Bali, a Serene Paradise
My Journey Begins
Ever since I had to spend a miserable 30 minutes in the rain waiting for an airport minibus to collect me and take me to the off-site carpark, I’ve booked all the little extras to make the start and end of my holidays as relaxing as possible. A private car took me to London Heathrow, where the check-in process and fast track security were all very relaxed and friendly experiences. Then an hour or so in an airport lounge, with coffee, breakfast and the papers made a welcome escape from the bustle of the airport.
As I was celebrating my birthday, I treated myself to an upgrade on the plane, which was well worth it – particularly, when champagne, birthday cake and a birthday card were delivered to my seat by the airline team.
Hello Bali
When I arrived in Bali, I was able to experience first-hand being met by our dedicated Destination Management Company team (aka local ground handlers). Not only was there my driver but also another member of staff to accompany me on my way to the resort. It made such a difference being met with a friendly smile when far away from home. The team also provided bottles of water, maps and a thought-provoking booklet entitled “Tips for Responsible Travel”. I’d chosen to stay in a resort near Ubud, which (according to our in-house review system) was an ideal haven in which to relax and recharge. The resort is set in a dramatic, eight-hectare private tropical rainforest estate, near the Ayung River. The lush rainforest, the super-friendly, dignified staff and the calm, serene atmosphere were ideal. The warm welcome included a refreshing drink and a sweet treat.
Accommodation includes a range of suites, villas with private pools and superior and deluxe rooms. I was given an upgrade to a Deluxe Sita Wing Room, which was extremely comfortable and had a great view of the rain forest from its balcony. Nice touches were very good with coffee/tea making facilities and a complimentary mini bar/fridge (soft drinks only).
Just lying around the pool, reading a book and spotting a monkey or two playing in the rainforest was a great way to chill out. Choosing breakfast from the wide variety on the a la carte menu at the Wijaya Kusuma Restaurant was a real treat – with the added bonus of the most amazing view. Dinner (and my birthday cake) was also excellent. I didn’t have time to enjoy the daily afternoon tea. However, the resort treated me to a complimentary Balinese massage, which was brilliant with the backdrop of the sounds of the river and the rainforest. Onsite Yoga was done in an amphitheatre – so I hear! After my efforts when I was in St Lucia, I gave it a miss this time.
There is an opportunity to explore, as the hotel offers a shuttle service to and from Ubud every day. My evening trip into Ubud with its busy streets lined with art galleries, bars and restaurants, was a highlight, offering a complete contrast from the resort. The resort also offered village treks where a small group of guests were guided through the nearby village, a community organised around temples and courtyards, with daily rituals, banjar (community association) and reverential offerings in evidence everywhere. Followed by a trek across rice fields and the local countryside, it was absolutely fascinating.
The only problem was the usual one – I didn’t want to leave! There are so many excursions to enjoy including white-water rafting, cookery classes and visits to cultural sites. It’s easy to put together a 3-day, 5 day or week-long itinerary. If Bali is on your wish list, just give me a call on 020 3432 2510 and I’ll help you make your wish come true.
However, my next stop was to Nusa Dua for a week long, activity-packed break. See my next journal for more details (and more birthday cake!)