ChristingC

Some places leave such a lasting impression that you wonder if returning years later will feel quite as magical. Alila Villas Uluwatu was one of those places for us.

Our first visit was almost ten years ago, when River was just a few months old. Looking back at those photos, it feels like another lifetime. Returning now, with older more adventurous kids, was incredibly special. What we discovered was a resort that has aged beautifully, remaining every bit as elegant and inspiring as we remembered.

Perched high above Uluwatu’s dramatic limestone cliffs, Alila Villas Uluwatu is still one of Bali’s most striking resorts. The architecture feels timeless, blending contemporary design with natural materials and open spaces that frame the endless Indian Ocean. Our One Bedroom Pool Villa quickly became our sanctuary, offering complete privacy, a generous infinity pool, and peaceful moments that made it difficult to leave each morning.

One of the things we appreciated most was how effortlessly the resort balances luxury with genuine warmth. The service is polished without ever feeling formal, and every interaction felt thoughtful and personal. It was the little things that stood out, from the team remembering exactly which juices and smoothies the children liked each morning to greeting us so warmly throughout our stay. After many years of travelling extensively as a family, those thoughtful details are often what stay with us the longest.

Breakfast at CIRE quickly became one of our favourite daily rituals. Sitting outdoors with sweeping ocean views, we lingered over freshly brewed coffee, tropical juices, Balinese specialties, beautifully prepared Western dishes, and what may just be the best chocolate croissants we’ve had at a resort breakfast. One evening we enjoyed dinner at The Warung, where elevated interpretations of traditional Balinese cuisine showcased the richness of Indonesia’s culinary heritage. Ever completely fell in love with the beef rendang, while the wonderful selection of house made sambals encouraged all of us to compare flavours and spice levels throughout the meal.

My own daily ritual became starting each morning in the excellent fitness centre before returning to the villa for a leisurely swim, while afternoons were spent unwinding beside the main pool or enjoying the tranquil spa.

Returning after nearly a decade reminded us why Alila Villas Uluwatu remains one of Bali’s true icons. Some hotels impress the first time you visit. The truly exceptional ones welcome you back years later and somehow feel even more memorable.

I am a fully qualified independent travel agent specializing in Luxury Family Travel.  I’m here to plan your dream family holiday, create a personal itinerary to suit your family’s needs, and give you all the first hand knowledge I have from travelling full time as a family.  Contact me at christing.chang@fora.travel assist in booking your next trip.

Stepping into Hotel Tugu Bali feels like entering another era. Nestled beside Canggu’s Batu Bolong Beach, this extraordinary boutique hotel is far more than a place to stay. It is a living museum dedicated to preserving Indonesia’s rich history, art and culture, where every pathway, courtyard and beautifully curated space tells a story. Home to one of Southeast Asia’s most remarkable collections of Indonesian antiques and cultural treasures, every suite and villa has been individually designed, creating an experience unlike anywhere else in Bali.

During our stay, we checked into one of the hotel’s Private Pool Villas, which quickly became our own peaceful sanctuary. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens, the villa blended traditional Indonesian architecture with luxurious comforts, offering complete privacy while remaining immersed in the character that defines the property. Every detail felt thoughtful, from the handcrafted furnishings and historic artefacts to the tranquil outdoor spaces centred around our private pool.

What truly makes Hotel Tugu so special is its atmosphere. Despite sitting just moments from the vibrant cafés, boutiques and surf beaches of Canggu, the property feels wonderfully secluded. Wandering through lotus ponds, centuries old wooden pavilions and candlelit gardens, it is easy to forget the lively neighbourhood waiting just beyond the gates. The warm, intuitive service only adds to that feeling, with every member of the team making us feel genuinely welcomed throughout our stay.

Dining is another highlight. From leisurely made to order breakfasts showcasing Balinese favourites alongside international classics, to generous Indonesian feasts enjoyed in the restaurant, beside our villa pool or in one of the hotel’s romantic garden settings, every meal celebrated the incredible diversity of Indonesian cuisine. One evening we experienced the Cultural Dinner at IWA Restaurant, where beautifully prepared regional dishes were paired with captivating traditional music and dance performances, creating one of the most memorable evenings of our Bali trip.

Hotel Tugu Bali is unlike anywhere else we have stayed. It offers not only beautiful accommodation but a genuine connection to Indonesia’s heritage, brought to life through remarkable design, exceptional hospitality and unforgettable dining. It is the kind of place that lingers in your memory long after you leave.

