media engagement. Just as importantly, we also look at team satisfaction, because when our associates are proud of the experiences they create, the energy transfers directly to the guests. A clear example came from family feedback, which consistently highlighted the need for more intergenerational activities. That insight led us to accelerate the development of The Hub, our entertainment complex with bowling alleys, karaoke lounges, and a vibrant bar serving local craft beer. Since its opening, we have seen a strong uplift in F&B revenue, longer stays, and more repeat visits. For me, it shows the power of listening—not only to our guests but also to our team. Data didn’t just validate the investment; it guided us to create a space that has redefined our resort as Phu Quoc’s leading integrated destination for families and MICE.

John Woolley

General Manager of JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa

Q: How do you design your entertainment offerings to balance the hotel’s brand identity with the unique cultural flavours of your location?

Our entertainment is a blend of the JW Marriott ethos of mindfulness and the whimsical Lamarck University narrative. We integrate local culture into our experiences, from our “Lamarck University Tour” to our “Hoi An Lantern Making” activity at the Lantern Workshop. We also extend our campus to the broader Phu Quoc landscape, complementing our internal programming with the iconic “Kiss of the Sea” show and the thrills of Sun World, offering a complete and immersive entertainment journey.

Q: Over the past few years, which guest entertainment trends have surprised you the most, and how has your team adapted to meet those evolving expectations?

The most surprising trend has been the desire for entertainment that is both participatory and meaningful. Guests now seek ‘edutainment’—experiences that teach a skill or share a story. We’ve adapted by creating immersive workshops, from a “Coffee Atelier” at French & Co. to a “Mixology Class” with our ‘Chemistry Professors’. This has transformed a simple diversion into a core part of the guest’s stay, strengthening their emotional connection to the resort.

Q: Can you describe a standout entertainment experience at your property that not only delighted guests but also reinforced your hotel’s core values?

Our standout experience is a seamless journey of art, music, architecture, and culinary excellence. We curate everything from live music at our fine-dining restaurant, Pink Pearl, and The Department of Chemistry Bar, to the mesmerising “Kiss of the Sea” show at nearby Sunset Town. This blend of elegance and spectacle creates an extraordinary and multi-sensory experience for our guests, reinforcing our commitment to delivering unforgettable moments that transcend traditional hospitality.

Nguyễn Quang Sơn

Director of Market Development at Ambassador Cruise – APC Corporation

Q: How do you design your entertainment offerings to balance the cruise’s brand identity with the unique cultural flavours of your location?

Ha Long Bay is steeped in legends and cultural heritage. On Ambassador Cruise, our entertainment is designed around two pillars: vibrant contemporary shows and cultural showcases. We carefully curate cultural elements—music, costumes, and storytelling—that harmonise with our modern entertainment style. This balance allows us to narrate cultural stories through contemporary formats, ensuring that our guests experience Vietnam’s traditions in a way that feels fresh, engaging, and aligned with the premium brand identity of Ambassador Cruise.

Q: Over the past few years, which guest entertainment trends have surprised you the most, and how has your team adapted to meet those evolving expectations?

The most surprising trend has been the increasing demand for interactive, shareable experiences instead of passive viewing. Guests want to be part of the moment—dancing when the band plays or celebrating under dazzling fireworks. To adapt, we introduced themed nights, live band requests, and DJ parties under the stars. These formats encourage guests to engage more deeply, stay longer, and create memorable highlights they share widely on social media. This shift has elevated the guest journey while expanding Ambassador Cruise’s reputation far beyond the bay itself.

Q: Can you describe a standout entertainment experience at your cruise that not only delighted guests but also reinforced your cruise’s core values?

Our core value is to place guests at the centre and pioneer new experiences. As the only cruise in Ha Long to hold two national records—for scale and entertainment—we created a signature journey designed to touch every emotion. The night begins with soulful Vietnamese ballads, moves into lively international pop, builds momentum with DJs and dancers, and culminates with a breathtaking fireworks display. This curated progression elevates guests from cultural immersion to celebration, embodying Ambassador Cruise’s mission to deliver unforgettable, world-class entertainment at sea.

