The
Aman chain of resorts is undoubtedly one of the
finest in the world. For those unfamiliar with
the name Aman, it is synonymous with original
architecture, impeccable taste in materials and
amenities, and the highest possible level of personal
service. Fortunately for honeymooners, Bali is
home to three of these exquisite resorts: Amandari,
Amankila and Amanusa. Aman means "peaceful"
in Sanskrit, and within each resort, "peaceful"
has its own special meaning. It is indeed quite
rare to find the attention to detail,
tranquility,
luxury and beauty, all combined in such an authentic
setting. We
bring all three of these Balinese gems together
for one unforgettable experience. Bali is far
from North America but it's worth the trip.
Amanusa
means "peaceful isle." Set atop a
hill overlooking the ocean and the Bali Golf
and Country Club, your private driver will take
you from the minor chaos of the Denpasar airport
to the complete tranquillity and relaxation
of Amanusa.
Upon
arrival at your thatched-roof suite, you will
immediately be struck by its relaxed brilliance:
the lily pond just outside the bathroom; the
outdoor shower where you can get wet to your
hearts' content in complete privacy; the inviting
day bed/sofa under your private outdoor canopy,
perfect for reading and lounging. Help jet
lag by enjoying an Indonesian bath sensation
right in your suite. A short stroll from your
room is the private beach club. Should you have
a taste for golf, it's at your doorstep. And
don't forget, the wonders of Bali itself lay
just outside the gates - a driver will take
you one evening to Ulu Watu, one of the most
sacred temples on the island, where the dramatic
nature of the crashing surf and the cliffs far
above the sea should form a vivid impression
at sunset.
After
unwinding from the long flight at Amanusa, you
will head inland to the world-renowned Amandari,
which means "peaceful spirits." Here
in Ubud, you will feel the true spirituality of
Bali. Sitting among the rice terraces, the local
villagers still make their way to the fields right
through the resort itself. Local dancers and performers
often practice in an outdoor pavilion just off
the pool.
From
your own Balinese compound, your senses will
be intoxicated - the brilliant green shades
of the rice paddies and jungle backed by rich
blue skies, the subtle scent of teakwood mixed
with tropical vegetation, and the chirps of
exotic birds blending into the peaceful silence.
Can tranquillity be so overwhelming? What could
possibly be more romantic than this? Your every
request is attended to with grace and caring.
At Amandari you will feel as though you are
part of the local community - you are invited
as honored guests to attend real festivals,
weddings and ceremonies that are simply not
accessible to other tourists in Ubud. You will
want to explore this remarkable area of Bali
- there are temples to see, and entire villages
devoted to painting or carving. Based on your
personal interests, our favorite private guide
will take you to see the less commercial, more
authentic side of central Bali. Be sure to get
out on foot or on bike as well - touring alone
through small villages and communities can be
a rewarding experience. It's hard to imagine
the many smiles you will get as you pass through.
Amankila,
meaning "peaceful hill," is your final
stop. Once again, you will be moving to the coast
in yet another special and unique environment.
The resort is terraced into the side of a cliff,
much as the Balinese might terrace their rice
fields. Golden umbrellas play off the water's
reflection, the pools melt into the horizon, and
your luxurious suite is open to the view in every
respect.
Amankila
keeps a special place in the mountains, where
you can take a picnic lunch and enjoy yet another
element of seclusion. Or, take advantage of
Amankila's wonderful water options by spending
some time on their traditional outrigger for
a snorkeling trip up the coast, or simply
spend a lazy day on the beach, savoring the
rest of your Aman experience.
And
when you transfer between the different properties,
there is no need to lift a finger. The staff
will take all your belongings, exactly as you
left them, and transplant them as you left them,
to the next locale. Unbelievable
After
nine days of incredible pampering and exploration
in Bali, you will depart for home, but make
a final stop en route in the vertical metropolis
of Hong Kong. This vibrant city is full
of energy with great shopping, dining and nightlife.
Your base here will be the posh new Landmark
Mandarin Oriental, considered one of
the finest hotels in the city.
When
you finally walk back in your front door, you will
ask yourselves why you ever left Bali. Seeing
Bali through the eyes of Aman is a honeymoon
fantasy - the smell of teakwood will forever
evoke incredible memories.
Who will enjoy this trip
Those who appreciate the authenticity of local
culture, combined with some of the most exclusive
accommodations in the world.
Who
should avoid this trip
Those who prefer to be among many other people
rather than in an intimate setting. Those desiring
a mega-resort experience. Those who place a
lower value on accommodations.
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