The Essence of Bali

You have a zest for exploration and discovery. The two of you have been to many places, and now your new marriage brings you to amazing Bali. This incredible honeymoon takes you on a clockwise journey around the island. You will get to fully experience the vibrant culture, stay in some of the island's most intriguing accommodations, and take part in many activities that are unique to this special place.

Your adventure begins...

with a long plane ride, but ends with an album full of memories and stories. Upon arrival, it's likely you'll want to unwind and stretch your tired bones. Head straight for the quiet coastal town of Canggu, home to one of Bali's most distinctive boutique resorts, Hotel Tugu.

Unlike any place you have stayed before, Tugu successfully provides 5-star comfort within an authentic cultural environment, filled with fabulous architecture, art, food and activities. Ease into your spacious suite with a dip in your private plunge pool. Listen to the waves break as you stroll along the secluded beach. To help connect with your inner Balinese spirit, you will share in a Gemulai Penari massage for two (massage accompanied by the rhythm of local gamelan instruments). Afterward, take in the colorful sunset at nearby Tanah Lot, a scenic temple built on a small promontory which is only accessible at low tide. There is a risk to staying here - you may not want to leave!

However, this magical island has a lot offer so it's time to venture up to the northwest coast, a region that's well off the typical tourist path. Your private driver will take you west along the southern coast, stopping at a number of interesting sights along the way. Just after you hook around the western-most corner of the island, you will reach the sleepy town of Pemuteran and the lovely Matahari Beach Resort & Spa, an ideal base for enjoying the wonders of the Java Sea.

Protected from the rougher ocean waters in the south, marine life flourishes here. The property sits in a dramatically scenic valley, surrounded by black sand beaches, blue waters, rice paddies and jagged mountains (see photo at top of page). It feels miles away from anywhere. For scuba divers and snorkelers, this is one of the prime spots in Bali. When not out and about, Matahari provides an understated yet elegant environment in which to relax, dine and gaze at the sea.

While you wish you could stay a little longer...

it is time to head on. Today, rise early since you'll have a full day of driving and exploring ahead of you. You will work your way along the northern coast, passing though Lovina Beach and the eclectic old capital of Singaraja, before turning south into the central highlands. You will climb in elevation until you reach the mountain village of Kintamani at 5,000 feet. From here you'll be treated to spectacular views of Lake Batur and the volcano. Take it all in, then begin your descent toward Ubud. Interesting stops include the temple of Tirta Empul and the Elephant Cave "Goa Gaja," an 11th century Buddhist and Hindu hermitage.

Finally, you will reach the town of Ubud, the cultural heart and soul of Bali, and home to the alluring Uma Ubud. One of the newer resorts in the area, Uma provides a more modern take on Balinese architecture and will provide a nice contrast to your previous hotels. The setting is magnificent with tranquil views over the Tjampuhan Valley and the Oos River. Wake up each morning to a beautiful offering to the Gods on your doorstep - Hindu belief permeates every aspect of life here, and as guests, you two will be blessed.

Use Ubud as a base and begin exploring - join our private guide for the day and experience the culture through local eyes. You'll visit the surrounding villages to see how traditional painting is done, how weavers create their craft, and how wood carvers produce the fantastic ornamentation that is prevalent in the local architecture. For those desiring a bit of physical activity, much can be seen on foot or bike, including intricately designed temples, lush rice paddies, and skyward reaching volcanoes. Definitely attend a traditional festival to see how the Balinese culture lives on, even in a modern day and age.

This being your last stop, you will also want to allocate a little time for some final relaxation and pampering. Lounge in your private pool overlooking the valley; visit the world-class Como Shambhala Retreat for spa treatments, yoga, and other holistic activities; linger over lunch at the hotel's highly-regarded Kemiri restaurant.

You have just had the quintessential Bali experience - beautiful, rugged, spiritual, luxurious, exciting and different. Fall in love with the place as you did with one another; both are treasures you will keep in your hearts from this day forward.

Who will enjoy this trip:

Those who love a mix of fine accommodations, from eclectic to luxurious. Those who are comfortable traveling independently and want to get a little off the beaten path.

Who should avoid this trip:

Those who are more comfortable at large resorts. Those preferring to stay in the more developed south and central parts of the island. Those uninterested in cultural activities and exploration.