Back from the trip, but my heart is still in Bali
Trips to Bali are always filled with unexpected beauty. During a chance conversation, a passionate passerby highly recommended Pramana Giri Kusuma, hidden amidst the Ubud rainforest and terraced fields. Curious, we checked in, and in just two days, we were immersed in a rare sense of tranquility and peace. Waking up to birdsong in the morning and falling asleep to the sound of the stream at night, our body and mind felt gently embraced by the freshness and greenery of the valley. Fatigue quietly faded away, leaving behind deep relaxation and a renewed lightness.
We stayed in a Private Pool Villa. The villa was spacious and extremely private. The most unforgettable moment was one early morning at five o’clock when a companion gently woke me. Wrapped in a thin blanket, I sat on the terrace lounge chair. The sky gradually shifted from dark blue to soft pink and gold. The silent valley slowly awakened in the morning light, with mist lightly covering the terraced fields. The tranquility and grandeur of that moment became a precious snapshot of the journey. After a day of exploring Ubud, jumping into the cool private pool and gazing at the starry sky, or lazily floating in the water, that exclusive comfort was an irreplaceable rest time during the trip.
🤍 Deep experiences, heartfelt everywhere:
Immersive sensory care: Petal bath SPA 💐: The hotel’s SPA experience was definitely a highlight. I chose the classic petal bath treatment. The therapist’s technique was professional and caring, starting gently due to concerns about my tolerance. After communicating, they precisely adjusted the pressure, allowing my tense muscles to fully relax. Especially thoughtful was that at the end of the treatment, they proactively suggested and patiently helped me capture the moment of relaxing in the bathtub filled with petals. That delicate and attentive service greatly enhanced the entire experience.
A feast for the taste buds and eyes: The hotel’s restaurant faces the iconic public pool, offering a wide, green view. Here, we tasted the authentic Balinese dirty duck rice (Bebek Betutu). The duck was marinated and cooked with spices for a long time, tender and flavorful with a rich aroma, paired with special sauces, delivering a truly local taste that lingered in the memory. Enjoying delicious food amid such beautiful scenery was a pleasure in itself.
Convenient choice for exploring Ubud: The hotel thoughtfully provides a free scheduled shuttle bus service to and from Ubud city center 🚌, about a 30-minute ride. We took it several times and had a great experience, often enjoying the convenience of an almost exclusive vehicle, sparing us the hassle of arranging transportation ourselves. Exploring Ubud’s art markets, temples, and cafes became much easier.
🌿 Thoughtful tips for traveling in Bali (including important notes):
While immersed in the tranquility of Pramana Giri Kusuma, here are some details worth noting for a smoother and more enjoyable Bali trip:
Respect local culture and beliefs: Bali has a deep Hindu culture. Before entering temples (Pura), you need to wear a sarong and tie a sash (usually available for rent or provided at the entrance). Avoid standing in front of priests or people performing rituals. When encountering Canang Sari (small offerings woven from palm leaves), please carefully walk around and do not step on them.
Water safety: It is recommended to drink bottled water throughout the trip and avoid drinking tap water directly. It’s best to use bottled water for brushing teeth as well. Pay attention to whether the ice provided in restaurants is safe.
Transportation: Roads in and around Ubud are relatively narrow and prone to traffic jams during peak hours. Renting a motorcycle is common, but always wear a helmet, ensure your license is valid (an international license is recommended), and drive cautiously. Using ride-hailing apps like Gojek/Grab is convenient, but note that some areas (such as central Ubud) may have restrictions on pick-up points. The hotel shuttle bus is a safe and convenient option.
Currency and payment: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) is the main currency. Check exchange rates in advance and exchange money at banks or authorized exchange points (look for official authorization marks), counting the amount in front of you. Large hotels, restaurants, and shops generally accept credit cards (Visa/Mastercard), but it’s advisable to carry cash for small shops, markets, and transportation. When paying by card, pay attention to the currency choice on the bill (choosing IDR is usually more cost-effective).
Environmental awareness: Bali values environmental protection, especially marine conservation. Avoid using sunscreens containing harmful ingredients like oxybenzone; choose reef-safe products. Minimize plastic waste by bringing your own water bottle and shopping bags.
Be patient and smile: The concept of “island time” exists, and service pace may be slower. Patience and a friendly smile often help communication.
Tipping culture (not mandatory but common): For good service from hotel porters, housekeeping, restaurant servers (if the bill does not include service charge), SPA therapists, and private drivers, giving a modest tip (such as 10,000 - 50,000 IDR) is a common way to show appreciation. You can put it in an envelope or hand it directly.
Time at Pramana Giri Kusuma is more than just a stay. It feels like a secluded oasis, offering travelers a deep mind-body adjustment with lush greenery, thoughtful service, and the unique tranquility of the valley. From the environment to service details, you can feel a subtle yet omnipresent care that adds a calm and enriching touch to the Bali trip. When body and mind are stretched out in nature’s embrace, the meaning of travel also settles deeply.