bali
Bulgari Bali
In the craggy south, the Bulgari Bali is perched on the edge of the Ulu Watu coast, blending Balinese and classic Italian
design, with dark wood, high-tech art-filled interiors, outside living areas, plunge pools overlooking the ocean far
below and bathrooms in black marble. The whole resort is focused on the horizon, with sunsets bathing villas dramatically
in a warm glow. This is also the time to be in the Spa’s relaxation area or practicing in the yoga pavilion. The reception
is an old Joglo house from Java, beautifully lit and making a stunning entrance. The spa, by ESPA, has minimally decorated
treatment rooms, and though some are verging on small, each has an open view of the sea. The royal pavilions with outdoor
gardens and plunge pools are the way to go. The Bulgari took its time in opening, but was it worth the wait? Worth its
weight in Bvlgari bling!
www.bulgarihotels.com
Amankila
Everyone knows that Aman resorts are luxury personified, and Amankila in Manggis is no exception. Aman-typical sleek
views over three tiers of pool look down over the gardens leading to the private beach. Villas are beautifully designed
to calm urban-frazzled souls with plunge pools, stone baths, space galore and treats like jars of biscuits and fresh flowers
that bring a delighted smile to your face.
But tempering the luxury are authentic Balinese details: you’ll be welcomed by flower girls in training, who look like
butter wouldn’t melt (until they’re off duty), stirring evening performances by gamelan orchestras and dancers, and massages
by a local healer and priest from Manggis village. Gusti’s mother and grandmother were both village healers and he studied
from the age of 16 with a Chinese doctor. During the in-room massage he immediately detected an imbalance in my shoulders
and worked wonders on the knots. At the spa proper, the Cita Ening is a two and a half hour treatment of foot cleanse,
massage, wrap, facial, and bath – delightful in a totally different way.
Both Amankila and sister resort Amandari tailor wellness itineraries on demand. Stretch out the office- tight muscles
with a session of hata yoga with yoga master Bapak Ketut Bandiastra, or jump on a mountain bike or pull on your trekking
boots to explore the villages inland with a hotel guide. Getting up close and personal with oxen ploughing fields, kids
playing in ponds and villagers going about their daily life will be one of the most memorable things you do on the island.
www.amanresorts.com 