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Hot Picks: Bali, Indonesia Diane Sukiennik, Associate Editor, Food
and Wine Access
Photo by Michael Reiss
Bali has been called the island of the gods and with
good reason. The moment you set foot on this Indonesian island you are
enveloped in an aura unique to this place.
The tropical foliage, myriad temples, breathtaking rice fields and village compounds are intriguing and soul satisfying. The spectacular resorts, quaint inns, unique cuisine, art and dance tradition and numerous points of interest make this island nation an incomparable journey for all your senses. Here is a sample itinerary that offers a taste of the beauty that is Bali, all with an eye to ecological, cultural and culinary excellence. What follows are five sections, which
highlight 9 important resorts through out Bali. 1)Southern Bali - : NUSA DUA: St. Regis; Conrad 2) Southern Bali- JIMBARAN: Four Seasons; Ayana; Intercontental 3) Central Bali - UBUD, SAYAN : Four Seasons; Kayumanis; Alila Ubud; Mozaic 4) East Bali - MANGGUIS : Alila Mangguis
Diane Sukiennik, Associate Editor, Food
and Wine Access Nusa Dua was developed as
a tourist enclave and now is home to many international five star properties.
This is often one of the first stops for visitors because of its convenience
and proximity
Photo by Michael Reiss
Diane Sukiennik, Associate Editor, Food
and Wine Access Where to Stay St. Regis
A sunset arrival at the St. Regis Bali Resort---the newest in the 5-star pantheon of Nusa Dua resorts--- was an event worth a 5-star drumroll. Torches lit on a seemingly endless path of light from the grand lobby to the even grander Indian Ocean, guests gathering, jazz music playing. It's all happening here, now at the St. Regis Bali Resort.
Guests at the St. Regis Bali Resort are treated nightly to the exciting Torch Light Ceremony where fragrant flowers greet you and where vistas look out to the Indian Ocean. Photo by Michael Reiss
Bold contemporary architecture with Indonesian design motifs gives rise to 132 luxurious, oversized suites and villas, two exclusive four bedroom residences, world class dining and bars---all with live entertainment, a signature Remede Spa, an intimate wedding chapel, ballroom and meeting spaces!
At St. Regis Bali Resort the Remede Spa is a magical and beautiful spot. Photo by Michael Reiss
All of the signature features of the St. Regis luxury brand are unobtrusively evident. The spacious suites and villas designed for peace and privacy, butlers at the ready, the intriguing public areas, including a world-class chocolate shop complete with a French patisseur at the helm, exceptional food and beverage outlets and impeccable service. All of this---in a relaxed, unparalleled oceanfront setting---makes for a super sojourn.
Rooms at the St. Regis Bali Resort are beautifully appointed, spacious and offer sweeping views of lush vegetation, meandering waterways or the Indian Ocean. Photo by Michael Reiss
Breakfast at Boneka is a bountiful bonanza of buffet items imported and domestic all selected to appeal to a discriminating international clientele. But the buffet selection is just the beginning. A full demonstration kitchen---with chefs at the ready---are waiting to delight you with their a la minute offerings including lobster and caviar stuffed eggs, oysters, sushi, sashimi, dim sum, kobe beef, and Indonesian specialties. Save room for freshly baked, hot, out-of-the-oven croissants made by a French patisseur . Breakfast anywhere else could never compare!
At the St. Regis Bali Resort breakfast at Boneka Restaurant is a bountiful bonanza of buffet items, as well as cook-to-order specialties, such as this lobster preparation. Photo by Michael Reiss
As sunset heralds evening and the torches are lit, stroll the property and head for the Remede Spa, aglow with lit onyx columns standing tall in the gurgling ponds that surround the spa. Let the pampering begin, as you settle in for the signature Remede massage complete with hot paraffin wax treatments and a combination of Balinese lomi lomi and deep tissue massage. As you float out of the spa, renewed and refreshed, it is almost time for dinner at Kayuputi.
