January 2009

Bali High

Don’t Forget the Credit Card

Warning! If you head to Bali take wads of cash. Sure you can still stay at cheapo joints which are great for bunking down at night, but why would you when you can sleep like royalty? Bali has entered world league with its unbelievable variety and quality of six-star hotels. (Let’s not even begin to rave about the huge choice of stunning villas on offer — with staff at your beck and call).

An editor’s salary doesn’t quite warrant staying at one of the aforementioned palaces. So on a recent visit we stayed (should I reveal my find… ?) at Resor Seminyak. We negotiated a good price, its beachfront location in uber-chic Seminyak features two pools and expansive grounds where our two rambunctious kids could tear around, and our superior room had a massive bathtub we could all splash about in together at the same time (yes — we’re one of those families). The kids were on cloud nine.

Then there’s the food. I decided to go healthy, which meant enjoying beautiful salads every lunchtime. But really you could, again, feast like the proverbial king in Bali, such is the choice and excellent quality of the fresh produce (try Ku De Ta, Grocer & Grind). This island of the gods really does seem to grow everything these days.

As for the shopping. I could have mortgaged the house, and sold the kids. I had to exert extreme restraint not to go overboard. I did pick up two gorgeous little sundresses for just AU$30 each, some unique silver jewellery, and a bikini for just AU$50. But I could have furnished the house, crafted a new wardrobe that wouldn’t look out of place in LA, and built a shoe collection to rival Imelda’s. Bali has never been better. All I can say is next time I return (very soon) I am going with an empty suitcase and plenty of free time to indulge all the way!

– Rachel Farnay Jacques