experiment in work/life balance was
centred at the Alila resort, in the
majestic rainforest of Ubud. More
intimate in setting and scope, Alila Ubud
honors the green valley of the Ayung
river by blending with its surrounds and
becoming one with its environment.
paddies, dotted with farmers wearing
traditional conical hats. All around us is
lush, green, dense, jungle life. The light
drizzle of rain, which arrives on the
dot at 3pm every afternoon, helps to
provide welcome cool and, along with
the sound of monkeys making their
way along the treetops, adds to the
surreal experience.
paddies, is terraced, gentling clinging to
the natural slope of the land.
sits on stilts and juts out over the deep
valley. The external and interior design
is exactly to our taste rectangular and
open plan with clean lines and white on
white with oak accents. It's a little slice
of Scandinavia in the jungle.
terrace ensure a seamless connection
with the rich green of the valley.
the rest of the facilities.
epitomises your experience.
While I think this is limiting,
it's also understandable if
trying to encapsulate a place
in one or two sentences.
For Ayana in Jimbaran,
the calling card is the Rock
Bar; for Alila Ubud it's the
swimming pool. Dramatically
designed, the emerald-green
pool is perched on a terrace
yet appears suspended over
the valley like a diving board,
beckoning you to jump in
tranquil land.
Alila Ubud. This feeling is a product
of the unbelievably friendly staff (all
locals), the design (a fusion of natural
and modern elements), the cuisine
(authentic Balinese interpreted through
modern French techniques) and, of
course, the signature setting.
suckling pig at Ibu Oka, delicate crispy
duck at Bebek Bengil and barbecue ribs
accompanied by mammoth martinis at
Naughty Nooris all institutions and
must-dine destinations.
imbues all aspects of life in Bali and,
in particular, unspoilt villages such as
local priest and spiritual leader of
the community for an authentic
blessing ceremony, after which we
visit a Balinese astrologer for a
mystical reading of our characters and
personalities.
of our villa and infinity pool that we
crave our own slice of rainforest has
effortlessly worked its way in to our
hearts.
amazing meal from executive chef Eelke
Plasmeijer (some say he's the best in
Bali), or by another luxurious massage
experience at Spa Alila. By now the
stress of work and hectic pace of life in
Sydney is a distant memory.
Alila Ubud is by its people. The resort
is true to its motto `Hospitality, more
than standards, a way of life'.
come back) but are keen to experience
the rare grandeur, bespoke services and
modern design of Alila Soori, the third
and final leg of our holiday, located
within the picturesque, fertile Tabanan
Regency on Bali's southwest coast.