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Bali, Indonesia. That place where Elizabeth Gilbert ending up finding love in “Eat, Pray, Love”. The heart of the slogan “Wonderful Indonesia”. But, what’s it really like?
I visited Bali back in 2015, and, to be honest, I was a little bit disappointed when I arrived in Kuta. I was expecting tropical, colourful beauty and, instead, I was faced with heckling salesmen and crowds of noisy drunks. I soon learnt how to survive Kuta, and that there was a lot more to it than market stalls and drinking. BUT, I think that anyone visiting Bali should DEFINITELY go outside of Kuta and see more of the real Indonesia.
I spent Christmas at Red Island in Java, as a sort of mini-break away from Kuta. There was no internet, no Circle K, pretty much no other tourists. Every time I tried to have a surf lesson I got stopped by locals wanting to take a photo. The food was only traditional Indonesian food, such as Nasi Goreng, Gado-Gado & Cap Cai which I LOVED. Everything felt a bit more authentic and a lot less touristy.
However, it was a bit of a trek to get there. Bus, ship, bus. What if you want to get away from the chaos of Kuta, but aren’t up for such a long trip? Maybe you want more of a luxurious, relaxing break after partying hard in crazy Kuta?Well, then, I think I’ve found the perfect place for you.
Karma Kandara
Karma Kandara is a luxury villa located in Pecatu, Ungasan, Indonesia. It is only 4km from Ulawatu and 12km from Ngurah Rai International Airport. It is ranked #2 of all accomodation in Ungasan by Tripadvisor, which is pretty impressive I think.
This place is basically my dream destination (well, one of them). I’ve recently discovered my love of a good spa treatment. And the spa at Karma Kandara is world class. In fact, it won the luxury spa awards in 2015. All of the spa staff are trained in reiki as well as other treatments. They even offer yoga sessions with a cliff-side view of the ocean. Oh and get this, a Feng Shui master designed the clifftop location of this stunning luxury getaway.
The Villas
Each villa has it’s own tropical courtyard, balcony and private pool. They range from one bedroom to 4 bedrooms and then, of course, there’s the luxurious cliff-front residences. Maybe, for some reason, you don’t like your own private pool? No problem! Check out the main infinity pool that curves around the cliff top.
Things To Do
Don’t fancy relaxing? Then there’s plenty of stuff to do. Take a trip to Ulawatu, try some snorkelling, or visit the local markets. If you’re a fitness buff, then visit the in house gym. OR, maybe visit the Karma Beach Club and watch a movie on the big screen, on the beach, from the comfort of a bean bag chair. Eh, yes please.
Dining
There are four different options for places to eat in Karma Kandara; Di Mare restaurant, Karma Kandara Beach, Spa Wellness food and Temple Lounge. The beach restaurant has a laid-back chilled vibe. Barefoot dining is always best. Temple Lounge is the place for cocktails and tapas. If you like to have a conscience about your food, then the Spa Wellness food is for you. All organic, pesticide-free and 100% local.
That’s it
Well, there you have it! If you’re planning a trip to Indonesia, I recommend you get out of Kuta and check out somewhere more relaxing and a little bit less touristy. If you want a very authentic, adventurous trip, head to Red Island, Java. If it’s luxury, relaxation and beautiful views you want, then check out Karma Kandara.