It’s the last day of 2007 and we’re flying back home to Singapore after spending four magical days in Bali. I’m sitting on the plane now pondering what makes Bali so special? Why is it that when you leave Bali it feels like you’ve left paradise?
We were invited here by our good friend David, who’s been coming to Bali for more than a decade. David has a very good friend in Bali called Emerald, who owns a beautiful piece of property on the east coast of the island, by Jasi. David has mentioned to us several times about this little piece of paradise that he would like to share with us. Actually, he’s been building this place up for the past two weeks, with his MMS’s depicting the view from his villa, the organic food being served for dinner, the beauty of the pristine nature surrounding him. I’ve got to say that we were very curious and excited to see this part of the island, especially after having spent two very cold weeks in wintery Europe.
We weren’t disappointed. Bali was just like we remembered it, and the villa in Jasi and it’s location was an amazing place to spend the last days of what has been a fantastic year.
Given that Bali is Hindu, unlike the rest of Indonesia which is Muslim, it lends itself to comparisons with India. However, Bali is a gentler, softer version of India. For all the intensity that one may encounter in India, Bali offers a calmer version of Hinduism, which over the years has absorbed the beliefs of the island’s native animism. The lusciousness of the island is without a doubt a remarkable physical attribute. But it’s more than just the physical beauty. It’s the people and their devotion to the Hindu religion that gives it a very warm and communal feeling. The people here are very spiritual and that can be seen in their every move. From their everlasting, big and genuine smiles, to the offerings that they make at the end of the day, the Balinese touch is heart felt. Without the people and culture here, it would simply be ‘just’ another tropical island.
The sense of community is very strong in Bali. Families have a strong bond and commitment to the community that they live in. From the democratic process in which the towns are run, to the acceptance of everyone that comes into contact with the locals who see the ‘foreigner’ simply as an extension to their own family. And although the inhabitants cannot be described as rich in a monetary sense, they are rich with culture, values and happiness.
What is sad to see though, is that the 2002 and 2005 bombings still have an impact on the tourism in Bali. Every time we go to Bali, it is clearly visible that the locals are still suffering from the lack of tourist dollars and jobs. And although tourism is slowly coming back, it's still a far cry from the hey-days. The so-called Bali Bombers were finally executed in November 2008, and when we went to Bali a few weeks later we were surprised at how much security there was all over the island as a precaution. Every club, restaurant, villa or hotel we entered we had to go through tight security. And consequently, there were very few people out-and-about. The repercussions from the bombings are unfortunately, continuously felt.
But to something more positive now. Even though Kuta, Nusa Dua and Ubud are the main tourist destinations, make sure that you venture out into the deeper and smaller corners of the island. That is where you will truly witness and experience the yet-untouched and gentle Balinese touch. On this trip we spent most of our time on the eastern part of the island where everything is calmer than in the touristy areas around the aforementioned cities. And it was great to soak in the serene experience which for me contributes to making Bali a true paradise on earth.
So to conclude, what is it that makes Bali so special? The endless smiles, it’s spirituality, focus on details, music everywhere, service with a sense of pride, craftwork, rice paddies, offerings at shrines and temples, weather, volcanic island, … and the list could go on and on. Do you need anymore reasons?
HOW TO GET THERE
> Indonesian Visa: Visa’s are a hassle no matter how you look at it. However, if you already have to get one, then I prefer to do it at the airport upon arrival. That’s how it works in Bali. Upon landing proceed to the visa counter, pay your US$ 25 (they got rid of the US$10 7-day visa!!!) and you’re set to enter Bali.
One thing you can do is ask your hotel if they offer a VIP service at immigration. Sometimes, for US$15, the hotel can arrange for someone to pick you up at the gate, as you disembark, and fast-track you through immigration. It's money well spent, especially if there are several planes that land at the same time.
At the end of your trip, don’t forget to have at least 150,000 Rupiah in cash per person, for that is the amount you will have to pay at the airport as departure tax. Another ingenous way to make money :-)
> Airport: coming to Bali is getting easier and easier. Besides the major airlines that serve the island such as Singapore Airlines, Quantas, JAL, etc you also have a wide selection of discount airlines. Try Lion Air, Air-Asia, JetStar, etc.
