Nusa Lembongan. Resorts and Spas of Bali, Indonesia.

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Let the adventure begin. Greetings from the Manager Mr. Pande after my driver delivered me from the morning pick up run enroute to Lembongan Island. I was looking forward to some warm air and cool waves lapping at the shores of Mushroom Bay. Don’t worry no magic mushrooms to be found …

With Bali Hai Cruises, it’s an easy day out for day trippers or if staying at the stunning Bali Hai Tide Resort for a few day’s break, then this is definitely a seamless experience.

Nusa Lembongan is an island located southeast of Bali, approximately 14 nautical miles.

A safety briefing and some morning tea for a two-hour (give or take) ferry crossing. As always, depending on the winds and sea swell it might be quicker. But it’s always best to simply relax and enjoy the ride.

A smooth transit across to Lembongan from Benoa Harbour allows us to have a bird’s-eye view of the Bali Hai Tide Resort and appreciate the calm sea surrounding it. Ideal for families without worrying too much about rough, choppy waters. This white sandy stretch around the resort is a much safer option than many other popular beach areas of Bali.

Guests here can enjoy knowing that their accommodation is private and secluded. A quiet retreat in the heart of the resort’s landscaped gardens is just the fix most guests need.

If you’ve always loved bure style accommodation, then you won’t be disappointed with the interior’s homely feel, but also an outdoor setting below allows guests to harbor their swim and sport’s wear.

Did someone say a private pool only for guests? Yes exclusively and it’s a very deep pool too. At three metres at one end and people who are tall (like me) have to swim whether they like it or not!

A very healthy and delicious buffet lunch is served for all guests. Plenty to choose from and if in doubt, take a little from everything and go back for the goodies liked the most.

Or you can head down to the beach and take part in some activities; such as a glass-bottom boat viewing of the blue opal-look-alike water’s hidden treasures. Youngsters love this. Overlooking the Indian Ocean, there’s a hive of enthusiasm as the off-shore pontoon and Beach Club are well and truly patronised.

Saturday night at the movies. Outdoor seating for guests and nearby, the eateries of which you can also bring your drinks across and simply enjoy an evening under the stars – while watching a few acting on screen as well.

Take the opportunity to explore Lembongan with a free tour around the island which is offered to guests who stay at the Bali Hai Tide Resort. Definitely worthy of breaking yourself away from the beach and pool.

And drumroll please … Bali Hai Tide Resort is on the right side of the island for the most stunning sunsets. Not just on this day, but every day. View is from the restaurant whereby as a guest you’ll have front-row seats and away from the beachgoers. A glass of vino or beer and you’re all set for the evening’s light show.

Time to say bye to Bali Hai Tide Resort and next stop is the Acala Shri Sedana just further up the hill.

Looking from the Acala (pronounced Achala) Shri Sedana’s Reception upon arrival, you immediately gain a sense of Zen enlightenment. The view is far reaching across the escarpment out to the sea which in turn changes throughout the day with the tides.

Private Pool Villa? When you’re an overseas visitor who’s travelled from near or far, why not give in to some luxury and quiet time. The Classic Pool Villa is value for money whilst ensuring a retreat which has a delightful garden setting surrounding the pool. Aww and look at that day bed… a much loved novel is all you need and some chill-out music.

Natural light is what all Aussies love and this cool villa is an excellent choice for honeymooners seeking privacy and comfort. Netting to discourage any flying passers-by ensuring a sound night’s sleep.

Next up on my list? Two units of the Rooftop Pool Villa category which are perched at the southern area of the resort. Here they provide a magnificent view of the Indian Ocean and the Yellow Bridge in the distance.

Comprising of exclusive pavilions, there’s free Wi-Fi throughout the resort so you won’t be totally disconnected. Situated on the East side of the Island it’s where you can watch the sun rising over the undulating hills and resident’s rooftops in the foreground. Stairs are the only accessible means of the lower levels and of course a way of building up that appetite.

 A romantic canopied bed, plunge pool and lounging pavilion make it the perfect option for honeymooners or couples looking to spend some quality time alone together.

The Jala Restaurant is a scenic spot by the swimming pool that is open for all-day dining. It serves a versatile menu of elegant cuisine highlighted by locally sourced seafood and seasonal delicacies.

