Mercure Kuta Bali Showcases Local Heritage Through Weekly "Discover Local"

BADUNG – As Bali’s traditional culture faces the risk of being overshadowed by modern trends, Mercure Kuta Bali has taken a creative step to preserve and promote local heritage through its Discover Local initiative. 

One of its flagship programs, Discover Local, offers guests an authentic cultural journey every Thursday with a blend of culinary experiences, performances, and artisanal crafts.

A highlight of the program is a live cooking class featuring Bali’s signature dish, Sate Lilit, led by Mercure’s professional chefs. Guests not only enjoy the flavors but also learn the preparation of this iconic recipe firsthand.

Pantri Arini, number 2 from left. 

Hotel Manager Pantri Arini emphasized the property’s commitment to supporting local communities, noting that 80% of the hotel’s supplies are sourced from Badung-based MSMEs. “We even helped some traditional market suppliers process their permits so they could officially supply our hotel,” she explained on Thursday (21/08/2025).

Beyond its in-house efforts, Mercure Kuta Bali also supports authentic Balinese dining establishments like Poppies Restaurant by directing guests there and assisting with online marketing strategies.

The initiative also highlights traditional Balinese crafts such as lontar manuscripts, which are repurposed into bookmarks and wall décor that attract international visitors.

Education plays a key role in the hotel’s vision of sustainable tourism. Through its CSR programs, Mercure Kuta Bali funds hospitality training for local youth in their 20s, even providing allowances for participating talents. “This kind of support ensures that our culture continues to thrive,” Arini said.

Yudi, a local MSME (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) or UMKM manager, shared that the program creates vital opportunities for small businesses. “It gives our community a platform to showcase creative products while strengthening the local economy,” he remarked.

By merging cultural preservation with community empowerment, Discover Local has become more than just a hotel activity, it is a weekly celebration of Bali’s living heritage, drawing interest from international and domestic travelers alike. (Ray)