It’s a perfect day on the slopes. A meter or so of snow, the sun is out and the lifts are on. We make it out to the snow, geared up and ready for a great day of skiing.… Read the rest
Snow Much Fun
Arriving In Georgia
Arriving in Georgia mid morning we are greeted by Sergo, our tour guide and transfer professional. Although we have a long drive ahead to get from Kutaisi to Gudauri, the day is still young. Sergo suggests a visit to nearby Sataplia Caves and some lunch before hitting the road proper.… Read the rest
Hamilton The Musical
Tickets to Hamilton the musical were on my birthday wish list last year, my wish having been granted by mum. So after hearing good things and waiting a long time, we’re finally off to see the show playing at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi.… Read the rest
The Barong and Keris Cultural Dance
The Barong and Keris Cultural Dance performance is a play told by dance and music. The performance represents the eternal fight between good and evil. Good is represented by the mythical, lion-like animal, the Barong, protector of the village.… Read the rest
Batuan Temple
Batuan Temple (Pura Puseh Desa Batuan) is a large temple complex located near Ubud in the south east of the island. We have come here directly from the Barong and Keris Cultural Dance this morning and, allowed to enter only whilst wearing appropriate local dress, we kit up for the occasion.… Read the rest
Tall Trees
An afternoon and evening of pure R&R awaits us at Tall Trees, part of the Westin Resort, Ubud. This is a tropical retreat that you could be forgiven for not wanting to leave. As much as there is to do and see around the area, after a morning at the Ubud Monkey Forest Sanctuary, we elect to spend the rest of the day enjoying the resort and its facilities.… Read the rest
Ubud Monkey Forest Sanctuary
The Ubud Monkey Forest Sanctuary is a must see destination whilst in Ubud. This important local temple, famed for its monkey inhabitants, has a long history, and according to tradition it’s the monkeys who rule here.
Known locally as Mandala Suci Wenara Wana, the site is home to around 1300 long tailed Balinese macaque monkeys.… Read the rest
Ibu Rai
Ibu Rai, along one of Ubud’s main streets, is a perfect spot to grab a sundowner and await the towns nightlife.
Having come from among the Kajang rice fields, we’re not overly hungry after a late lunch at Sweet Orange Warung, nor are we quite ready to head back to the hotel.… Read the rest
Kajeng Rice Fields Walk
In the bustling heart of Ubud, you would never guess that just around the corner is the Kajeng Rice Fields walk. A little along from the Ubud Palace you could be forgiven for thinking this is another tourist metropolis.… Read the rest
Ubud Palace
Ubud Palace (locally, Puri Saren Agung) is located in the heart of Ubud. This previously quiet town, known for its rice paddies and relaxation, is now the buzzing center of Bali‘s ‘yoga’ tourism. Long the destination of backpackers, seeking cheap beer alongside authentic experience, Ubud was catapulted into fame when it put the ‘love’ into Julia Roberts’ 2010 blockbuster Eat Pray Love.… Read the rest