The Acala has a bus service which runs around the local area three times a day for guests. This offers an outlet for an experience of what’s going on outside of the luxury and comfort of the resort. Always great to return though and enjoy that cool pool villa …

And as much as I’d love to stay at these two properties, time to move onto the next set of accommodation styles. If you’re looking for a particular budget, then stay with me for a few nights at Legian to check out the scene in Bali.

Bali Hotels. Seminyak, Indonesia.

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The Grand Mercure in Seminyak is as fresh as a new-born babe. Just nine months old and a stone’s throw from Seminyak Beach. But why worry too much about the beach when you have a swim-up bar of which you can comfortably nestle yourself onto warm mosaic seating, then order almost whatever you like. And if you’re early enough, you’ll be smug as a bug on a rug … sipping on a cool beverage.

A Deluxe King-size Bedroom is truly affordable luxury with this five-star property and a bonus – drumroll please – a balcony which is a real treat to watch those amazing sunsets in the early evening.

The property features 269 well-designed spacious rooms and suites, an all-day dining restaurant, Spa and three stunning outdoor pools. The Grand Mercure Seminyak has it covered with friendly staff who know your name in no time.

Bathrooms are of the utmost importance to those who enjoy a deep-soak bathtub or an easy accessible shower. Again, spacious and comfortable making the daily routine something to really look forward to.

Who doesn’t love breakfast? An array of delicious accompaniments of which can be found at the buffet to lure any diehard westerner who prefers the usual hum drum of bacon and eggs. Why travel if not experiencing taste sensations such as a noodle soup with all those little added extras such as spring or fried onions, chili, mung bean spouts and perhaps topped off with a hard-boiled egg.

With a sea breeze wafting up from the nearby beach and a view of the hotel’s pool, make sure you’re up early to enjoy the breakfast buffet when it’s not so busy.

A Grand Ballroom and another five Meeting Rooms is perfect for any kind of event or function which requires catering. With an extensive treasure trove of ideas from the coordinators, there’s surely an agreeable fit for purpose.

A short walk down the street will take you to a myriad of shops, market places and various eateries. Money changers are abundant, but look for banks for the best and safest cash exchanges.

Nope not interested. I bypassed the Vegemite toast on this day and was seeking a more spicy, authentic traditional dish from the local eateries.

So how much is 28,000 Indonesian Rupiahs? On today’s exchange with the Aussie dollar, approximately $A2.80 and still great value for food and drinks.

A short five-minute walk to Double Six Beach is where you can find your dose of salt air and cool sea water to ensure there’s that element of ‘beachiness’ in your holiday plans.

Further along the walking track, Legian Beach is another hot spot for visitors and locals.

Colourful colonial homes with an old-style form of architecture can also be found strolling around the streets of Seminyak.

W is for Wow Factor! And that is what the W Bali Hotel is all about. Trade in ordinary for extraordinary at this five-star resort. Located in the heart of Bali’s vibrant fashion and restaurant scene, there’s no shortage of great entertainment and an energetic nightlife. 

The magnificent W Bali Hotel is another luxury resort and part of the Marriott Bonvoy stable. Located within the heart of Bali’s vibrant fashion stores and restaurant scene, it exudes a rich playground and ambience reserved for the elite. Set in an enclosure of secure lush grounds, there’s a serenity and feeling of safety away from the busy streets of Seminyak.

An outdoor spa for one or two to enjoy the fresh air whilst being relieved from your previous stresses. A vigorous massage session is a must for a truly relaxing experience before heading out to the secluded beach area reserved for the property.

I’ve always maintained women should design bathrooms because we love to have our precious amenities in full view within its own special place. For a functional area, this one (room number 303) is again another drawcard for ease and spaciousness. Dual basins for two guests always helps with not clashing in a hurry … although there’d be a race for the deep egg-shaped bathtub! And a seated area for time to sit and contemplate which amenities to try first for the bathing ritual.

A big push from me is the use of refillable bottles of body and shower products reducing the need and usage of single-use plastics. The W Bali Hotel ticked the box here admirably.

Speaking of the reduction of waste…  Goby is a giant see-through fish, installed on W Bali’s beachfront to raise awareness and help reduce plastic in the Bali Ocean. 

Goby helps show what is happening when trash ends up in the sea – undoubtedly in the belly of fish and other sea creatures. And with this, W Bali Hotel tells a simple message; the only fish that should eat plastic is the likes of Goby!

