InJourney Hospitality, the commercial brand for Hotel Indonesia Natour and part of the InJourney Group, manages a network of hotels across Indonesia. As its CEO since November 2022, Christine Hutabarat spearheaded the establishment of The Meru Sanur, a five-star resort, part of the Sanur Special Economic Zone (SEZ).
Indonesia Design spoke with Christine about the project and its future development.
STORY BY Vira Tanka
PHOTOS BY InJourney Hospitality, The Meru Sanur, Ari Wibisono
Tell us the vision that InJourney Hospitality has for The Meru Sanur and how you’re going to achieve it.
The Meru Sanur aspires to be Bali’s premier destination, inspiring authentic cultural immersion and holistic well-being with wellness experiences rooted in Balinese traditions. In an age where the essence of travel is evolving towards rejuvenation and restoration, it recognizes the vital importance of positioning itself as a wellness-driven establishment. We make sure that the principle of wellness is intrinsic to the brand at every aspect and every level. This commitment is what sets The Meru Sanur apart from other establishments.
To achieve the objective, The Meru Sanur actively seeks out professionals and collaborators who align with its core values, making sure we everyone works in a seamless synergy that spans the entire spectrum of services, from the hotels and resorts to the spa and MICE facilities.
It is a commitment to a transformative journey that begins with the individual and resonates throughout every aspect of The Meru experience.
What is your involvement in the planning and development of The Meru Sanur?
As CEO, I am deeply involved in all aspects of The Meru Sanur’s development, from strategic vision and design to operational oversight. My role includes collaborating with stakeholders to ensure the project reflects Bali’s cultural heritage and adheres to environmentally friendly practices, all while meeting global healthcare standards. Through this initiative, we seek to create a sustainable health tourism ecosystem that enhances Indonesia’s global reputation and economic growth.
Who are the target markets for The Sanur and The Meru Sanur?
For The Sanur, the primary market includes Indonesians who travel abroad for medical care, alongside international visitors from Australia, China, Japan, Korea, and Europe.
The Meru Sanur specifically targets luxury travellers, including families, weekend adventurers, and high-end travellers seeking a high-quality experience that blends modern luxury with Sanur’s cultural heritage. Its focus on international standards and local wisdom makes it an attractive choice for discerning guests.
What new facilities are planned for The Meru Sanur?
Future developments include enhanced Spa & Wellness facilities, tailored for patients recovering from medical treatments. These additions will integrate harmoniously with the ethnomedicinal botanical garden, creating a tranquil and holistic environment for healing and relaxation.
What role does The Meru Sanur play in achieving the goals of The Sanur?
The Meru Sanur and the Bali Beach Hotel are key components of The Sanur SEZ. They provide integrated five-star accommodations that complement the healthcare facilities.
The Bali Beach Hotel, with its ocean- view rooms and an Olympic-sized pool, is Bali’s tallest hotel and includes a convention centre that accommodates up to 5,000 guests. Meanwhile, The Meru Sanur offers 184 suite-style rooms in a luxurious, tropical architectural setting. These facilities align with the SEZ’s vision by enhancing its appeal to domestic and international tourists.