I have to tell you how it all started, how one day when I bought a plane ticket to the island of Bali, I had no idea what it was going to trigger in me!
I have to confess that I chose this destination a little by chance! At the time, I didn't know much about travel, I just let myself be tempted by the photos of a friend who had spent three weeks on this island the previous year. So I left thinking, why not, but I didn't imagine how much these three weeks would change my life, make me understand that travel is a pillar that I can no longer do without.
For this first big trip, I trusted a travel agency specialized in Bali trips, and I was not disappointed! Especially when I discovered the house where I was going to spend five nights!
Imagine: After three flights, a 2-hour car ride from the airport to our destination, we arrived at the Shanti Lodge! A team of six people was waiting for us with scooters to take us down small paths to our house, which is inaccessible by car. After a short ride on two wheels, we discovered an exceptional environment of 2 hectares: an infinity pool in the middle of the vegetation, a 5-bedroom house made up of several bungalows, all just for us!
There is also a very cozy living room, which is actually an authentic Javanese house where you can sit and read or relax while enjoying the view, as the room is open to the rice fields. I couldn't believe my eyes. Let's just say that these five days would allow me to relax before exploring this beautiful island.
Our room's decoration is typical, with natural materials, wood, local objects, and linen. The outdoor bathroom is very nice and perfectly complements the Balinese atmosphere.
And the best part is that the team of six Balinese is at our entire disposal to organize our activities, meals, and take care of everything else... In addition to that, they are all very welcoming and very kind, and they take care of us to make this stay unforgettable. We really feel privileged, and there's a little bit of a feeling of being alone in the world that's very pleasant!
The days are conducive to relaxation: after a breakfast of exotic fruits, pancakes, and cakes specially made for us by our cook, we settle by the pool, which is about 29°. On the agenda: reading, swimming (with a 20m pool, you can easily swim), and Balinese massage by the pool.
Followed by a late lunch and some relaxation, we put on our hiking gear and met up with a member of the team who was responsible for showing us around the area around the villa. In fact, the beach is only a few hundred meters away behind the trees by the pool, but the vegetation is so dense that it completely hides the coastline.
This hike was a real discovery thanks to Wayan, our guide, who shared his knowledge with us throughout the entire course. We reached a black sand beach for a walk with our feet in the water.
On the way back to the villa, we passed a temple where a large ceremony was taking place, which happens here every six months, and we were able to immerse ourselves in the local culture with religious chants and traditional costumes.
Even today, a few years later, I realize how fantastic this accommodation is! It's difficult in Europe to find places with such a good value for money! Since then, I have slept in a number of luxury establishments, but this one remains a memorable experience.
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About Florence Consul
Editor of Experiences Luxe since 2015, I love discovering new exclusive and authentic experiences all over the world. I left my home country (France) 6 years ago to become a global citizen, traveling 365 days out of the year. I am a foodie person and I make a point of tasting local specialities.