FIRE is one of the finest restaurants to enjoy a layout of delectable accompaniments and cuisine. Take a little advice from the staff and try some of those goodies not readily available at home.

Brunch is my favourite time to eat and there’s an impressive display of condiments along with my main food choices. This time a little more healthy ‘greenery’ than the usual brekky at home.

And of course, having a brekky cooked each morning is absolute luxury.

FIRE really has all the healthy choices too for those of us trying hard to reduce our carbs. Umm I’d bet the plate missing an all-time favourite would have to be mango. But topped up in no time.

Time to say bye to the wonderful W Bali Hotel Seminyak – and it’s onto Lembongan Island.

Stay tuned for Lembongan Island’s resorts and fast ferry ride in the next posting.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

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How to travel to Malaysia and around the country? Malaysia Airlines (MH) have it covered with an abundance of flights daily, both internationally and domestically with streamlined connections, especially through the capital Kuala Lumpur.

This snazzy aircraft at the gate of Kuching airport is a Malaysia Airlines (MH) B737 800 series and was spotlessly clean and comfortable. The staff were friendly and extremely helpful in every way.

Please note; a trip from Kuala Lumpur over to Kuching in Borneo is considered an international flight (because of the relationship to Malaysia), you will also need to clear immigration again going into Borneo and back to Malaysia and onto your country (if travelling internationally).

Of course, different airlines fly in both directions, but ascertain before ticketing, you have enough time to ensure the transfer is viable. Especially if you are using two different carriers with no interline baggage agreement as you will have to collect the luggage and again recheck it for the new onward flight. If in doubt call the airlines you are booked with to be doubly sure. If travelling on Malaysia Airlines, it’s a seamless transition of luggage if ticketed on MH, one of its subsidiaries or alliance partners.

Check with your travel agent or call Malaysia Airlines directly.

Taking the airport train from the Terminals 1 and 2 is a thoughtful option considering the length of time road transport can take. Approximately MYR55 (A$20) the KL Espres train is fast and efficient allowing time to relax a little before arriving into KL Sentral and City Air Terminal, whereby it’s a transit point for the local metro and Monorail train system.

From KL Sentral there’s more options with the Monorail which run overhead of the city’s traffic.

Hint: Bukit Bintang is a fantastic shopping area with restaurants and markets if you’re on the hunt for some last-minute bargains and delicious food.

Clean and affordable in ‘how to get around’ a busy city, this is a fast and effective way in cutting out the daily grind of traffic lights. Have some loose change ready for the ticket machines and you’ll be on your way in no time. Choose English on the display unit (if that’s your language) making it incredibly easy.

And what’s the first stop on everyone’s list of things to do in Kuala Lumpur? No prizes for guessing! One of the world’s most impressive buildings being the Pretonas Twin Towers. They were officially designated as the tallest buildings in the world until they were surpassed by the completion of the Taipei 101 in 2004.

Across the forefront quadrangle, there’s a myriad of Hop On, Hop Off buses to take tourists around a circuit of the city’s main attractions. If you’re short on time, it’s a head start on seeing some of the highlights in one day, especially if there’s a couple of sights such as the Bird Sanctuary and cultural museums which are always a drawcard. Spend as much or as little time as you wish at each stop on a one-day ticket.

A juxtaposition of architectural styles will keep enthusiasts enthralled and always looking upwards.

At the Malaysian Tourism office (not too far from Petronas Twin Towers) you’ll find a plethora of valuable information. Not just about Kuala Lumpur (affectionately known as KL), but all of Malaysia including Borneo and other destinations which could be of interest – along with the best methods of how to utilise transport and accommodation options to suit all budgets.

And, at the end of the day, be ready for a decent strong Arabica-style coffee. No shortage of stylish, clean eateries in KL, along with an endless assortment of food choices to tantalise the taste buds.

Malaysia Airlines being a member of the Oneworld Alliance offer direct services into Australia with onward connections with another member of the team is Qantas.

With seamless transfers between online carriers making the journey hassle free, Malaysia Airlines also have an area at the back of business class; two rows of extra-leg room and the last time I checked at A$90 per sector additional per passenger it seems worth the extra to have a restful trip. So, for an additional A$180.00 to London, makes flying just that much more comfortable. Note: this is not a premium economy cabin, but rows of seats which have added space for those of us who are slightly more robust than some other travellers.