Q: How do you measure the impact of your entertainment initiatives—through guest feedback, revenue metrics, or other KPIs—and can you share an example where that data led to a meaningful change?

We measure impact through guest surveys, repeat bookings, social media mentions, and on-board revenue. One clear example came from feedback showing guests wanted more energy after dinner instead of ending the evening early. In response, we extended live band performances and introduced DJ-led dance sessions. The result was over 20% growth in bar revenue and an increase in positive reviews describing “unforgettable nights.” These data-driven adjustments ensure our entertainment remains guest-focused, financially sustainable, and aligned with our mission of combining cultural heritage with premium hospitality.

Melida Weber

General Manager of The edge Bali

Q: How do you design your entertainment offerings to balance the hotel’s brand identity with the unique cultural flavours of your location?

At The edge, our entertainment & wellness offerings are curated to embody our position as a luxury cliffside destination while honouring Bali’s cultural heritage. oneeighty° redefines the beach club experience with its glass-bottom sky pool suspended over the ocean to themed events. The cave by Chef Ryan Clift offers an unparalleled fine dining journey within a natural underground cavern. The club provides a sophisticated venue for exclusive gatherings and after-parties, enhanced with private karaoke, a boutique bowling alley, and a tennis court for enthusiasts. The spa presents the quintessential Balinese experience, inspired by temple offerings of sincere devotion, sacred flowers, holy water, and rice. Together, these experiences blend world-class sophistication with an authentic sense of place.

Q: Over the past few years, which guest entertainment trends have surprised you the most, and how has your team adapted to meet those evolving expectations?

Over recent years, we have observed a significant shift from traditional large-scale entertainment to exclusive, experience-driven engagements. Today’s luxury travellers seek personalisation and authenticity — from private poolside celebrations at oneeighty° and immersive gastronomy within the natural cavern of The cave, to refined social gatherings, bowling, and private karaoke at The club. Complementing these is The spa, where wellness rituals draw inspiration from Balinese temple traditions. In response, we have curated highly bespoke experiences that embody sophistication while honouring a true sense of place, ensuring every guest encounter at The edge is both distinctive and unforgettable.

Q: Can you describe a standout entertainment experience at your property that not only delighted guests but also reinforced your hotel’s core values?

A recent standout was a private wedding after-party at The club, where the venue was transformed into an immersive celebration with a live DJ, curated cocktails, bowling, and private karaoke — every detail reflecting the couple’s story. This celebration exemplified our core values of personalisation, exclusivity, and creating unforgettable moments. The same philosophy defines experiences across our estate: immersive fine dining within the dramatic setting of The cave, sky-high celebrations at oneeighty°, Balinese-inspired wellness at The spa, and refined gatherings at The parlour. Each delivers a sense of place with the sophistication expected at The edge

Q: How do you measure the impact of your entertainment initiatives—through guest feedback, revenue metrics, or other KPIs—and can you share an example where that data led to a meaningful change?

We measure the impact of our entertainment initiatives primarily through revenue performance and direct guest feedback. For example, our tennis facilities have received strong engagement and positive reviews, which allowed us to justify investing further in upgraded amenities to enhance the guest experience. This combination of financial data and guest sentiment gives us a clear picture of what resonates most. We also conduct constant reviews to evaluate what works and what doesn’t, ensuring that our menus, themes, and entertainment offerings remain fresh, relevant, and aligned with guest expectations, creating memorable and engaging experiences throughout their stay.

Luis Daniel Garcia

General Manager of Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel

Q: How do you design your entertainment offerings to balance the hotel’s brand identity with the unique cultural flavours of your location?

At Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel, we curate entertainment that reflects both our hotel’s refined, family-friendly identity and the vibrant culture of Bali. Our programming blends tradition and comfort; featuring Balinese dance performances, live gamelan music, and themed dining experiences set against our beachfront backdrop. We work closely with local artists to ensure authenticity, while aligning events with the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere our guests expect. Each experience is thoughtfully designed to be immersive yet approachable, giving guests a true sense of Bali without leaving the resort. This balance reinforces our brand while celebrating the rich cultural heritage that surrounds us.