There are plenty of luxury resorts in Bali, but few manage to balance refined luxury with genuine family appeal quite like Umana Bali. Perched high above the dramatic limestone cliffs of Ungasan, the resort enjoys sweeping views across the Indian Ocean while offering a peaceful escape just a short drive from some of the Bukit Peninsula’s most beautiful beaches and surf breaks.

During our stay, we checked into one of the spacious Family Pool Villas, which quickly became our own private sanctuary. The villa offered generous indoor and outdoor living spaces, a large infinity pool, and plenty of room for our family to relax without ever feeling confined. Every detail felt thoughtfully designed, combining contemporary elegance with Balinese touches that reflected the island’s rich culture.

One of the highlights of our stay was spending time at Uma Beach House, the resort’s private beach club on Melasti Beach. With its crystal clear water, relaxed atmosphere, excellent food and comfortable daybeds, it became one of our favourite places to spend long afternoons by the ocean.

The experiences extended well beyond the villa. We loved joining the family friendly Balinese cooking class where we learned to prepare traditional favourites including sambal and sate lilit together. It was a wonderful way for the children to experience local culture through food and one of those travel memories we know they will remember long after the holiday.

Dining throughout the resort was consistently excellent. From generous breakfasts to elegant Indonesian dinners at Commune, every meal showcased fresh local ingredients while remaining approachable for families travelling with children.

When it was time to unwind, the resort’s spa provided a welcome moment of calm with beautifully designed treatment rooms and deeply restorative therapies. We also appreciated the impressive fitness centre, making it easy to fit in a workout before heading out to explore Bali each day.

What truly elevated our stay, however, was the service. Every member of the team greeted us warmly, remembered our children’s names, and anticipated the small details that transform a wonderful hotel into an unforgettable one. Umana Bali delivers luxury without feeling formal, creating an atmosphere where families feel genuinely welcomed while enjoying one of Bali’s most beautiful cliffside settings.

I am a fully qualified independent travel agent specializing in Luxury Family Travel.  I’m here to plan your dream family holiday, create a personal itinerary to suit your family’s needs, and give you all the first hand knowledge I have from travelling full time as a family.  Contact me at christing.chang@fora.travel assist in booking your next trip.

If you are looking for modern stylish villas at the heart of Seminyak The Layar is an optimal choice. Known for its sleek architecture and contemporary design, it offers plenty of privacy while still being close to everything Seminyak has to offer.

It’s our third visit to the welcoming property and this time we stayed in Villa 15, a Two Bedroom Villa that worked perfectly for our family of four.  The highlight was undoubtedly the huge private pool, which quickly became the centre of our days. The villa felt incredibly spacious, with a large open living and dining area, a full kitchen, and plenty of room for everyone to spread out and relax. Despite being right in Seminyak, it felt surprisingly peaceful once we stepped through the villa gates.

One of our favourite aspects of the stay was the ease of in-villa living. Breakfast was prepared and served in our villa each morning at a time that suited us, making slow starts especially enjoyable. We also ordered lunch several times, enjoying everything from pizzas and pasta to Indonesian dishes beside the pool without needing to venture out.

For a little extra indulgence, we booked an in-villa massage, which was one of the most relaxing experiences of our stay. There is something special about finishing a treatment and being able to simply stroll back to your sun lounger.

While we loved having our own private space, The Layar is also ideally positioned for exploring Seminyak. Restaurants, cafés, boutiques and beach clubs are all just a short drive away. Gojek orders came straight to our door whether we were craving a matcha or local mid goreng. We also enjoyed dinner at Settimo Cielo, the property’s Italian restaurant, which provided a lovely option for an easy evening close to home.

Stylish, spacious and wonderfully easy for families, The Layar has everything to offer for that Bali getaway.

Set within the vast 90 hectare AYANA Bali estate on the cliffs of Jimbaran, RIMBA by AYANA Bali is an ideal choice for families looking for a resort that offers endless activities, breathtaking setting, and warm welcoming service. While it enjoys access to all of AYANA’s world class facilities, RIMBA has a more relaxed and contemporary atmosphere that makes it especially appealing for those travelling with children.