Note: Please be aware if entering Australia, a visa is required if you’re not a national of the country. Also luggage will always need to be collected at the international entry point and then rechecked for the domestic onward flight regardless of airline.

So, with direct services into Malaysia and excellent connections, destinations such as Borneo are uncomplicated and doable. Making your way around is straight forward with English being spoken almost everywhere. Transport is cheap enough and taxis with a meter are certainly affordable. Accommodation standards are extremely high with all budgets being met from backpacker to luxurious in most areas of the country.

Enjoy a trip to Malaysia and return home with a vitality only reserved for those who know how to relish life to the fullest with a swag of memories from a country which is diverse and fascinating.

Photo courtesy of Malaysian Airlines.

Sarawak, Borneo. Part Three.

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Scrumptious delish food in Malaysia is as important as breathing. So many choices and not necessarily spicy (unless you ordered it that way). Sharing with others is always a treasure trove of delectable offerings which in turn entices much chatter amongst the devourers. As always cuisine is subjective – in what one may like, another may prefer a more vegetarian or non-veg option giving everyone their varied choices – and in Malaysian either way it’s easy enough. Please note, meat eaters in Malaysia are predominant.

But to be honest, I could easily eat a bowl of hot boiled rice with a range of any of the tasty sauces poured over the top – with neither meat or vegetables, it’s still so yummy.

Lachau Market was one of our stops along the way to the Gawai Festival in Matop. Here’s where you’ll find lots of goodies, but it’s the fruit and vegetable market we were all eager to check out its produce.

Markets are always interesting with no shortage of food choices. Smelling the smoky BBQ within the complex, it was hard to resist the temptation before our pre-booked lunch.

Ginger and spice and all things nice. The variety and freshness of the goods would ensure no plate full of homemade cooking with these kind of ingredients would ever be left uneaten. Preservatives do not exist here!

Anyone for a hot chili? I’ve been warned that the smaller the chili, the hotter the seeds are. Just ask me, taking contact lenses out after preparing chilies is never ideal. You would rather poke your eye, than forget – lesson learnt. Here an abundance of the ‘hot stuff’ and what value for money!

Durian … many hotels scourge, but lovers of the fruit are adamant the smell is its drawcard. One can only assume that’s the same for any kind of fruit, but durian prevails and grows prolifically in the wilds.

Basket weaving by hand is also an artform in its own right. This lovely lady allowed me to take her photo whilst perfecting her much sought-after wares for sale. And, of course, everyone needs a reusable bag to carry home all the produce that’s being supplied by locals.

Keeps mosquitoes away a great way of natural interventions without using sprays and pesticides. A big plus from me.

Considered a ‘dry market’ you can also buy cooked meats and fish. Why waste time cooking at home when someone can do it for you earlier on? More time to watch some of the incredible sunsets in the evening over the mountain ranges which are near to these quaint stops.

The variety of fish is quite astounding, no need for making a plan; just head to the market and decide on the day what’s for lunch or dinner.

And to add to those fishy ingredients, here’s all the flavour under one roof. Add a bowl of rice and presto!

So fresh and available in Malaysia as a staple is this Midin plant. First-time visitors to Sarawak are likely to be introduced to midin, perhaps stir-fried with shrimp paste (belacan) or sautéed with garlic. There are plenty growing wantonly in peoples’ backyards, but there is “something different” about this humble wild jungle fern called midin (or lemidin). The crunchiness as well as its sweet-briny taste when cooked with shrimp paste, or perhaps its allicin-like toasted-nuance flavour when garlic-fried, that makes it an “out of this world” sapidity.  

Tasting very much like a Pink Lady apple, it’s as sweet as.

Heading onto Serian there’s much to admire about the lushness of the flora of Borneo. It benefits from year-round temperatures averaging between 27°C and 32°C, with a relative humidity of around 80% for much of the year. Rainfall can exceed 4,000mm per year in pockets of Borneo, although in most destinations an average of 220mm per month is the norm.

Generally speaking a peak in rainfall occurs between November and March, although even in these months the rain can be sporadic, making it difficult to pre-determine which will be the wet weeks or the dry ones.

Furthermore, there are many benefits of lower visitor numbers to be enjoyed in the traditionally wetter months, and the National Parks, wildlife sanctuaries, jungle lodges, caves and dive sites may be far more appealing with fewer fellow visitors.  

Once we had finished off our day travelling through the amazing countryside it was time to relax. And, what better way than to share a Bad Cat Borneo drink with your colleagues. Very appropriate.