Photo by Michael Reiss
The huge chandeliers flanking the entrance lilt and sway in the breeze, beckoning you to explore the intrigue of Kayuputi, Indonesian for "white wood." The contemporary interior, white with Indonesian silver filigree design, is the perfect backdrop for the gleaming modern demonstration kitchen, the sleek bar, inviting table banquets and the outdoor cabanas for dining.
Kayuputi Restaurant chefs at the St. Regis Bali Resort prepare each creative dish a la minute with special care. Photo by Michael Reiss
With such a sensual setting, can dinner compare? Executive Chef Oscar Perez and Chef Agung have ensured expert preparation of dishes integrating Asian flavors and Western ingredients. Every menu item is tempting, but the real adventure is the chef's surprise "Degustation Menu" offering unique interpretations of many menu selections. Add to this Sommelier Harold Wiesmann's take on poetic wine pairing for an exceptional evening in paradise.
"Miso Suke Gindara Fish with Sauteed Asian Greens, Chili Oil and Coconut Milk Foam." Photo by Michael Reiss The St. Regis Bali Resort is an exclusive enclave for those who require the highest standards, and the finest quality, wherever they travel. Experience the best of Bali at the St. Regis Bali Resort.
Beautiful waterways grace the St. Regis Bali Resort, which sits facing the Indian Ocean. Photo by Michael Reiss St. Regis Bali Resort Phone: (62)(361) 8478 111 http://www.starwoodhotels.com/stregis/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=1708 Stregis.bali@stregis.com
Conrad Bali
Photo by Michael Reiss Blink and you'll miss the discreet walled entrance and signage to the Conrad Bali, this modern, luxury resort from the Hilton family of hotels. This secluded tropical paradise comes complete with swimming lagoons,
cascading waterfalls, a dedicated children's area, conference center and
dramatic infinity meditation chapel.
The beautifully designed architecture of the Conrad Bali reflects traditional Balinese design elements including waterways, fountains and thatched roofs. Photo by Michael Reiss With a wide variety of accommodations-- many facing the Indian Ocean--this high tech, high touch property appeals to many kinds of travelers.
The Conrad Suite, an exclusive enclave within the Conrad Bali, offers guests a private pool and cabana area, as well as many other amenities and services. Photo by Michael Reiss
An even greater level of luxury is the Conrad Suite, offering enormous space, a personal assistant, who will help customize your stay, and a lounge offering complimentary breakfast, evening cocktails, complementary internet and unlimited laundry and dry cleaning.
This is the graciously appointed Conrad Suite, which offers unparalleled luxury, comfort and stunning ocean views. Photo by Michael Reiss The Conrad Suite is practically "a hotel within a hotel," as the services are extensive and customized to each guest's individual needs and requests.
This is the Conrad Suite Lounge, which offers lucky guests an upscale cocktail and appetizer hour, internet access, breakfast, and other customized concierge services. Photo by Michael Reiss The resort offers many dining venues. Suku offering Balinese and Indonesian cuisine served al fresco overlooking the panoramic Indian Ocean with contemporary Indonesian music and live traditional Balinese dancing. Eight Degrees South serves fresh seafood in an open-air, beach-front pavilion. Rin---serving contemporary Japanese fare created by Chef de
Cuisine Jonathan Millar (whose dedication to maintaining the integrity
and serving the most authentic products)--is evident in his wide range
of dishes featuring the five basic tastes of sweet, sour, salty, bitter,
and umami and in his preparing them in different ways: raw,
pickled, fried, grilled. The result is a blend of familiar ingredients
fashioned into new recipes which have been well-received by guests, including
native Japanese.
Here is an example to some traditional Balinese cuisine served at food outlets in the Conrad Bali, including the Krupuk Shrimp Crackers, Bami Gorang Noodles, and the almost addictive, luscious Balinese Peanut Sauce. Photo by Michael Reiss
Activities abound night and day in and out at the Conrad Bali.
The Conrad Bali offers marriage couples the breathtakingly beautiful and serene Wedding Chapel, which looks out on the Indian Ocean. Photo by Michael Reiss
At the the Conrad Bali there is something for everyone: from lazing and lounging in the decadently luxurious pool and beach areas to water sports, to bicycling to yoga to tennis to language learning, dancing and flower arranging lessons, not to mention the Spa for the ultimate in pampering.
