Tomorrow I will board a flight back to London, after having spent 3 of the most magical weeks of my life, enjoying my honeymoon in Bali.
To describe this island and it's people as beautiful, would be accurate, but not nearly adequate, to describe how truly special both are. Perhaps a better and more appropriate phrase would be other-worldly, although I'm not sure this does it justice either.
We landed in Denpasar 3 weeks ago, on Sunday 2nd June, where our wonderful driver, Deduut, was waiting to greet us, with a radiant smile and a warm embrace. That was to be the start of 3 wonderful weeks, which we should share together, as we toured around the island and enjoyed many memorable meals.
Through conversations with Deduut, we were privileged to learn a great deal about Balinese culture. Something which is acutely important, when factoring the damaging aspects of Bali's Instagram economy and the relentless selfie-junkies, who have infested many parts of this beautiful island. Bearing witness to these scenes has only served to reinforce my views on embracing digital minimalism.
We kicked off with 5 nights at Conrad Bali, in Nusa Dua, where the ocean views from the lobby were breathtaking. Our time here was characterised by relaxing days, spent sipping cold drinks by the pool and balmy evenings, during which we enjoyed world class cuisine at a number of local restaurants.
I'm yet to make it to Hawaii, although it's definitely on my hit-list, but to my mind, Nusa Dua had a distinctly Hawaiian vibe. A small piece of island paradise, with stunning views of the ocean that will live forever in my memory.
Next up was Ayana, which, after having hit the jackpot at Conrad Bali, was, unbelievably, a little bit underwhelming. Our room was cramped, cold and uninviting. Likewise the staff were robotic and rather than falling over themselves, to ensure that guests were having a wonderful stay, they were simply going through the motions.
Amongst the many redeeming factors though, were the eye-watering views of the ocean and the team of freelancers, which we drafted in, to make my wife's 30th birthday a super enjoyable and memorable day. From Dian (make-up artist), to La Beaute (balloon people) and Wayan the photographer, the stage was set for a day of birthday celebrations, which true to form with Megan, were completely over the top.
In the midst of these celebrations, we were privileged to spend a few hours with I Made Bandem, whose son Marlowe Bandem has curated an immaculate and highly educational exhibition about Balinese culture at the presitgious Saka Museum. For anyone reading this, who is not familiar with Nyepi, also known as the Bali day of silence, I would encourage you to check it out. Think 24 hours of intentional lockdown every year, in which the whole country enjoys a day of silence and solitude with their loved ones.
This part of Bali was slow-paced, relaxed and more authentic than Nusa Dua, Ayana and Uluwatu, on account of there being far fewer tourists. The impacts of the Instagram economy were far less pronounced, which from my perspective, was a welcomed relief.
The days we spent at Citakara Sari, an exclusive beach-front estate that is owned and operated by an extremely talented friend of our family, were amongst the happiest and most peaceful days of my life.
We were blessed to have the whole estate to ourselves and a world class team of 9 staff, who catered for our every need. This experience far surpassed any notion, which I had previously held, of exceptional living and tailor-made luxury. From top-notch meals that were prepared by our private chef, to relaxing massages and sun bathing by our private infinity pool, with stellar views of the ocean, this constituted an experience of unparalleled luxury. I’m talking Howard Hughes levels of life by design!
A very special thank you to Lynn and Iouri for your kindness and generosity, in inviting us to enjoy your quiet piece of Balinese paradise.
Next up was a few days in Seminyak, which can be best described, as a wrong turn. Far too busy, congested and claustrophobic for my liking, especially after having spent the past few days living the life of Riley.
Yes, the restaurants, beaches and sunsets were awesome, but having experienced it for a few days, I would be in no rush to return.
Last but not least, we rounded off our trip, by returning to Nusa Dua for a final few days of peaceful relaxation by the ocean.
I would be remiss, if I didn’t also mention the two happy and adventurous days, which we spent in Bangkok both before and after our time in Bali.
All in all, a remarkable trip, which will hold a very special place in both our memories, for the rest of our lives.
If you get the chance to visit this magical island, be sure to seize it with both hands.