We stayed in a Two Bedroom Resort View Suite, which gave our family plenty of space to settle in comfortably. The suite felt bright, modern, and thoughtfully designed for families of all ages. Having separate living and sleeping areas made a huge difference when travelling with older children, allowing everyone to enjoy a little extra space and the gigantic bathtub and sunset views were a huge highlight.

One of the greatest benefits of staying at RIMBA is access to the entire AYANA Bali resort complex, including AYANA Resort Bali and AYANA Segara Bali. Complimentary resort trams run throughout the estate, making it easy to explore the property. Our children loved riding the trams between pools, beaches, restaurants, and viewpoints, and it quickly became part of the holiday experience itself.

Families are truly spoiled for choice here. The estate features more than 14 swimming pools, ranging from expansive family pools to quieter spots tucked amongst the gardens. There are walking paths throughout the resort, numerous oceanfront viewpoints, and plenty of opportunities to simply enjoy the spectacular clifftop setting overlooking the Indian Ocean. For parents looking to unwind, the renowned AYANA Spa is one of Bali’s most celebrated wellness destinations, offering everything from traditional treatments to signature spa experiences inspired by the island.

One of the most memorable experiences was visiting Kubu Beach, AYANA’s secluded beach hidden at the base of the cliffs. Reached via a dramatic glass elevator, the journey down is almost as memorable as the beach itself. Families can spend time exploring the shoreline, enjoying the ocean views, or relaxing by the water with casual beach fare and fresh coconuts.

Balinese culture is thoughtfully woven throughout the resort experience. Traditional architecture, daily cultural activities, performances, and local design elements create a strong sense of place, allowing guests to experience more than just a luxury beach holiday. One evening, we attended the cultural dinner show at Kampoeng Bali, where traditional music, dance, and storytelling brought Bali’s rich heritage to life in a lively and engaging setting. It was a wonderful experience for both adults and children and one of the most memorable evenings of our stay.

A particular highlight for our children was AYANA’s Green Camp programme. Designed around sustainability, nature, and cultural discovery, it offers hands on experiences that encourage children to connect with the environment while learning about Bali in a fun and engaging way. They returned full of stories and new discoveries, making it one of the standout memories of our stay. Families will also appreciate the dedicated kids club and extensive recreational facilities, ensuring younger guests are just as well catered to as the adults.

As the sun began to set each evening, we found ourselves drawn to AYANA’s spectacular cliffside locations. Watching the sky change colours above the ocean from Rock Bar is one of Bali’s classic experiences and easy to understand once you see the dramatic setting for yourself. Our favourite dinner, however, was at KISIK Seafood Restaurant, where tables are set directly on the sand beside the water. With the sound of the waves, Jimbaran style seafood platters, and a beautiful beachfront atmosphere, it was exactly the kind of memorable Bali evening that stays with you long after the trip ends.

For families seeking a resort that combines space, convenience, natural beauty, cultural experiences, and activities for every generation, RIMBA by AYANA Bali delivers a wonderfully balanced Bali escape. It offers all the benefits of a large integrated resort while maintaining the relaxed atmosphere that makes family holidays feel effortless.

I am a fully qualified independent travel agent specializing in Luxury Family Travel.  I’m here to plan your dream family holiday, create a personal itinerary to suit your family’s needs, and give you all the first hand knowledge I have from travelling full time as a family.  Contact me at christing.chang@fora.travel assist in booking your next trip.

Rising high within Bangkok’s iconic King Power Mahanakhon, The Standard Bangkok Mahanakhon brings together bold design, playful luxury, and the vibrant energy that defines modern Bangkok. The hotel feels unmistakably The Standard from the moment you arrive, with its colourful interiors, striking contemporary art, retro inspired details, and lively social atmosphere woven throughout every space. Despite its energetic personality, the property still manages to feel polished, comfortable, and surprisingly relaxing in the middle of the city.

We stayed in a spacious Suite Spot room, which worked perfectly for unwinding after busy days exploring Bangkok. The suite featured a separate living area, floor to ceiling windows overlooking the city skyline, and a beautifully designed bathroom with sleek modern finishes. Throughout the room, The Standard’s signature aesthetic was everywhere, blending bold colours, curved furnishings, playful details, and glamorous touches without ever feeling overdesigned.

One of the highlights of the stay was simply experiencing the hotel itself. Every corner feels thoughtfully curated, from the dramatic lobby spaces to the stylish pool deck surrounded by greenery and colourful loungers. The atmosphere constantly shifts throughout the day, feeling calm and refined in the mornings before transforming into one of the city’s liveliest social hubs by evening.

