The enchanting emerald green island of Bali is rich in succulent colors, sweet hibiscus, cascading waterfalls, and opulent dawns. Our in-depth cultural explorations of timeless traditions will include the classic crafts of paintings, weavings, batiking, wood and stone carvings, and silver jewelry. These arts, central to daily life, are expressed in a colorful throng of festivals and temple ceremonies

We will attend shadow puppet plays and visit some of Indonesia’s foremost performing artists in their dazzling dance and gamelan orchestra performances. Our unique fitness adventure of Island includes visits to local festivals and craftsmen in their homes - an "insider’s" perspective of how art is a part of everyday life in this region of the world. Our flexible itinerary is designed to include these whenever possible.

We will visit the sacred temple of Besakih and other mossy temples. Hindu and Buddhist religions are beautifully woven into every aspect of daily life, with small temples found in almost every rice paddy, lake, mountain top and home. A Balinese spiritual experience begins each day with flower offerings to the river wearing traditional sarongs and sonkets, followed by a private lesson in silat, a Balinese form of Tai Chi.

Other typical mornings might include yoga and  meditation, followed by exciting 5-15 mile daily hikes, through rice fields, up lush winding mountain trails and the summit of Mount Butur (5,600 feet), the mother volcano of Ubud and around lakes and villages. We will swim in a crystal clear river and float down beside waterfalls and springs to our lunch destination. We will also be rafting down the Ayung River and swimming or snorkeling, scuba diving and sailing in warm tropical oceanic waters with dolphins cavorting around us.

Our afternoons can include a variety of otional activities. Exploring the Island's most sacred and remote areas on mountain bikes, past rural villages and rice terraces, with panoramic views of Bali's stunning volcanic landscape. Other options are horseback riding or golf.

Upon our arrival into Bali, our accommodations will begin with a tranquil sanctuary in Emerald Sacred Mountain, with organic vegetable, fruit and flower gardens, a large swimming pool/Jacuzzi, open yoga room and separate villas; all beside a pristine river with mountain views. Followed by our stay (depending upon availability) at an acclaimed private home and sanctuary of a well-known English bamboo artist featured twice in Conde Nast Traveler magazine. It has been a chosen honeymoon retreat by many celebrities such as David Bowie, Mick Jagger and many others. The location in Nyuh Kuning Village about 2 km from the center of Ubud and a short walk from the monkey forest. Our large swimming pool is spring fed, and our lovely massage pavilions overlook a whitewater river. At each location we will be massaged and bathed in flower petals and delicate fragrances with strong-but-gentle hands.

Enjoy healthy organic cuisine with the exotic Indonesian flavors and the vast array of sumptuous fruits, awaiting your willing palate.

"BALI what a feast for body & soul! The tranquil panorama, the terrific people, the spiritual culture: all conspired to produce the best vacation I’ve ever had.

We hiked through the lush landscapes, became skilled at new yoga poses, sated ourselves on fresh foods and juices, unwound during relaxing massages, visited colorful festivals and even found time for some great shopping. Our accommodations conjoined the best of privacy and comfort.

Bali was the perfect place to put Kristina Hurrell’s advice to the test “letting go and enjoying the moment.” It passed with flying colors."
Liesbeth Stoeffler
Graphics Designer
New York City, April 2001