The Conrad Bali's extensive waterways and large luxurious swimming pools make the resort experience special and memorable. Photo by Michael Reiss
The Conrad Bali raises the bar on what a resort stay can and should
be.
Cheerful and personalize service is the hallmark of the Conrad Bali. Photo by Michael Reiss
The Conrad Bali http://conradhotels1.hilton.com/en/ch/hotels/index.do?ctyhocn=BPNCICI&WT.srch=1
Diane Sukiennik, Associate Editor, Food
and Wine Access
Jimbaran is a bustling fishing village and is also home to several spectacular resorts that take advantage of the charm and authenticity of daily life by offering opportunities to visit the markets accompanied by local village guides to choose fish and produce that are later part of your cooking school experience.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Diane Sukiennik, Associate Editor, Food
and Wine Access Where to Stay Four Seasons Resort - Bali at Jimbaran
Photo by Michael Reiss This luxury brand is known for understated taste, sophistication,
and service. It meets and exceeds its standards in Bali where it has
two properties, the Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran on the
Indian Ocean and the Four Seasons Bali Resort at Sayan on the
Agung River in the middle of lush jungle and rice paddie setting..
This is the luxurious infinity swimming pool at the Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran. Photo by Michael Reiss
Guests at the Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran are treated to their own private Balinese compound--- complete with private outdoor pavilion., air-conditioned luxurious guest sleeping quarters, and private plunge pool. Photo by Michael Reiss You are immersed in the quietude of your own villa complete with outdoor living pavilion and plunge pool, yet steps away is the beach and the lively fishing village of Jimbaran.
The Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran's cooking school employs expert Balinese chefs to teach students in their modern and well-equipped demonstration kitchen. Photo by Michael Reiss Within the Jimbaran compound are groomed tropical gardens,
an art gallery, temple and cooking school, as well as several restaurants
offering Balinese, Mediterranean, Italian, and Japanese cuisine.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Four Seasons Resort -Bali at Jimbaran
Bay Tel. 62 (361) 701010 Fax. 62 (361)
701020
Ayana Jimbaran, Bali
Photo by Michael Reiss The Ayana Resort and Spa at Jimbaran--formerly a Ritz Carlton--
is a sprawling, park- like property, perched on a cliff overlooking the
ocean where drama and serenity coexist.
The Ayana Resort and Spa's infinity swimming pool affords vast views of the Indian Ocean. Photo by Michael Reiss
The Ayana Resort and Spa combine traditional Balinese design elements with modern, beautifully maintained facilities. Photo by Michael Reiss
Discreet pampering is felt at every turn. For an exceptional experience choose Club Level. Here the attentive concierge service, five daily meal preparations, all inclusive beverages, complimentary internet and customized touring arrangements makes this a value proposition not to be missed.
At The Ayana Resort and Spa's Club Level Lounge guests enjoy a private sitting area complete with five daily meal preparations, all inclusive beverages, and complimentary internet. Photo by Michael Reiss
The Ayana Resort and Spa's Master Chef instructs guests in the fine art of cooking "spice island style" in the open-air cooking pavilion. Photo by Michael Reiss
Guests can enjoy the fleshes "just-caught" fish and sea food at the Ayana Resort and Spa's food outlets. Photo by Michael Reiss
The gracious and legendary Ayana Spa is all about outstanding service with a smile. Photo by Michael Reiss
Welcoming smiles and restful surroundings set the stage for their signature "Bamboo Massage." Here hot stones and hot bamboo poles glide across tense muscles to melt away tension and stress. Skilled masseuses ensure that blissful contentment is only an Ayana Spa treatment away!