The property’s dining and nightlife venues add to the hotel’s magnetic energy, particularly the rooftop spaces that overlook Bangkok’s glittering skyline from high above the city. Even beyond the restaurants and bars, the hotel feels deeply connected to Bangkok’s creative scene, attracting a stylish mix of locals and international travellers.

We also loved the impressive fitness centre, which is one of the best equipped hotel gyms we have experienced in the city. Combined with the central location beside the BTS, the hotel makes an excellent base for both exploring Bangkok and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere within the property itself.

Bold, creative, and effortlessly stylish, The Standard Bangkok Mahanakhon feels less like a traditional luxury hotel and more like a design driven lifestyle destination at the centre of the city’s energy.

I am a fully qualified independent travel agent specializing in Luxury Family Travel.  I’m here to plan your dream family holiday, create a personal itinerary to suit your family’s needs, and give you all the first hand knowledge I have from travelling full time as a family.  Contact me at christing.chang@fora.travel assist in booking your next trip.

Rising above the vibrant streets of Bangkok, Centara Grand & Bangkok Convention Centre at CentralWorld offers an energetic luxury city escape in one of the capital’s most convenient locations. Connected directly to CentralWorld shopping mall, the hotel places guests right in the centre of Bangkok’s dining, entertainment, and shopping district while still feeling calm and elevated above the city below.

The atmosphere throughout the hotel feels polished yet relaxed, with spacious rooms, expansive skyline views, and excellent facilities that make it easy to unwind after busy days exploring Bangkok. Guests can enjoy a large outdoor swimming pool, a well-equipped fitness centre, and a wide variety of dining venues without ever needing to leave the property.

One of the highlights of our stay was spending evenings at Red Sky Restaurant and the adjoining rooftop bar. The panoramic city views are spectacular, especially after sunset when Bangkok begins to sparkle below. With live music, creative cocktails, and an elegant rooftop setting, it easily became one of our favourite spots in the city for a relaxed evening atmosphere.

We also loved dining at UNO MAS, the hotel’s lively Spanish restaurant. The vibrant atmosphere, live Spanish music, and entirely Spanish wine list created a fun and immersive dining experience. The traditional Segovia-style suckling pig carved tableside added a memorable theatrical touch to the evening.

For travellers wanting a luxury hotel with excellent dining, rooftop experiences, and unbeatable access to Bangkok’s best shopping and entertainment, Centara Grand Bangkok delivers a lively and memorable stay right in the heart of the city.

I am a fully qualified independent travel agent specializing in Luxury Family Travel.  I’m here to plan your dream family holiday, create a personal itinerary to suit your family’s needs, and give you all the first hand knowledge I have from travelling full time as a family.  Contact me at christing.chang@fora.travel assist in booking your next trip.

Perched high above the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Thailand, Six Senses Samui feels worlds away from the busier corners of the island. Hidden amongst lush tropical greenery on a private headland, the resort embraces a slower, more intentional style of luxury where wellness, sustainability, and nature are woven seamlessly into every part of the experience. From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere encouraged us to disconnect from routine and fully settle into island life.

Our family stayed in the Ocean Front Pool Villa Suite, a beautifully designed space that balanced privacy with comfort for travelling with children. The villa featured a spacious master bedroom alongside a separate twin bed area that could easily be closed off with a large sliding partition, giving everyone their own space while still feeling connected. The expansive outdoor terrace quickly became the heart of our stay, with a private infinity pool overlooking endless ocean views and some of the most spectacular sunsets we have seen in Koh Samui.

What stood out most throughout our stay was how naturally the resort blends luxury with environmental consciousness. The rustic architecture, wooden pathways, and open-air design create a genuine connection to the surrounding landscape rather than separating guests from it. One of our children’s favourite experiences was visiting the Farm on the Hill, where they collected freshly laid eggs in the morning and learned more about the resort’s sustainability initiatives and resident animals. It added such a meaningful and personal touch to the stay.

Days at Six Senses moved at an easy rhythm between long swims in the resort’s ocean-view pools, relaxing spa treatments, beach activities, and workouts overlooking the sea at the fitness centre. Whether enjoying quiet moments in our villa or exploring the grounds together as a family, the resort managed to feel both deeply restorative and wonderfully welcoming for children at the same time.

