But when I recently went back for a weekend escape from busy Singapore I experienced Bali in a different light. I soaked up the beach in the day, got some vitamin sea and retired to the beautiful and tranquil villas for some alone time at night.
Ah, this is the idyllic ‘Bali life’ my 7-year old self had yet to experience when she grew up!

I stayed in 2 of the Tjendana Villas, a collection of 6 different villas scattered in various locations in Bali. While each experience was unique and caters to various travelers, I was pleasantly surprised at how all the rooms were still part of the same Balinese way of life. Dampati for big groups of friends and family. Lembongan for a peaceful escape from bustling areas of Kuta and Seminyak.

Nirwana for a tranquil ocean view. Tjendana for a convenient yet comfortable place near to the airport. For my weekend trip in Bali, the Kunti and Club villas made the short stay worth it.

The Kunti Villas - a stylish and tranquil sanctuary

The first thing I noticed after settling in after a late flight was the cozy veranda next to the private pool. This was perfect for lazing around and reading a book while eating my complimentary breakfast of Indonesian mi goreng noodles.

It was thoughtful of the Kunti Villas to decorate the four poster bed inside the room with yellow daisy petals. The layout of the open-concept bathroom was a little unusual, with the toilet slightly hidden from the sink and the bath tub.
While I’m fond of getting a massage by the beach, the private one given in the comfort of my own villa changed my mind because it was fuss free and relaxing.
The Club Villas at the heart of Seminyak

The Club villas is perfect for those visiting Bali for a short weekend, but longing for somewhere private yet convenient. The airport is less than 30 minutes away, so you don’t have to rush for early morning flights. If you want to shop, dine and go clubbing, all you need to do is step outside of your villa. While the street side is busy, everything turns quiet once you’re inside the premises.

The room is more modern than Kunti, but equally as comfortable and luxurious with a bigger room. The veranda and kitchenette is just outside with a couch and table for entertaining friends or kicking back after a swim in the private pool.
The staff were extremely accommodating. They helped me book a car for the day so that I could go swimming at Canggu beach (a good surf spot), visit a traditional coffee plantation and Tanah Lot (a temple by the sea).

A new Bali experience

For more than 10 years Bali was nothing more than a childhood memory. As a popular destination to escape the city life among working professionals in Singapore and for weddings, I always wondered what my next experience would be like. Thanks to my weekend getaway at the Tjendana Villas, I could get used to the Bali life - a laidback surrounding to indulge my every desire.