Ajda Sitar /

When traveling abroad, I try to get immersed in the local life, because in my opinion only a true local touch can give you the right, pristine experience of the region. One of the best ways of »tasting« a local culture is by trying out the local food. At The Gangsa private villa we experienced Bali’s culinary delights in the nicest way possible – by a Balinese cooking class. Their chef accompanied us to the traditional market, where we selected the ingredients we later used to prepare the following dishes: Balinese paste (which can be used as a base or be added to many different dishes), Be Pasih Mesanten (braised fish in coconut cream and fish sauce flavoured with lemon basil), Sate Lilit Be Siap (Balinese chicken satay with spices), Urab Bali salad and the Pisang Rai (banana sweet cake with grated coconut and palm sugar). I was fascinated by the fish and sea food selection at the Jimbaran market (and the colourful fishing boats named jukung), as well as the intriguing mixes of spices and herbs, that really enhance the flavour and add a distinct taste. The cooking class was held in our private villa outdoor kitchen, where the chef taught us some Indonesian cooking through hands-on instruction. The flavourful, but a bit spicy and relatively complex dishes made me realize, we are not only in the Island of Gods, but also in the »Island of Good Food«. We will definitely try to re-create some of these meals back at home and hopefully, they will taste as good as these did.

»Food one of the best windows into the local culture.«

View Post

You may also enjoy:

Ajda Sitar /

The largest of the three Gilis, located right next to Lombok, Gili Trawangan was our next destination. After a good hour ride with the fast boat from Padang Bai on Bali, we arrived at the white-sand island sitting in the turquoise sea. Since motorized transport is prohibited, the preferred means of transportation is by foot, by bicycle or with the horse-drawn carriage called cidomo. Measuring 2km wide and 3km long, rising 30m above sea level, the island is small enough to be fully explored by foot, but we opted for the bike rental. We decided to stay at the Ombak Sunset hotel, which is located on the west coast, for three reasons. One: it’s remote, away from the crowded and noisy eastern side (but still close enough to reach by foot or bike). Two: it’s half-way between the southern and northern part. The north beach is by far the best snorkeling point. Three: it’s the only place that has the famous swing, where you can admire the sunset (and take some marvelous photos). We are heading back to Bali today, sad that we are leaving this picturesque place and excited for more things to come. For sure, we are coming back one day to explore all of the three islands.

View Post

You may also enjoy:

Ajda Sitar /

After Ubud, our next stop was Canggu, a village that is the alternative to the urban sprawl of neighbouring Seminyak. We were astonished by the stunning Ametis Villa, which is located just a short walk away from the Batu Bolong Beach, a popular surfers point. The retreat is a collection of exclusive villa compounds, our was the one bedroom Premiere Villa named Ametrine as the gemstone which helps to enhance mental and spiritual clarity. As soon as I stepped in (escorted by our personal butler), I knew I was going to enjoy every second of it. A swim in the pool, which divides the villa into the open space living area with the kitchen, and bedroom accompanied by a large bathroom, left us breathless. The villa is spacious and airy, you can admire the whole outdoor area while taking a shower or bath. You can really see that it is designed and furnished thoughtfully, they really took great effort with even the smallest details. Other thrilling Ametis features like a relaxing massage in their Ruby Spa, delicious food (which you can enjoy in your own villa or in their Eternal Restaurant), a complimentary mini bar and an everyday basket full of fruit made us feel welcome and spoiled. A quick look at the photos can reveal my favourite spot, by the pool – nothing beats the morning tea or a fruit snack while dipping your feet in the water. Ametis is also a great starting point to discover the Seminyak area, visit the touristy Tanah Lot or even catch the perfect wave.

»A modern private villa sanctuary with a traditional Balinese touch within the surfers paradise.«

View Post

You may also enjoy:

Ajda Sitar /

Where to better start a Bali journey than at the heart of the island. After a good hour drive we arrived at the Kenanga Boutique Hotel in Ubud and were totally amazed by it only after a few minutes of our stay. Away from the hustle and bustle of Ubud downtown, the hotel offers breathtaking views of the rice fields. A sleep in the traditional-inspired suite made all the anxiety and jetlag disappear, the staff was extremely nice and made us feel very welcome, while the whole atmosphere left us feeling relaxed and peaceful. Beside the outstanding views, Kenanga has the most amazing infinity pool. A swim by the rice field panorama, relaxes your mind in a nicest way possible. I had one of the best breakfasts in there, the food overall was extremely delicious (I would highly suggest you visit their Terra Cotta restaurant for a healthy meal with the best view ever). The hotel was the perfect starting point for exploring the Ubud area – discovering the heritage, the temples and palaces, shopping at the market, walks through the most outstanding nature around rice paddies, eating lots of good local food and Kopi Luwak coffee tasting (yes, the one that’s made out of coffee beans digested by the civet cat; it’s the most expensive coffee in the world, if I’m correct). The reason more why I would recommend a Kenanga stay is the fact that they are highly connected with the local community, therefore they are helping good local people make their living. The manager was very kind and helpful, providing us with many relevant information. The overall experience exceeded our expectations, a calming and relaxing feel made us forget about the worries and opened the Bali trip we would surely never forget.

»If heaven on Earth exists, that would be it.«

View Post

You may also enjoy:

Ajda Sitar /

There is no better feeling then the soft, luxurious and smooth feel of silk against your skin. Even though, I am not wearing any silk material clothing in this outfit post, I am actually wearing silk. How come, you are wondering? Silk comes in many forms, one of them being a scent. Yes, you’ve read it right – Japanese cosmetics brand Sensai launched their debut fragrance. Silk being their key ingredient of the brand, it’s included in their The Silk Eau de Toilette. It’s fresh, charming, delicate and unique, probably my favourite at the moment. I would highly suggest you to give it a sniff, it’s a stunning scent that will blow your mind (or nose) in a second.

Top notes: bergamot, pink pepper, pear, violet leaf
Middle notes: peony, lily-of-the-valley, orchid, amber
Base notes: musk, tonka bean

wearing:
midi dress from NEW YORKER
pumps from JEFFREY CAMPBELL

photo: Domen Blenkuš

View Post