> Driver: The best way to get around Bali is to hire a driver with a car. The driver I recommend is Yunalin Fifantoro ... contact him at +62 361 802 9658 or email him at yunfif@yahoo.com He speaks great English, has a wonderful car that can accommodate 5 very comfortably and knows the in-places in Bali.
> the island: Bali is a large island and is commonly divided into 4 sections: South (Denpasar, Sanur, Kuta, Seminyak, Legian, Nusa Dua), Central (Ubud), East (Amplapura, Candidasa) and the least touristy North and West Bali. My reviews follow the same sub-division.
THINGS TO DO
South Bali:
> Kriya Spa (Grand Hyatt): you cannot come to Bali without having a spa treatment. There are many excellent spas in Bali, but the one I thought was superb is the Kriya Spa at the Grand Hyatt in Nusa Dua. The design of the spa is spectacular. 24 treatment rooms around a beautiful central oasis, replete with water features, stone walkways and covered relaxation areas. And the massages and facials were numbingly relaxing. After three hours I could barely get up. What I also really liked are the natural ingredients and massage techniques that they used.
> Shopping: If pearls are what you're looking for, and Lombok pearls are supposed to be prized, then call Safrudin at 081 236 06 424 or visit his store at Bali Jl. Warkudara Gg. Arjuna, No 6 Legian Kaja, Kuta. If you intend to buy a lot, he will also come to your hotel/villa to ease your shopping experience.
> Tanah Lot: Finally I got to see Tanah Lot ... and it wasn't quite what I imagined. On pictures it looks so big, yet when you see the rock situated in the sea with the temple on it in front of you ... it all looks rather puny. Nevertheless, it's sill one of those things you have to do in Bali. Make sure you give yourself enough time to get there, for traffic at 1700 is a nightmare. When you finally get to the temple after working your way through all the stalls selling all sorts of junk on the way from the parking lot, turn left and walk up the path that goes up the hill. You will come to a plateau right on the cliff with lots of restaurants. Grab a chair right by the edge and watch the sun go down right behind Tanah Lot. I think the view from here is the best.
> Batik Collection Sari Amerta (Batubulan - Gianyar): this is one of those tourist drop-offs where you can see how they make batiks and then shop till you drop. Even though a bit touristy, the selection is great. And it's a convenient place to stop when heading to Ubud.
> Uluwatu: although similar in concept to Tanah Lot, I prefer this beach-side temple much more. The temple is larger and situated on a more impressive coastline - set on top of a cliff with a precipitous drop, with the raging sea below. I love watching the waves crash against the rock wall below. As you walk around the temple, everyone tells you to be careful with sunglasses, necklaces and any items that can be easily snagged. Why? The place is full of monkeys. They are cute and add mystique to this temple site. Besides, this is where they perform one of the typical Balinese dances ... the Kecak Ramayana and Fire Dance. The dance starts at 1800 and if you want a great seat, come there at least 30 minutes earlier. Since the dance is performed close to the cliff, the best seats are those with the cliff, temple and sunset in the background. The dance is very special and mesmerizing. Uluwatu will enchant you. You will see what I mean when you get there :-)
> Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park: Since it's on the way to Uluwatu, it's cute to stop here for 20 minutes and look at the large copper and bras statue of the Garuda. What's interesting about this place is that it's built into an abandoned limestone quarry, and when this project will be complete, it will have an amphitheatre, stores and a museum. Not something outstanding, but worth a quick stop. And the view from this hill in Jimabaran of East and West Bali is stunning.
Central Bali:
> Ubud: Ubud is a jewel in Bali, known for its artwork shops and relaxed atmosphere. Set amidst the rice-paddies of the surrounding landscape, it is both a tranquil paradise and a tourist trap. Depends on how you look at it. Without doubt, Ubud has grown a lot over the past 10 years and you can now argue that it resembles a hill-side version of Kuta. Tourists and tourist shops abound. Nevertheless, you can still find many serene spots where you will simply loose track of time and find yourself merging into the beautiful surrounding landscape. And finding these spots is half of the charm!