This is one of Ayana Spa's beautifully appointed treatment rooms. Photo by Michael Reiss
The Ayana Resort and Spa affords special moments of the beauty and culture of the Balinese people. Photo by Michael Reiss
AYANA Resort and Spa fb.reservation@ayanaresort.com
Intercontinental Bali Resort
Photo by Michael Reiss
The Intercontinental Bali Resort offers three levels of accommodations to provide an enriching, luxurious holiday experience. Although every level ensures a uniquely satisfying sojourn, Club International and its "Inspiration Space" offers an exceptional experience for the discerning guest who appreciates preferential treatment. This "resort within a resort" is a level of luxury that once experienced, will be requested as a value proposition.
The Intercontinental Bali Resort's extensive beautifully landscaped grounds affords guest the opportunity for ultimate rest and relaxation. Photo by Michael Reiss
"The Club Experience" starts as you step off the plane and you are greeted with a warm welcome and a VIP- assist through customs. After refreshing in their airport lounge---exclusive to Intercontinental Club Resort guests---you step into your chauffeured car, your luggage in tow, ready for the brief transfer to your Concierge Level Accommodations, tucked away in a secluded part of the resort amidst the tropical landscape.
This is one of the comfortable and private guest rooms at the Intercontinental Bali Resort. Photo by Michael Reiss
Boasting ocean frontage, and its own pool, an executive lounge with
private meal services throughout the day, 24 hour butler service, and
an innovative inspiration room (called "Inspiration Space")
the Club Level is an indulgence well worth the price.
The Intercontinental Bali Resort has extensive ocean frontage for guests to enjoy. Photo by Michael Reiss
This is the private Club International Lounge where
guest are pampered with complimentary beverage and meal service, as well
as personalized concierge service.
These are the beautiful grounds of the Intercontinental Bali Resort. Photo by Michael Reiss
Spa Uluwatu at the Intercontinental Bali Resort offers guest superb service with a goal of achieving enhanced heath, beauty, and wellness. Photo by Michael Reiss
Dining venues abound and cater to an international clientele with plenty
of local Balinese dishes to satisfy the adventurous palate.
Food services is extensive and wide-ranging at the Intercontinental Bali Resort, including offering traditional Balinese dishes, such as Krupuk Shrimp Crackers, statays with peanut sauce and Bami Balinese Noodles. Photo by Michael Reiss
Photo by Michael Reiss
Gracious and customized service is paramount at Photo by Michael Reiss
InterContinental Bali Resort bali@interconti.com
Diane Sukiennik, Associate Editor, Food
and Wine Access
Ubud has long been considered the cultural and artistic capital of Bali. It is in this area, surrounded by verdant, tiered rice fields that the arts of woodcraft, painting,and dance are brought to a high art form.
Photo by Michael Reiss
As you make your way through the main thoroughfares of the village you pass one stall after another with carvers, painters and crafts people diligently at work using the tools and techniques that were perfected years ago by their venerated elders. The younger generations embrace these traditional art forms and are determined to preserve their culture..
Hot Picks:Central Bali, UBUD,SAYAN Diane Sukiennik, Associate Editor, Food
and Wine Access
Where to Stay Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan
Photo by Michael Reiss
The Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan property lies on the sacred Agung River. It is located just minutes from the artistic village of Ubud. The dramatic contemporary architecture---virtually built
over the rice paddies---showcases the rushing river, lush tropical vegetation
and terraced rice fields that surround the property.
Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan orients outwards, connecting with the dramatic architecture of the hotel with the surrounding nature. Photo by Michael Reiss
Sleek modern design blends with the timeless traditions of the culture. The breathtaking surroundings are mirrored by the stunning interior spaces.
The beautifully appointed rooms at the Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan are furnished with striking Balinese style. Photo by Michael Reiss
Ah, warm crispy croissants and rich Java coffee are just right to start the day for breakfast at the Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan. Photo by Michael Reiss
Both the Jimbaran and Sayan properties offer intimate romantic dining venues set up upon request, special themed tasting menus and buffet dinners complete with live music, and performances of traditional Balinese dance to set the stage for a memorable and authentic dining adventure in Bali without having to leave the compound.
