Forget Bora Bora, lastminute lovely Sasha takes a trip to Bali and discovers the newest lustworthy travel destination, Uluwatu.
Oh. My. Gawd! That is literally all that I can word-vomit when I arrive at the Anantara Bali Uluwatu Resort & Spa. This place is surreal, and in the best kind of way.
On check-in I’m met with smiles – lots and lots of smiles. I can’t believe how happy everyone is around me and I’ve suddenly forgotten about my miserable four hour layover in Darwin Airport. There is no way you can be miserable here. I mean, look at that view!
I’ve got to admit, I’m not shy about judging a hotel from its lobby. I find it can speak a lot about the staff, service and quality of a hotel, and the Anantara Uluwatu made me feel as if I’d died and landed in hotel lobby heaven. I can hear the waves of the Indian Ocean crashing into the cliffs from where I’m sitting at the front desk, and the perfect level of lighting surrounds the villas and hotel exterior to give it that uber luxe feel. At this point in time I’m finding it hard to pick my jaw up off the ground, and I haven’t even seen my room yet!
Once my thoughts are pieced back together and I’ve picked my jaw up off the floor, I’m shown to my Ocean View Suite, which is 84 square metres of pure bliss that will be mine for the next two nights. The room is stunningly modern with marble floors, a beautiful wooden feature wall, a couch the size of my apartment, mammoth king bed, his and hers amenities, a cute towel art elephant, and don’t let me forget to mention the outdoor Jacuzzi with sweeping views of the ocean. This place is so luxurious even the water bottle holders are made of leather! Let me give you a preview…
After an uninterrupted sleep in my new luxury pad, we wake hungry and head straight to the hotel restaurant’s, 360 dinging and lounge, for buffet brekkie. A mix of Indonesian and American delights, there’s no holding back, especially when fresh seafood and sushi is on the brekkie menu. When in Bali!
Filled to the brim and the sun shining bright, we take ourselves on a tour of this luxury haven. Walking through the hotel grounds, it’s clear to see how the Anantara Uluwatu claims five star status. From the perfectly groomed gardens to the ‘get-me–in-there now’ infinity pool, extravagance is oozing out of every corner of the hotel.
After exploring the resort, it’s clear that there’s no need to leave. With facilities including onsite dining, spa, pool, gym and even a wedding chapel if you’re caught up in the romance of it all, everything is right where you need it.
Despite my attempt to stay put at the resort, I’m dragged out to explore the bigger Bali – it’s my first time here after all. We call for a driver who is smiling and waiting to go when we arrive at reception.
First stop, Padang Padang Beach
Padang Padang Beach is not only famous for being one of the best surf spots in Bali, but also as the filming location of the movie Eat Pray Love. A steep set of stairs will get you to the white soft sand and hot tip – be sure to bring your wallet if you want to snap up a few bargains at the beach stalls.
Next stop – Uluwatu Temple
We make our way through the temple, snapping shots of the monkeys whilst holding onto our bags tight. These little fellas may seem cute and friendly, but they’re A-grade thieves, so keep a close eye on your belongings to avoid holiday distress. The view from the temple overlooking the cliffs of Uluwatu is absolutely breathtaking. The pictures barely do it justice, so if you’re in the area add Uluwatu Temple to must-visit list.
After a day filled with exploring, we head back to the hotel and enjoy a 90 minute Balinese massage at Anantara Spa. The tiny Balinese masseuse walks in with a smile (of course) and starts pampering me to perfection. I swear at one stage I had about six masseuses working on me, because there’s no way such a tiny woman could be so diligent.
Spa treatment done, and it’s time for high tea couture. Yep that’s right – high tea in Bali.
We make our way to the restaurant overlooking the cliff-sea front and indulge with sophisticated savoury bites, desserts, cakes, and delicate ribbon sandwiches. And let’s not forget the tea!
You might think we’d had enough indulgence for one day, but a few hours later we make our way back up to 360 Dining and Lounge for a three course set menu (holiday calories don’t count, right?) which included a mixture of fresh Indonesian delicacies with modern western delights. Check out the adorably lavish napkin art!
Uluwatu isn’t your typical Bali destination. People walk around in loose fitting linen, and there’s not a Bintang singlet in sight. It’s touched with sophistication and charm, pristine beaches, luxury accommodation, and smiles galore. The laidback atmosphere filling the Uluwatu air makes it far from the snob you may find in other high end destinations, and it’s only a few hours’ drive from the hustle and bustle of Seminyak and Kuta if you’re up for a little action (a cab ride there will set you back about $20 AUD).
This peaceful resort takes luxury living to a new level, and with Bali giving you more bang for your buck, you can rest assured that this luxury trip won’t break the bank. As they say in Bali ‘I give you good price, cheap cheap!’