> Kirana Spa (Ubud): This is one of the most beautiful spas that I've ever seen ... and I've seen a lot! Located on the outskirts of Ubud, on a hill-slope overlooking a valley, this incredibly lush and ultra-decadent spa is something you simply must experience. The design and location is second-to-none. There are 7 private villas for couples, each with a private over-flowing pool overlooking the jungle, sauna, jacuzzi and dressing room. Instead of the usual new-age music, you listen to the flowing of water and the jungle sounds during the massage. We took a half-day package which included a scrub, massage and facial which was simply divine. The products they use are all from Shisheido. After the massage you can unwind in the serene environment of your private villa. There is also a Spa Garden which is great if you're there with a whole group of friends, like we were. After everyone is done, you can meet at the garden which has two pools and plenty of space to lounge and enjoy the surroundings. The staff is very professional and hospitable and the overall experience is in one word ... sublime!
> Tree Spa (@ Kupu Kupu Barong Villas): first impression … gold finger (reminisce of the old James Bond theme!). The tree spa is a tree house with two massage beds and bathroom/changing room that is completely decked out in gold. I found it a bit odd … given that it was built out of bamboo, which was then gilded. Seemed a bit un-natural. The biggest surprise came when I went to the bathroom. The shower basin, the toilet seat, toilet cover and event the toilet paper roll cover … were made out of 'gold'! Once I got past the design features I thoroughly enjoyed the 3 hour program: massage, body scrub and facial. This always puts me in a good mood! Plus all the products are from L'Occitane.
> Neka Art Museum: if you would like to find out more about Balinese and Indonesian art, this is the place to go. The curator, originally from Hawaii, has amassed an extensive collection of local paintings that portray the richness of the indigenous arts and has put them on display as a source of education, research, information and inspiration. There is one painting that immediately piqued my interest - a Balinese horoscope. Had never seen it before. Using elements from daily life, the signs include a coconut tree and dog. All in all there are 210 different signs. Very intriguing!
> Linda Garland's House: She is practically an institution in Bali. Having lived on the island of god for more than 30 years, she has seen it all. With a sharp sense of humor (she's got Irish blood) she states that she's become an offering in Ubud. Living on her sprawling yet peaceful 4 hectare estate deep in a terraced valley close to Ubud, she is an interior designer who is also heavily involved with the local communities. Her land showcases 5 different houses (4 that you can rent out) that are built in typical Indonesian style, using local materials such as bamboo, and decorated like something you would see in Architectural Digest. The two features that I liked the most: the open kitchen where we had lunch and the overhanging room crossing a creek. Also found out that Julia Roberts recently finished a 10-day shoot in her house while filming Eat, Pray and Love. Let's see if I recognize the home in the movie!
East Bali:
> Tirta Gangga water palace: located on the east side of Bali, this former Royal Palace is now a beautiful water palace garden with 3 beautifully appointed villas and restaurant overlooking the various pools. As you walk in through the main entrance, you will be overwhelmed with the beauty of the large pools, all fed by natural springs. As is common in Bali, there is an abundance of statues and craftwork which can be found surrounding all the pools, along with luscious gardens with some incredible trees and flowers. The Banyan tree just above the villas is simply majestic. Some of the large pools, including an Olympic size pool, are used for swimming. When you jump in you will immediately notice the refreshing magical quality of the water, one that is immediately distinguishable from the normally chlorinated pools that we often swim in. The spring water against your body is soothing, crystal clear and silky. Surrounded in this bliss, one can easily feel royal for that oh so brief moment.
> Ujung water palace: another water palace located very close to Tirta Gannga, except this one is right by the beach front. Although bigger than Tirta Gannga, and definitely worth seing, it's not as intimate and refined.
