We went for 1 weeks break, after a few very stressful few months at work, with the plan to relax and not do much of anything. Happy to report we achieved our goal.
We spent the first 2 nights at Tegal Sari Ubud in the Duplex room. It was amazing!! I can understand why people rave about the place. We arrived late in the night and to wake up to that view was dreamy. We lulled around on the verandah's just allowing ourselves to fully relax.
During our full day in Ubud we walked through the monkey garden and down to the markets, though not feeling the need to buy, just enjoying the scene. A leisurely lunch was had at Indus where again we just sat quietly and enjoyed the serenity for quite some time. The food and service was exceptional.
We had a massage at Zen spa, which was enjoyable and just what we needed to really relax. At this point we were so relaxed we were almost walking backwards.
Dinner was at Warung Enak where we had the Rijsttafel which was to die for! We struggled to get through all the dishes and after a few Bali Holiday cocktails we managed to roll next door to Tegal Sari. The Rijsttafel is a must do for anyone who likes traditional Indonesian food.
We were fortunate to be able to see the full moon ceremony in Ubud, it was a wonderful sight seeing the women wearing their finest traditional clothes, offerings on their heads, threading their way to the temple. The gamelan music was ongoing throughout the evening.
We had organized a driver from the recommendation of friends. Budi picked us up at Tegal Sari and we went along back roads up to Bedugal and Lake Beratan and had lunch at Munduk amongst the clouds. On the way back past the coffee and cocao plantations we drove through Jatiluwih which has the most amazing picturesque rice terraces. The day was one we have decided to repeat each time we visit Bali as it's a truly amazing experience.
We stayed at Kumala Pantai in Legian again and enjoyed our time there. We spent most evenings at Frank's bar, listening to the Budi on guitar or Wayan and friends on the bongo drums. On Friday night the fire dancers were also there with the bongo players and fireworks for a birthday celebration. It was like our own private festival.
We had some lovely meals while we were there. A highlight (and a must do) was La Lucciola's for Sunday breakfast. The eggs benedict and hash browns were out of this world. We were lucky enough to get a table, though next time will book as a few people were turned away as the place filled up.
Also standouts were Grilled Snapper at Made's Warung, Lobster Mornay at Indo National, Jumbo Prawns at Seaside and Balsamic Sardines and Crab Special at Beach Café, Sanur As you can see we ate well, so after a week of food, bintang and Arak attacks it's back to the gym.