Versatile Bali has all you need

Published Jul 27, 2015

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Denpasar, Bali - What’s big, green and lush all over? Bali, of course. And whether you seek dancing or romancing; retail or culture; surfing or hilltop meditation; are going solo or have tots in tow, the Indonesian Island of the Gods fits all comers.

Bukit Peninsula offers big-name resorts, spirituality abounds in Ubud in the mountains and the less-developed regions in the north but it’s Seminyak and environs on the south-west coast that are the most happening for food, retail and fun.

While Bali has fabulous hotels – Alila, Aman and Four Seasons all have spectacular resorts – for us it’s is all about villas.

The choice is outstanding – book and you’re instantly transported to a world of 24-hour staff, privacy, luxury and value – just add a towelling turban.

And there’s a pad for every style, from the colonial elegance of Kaba Kaba Villa, to 007-style decadence at Luna2 or the lavish Konaditya House, with its custom-made furniture and museum-worthy art collection, all right on the beach.

Having a chef on tap has its perks but Seminyak’s restaurants are too good to miss. An Australian gourmet influence, combined with an influx of international chefs, has helped create a culinary scene where creative flair wins out.

Sample it yourself at Sarong in Seminyak, showcasing Will Meyrick’s tantalising take on south-east Asian food; savour flip-fresh fish amid lush rice paddy surrounds at Sardine and taste Euro-Asian plates at LA-style glass bunker Kilo.

Bali’s bars are throbbing with Latam beats at hip hangouts, such as La Favela and Motel Mexicola.

Not to be missed are the island’s day-to-night beach clubs, which cater for everyone from families through to party animals.

Ku de ta and Potato Head Beach Club live up to their reputations, the former frequented by a Euro-glam crowd, the latter relaxed and retro-vibed.

New addition La Laguna is earning points for its beachfront, natural lagoon and picturesque pool.

Should you be on the lookout for new threads, Seminyak is top for shopping and home to independent designers enthralled by the Balinese aesthetic and local craftsmanship.

A good starting point is Seminyak Square. Have a rummage at the flea market, then saunter along Jalan Laksmana towards The Legian hotel, taking in art galleries, interior decor, antiques, fauxtiques and fashion along the way.

Stand-out boutiques include Natalie Dissel for jewellery made with rare stones, horn, leather and precious metals; frocks and accessories by Gail Elliot; beachware by Kirsten Sikiotis at Maidenlove and the beatnik mash-up of gallery, shop, café, motorbikes and surf boards at Deus ex Machina.

See www.luxecityguides.com

Reuters

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