Trisara, translated as “The Third Garden in Heaven” in Sanskrit, lives up to its decadent description by offering one of the most luxurious resort experiences in Phuket. From the moment we stepped into the grand ocean facing lobby to the comfortable and smooth airport transfer on the last day, we were treated like royalty. All of their villas and residences boast some of the best ocean views on the island and feature unbeatable sunsets. A winding set of chic steps gently led down to our Signature Villa and opened right into the grand and secluded space. We felt immediately at home in the modern and sumptuous suite with a chic dining room and lounge, spacious lavish bathroom, and an amazing sleep inducing bedroom. The best part was the huge and refreshing infinity pool where we spent most of our days soaking up sunshine, serenely gazing at the Andaman Sea, and dining poolside from their extensive in room dining menu. Our active children spent afternoons playing at the fully equipped kids club while we napped on the nearly deserted beach. The dining options at Trisara are reason enough to visit with some of the best seafood we had on the island at Seafood and the innovative fresh fare at Pru. They even have their own sustainable farm where the majority of Pru’s organic produce is sourced. I spent my days living in a plush bathrobe or bikini and found it extremely difficult to will myself to pack and leave. You would find it hard to locate a more ideal place for a luxurious family holiday or romantic honeymoon in Phuket.
Travelling with a toddler and baby means we seriously value space and full kitchens at our accommodation. AirBnb can be a great option, but when you spend all day swimming and chasing after two little ones the appeal of housekeeping, room service, and friendly staff at the other end of the phone is more than tempting. This is why The Pavilions was infinitely the best of both worlds. Their two bedroom, modern loft has all that you would want from a well equipped city apartment with the welcome addition of a stunning infinity pool, and tranquil views. The mouthwatering Thai fare at The Pavilion Club, amazing sunsets at 360 Bar, and fun ambiance at Firefly ensured we had plenty of date night options when we needed time away from the little ones, and their spa has one of the most indulgent couples packages we’ve ever experienced. Evenings with wine on the huge terrace was just the relaxing treat we were craving and the insanely comfortable beds caused several late mornings of lingering a little too long. Ever and River had an abundance of play space in the gigantic living area and the modern kitchen was ideal for preparing family meals. A frequent shuttle was available to take us to the pristine beach only a few minutes away or the nearest supermarket to collect supplies. I couldn’t recommend The Pavillions more for groups or families looking for the comforts of home alongside hotel luxury and 5 star service.
Uluwatu boasts some of my favorite view points and Hidden Hills Villas was no exception. As soon as we were led into our private two bed villa, the noise and worries of reality dissipated. The tranquil space featured two spacious bedrooms complete with beds fit for a king and decadent outdoor baths and showers. We loved the open living areas which allowed for sunset gazing and the glittering infinity pool where we spent most of our days. Fresh seafood is always my staple when visiting beach destinations so I was throughly obsessed with the In Villa BBQ featuring perfectly grilled lobster, giant prawns and mouthwatering spiced fish. I was so relaxed the entire stay, we barely set foot out of the villa, and when we did it was to gather supplies so we could disappear again until it was time to leave. I can’t think of a better way to escape city noise and truly indulge.
Whenever we stay in Bali there’s a mandatory few days we park in Seminyak. I love exploring the local shops to top up the kids wardrobes and the boho jewellery and decor is always amazing for souvenirs and gifts. The boy and I are also obsessed with the trendy bar and restaurant scene and spend at least one evening exploring food street. The Seminyak Suite, with comfortable pool villas, fantastic service, and optimal location is the ideal jumping off point for a few days in the busy part of Bali. We loved being within walking distance to the main street, and the refreshing pool and spacious room provided a perfect sanctuary. With baby cots, a huge bath, and full kitchenette, it’s convenient for families or groups of friends. We had a fun filled few days during our stay.
Ever is entering that age of wonderment, just starting to become fascinated with nature and other elements of her surroundings. Meeting animals is probably the most extraordinary thing she can experience at the moment, so we couldn’t turn down the opportunity to stay a few nights at Mara River Safari Lodge during our trip to Bali. Not only are you able to visit all the park’s attractions, shows, and restaurants but you are instantly placed in a safari experience. As soon as we set foot in our rustic room and gazed out our window at elephants and zebras, we were transported to Africa. Bali Safari does an amazing job at suspending your disbelief, and creating a bubble where you fully immerse in the natural surroundings. We shared fresh carrots with zebras and rhinos from our balcony, took a bumpy elephant ride to breakfast, and had a tiger directly above us in a cage during their night safari. The experience was exhilarating, amusing, and incredibly amazing to share with our children.