> White Sandy Beaches: Bali does not have comparable azure water beaches to let’s say the Caribbean, nevertheless, it’s their setting that makes the beaches breath-taking. However, we did find a white sand, clear blue water beach close to Candidasa. It’s quite undiscovered by tourists and is still a little gem. It’s not easy to find … going from Candidasa to Amlapura, after the village of Bugbug, you will enter a village called Perasi. On the main road going through the village you will see a sign for ‘White Sandy Beach’. Follow the arrow. The local name of the beach is Pantai Pasir Putih. Sounds complicated, but it’s really not that hard to find.
> Drive around east side of Mt. Agung: The friend we were staying with had an old VW jeep from WWII which was perfect for a drive around the east part of Bali. With the top down and the warm breeze blowing into our hair, we set off on a beautiful day-trip. Meandering through the roads under the majestic volcano Mt. Agung, we were taken away by the breath-taking views of the rice paddies and the little towns that we passed. The tranquillity and peacefulness of Bali is something very unique, and combined with the people’s spirituality and their devotion to Hinduism, is what makes this island paradise on earth. We also stumbled on a dancing competition (Legong dance) in a local village. We were pleasantly surprised to see not one tourist there. It was done by the locals for the locals. Young girls decked out in local attire comprising colourful silks and outlandish head gear, were performing local Balinese dances. What was great about this experience is that it was obviously a community event, meaning that the dancing was a long-lasting continuation of some local tradition, and not a tourist performance. So rent a car or driver (with car) and get lost in this beautiful part of Bali.
> Shopping: If interested in textiles and/or sterling silver jewellery, you must visit these two stores. The Pekangi Traditional Weaving Shop (I. Dewa Ketut Alit), located at Ds. Budamanis, Sidemen – Karangasem (Tel: 0366 23012) has a great selection of local fabrics that are done-up as table clothes, bed spreads or can be used for making clothes. What makes the buying experience interesting is that below the shop you can see how these fabrics are produced. Witnessing the spinning, weaving and dyeing of the fabrics will make you appreciate more your purchase. If sterling silver jewellery is your thing, then head of to Arunia Silver – Gold and Silver Smith. The address is Budakeling, Bebandem Karangasem (Tel: 0363 22212, E-mail: arunia_94@yahoo.com). Personally I’m not into jewellery, but my friends say that I’m not thinking properly. The jewellery is not supposed to be for yourself … but for your family and friends. Aka, presents! In any case, if you’re indulging yourself or your mum, here you will find wonderfully crafted jewellery, and unique may I add, that will impress even the most difficult suitor. Both of these shops are in the vicinity of Jasi.
> Charlie’s soap factory: You know how sometimes when you see the end product, you find yourself imagining the process of how it was actually done and you envision some highly complex, high-tech environment that produces this given product. Boy was I wrong when I saw how this soap was done. A friend gave us a beautiful present in the shape of a square box made out of pineapple paper and inside were placed four soaps, each wrapped in different coloured paper. When I tried one bar I was impressed with the beautiful scent that was released when I was building up a lather, and the silk feel that was left on my skin. Besides being great products, they were packaged wonderfully and thus make for a great present. So I decided to buy some as well as meet this Charlie who produces them right on his beachfront property by Jasi. You have got to see this place, as well as buy this soap! His ‘soap factory’ is a bamboo hut and the kitchen is actually the so called laboratory. It’s literally made in pots and pans, using Braun mixers and the ingredients necessary to cook the soap can be found in large plastic containers. The packaging is done in a nearby bamboo hut and it’s all very special. And Charlie has a great story to go with it. To find out more about Charlie and his famous soaps, go to www.islandmystk.com. And to be forewarned, Charlie is also about to start making chocolate and syrup. And if the chocolates he gave us to taste are any indication, they will be dark, rich and delicious.
> Surfing: right next to the Villa Panati Jasi, in the surroundings of Jasi, is supposedly one of the best places on Bali for surfing. There are no local shops to rent out surf-boards, just beautiful waves crashing on to the shoreline. So come equipped if you want to exploit some of the rolling waves here.