When the you’ve enjoyed a shot of Bad Cat Borneo, you too can be bad and wear clothes which resemble pajamas and make friends with a tame bullock in Serian. Yes, he’s my new bestie mate in Malaysia.

Next stop Kuala Lumpar for a quick stopover.

Gawai Dayak Festival, Betong, Sarawak. Part Two.

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Remember when you were a youngster and the first festival attended was an absolute jaw dropper? Well, that’s what the Gawai Festival in Matop, of the Betong region delivered – the same reaction.

The Gawai Dayak comes from the meaning festival and Dayak is a collective name for the indigenous Iban peoples of Sarawak.

And there’s that Hornbill again having a marvellous time and pride of place in the parade.

The excitement and community spirit with the eye-catching costumes was bling on steroids. This gentleman allowed me to take his photo whilst showing off his region’s tribal outfit for the upcoming ritual associated with the Gawai Dayak Festival.

The Iban are a vigorous, outwardly expansive people of West-Central Borneo who number some 400,000 in the east Malaysian State of Sarawak. Despite increasing urban migration, the greater majority live in Longhouse settlements along the main rivers and smaller streams of the interior and subcoastal districts.

Our official welcoming at the Rumah Engkeranji Longhouse from the Minister for the Ngabang Gawai Dayak Open House in Matop, Sarawak. Colourful and bright, the anticipation of meeting the friendly locals was quite humbling.

A birds-eye view of a typical Longhouse. Afterwards, we were able to participate in an exchange with the Chief of the Longhouse – a form of gift-giving presentation and a habit for visitors to show gratitude in being allowed into the community for the short duration of the event.

Staying at a Longhouse in Matop with the Iban people of Sarawak was an unforgettable insight into remote tribal traditions that still exist on the island.

The generosity of the combined families showed us warmth and a outpouring of sincere friendliness… along with plentiful snacks and drinks.

This little man was more than happy to take my case and show me my place at the Rumah Engkeranji Longhouse Homestay. He was ready and waiting long before the beginning of the Gawai Dayak Festival in full costume – along with his family and friends.

Longhouses have been around for a long time and are usually passed down through the ownership of past generations. With each family having their own apartment-style quarters, they are also very deep and narrow, but look comfortable and practical.

Before heading into Rumah Matop Longhouse, outside a traditional offering to show respect to all who had come along to share their last year’s successful harvest. The celebration starts in the early evening with a ceremony called Muai Antu Rua to cast away the spirit of greed, also ensuring the spirit of bad luck will not interfere with the cheerful celebrations and of course, the new year of another successful harvest.

A rhythmic tune was played throughout the ceremony giving everyone – regardless of age, a turn at the helm to show one’s skill. The Engkkerumung has small agungs arranged together side by side and played like a xylophone and the sound is quite similar.

There was a genuine eagerness to share their traditions with the outside world – and hopefully they continue on with these customs for many generations to come.

As the pecking order of participants and guests ascended into the Rumah Matop Longhouse, there was a show of the bright locally patterned vests. Worn with pride, the mood was happy and excitable.

The Iban people are a strong community and while there are around 20 families who reside here, they live as one harmoniously and care for each other unconditionally.

A shared communal area for all residents who offer their daily greetings, food and company to one another – especially to the elderly, frail and those who need assistance.

What’s a festival without food and drink? The Iban people will greet you with smiles and they love to shake hands – a custom they have come to know from the days of British rule and present-day interaction with westerners. Here everyone sat on mats with an abundance of goodies to share amongst locals and foreigners.

Lucky enough to see the beautiful Miss World Malaysia 2018 perform for our group at the Gawai festivity. So polished and her dancing was exquisite.

Folk traditional dancing starts at a very early age and there wasn’t any mistake they enjoyed every minute of their showmanship. Perhaps, another Miss World Malaysia here in the making?

And the following day, the early morning parade of very proud youngsters, mums, dads and residents were continuing on the true spirit of the Gawai Festival. I can’t think of anything better to photograph than men showing off ‘a bit of leg’!

To finish off the early morning celebrations, an anticipated dose of traditional Malaysian Keropok Lekor was gratefully accepted by all who participated … along with the onlookers. A fish-cracker snack and yummy as when freshly cooked!

Next stop? Some markets and eateries we enjoyed along the way.