Travel, life, loves and laughs.
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
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
Tucked away in the heart of Bali, near the village of Tegallalang, are the Ceking Rice Terraces. The terraces are a mesmerizing patchwork of vibrant green terraced fields, a majestic green paradise that immediately captures my imagination.
The rice terraces of Bali offer a unique glimpse into the agricultural heritage of the region.… Read the rest
Nestled in the heart of Bali, the Ubud Water Palace, also known as Saraswati Temple (Pura Taman Saraswati), is one of the island’s most enchanting landmarks. It is a large, relatively new temple (pura), built for the Ubud royal family.… Read the rest
The Goa Gajah Temple is one of Bali’s most iconic and ancient archaeological sites. Often referred to as the Elephant Cave, Goa Gajah is located in the village of Bedulu, near Ubud in Bali. We have arrived fresh from lunch at Bebek Joni, a local restaurant specialising in duck dishes only 2 minutes away.… Read the rest
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
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
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
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 (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