I followed Wayan, the temple sweeper, down a crooked path. “Come this way,” he said, “I will show you a waterfall and a hidden temple”. He led me along a jungle path with mossy overhangs towering above me and steamy, misty rice fields that dropped away below. As I...
Leaving Kuta behind, STEPHANIE BROOKES explores a fascinating island Getting out beyond Kuta can reveal a whole new Bali experience to the traveller — one of heart and soul, allowing you to observe how the Balinese live in harmony with their land. Journeying to the...
Hotel Review I am standing with my toes in the sand on a private beach in Nusa Dua. The beautiful white sandy beach stretches out in front of me and the feeling of “being in Bali”, with the tropical balmy breezes and the relaxed beach vibe is ever-present. Sometimes...
What can a visitor do that will give them something to take away? STEPHANIE BROOKES discovers a few of the many experiences the island can offer. SOS ORPHANAGE — TABANAN Before I visited the SOS Children’s Village Orphanage I was a little hesitant about what...
SARI ORGANIK GO INTO THE GARDEN, PICK YOUR INGREDIENTS, AND THEN SIT BACK AND ENJOY THE VIEW WHILE YOUR MEAL IS PREPARED FOR YOU AT SARI ORGANIK. I bent down over the masses of green leaves in the sari organic garden bed and tried to decipher which one was iceberg...
Treasure of the Archipelago Bali, Indonesia – Nusa Dua This mega production show is a theatrical experience that will keep you elevated, with its lofty acrobatics, intrigued with its journey across the Indonesian archipelago encountering animals and dramatic scenery,...
Alam Sari Life in an open-air villa, perched 42 steps up on top of a rice paddy immediately transcends you to a very peaceful place. As I roused from my slumber, I could hear a faint, soft, tinkling sound of a village cowbell…. somewhere in the distance. Was this in...
Why not explore some different options next time you make your travel plans? Stephanie Brookes gives some top accommodation picks, which we hope will inspire you to find the true spirit of the island. KUTA: Ramayana Hotel — Shopping and entertainment What I love about...
Stradbroke Island – Island of Charm North Stradbroke Island is affectionately known to everyone as “Straddie”. Not only do you have beaches, wildlife and a chilled atmosphere but also unusual things happen on Straddie. From September to January you will see a...
It’s Friday afternoon and you’ve left work early. This well overdue weekend escape has been on your mind forever, and finally it is your time to relax. Your destination is Mount Tamborine, a mere 70 kms out of Brisbane. If you are searching for beauty and tranquility...
