 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,
the only Relais & Châteaux property in Bali, and 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.
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