|
DAY 1: ARRIVE BALI On arrival in Bali you will be met by our representative and transferred to the Four Seasons Jimbaran Bay (One-Bedroom Villa) for a three-night stay. DAY 2: JIMBARAN BAY The bulk of your day is at leisure to get settled and grow accustomed to the more relaxed pace of life in Bali. In the evening, you will be taken for a sunset visit to Ulu Watu. Though this region is now popular with surfers, it has a long and storied history. The temple was established in the 11th century by Empu Kuturan and was elaborated upon by subsequent generations. The temple is situated on the western tip of the peninsula, seemingly hanging over the edge of the craggy rocks. The intricate carvings on the coral walls are beautiful and the monkeys scampering about create a magical sense of otherworldliness. After the sun has set, you will be driven back to the resort. DAY 3: JIMBARAN BAY Today you will be treated to a two-hour session at the Four Seasons spa. The Lulur Jimbaran treatment starts with a Balinese massage followed by Javanese body polish exfoliation that uses granular turmeric, sandalwood, sweet woods, rice powder, ginger root and spices. Next, get a fresh yogurt splash and conclude the session with an aromatic soak in flower-infused water. The remainder of the day is at leisure to revel in your relaxed state. Because every villa has a private outdoor plunge pool and lounge, this is one of the best properties at which to spend your leisure time. With magnificent views of Jimbaran Bay and a spectacular spa at your disposal, it will be no challenge to find ways to occupy yourself during the rest of the day. DAY 4: JIMBARAN BAY - CANDIDASA Transfer today to the Amankila (Garden Suite) for four nights. The Amankila is dramatically situated above the eastern coast of Bali and is arguably the most preferred Aman resort in Bali - indeed, the sparkling infinity pool, magnificent views, and a host of other luxuries will give you an idea of how it has earned such an excellent reputation. You may wish to have a massage under the shaded coconut trees by the beach or in the privacy of your villa, which can be booked directly on arrival. DAY 5: CANDIDASA A full day of touring in the region awaits you. Visit the village of Tenganan, inhabited by Bali Aga, the original inhabitants of Bali. These villagers still follow traditional ways and rejected the changes that came to Bali in the 14th century, including the caste system and religious reforms. The women of Tenganan are famous for weaving gringsing (double ikat) cloth. Loosely woven, these "flaming cloths" are used only for very special events in the Balinese ritual calendar, such as weddings, tooth filings, a child's first haircut, or as shrouds for the dead. The cloth is believed to hold sacred powers of protection. The complicated process required to make the cloth is known by only a handful of people. Also check out Sideman, a center for traditional arts where songket, cloth woven from silver and gold threads, is made. Also included today is a visit to Besakih Temple, Bali's most important temple complex. DAY 6: CANDIDASA Take a morning cruise through Amankila. The 40-foot outrigger known as Aman Xll is anchored just offshore. Designed to resemble a jukung, a traditional Balinese fishing craft, it will take you on a refreshing island cruise up the coast from the Amankila. The afternoon is free to spend a leisurely day in Bali or to privately arrange any additional sightseeing outings you would like. DAY 7: CANDIDASA Today is at leisure at the Amankila. There are optional activities for the more energetic traveler. If the food you've been eating has whetted your appetite for Balinese cuisine, you may like to take a cooking class. Dishes you will learn include Balinese Spring Rolls, Balinese Chicken with Rice, and Tuna and Lemongrass Salad. You may like to go on an optional snorkeling or diving tour at Tulamben, on the northeast coast. A sunken ship is only 30 meters from shore; over 400 species of fish live in the wreck, as well as many surface creatures. An Absolute Asia travel specialist can arrange these activities upon request. You may also understandably simply wish to relax and enjoy the resort. DAY 8: CANDIDASA - UBUD Transfer today to the Four Seasons Sayan (One-Bedroom Villa) for three nights. En route, visit the mountain resort of Kintamani for a view of the still active volcano Mount Batur. The volcano erupted violently in 1917 and thousands of people were killed; miraculously, the village temple was untouched by the lava. The temple is considered quite important to the Balinese and the views of Mount Batur are truly inspiring. DAY 9: UBUD This morning you will visit Mas, the Monkey Forest, and several other villages. Mas is an area famous for woodcarving, and you will have an opportunity to visit the local museums, galleries, and shops while there. Carving was once an art of the Brahman caste, and woodcarving skills are believed to be a gift from the gods. The most important gallery here is the Njana Tilem Gallery, founded by the son of Bali's master woodcarver, Ida Bagus Njana. A few doors down is the Ketut Puja Gallery, founded by his apprentices. Depending on your interests, you may wish to visit the stone carving town of Batubulan, or studios of prominent traditional painters in Batuan. The Monkey Forest is located in southwest Ubud and, as its name suggests, it is home to a playful group of monkeys. Though you are discouraged from feeding them, the monkeys seem to know that most visitors can be persuaded to hand over a peanut or other tasty morsel. In the evening you will be treated to a dance performance at Ubud Palace. DAY 10: UBUD Today is at leisure at the Four Seasons. This property is located in the cultural heart of Bali, Ubud, so there are many touring possibilities to be arrange d if you wish. Alternatively, you may want to relax at the resort, which has an organic style that makes it feel almost a part of the landscape. The one-bedroom villa that is your accommodation offers a private plunge pool, outdoor deck, views of the rice terraces, and a lotus garden at the villa entrance. DAY 11: DEPART BALI Today you will be transferred to the airport to meet your departure flight. |