Q: Over the past few years, which guest entertainment trends have surprised you the most, and how has your team adapted to meet those evolving expectations?

We’ve seen a surprising shift toward interactive and shareable entertainment experiences. Guests are no longer just passive observers; they want to participate, capture moments, and share them instantly. At Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel, we’ve adapted by introducing more hands-on cultural activities, such as Balinese dance lessons, water aerobics class, and themed beach events with live music and photo-friendly setups. We’ve also enhanced our event spaces with better lighting and aesthetics to suit the social media era. This evolution keeps guests engaged, fosters deeper cultural connections, and aligns with modern expectations for immersive, memorable stays.

Q: Can you describe a standout entertainment experience at your property that not only delighted guests but also reinforced your hotel’s core values?

One standout entertainment experience at Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel is our OFYR All-You-Can-Eat Themed Night, held in the garden by the oceanfront. Guests enjoy a vibrant buffet dinner while watching live dance performances, complete with music and intricate costumes that vary based on the evening’s theme. What makes this event truly special is its interactive elements; guests are invited to join in simple dance movements or participate in cultural storytelling. This experience delights with its authenticity and atmosphere, while reinforcing our core values of warm hospitality, cultural appreciation, and meaningful guest connection. It’s a true celebration of culture that embodies our resort’s identity.

Q: How do you measure the impact of your entertainment initiatives—through guest feedback, revenue metrics, or other KPIs—and can you share an example where that data led to a meaningful change?

We measure the impact of our entertainment initiatives primarily through guest feedback, event attendance, and revenue generated from associated food and beverage outlets. We regularly monitor online reviews and conduct in-house surveys to assess guest satisfaction. For example, after launching themed buffet nights with live performances, we observed a significant increase in guest participation and F&B sales. Positive guest comments about the immersive experience encouraged us to expand these events and add more interactive elements, such as Balinese dance workshops, as well as clown and magic shows for kids; resulting in even higher engagement and glowing reviews.

Q: In what ways do you collaborate with local artists, cultural groups, or third-party vendors to create immersive and authentic programming?

We collaborate closely with local artists, cultural groups, talented pianists, and live music ensembles to create immersive and authentic entertainment experiences. Our programming includes traditional Balinese dance and gamelan performances alongside contemporary music, offering a rich mix that appeals to a broad range of guests. We also partner with Balinese handicraft and artist vendors to support local small entrepreneurs, often showcasing their work during events or in curated displays throughout the hotel. Additionally, we incorporate meaningful environmental initiatives, such as tree-planting experiences, allowing guests to engage with the local community and contribute to sustainability. These efforts enrich our offerings, reflect our commitment to cultural and environmental responsibility, and deepen the guest connection to Bali’s heritage and values.

Rai Artawan

General Manager of Karma Kandara

Q: How do you design your entertainment offerings to balance the hotel’s brand identity with the unique cultural flavours of your location?

At Karma Kandara, we carefully curate entertainment that reflects our brand ethos of delivering extraordinary lifestyle experiences while celebrating the cultural of Bali. We blend international lifestyle programming such as live DJs, wellness sessions, and exclusive dinner events with authentic local elements including Balinese dance, gamelan performances, and culinary showcases. This balance allows our guests to enjoy the sophistication of the Karma brand while immersing themselves in the culture of our location.

Q: Over the past few years, which guest entertainment trends have surprised you the most, and how has your team adapted to meet those evolving expectations?

One of the most notable shifts has been the growing demand for immersive, experiential activities rather than passive entertainment. Guests increasingly value opportunities to participate, be it in mixology class, guided cultural rituals, or beachside cinema under the stars. We have adapted by making our entertainment more interactive and personalised, offering activities where guests are not just observers but active participants, creating memorable moments that they take home with them.
Q: Can you describe a standout entertainment experience at your property that not only delighted guests but also reinforced your hotel’s core values?