> Blessing of the land ceremony: We had an opportunity to participate in a blessing of the land ceremony. A friend of Emerald’s had bought a piece of waterfront property, and as is custom on this island, the local priest came to do offerings to the gods so that the land on which this friend would build the house would be blessed and safe. We sat on the ground facing Mt Agung and holding up umbrellas to shield us from the scorching sun, while the priest seated in front of us was performing his rituals. I certainly felt very grounded seated there. I hope the ceremony brings good fortune to the land and the house of Margot (the new landowner). The point of this story is that if you’re invited to partake in any local ceremony, make sure you say yes!
> Tenganan village: located just 7 km from Candidasa, this is literally like stepping back in time. They say it's the original Bali ... so you can look at it as walking into a living museum. The village is all-in-all a 500 m X 250 m rectangular area, where people still live by their ancient traditions and ceremonies. If you're into textiles, this village is renowned for the double ikat cloth, that the local women weave. Make sure you take a guide.
> Amplapura royal palace: being the largest city in East Bali, it used to be one of the wealthiest kingdoms on Bali. I'm talking end of the 17th century here. Inside the city borders there are three palaces, one which has been renovated. That is the one I also recommend you see. It's called Puri Agung Karangasem and was built by the last King of Karangasem, who also built the nearby water palaces Tirta Gangga and Ujung. The palace is fairly small and intimate, and with lots of family pictures on the walls, that give a good glimpse into the kings family and his lifestyle.
> Pura Besakih Temple: Located high on the slopes of Mount Agung is Pura Besakih, which is also known as the mother temple of Hinduism. This is the most important temple complex in Bali. Since it is located on the flanks of the volcano, there is some uphill walking to do. As soon as you park your car in the designated parking lot you will be accosted by touts, many selling you motorbike rides up the hill to the main entrance. In fact, this uphill walk is not that long and the motorbike rides are completely un-necessary. Try and time your visit when there is a ceremony at the temple, for that is when you will see it in all it's glory. Thousands of worshippers in their traditional garbs, with fruits and flowers as offerings, amidst the complex of ancient temples. And if you're extremely lucky, you will see Mt. Agung towering right behind Pura Besakih.
RESTAURANTS
There are many hip and happening places in Bali. And when you rent a villa, you often eat at home, but the following places are definitely worth a try:
South Bali:
> Kudeta (Seminyak): this is a slice of Ibiza in Bali. A bar/restaurant located right on the beach in Seminyak, close to the Oberoi and Legian Hotels, this is a perfect place for a sun-down cocktail. With lounge chairs, beds and buddha-bar style music playing ... watch the waves crash in front of you and the sun go down on the horizon. We stayed on for dinner, and it was surprisingly good. Expect European prices! As a point of interest, when we opened the drinks menu, there were several notes saying this drink is not available and that drink is not available. No vodka for example. When we enquired with the waiter, he said Jakarta is blocking the entry of alcohol to Bali and thus there has been a large shortage of booze.
> La Lucciola (Seminyak): Just down the beach from KuDeTa, this Italian restaurant is more refined and romantic than KuDeTa. Less of a lounge place and more of a dinner locale, La Lucciola (which means fire-fly in Italian) will astound you. And when there, you will see by the decor why the place is called fire-fly. Address: Jalan Petitenget, Seminyak, Bali, Tel: +62 361 730 838
> Breeze (Seminyak): When we went to La Lucciola, we peaked into this restaurant which is right next door on the beach. Looked funky, and what I really liked is that they had tables practically on the beach. I imagine you need to reserve early to get those prime spots. The restaurant is part of The Samaya Bali Hotel.
> Made's Warung (Kuta): a perfect place for lunch. Serving a wide variety of Indonesian and International dishes, you may wait a little longer for your food than you would like to, however, once you see how it's presented ... you'll realize that the wait was worth it. I ordered a sushi platter, and nearly fainted at the table waiting for it. But when it came ... wow .. it looked great and was good.