Must do at Bali Safari:
Stay: Book at least one night in one of their rooms and wake up to panoramic views of zebras and elephants. Swim in their infinity pool while gazing at the animals and ride an elephant to breakfast in the morning.
Dine: Have dinner at Tsavo Lion Restaurant and make sure to grab a window seat. Feast on their fine dining menu suitable for the whole family and watch the lions laze in their habitat while you eat.
Do: Make sure to do their night safari your where you can feed everything from zebras and elephants to lions and tigers. Don’t worry, it’s very safe so bring along the kids and show them the animals up close. Also check out their Bali Agung Show which was beautifully presented and engaging for all age groups and we loved the tiger and elephant shows too. If you have younger children, take them to the petting zoo and teach them about ducks, chickens, goats and farm life.
For more visit their website: Bali Safari and Marine Park
Journey through the breezy and luxurious lobby taking in the expansive view that reaches all the way to the crystal clear ocean. Travel down the cool, glass elevator and drive through perfectly manicured green lanes to your impressively decadent pool villa. The Ritz Carlton Nusa Dua is a immaculately curated experience for your family from beginning to end. The modern and comfortable rooms offer everything you could possibly require including a refreshing private pool and rustic outdoor baths and showers. We loved their extensive choices of delicious dining, including a bohemian beach front tapas lounge and authentic Balinese buffets and cooking classes. The refreshingly calm beach and sand adjacent infinity pool make for perfect lazy days, and their well equipped and seriously fun Ritz Kidz Club is an ideal spot for the little ones to play out their dream vacation. I can honestly say there is something for everyone here, from family fun to romantic beach dinners and more. If you want to experience Bali in true luxury, this is a must stay resort.
Find my looks here.
Sometimes you and a place just clicks. I’m really partial to Uluwatu and could pretty much imagine living out my days in a rustic villa with barefooted kids and never giving another thought to brushing my hair again. The Ungasan Clifftop Resort fuses luxury with Balinese charm and gives off a relaxing vibe that is incredibly addictive. Their infinity pools boast sweeping ocean views that are dizzying impressive at sunset and ideal when mingled with the salty ocean breeze on a scorching day. Travel down the rocky cliff snd set foot in a bohemian beach paradise otherwise known as Sunday’s Beach Club. We dined on unfussy casual fare while watching the waves crash, and bathed in the shallow clear blue ocean at low tide. Once sunset hit the oaky smell of romantic bonfires swept across the beach, while we sunk into lazy beanbags with frosty cold cocktails in hand. After dark we travelled the well paved route back to our indulgent villa for wine in bed before waking early to a serene sunrise. The resort allows you to live out your boho luxe dreams while making sure every luxurious detail has been met. When it came time to say goodbye, we found it almost impossible to pry ourselves from the dreamy views and accommodating villas. Can we go back now?
After almost a month in Bali we were very excited for our stay at Conrad Bali. The Nusa Dua resort is one of those places that’s so easy to enjoy as a family with kids, and offers enough facilities so we never felt the need to leave. I was obsessed with our luxurious pool villa with views of the quiet beach and their amazing infinity chapel. Afternoons were spent lounging with the little ones on one of their comfy poolside bales, and evenings were reserved for relaxing with the boy in their executive lounge or one of the many delicious restaurants. Ever was mesmerised by the traditional Balinese dancers at Suku’s buffet night and even decided to put on a little performance herself. River napped to the sound of waves and ocean breeze, and we all got in plenty of swimming time in their refreshing lagoon pools. One of our favourite family friendly Bali resorts that we would happily return to again and again.
Set in beautiful Jimbaran, The Leaf Jimbaran is a serene and luxurious oasis perfect for your escape from city life. I usually associate holidays with over indulgence, but at The Leaf you are able to relax and recharge with their unique focus on health and wellness. Start your day with a hearty breakfast sent to your villa including choices such as Paleo, vegetarian, or Indonesian. Everything is created with low calorie count in mind and dairy and gluten free when possible. They boast an organic garden on site proving every ingredient use is not only fresh but high quality. Their restaurants serve unique and delicious health conscious fare, and even the decadent afternoon tea manages to be guilt free. I was able to keep up my workouts at the fully equipped gym and their child friendly facilities include a fun kids club for the little ones. I found it hard to pull myself away from our luxurious pool villa and loved that it was only a short ride to Jimbaran Bay where we could spend the day at their beach club. I finished the stay feeling refreshed and detoxed after a few days of healthy eating and relaxation in paradise.