OUR FINAL BALI-DAYS (PART 3)

Monday, March 17, 2014
Lovina, Bali, Indonesia
We concluded our 2 weeks in Bali with a wonderfully invigorating 4 days on the northern coast. A town called Lovina came highly recommended, and it certainly lived up to its reputation. We were drawn to our hotel partly because of its name, and partly for the experience it offered. 

The Lilin Lovina Beach Resort was comprised of beachfront villas, each with its own plunge pool. (Lilin translates to "candlelight"). It is owned by a friendly couple who were formerly musicians from Washington State and were now living their dream. The small number of villas and thoughtful design gave the place the intimacy and charm of a movie set in a tropical paradise. We got the royal treatment from the caring staff, and all possible needs were attended to. This was a place we did not want to leave. 

The black sand beach was virtually deserted, the seas clean and calm, and we spent our days just lazing away. Each night, a sunset concert was held on the beach, where we sat on pillows with candles everywhere, enjoying a drink. We ate dinner at a nearby small family-owned restaurant (called a "warung" here) which was so good we ate there each night. 

On our first day, we arranged the must-do dolphin-watching tour. We and another couple were picked up before sunrise by a boatman silently landing on our beach. We waded through the water, hopped onboard, and for the next 2 hours, watched dolphins, some even breaching the water right beside our boat. We next sailed to a nearby reef where we fed the fish by hand. Then, it was back for breakfast and a nap. Another day, we visited a traditional market very foreign to anything you'll find in North America, and fascinating in the products offered and the way business is transacted. Afterwards, we visited a nearby hot springs for a refreshing escape from the day's heat. On our final day up north, we enjoyed an intense tropical rain shower, listening to the music produced on our tin roof. It was really quite romantic, and once again, we felt as if we were in a movie. 

This will be our last blog from Bali. We've stayed in several parts of the island, each unique in its own way. Some of the beaches have been heavenly while others offered threatening waves enjoyed mostly by surfers. We suffered through insane heat and humidity (Bali is close to the equator), but persevered knowing there was a cool dip waiting for us back at the hotel. We've seen and done so much, and loved every moment. All in all, Bali has been an enlightening and rewarding experience, and one that will rank high among our favourite places.    

Our trip is winding down, with just over one week left in Asia before we head back to Paris. We're hoping to finish our stay with several days in Laos, but it remains to be seen whether we can work through the logistics of getting there. We should know soon.          

Comments

cissie.retired
2014-03-25

Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end. However, what fantastic memories and photos you have and nicely shared with us. I for one certainly love traveling along with you on my sofa.
Hopefully, you'll get to Laos, Paris and home safely.
Best always,
Cecile

Hope
2014-03-26

Really loved this blog! Would love to hear more about the unusual market you visited.

Hope
2014-03-26

Wishing you safe travels as you make your way back to Paris and home sweet home. Your fans miss you and look forward to your return. Love, Hope

Melissa Gold
2014-03-26

Safe travels! And continue to have these amazing experiences. When I read your blog, I'm there with you!

Vicki Novak
2014-03-26

What an amazing adventure you had. I loved reading your blogs and am so happy you enjoyed everywhere you went this winter. I still can't get over the dinner and massage for $10.00.

2025-02-07

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