> Dahana (Seminyak/Kuta): this used to be a private villa and is now a Japanese restaurant. It's funny, because when you walk in, the first thing you see is a pool ... and then tables around it. You can tell it wasn't designed to be a restaurant, but then again, that's what gives it an interesting vibe. (address: Jl. Petitenget No. 98X, Tel: +62 361 730 131)
Central Bali:
> Indus Restaurant (Ubud): We were looking for a place for dinner after our magnificent Kirana Spa experience, and were recommended this restaurant. Unfortunately, it was already dark when we came there, for the view into the valley from the terrace is supposed to be stunning. Nevertheless, we had a fantastic time. The food is a mix of local and foreign cuisines and they had a great salsa band playing all night. As we were sitting at our table and the band started to play, this very sensual Japanese lady started to salsa with an older gentleman. It was a dancing pair which you simply had to observe. I was fixated on them for quite some time. And then another pair got up ... and danced just as well ... and then another ... and another. We were all thinking wow, this place really gets all the fantastic salsa dancers! They're going to kick us out when they see us dancing. But then we realized it was a salsa school!! ... and we proceeded calmly with our dinner.
> Lamak Restaurant and Bar (Ubud): this wonderful restaurant on Monkey Forest Road serves delicious food, although a bit pricey, especially if you drink two bottles of wine!
ACCOMMODATION
Bali has some of the most luxurious hotels in the world, however, I still think that the beauty of Bali can only be truly appreciated if you rent a villa. Having a beautiful property at your service, along with the staff to make your stay effortless, is truly a luxury.
> Renting a Villa: this is my preferred alternative when staying in Bali. If you don’t have friends that can recommend you a good private villa to rent on the island, then call Erick Rikmawan at +62 817 395 001 or email him at erick@villaerick.com He's excellent! Besides finding the perfect place for you, he can also help you in organizing an event. Another alternative is to go to www.elitehavens.com They have a good selection of villas to rent. And to buy!
South Bali:
> Grand Hyatt Hotel - Nusa Dua: located in the Nusa Dua enclave of hotels, this vast and expansive hotel has it all. Larger rooms, beautifully manicured grounds, large outdoor areas for you to lounge and wonderful service. You can choose to swim in one of its many pools or at the beach, and if the sun is bothering you ... then definitely go to the Kriya Spa, which is absolutely stunning and wonderfully relaxing (read above).
> Hyatt Sanur: We went to this hotel for a mid-afternoon cocktail, and I have to say I was pleasantly surprised with the grounds. It’s got a great pool area and wonderful access to the beach. However, it was not comparable to the Grand Hyatt. Although I was not in the rooms, from the outside they looked a bit dated.
> Villa Istana: we came here for a beautiful wedding and the villa is simply stunning. Located close to Uluwatu Temple (so a bit off the beaten track), this villa sits on top of a big cliff, with the infinity pool pretty much ending on a 100m drop down to the ocean. As you would expect in Bali, the living areas are all open and appointed with a modern twist to Balinese design. Expensive ... large ... but stunning!
> Villa Wibisana (Seminyak): this is a beautiful 3-bedroom villa situated in a gated complex in Seminyak. It's right next to the Oberoi and Legian hotel, within walking distance of KuDeTa bar and restaurant. With the typical Balinese indoor-outdoor living arrangement, and the pool in the middle, it's a perfect oasis in Bali where you can enjoy calm mornings, tan, have breakfast by the pool and then head out. And the staff is superb! Contact Erick Rikmawan for booking arrangements.
> Villa Suluban Cliff (the Bukit): This brand new villa situated high on the cliffs of the Bukit gives you un-impeded views of the beautiful white sand beaches of Suluban. With 4 large suites, plenty of vibrant colours and a very modern design ... this is the place to retreat for a luxurious weekend. Plus, the infinity pool has a glass side ... so that you can always spy at what your guests are doing under water!!
Central Bali:
> Ananda Cottages – Ubud: Set amidst the rice paddies of Ubud, this tranquil hotel offers great rooms and a typical Balinese experience for not that much. If you decide to stay here, ask for the rooms that are close to the rice paddies. Room 29 and 30 were perfectly situated and if you so desire, you can open the door between the two back terraces to create one large deck. Perfect for a group of 4. Be aware that the hotel is not within walking distance of the hubbub in Ubud.
