| Uma Ubud, Bali
We get many requests from people wanting to celebrate an important birthday; wanting somewhere special to spend their treacle-moon; wanting somewhere exotic yet simple and soulful to recuperate; or simply wanting somewhere 'out of this world' to romance. Uma Ubud fulfils all these requirements and from a terrace suite, with it's own infinity pool backing onto lush jungle the views are beyond any tree-house fantasy you may ever have had.
Uma Ubud is all the rave right now. It's hard not to find it spread across a travel magazine or tucked away under 'top retreats' in one of the hot glossies. This is not to say that the exposure means saturation, or that it is overcrowded, or that Uma Ubud can now rest upon its tropical laurels, indeed the opposite is true. Uma Ubud is dedicated to holistic and cultural enhancement and reflects this expertise to perfection.
Where is the Oasis?
Described by Tatler as "fresh, fun and fashionable", Uma Ubud one of Christina Ongs's newest ventures lies on the fringe of the remarkable town of Ubud, in the middle of the Island of Bali.
Ubud is surrounded by most of the inspiration that attracts the explorer to Bali. For over a century it has been the island's pre-eminent nucleus for cultural pursuits. Once a haven for the gob-smacked back packer, Ubud is now a hot spot for artists, writers, art collectors and the discerning traveller. Ubud is alive with culture and buzzing with markets and skilful artisans. When asking a friend what struck her most about Ubud and Bali she said she just could never get the up-lifting sounds of the Angklung, (a bamboo instrument sounding like a mandolin because it is all tremolo), out of her head; another altered the very fabric of her home and wardrobe, embellishing them with extraordinary works of art, intricate paintings and the legendary sarongs. It seems that most of us come away from here, not only with glorious memories and a colourful memento or two, but also with a definite yearning to return.
Uma Ubud, which overlooks the River Oos in the Tjampuhan Valley, has been described as a haven of peace; three suites have their own infinity pools and in-your-face views; and the other 25 rooms are tucked neatly into enclaves around an exotic infinity pool and bar area. Although laced by an abundant display of Bali's inland-indigenous-exotica; rice paddies, banyan trees and swaying coconut palms, it is actually just off the main street, close to the Neka art museum and opposite one of the best restaurants in Bali: the formidable Mozaic. Mozaic, set in tropical gardens, is among just two in Southeast Asia to be awarded a member of the exclusive Les Grandes Tables du Monde by Traditions & Qualite. Chef Chris Salans, offers a six course tasting menu for US$20-$30 and it is reckoned by many culinary critics as the best food in Bali, not to say Indonesia - tel 011-62-36-975768. Reserve a table in advance.
So, surrounded by this mecca of art, culture, trendy cafes and celebrated cuisine, you are well placed to either Zen or zoom. Quite the most perfect retreat to experience Bali life in all its glory.
The S Factors
The Suite Dream - The Shambala Suite
This really is for the Sheba's of this world. Not only is there an infinity pool dropping off into lush tropics, but also a spa room for glorious treatments. The interiors are simple, honest, stylishly Balinese and blend in organically with their surroundings by repeating materials, including local woods and alang-alang thatched roofs. The Suite is designed with sensitivity in order to maximise the untouched splendour of the tropical vista beyond.
COMO Shambhala - Spa Heaven
Harpers travel supplement eulogises the yoga facilities here, describing them as "unparalleled". You can experience the complete holistic experience by following the menus designed by the COMO Shambhala Cuisine. There are four treatment rooms, a reflexology area, meditation bale, steam, sauna and a 25-metre pool plus a well-equipped gym. Harpers Abroad suggests you treat yourself to "a massage in the Shambhala Spa, which floats on a koi pond".
It is a holiday, encompassing rest and relaxation in stylish luxury staying here, but, it is also far more. It is a spiritual journey and an experience that provides a re-charge and balance to all of us who find our zest-reserves running low.
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