You too can have a "Zen Moment" at the Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan. Photo by Michael Reiss The Spa at Four Seasons Bali at Sayan provides a choice of private air conditioned rooms and luxurious, open air spa villas to soothe, relax and revitalize mind, body, and spirit. The Balinese massage is practiced to perfection by skilled therapists whose touch and pressure is just right. An after- spa plunge in the hot or cold pools provides a perfect ending for an essential nourishing experience that makes this treatment a sensual treat. BOTH Four Seasons Bali properties integrate the finest international standard in architecture, amenities, dining, spa and service with the finest local talent and traditions to make your stay an island home waiting for your return.
Service beyond your expectations is the rule at the Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan. Photo by Michael Reiss
Four Seasons Bali Tel. 62 (361) 977577 Fax. 62 (361) 977588 http://www.fourseasons.com/sayan/
Kayumanis Ubud
Photo by Michael Reiss Kayumanis Ubud is one of the group's boutique hotels emphasizing eco-luxury. Each of the 23 villas is thoughtfully integrated into the lush natural setting of rice fields along the Agung River. If camping out in nature in a private villa complete with swimming pool is possible, this is it.
You can escape from the the hustle and bustle of the city to the realm of nature, beauty and serenity at the Kayumanis Ubud. Photo by Michael Reiss
Creature comforts and the comfort of bathing in the river might aptly describe the natural elegance of Kayumanis (which is Balinese word for cinnamon, a tree that is in great abundance on the grounds.)
Guests are escorted to their private villas (complete with individual swimming pools), as part of the highly personalized service at the Kayumanis Ubud. Photo by Michael Reiss
Accommodating butlers orient you to the many possibilities available on the property, including trekking, river rafting, yoga, spa treatments, rice field walks, and visits to the nearby art center in Ubud.
Each Villa at Kayumanis Ubud is appointed with luxury and comfort, including a discreet outdoor shower and extra large bath tub. Photo by Michael Reiss
Most guests are so mesmerized by the tranquility that they remain in their villas and barely pop out for meals, particularly since 24 hour room service and dining en suite make relaxing in your own villa a paradise found.
Dinning venues at Kayumanis Ubud graciously serve Indonesian, Mediterranean, Italian and Continental cuisine, as well as special Thai dishes. Photo by Michael Reiss There are several dining options with the dining corner offering the
most diverse items which include Indonesian, Mediterranean, Italian and
Continental however the restaurant specialized in Thai and the items sampled
were world class. Wine pairings are suggested to enhance the menu offerings.
Dining al fresco amidst tropical foliage is sensual and seductive and
satisfying for body and soul.
At the Kayumanis Ubud--looking out over acres and acres of pristine natural setting--- one can partake in a succulent Thai dish complete with freshely-sqeezed juices, in this case, frothy watermelon juice. Photo by Michael Reiss The Kayumanis Spa services are well known for their natural balanced approach and stunning setting. Five open air pavilions planted on stilts along the Agung River provide an ideal setting for restful rejuvenation.
The Kayumanis Spa is known for its beauty, grace, natural setting, and for its high level of technical skill and training. Photo by Michael Reiss
As you settle in for your treatment the soothing breezes and singing
birds begin to whisk away your cares. The competent masseuses focus their
energy on healing, and you float out of the Kayumanis Spa pavilion having
experienced an ethereally moment in time.
Due to the extraordinary level of personalized service and care, it is such a pleasure to visit the Kayumanis Ubud. Photo by Michael Reiss
Kayumanis Jimbaran Private Estate and Spa
Alila Ubud Bali
Photo by Michael Reiss Alila Ubud is a boutique resort property with units located in the middle of rice fields where peace, tranquility and repose reign supreme.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Little girls from a nearby village share their dance heritage and culture with guests at the Alila Ubud. Photo by Michael Reiss
Photo by Michael Reiss
Chef Nyomin Santika prepares creative interpretations of Balinese
contemporary and Continental creations, as well as special menus for romantic
dining and theme dinners with live music.
Expert master chefs share cooking techniques with guests at the Alila Ubud Cooking School. Photo by Michael Reiss
Spa services are carefully and professional presented at the Alila Ubud Spa. Photo by Michael Reiss
Spa Alila prides itself in its unique homemade organic products
used for its treatments. In fact you can take a class to prepare the products
that will later be used on you to soothe, relax, revitalize and rejuvenate.