> Kupu Kupu Barong Hotel: Sitting on our private terrace overlooking the beautiful lush valley of the Ayung river, with locals working on the rice paddies far below, the river rushing down its path and us having continental breakfast as the sun is rising … I'm totally sold on this hotel! Never heard of it before, but the duplex villas with private pool are stupendous and surrounded by peaceful nature. I recommend the villas that are higher up, for you have a better view of the valley below, and you don't have to walk up and down all the stairs from the reception to your bed! The room is very spacious with a glass wall facing the valley. So when you wake up in the morning and open all the curtains, you feel like you're perched on a branch overlooking a tropical valley. Amazing feeling! The only stupid design feature in the bedroom … the mosquito net! The way it hangs over the bed and tucks into the sides, it means that every time you turn while sleeping, depending on which side you sleep on, you will have your face jammed into the net. So we took it off! And the best surprise … as we were coming home one evening, there we find two frogs fornicating in our path. Of course they were disgruntled when they saw us, dismounted and hopped away.
East Bali:
> Tirta Gangga water palace: besides the magical water gardens, Tirta Gangga also includes 3 beautiful villas, all appointed in a very different style. My favourite one is Villa Tirta Ayu which has an elevated view of the entire water gardens from every room. Lying in the comfort of your bed, or eating in the open air dining room, the view of the gardens is simply inspiring. Even though the gardens are public, and a lot of the locals come and swim in the crystal clear waters, the villas are built into the hill above the gardens, so that although there may be people swimming in the pools, you feel that you are in a private and separate space above it all. Definitely worth staying for a few peaceful and relaxing nights. If you’re just coming for the day, try out the restaurant which is located right next to the villas.
> Villa Turtle Bay Hideaway: located in a small town called Jasi in the eastern part of Bali, close to Candidasa, this waterfront villa is simply gorgeous. Besides having three beautifully appointed wooden bungalows with private pool, it also has a stunning sea view, which was all the more special because you were at the tip of a bay, which gave you land views to the sides, the sea and the island of Lombok and Nusa Penida in front and Mt Agung towering behind you. With the continuous rolling and breaking of the waves against the shoreline of this property, for me, this easily qualified as paradise on earth. And as someone pointed out later, it has great feng shui: mountain at the back and water in front symbolize prosperity.
> Alila Manggis Hotel – Candidasa: a beautiful and intimate hotel, for it only has 54 rooms. The resort is nestled between the sea and majestic Mt Agung, Bali’s most sacred mountain. It is laid out in such a way that all the rooms and suites are facing the pool. Given that it's built in a U-shape, all rooms also have views of the ocean, even though you may have to look to the left or right of your balcony to see it, depending on which part of the U you are situated. I came here for a wedding on 080808, and it was a perfect spot for such an important occasion. If you're not staying here, it's worthwhile to come here for lunch for the setting is serene and calm. This is also where I tried my first banana jam (for breakfast) and it was de-li-cious!! I highly recommend you get a suite, which are the rooms located on the second floor, with terraces, and better views of the pool and sea.
Bojan Tercon
I am so much interested in visiting Bali so now we are planning to have it for our honeymoon. Let see.. your information and details would really help a lot.
Posted by: Villas in Bali | May 18, 2011 at 13:06
So... I guess I should not drop an idea of visiting Bali? what say..?? Actually I was about to plan my wedding which is in near Feb 2012 to be in Bali but people say they tend to be very expensive. Is it true...???
Posted by: Bali Wedding | May 17, 2011 at 18:48
Hi Bo, I just came across your blog which contains some great information for travelers wanting to visit Bali, then I noticed your comment about Villa Pantai Jasi and I am confused. Are you sure your not referring to Villa Pantai in Candi Dasa? Because there isn't a Villa Pantai in Jasi!
Posted by: Flynn | April 20, 2011 at 13:06
I know that some thesis writing services or dissertation writing service would hire you to write such kind of fantastic example thesis just about this good post.
Posted by: GgREBECCA | January 24, 2010 at 15:41
Love to hear you come to Bali and love to stay here. Someday if you come again to Bali and visit Seminyak, we are welcome you to stay at our villa :)
Posted by: Kirstin | December 01, 2009 at 12:13