Weekend Getaway: Sounds of Bali

Wheels Up -- SIN -- DPS, Air Asia

March 13, 2011:  I sit in bed after a long first day in Bali, with the sounds of a frisky frog chorus resounding outside. These are not your “ribbit, ribbit” frogs. Nope. This chorus sounds like something I’d here bumping with a heavy bass beat from Filter or Underground on a Saturday night. These frogs sounds like they are beat-boxing to save their lives. A few sound like strumming banjos. And there seems to be one particularly vocal one that strives to mimic a drunk duck.

I’ve returned to Bali for a second time since my arrival in Singapore in September. With all the places yet to see, you may find it strange I’ve already repeat-ed. But, this is a very different Balinese experience than my first visit in November with Louis.

Master bedroom @ Villa Hibiscus in Tanjong Benoa.
Booked through Balivillas.com

This time, I’ve brought my parents, who have traveled 25+ hours to visit me and see a bit of where I live. I like Singapore, but I want my guests to see more of Asia.

Bali seems to fascinate everyone – a lush, dramatic landscape filled with Hindu tradition, teak wood, suckling pig, Balinese that have nailed hospitality, and luxurious villas. It conjures up memories of the exotic paradise and the haunting Bali Hai melody from South Pacific.

We arrived on Sunday evening via Air Asia (good – I recommend, along with JetStar for in-Asia trips) and are met by our driver, an affable man who was born in Bali and never left. We fall into a clean air-conditioned Toyota and I brace myself for infamously inefficient Bali traffic. Last time, I headed southwest to Pan Pacific Nirwana Bali near Tanah Lot temple; this time, we head southeast to our villa in Tanjung Benoa near Nusa Dua.

Our staff

This villa experience is new for us. Balivillas.com was recommended by a friend, so I had booked a two bedroom villa that comes with a driver/car, butler, cook and dedicated house staff.






Balinese grilled chicken -- yum!



We arrive at Villa Hibiscus within a half hour or so (phew) and are greeted by our staff. The villa is breathtaking. Within the stone walled compound is a master bedroom with open air bathroom, along with a second bed and bath above. We continue to the private pool and open air living and dining space. The chef is busy at work preparing siap mepanggang (super tasty and moist grilled chicken), steamed rice and fresh fruit – a simple yet very tasty meal after our afternoon of travel. A soothing Balinese instrumental mix plays on the speakers. Those damn albino geckos dart around us (though, I have made peace with them).

We clink our glasses of local sparkling rose and enjoy our first home-cooked Balinese meal.





Open Air Living Space, Kitchen in the Background

 




Dad taking a dip post-dinner in the private plunge pool

 

Mom and I. Reasoning that, if we wear hats, the geckos won't fall on our heads from above.
Smart reasoning after a few glasses
of sparkling rose.