A highlight has been our Karma Curated Events program, where we bring together music, dining, and wellness in unique settings. For instance, during our Curated Culture and Dinner Event at Karma Kandara, we combine traditional Balinese blessings, fire dances, and locally inspired cuisine with international music performances. This event embodies our core values authenticity, creativity, and community while leaving guests with a sense of both cultural connection and elevated lifestyle.

Q: How do you measure the impact of your entertainment initiatives—through guest feedback, revenue metrics, or other KPIs—and can you share an example where that data led to a meaningful change?

We measure impact through a mix of guest feedback (online reviews, in-resort surveys, and repeat participation), revenue contribution, and engagement metrics such as attendance and social media traction. For example, guest feedback once highlighted that while our music programming was well-loved, families were seeking more inclusive options. In response, we introduced family-friendly beach movie nights, which not only improved guest satisfaction scores but also increased participation across different guest demographics.

I Gede Sujana

General Manager of Royal Ambarrukmo Yogyakarta

Q: How do you design your entertainment offerings to balance the hotel’s brand identity with the unique cultural flavours of your location?

At Royal Ambarrukmo Yogyakarta, entertainment is never treated as an add-on. It is the essence of how we connect our heritage with the modern guest experience. Our brand identity is inseparable from the royal legacy of Yogyakarta, and we bring this to life through authentic cultural encounters. A signature example is the Patehan, the royal tea ceremony once reserved for the Sultan. Similarly, Ladosan Dhahar, the traditional royal dining ritual, allows our guests to experience courtly traditions in a setting of five-star comfort. These programs are more than entertainment; they are a privilege that immerses guests in the grandeur of Yogyakarta’s history.

Q: Over the past few years, which guest entertainment trends have surprised you the most, and how has your team adapted to meet those evolving expectations?

One of the most striking trends has been the desire for meaningful cultural immersion. Guests are no longer content with passive entertainment. They seek experiences that enrich their stay with storytelling, authenticity, and connection to the local community. This has surprised us in the sense that even our younger, tech-savvy travellers want to unplug from the digital world and immerse themselves in rituals like gamelan workshops, Javanese script learning, or traditional archery (jemparingan). To meet these expectations, we have expanded our cultural programming and ensured that our entertainment offerings are interactive, educational, and inclusive, allowing each guest to take home not just memories, but a deeper appreciation of Yogyakarta’s heritage.

Q: Can you describe a standout entertainment experience at your property that not only delighted guests but also reinforced your hotel’s core values?

One of our most distinctive entertainment highlights is what we call the Royal Moment. This encompasses two signature experiences, Patehan the royal evening tea ceremony, and Ladosan Dhahar, the traditional royal luncheon or dining ritual. Both have become highly sought-after by our guests, as they offer not only a form of entertainment but also a rare opportunity to immerse themselves in the grandeur of the royal era.

In addition, we proudly present our Pendopo Activity, which reflects both our cultural mission and CSR commitment. Through this program, we provide space at the Pendopo Agung Kedhaton Ambarrukmo for local cultural communities to practice and preserve heritage arts such as classical Javanese dance, mocopat, jemparingan (traditional archery), bamboo flute, and more. For our guests, it creates a living cultural encounter, allowing them to witness and even take part in traditions that remain vibrant in Yogyakarta today.

Q: How do you measure the impact of your entertainment initiatives—through guest feedback, revenue metrics, or other KPIs and can you share an example where that data led to a meaningful change?

We measure success through both data and emotion. On one hand, we track participation levels and revenue, but equally important are guest feedback and the stories they share. For example, we learned from guest comments that people wanted to understand more about the symbolism behind the Patehan or Ladosan Dhahar. In response, we enriched the ceremony with storytelling that explains each gesture and its meaning. This adjustment, born directly from guest insight, elevated the program, increased engagement, and strengthened our reputation as the cultural heart of luxury hospitality in Yogyakarta.