The skilled therapists are mindful of your preferences and ably adjust
pressure and technique to address your areas of greatest need.
The Alila Ubud brings Balinese cultural and music to the hotel and makes an effort to utilize the talents of local villagers. Photo by Michael Reiss Alila Ubud http://www.alilahotels.com/ubud
Diane Sukiennik, Associate Editor, Food
and Wine Access
Where to Eat Mozaic Restaurant Ubud, Bali
Photo by Mozaic-Bali
Imagine that one of the world's top rated restaurants, Mosaic, is located
in Ubud, a small artistic village in the interior of the island of Bali! With notable international accolades, its no wonder that the 60 seats are booked months in advance with an eager waiting list at the ready in hopes of a last minute cancellation. Chef Salans presents several 6 course dining selections. One menu uses exotic Balinese ingredients which are displayed table side,
the other menu a bit more continental in flavor profile with touches of
Asian inspiration throughout. Chef Salans and his wine director
have carefully matched each course with impressive old and new world wines
(almost impossible to find elsewhere in Bali because of the import restrictions)
to compliment the cuisine.
Mosaic's outdoor garden dining makes the culinary experience even more memorable. Photo by Mozaic-Bali
TASTING MENU OF THE DAY
Here is one of Mosaic's creative dishes presented with artistic flair. Photo by Mozaic-Bali
Mozaic Restaurant Phone / Fax. +62 361 975768
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Photo by Michael Reiss
They say that if you want to experience the essence of Bali as it was in the good old days, go East. It is here that you will find traditional villages little changed by modernization. Textiles are woven, rice thrashed and ritual respected as they were centuries ago. Hot Picks: Indonesia Diane Sukiennik, Associate Editor, Food
and Wine Access Where to Stay Alila Manggis
Photo by Michael Reiss Plan to visit east Bali for a taste of one of the most unspoiled parts of the island. A stay at the Alila Manggis in Candi Dasa is well worth the drive.
Complementary afternoon tea at the Alila Manggis is a happy occasion, and also a surprise.. Photo by Michael Reiss
" Alila" means surprise in Sanskrit and you will surely experience the essence of surprise here. The contemporary architecture and floating gardens are magnificently highlighted to create stunning drama. The sounds of the ocean and geckos create a lulling and exotic backdrop for a property that offers a range of activities on the premises and in nearby villages.
This is the beautiful grounds of the Alila Manggis, which sits just steps from the ocean. Photo by Michael Reiss
Your preferences are carefully noted so that upon arriving you will be met by a leisure concierge who will suggest a range of experiences to enhance your stay.
Most rooms at the Alila Manggis look out to the ocean and afford comfort and connection with nature. Photo by Michael Reiss
The dining venue called Sea Salt will introduce you to a variety
of items including the traditional East Balinese feast enjoyed at village
ceremonies called Balinese Megbung, which includes all the specialties
found in the area.
Dinning at the Alila Manggis is a special occasion. Here Chef Penny Williams presents a cornucopia of local Balinese delicacies. Photo by Michael Reiss Any menu item can be served in the open air dining pavilion or in any
of the romantic spots on the property including the seaside pavilions
and organic garden in the middle of the rice fields.
Cooking School a la Alila Manggis--- under the able guidance of Chef Penny Williams--- is fun as well as instructional. Photo by Michael Reiss
A unique offering is the seafood class which starts with an early morning
fishing trip at a nearby village, continues with the preparation of several
dishes using your own catch of the day and ends with your enjoyment of
your own cooking at dinner.
Photo by Michael Reiss
At the Alila Manggis the staff is intent on creating memorable and authentic cultural experiences for its guests--such as shopping for hand-worked icat weavings or thrashing rice with local farmers. Photo by Michael Reiss
You may have to leave Alila Manggis but your memories will linger
and you will vow to return.
As always service with a smile comes first at the Alila Manggis. Photo by Michael Reiss
Alila Manggis http://www.alilahotels.com/manggis
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