Dining was another highlight of our stay, with several beautiful restaurants offering very different atmospheres throughout the resort. Breakfast each morning felt both indulgent and nourishing, with an extensive spread alongside an excellent cooked to order menu. We especially loved the fresh juices, quality coffee, healthy options, and live noodle station, which became a family favourite.

For relaxed daytime dining, Drift offered the perfect beachside setting for long lunches overlooking the water, while evenings rotated between the elegant Dining on the Hill and the spectacular clifftop setting of Dining on the Rocks. Across every restaurant, the menus felt fresh, vibrant, and thoughtfully curated, with plenty of vegetarian dishes alongside lighter wellness-focused options that still felt full of flavour and indulgence. The variety of dining experiences added so much to the overall stay and made it easy to enjoy something different each day without ever needing to leave the resort.

More than simply a luxury resort, Six Senses Samui offers a style of travel that feels thoughtful, immersive, and genuinely rejuvenating.

I am a fully qualified independent travel agent specializing in Luxury Family Travel.  I’m here to plan your dream family holiday, create a personal itinerary to suit your family’s needs, and give you all the first hand knowledge I have from travelling full time as a family.  Contact me at christing.chang@fora.travel assist in booking your next trip.

Our family recently had the privilege of staying at the beautiful Siritarar Residence, a spectacular luxury beachfront villa set along the peaceful shores of Lipa Noi in Koh Samui. From the moment we arrived, the property felt incredibly special, combining the privacy of an exclusive residence with the atmosphere and attention to detail of a five star boutique hotel. Surrounded by sweeping sea views and unforgettable sunsets, it was the kind of place that immediately encourages you to slow down and fully relax.

The villa features six luxurious bedrooms alongside expansive indoor and outdoor living spaces designed perfectly for families and groups travelling together. We spent our days kayaking and paddle boarding across the calm turquoise waters directly in front of the residence, relaxing beside the refreshing freshwater swimming pool, and making use of the fully equipped gym and games facilities. There was always something to enjoy, whether our family wanted active days outdoors or simply quiet afternoons soaking in the peaceful beachfront setting.

One of the highlights of our stay was the exceptional personalised service throughout. Having a private chef preparing home cooked meals and authentic Thai specialities each day elevated the entire experience and made villa living feel effortlessly luxurious.

What impressed us most, however, was the thoughtful design woven throughout the residence. Every space feels elegant yet welcoming, with beautiful textures, natural materials, and sophisticated finishes creating a warm and luxurious atmosphere. Sustainability is also deeply considered throughout the property, with recycled wood and eco conscious materials incorporated seamlessly into the design. The innovative freshwater pool helps minimise chemical use, while architectural features naturally reduce energy consumption without compromising comfort.

Siritarar Residence is also ideal for celebrations and special events, with a stunning oceanfront venue space accommodating up to 120 guests. Accessibility has also been thoughtfully considered, ensuring the property feels welcoming for a wide range of travellers.

Managed by Elite Havens, Siritarar Residence delivers the polished service and seamless hospitality the brand is known for across Asia’s most exclusive private villas. From personalised dining experiences to attentive villa staff and beautifully maintained facilities, every detail felt professionally curated while still maintaining the warmth and comfort of a private family home.

Tucked away on the serene western shores of Koh Samui, Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Koh Samui offers a completely different side of the island compared to the busier east coast. Located directly on Lipa Noi Beach, the resort combines relaxed tropical luxury with the signature upbeat atmosphere Nikki Beach is known for, creating a stay that feels both peaceful and effortlessly stylish.

We stayed in a Pool Access Suite with a connecting room for our children, which worked perfectly for our family. The accommodation felt spacious, modern, and very comfortable for a longer stay, with the added convenience of stepping directly into the pool from our terrace each morning. The resort itself has a boutique feel despite offering excellent facilities, and we loved how easy it was to move between our room, the beachfront, and the main social areas throughout the day.

One of the highlights of the property is the resort’s beautiful elongated swimming pool running through the centre of the grounds toward the beach. Combined with the calm ocean views and swaying palms, the setting feels incredibly relaxing, particularly in the late afternoon when the famous Koh Samui sunsets begin to light up the sky. Sunset quickly became our favourite time of day here.

The resort’s beach club and restaurant were also major highlights throughout our stay. We found ourselves returning daily for relaxed lunches, sunset cocktails, and dinners overlooking the ocean. The atmosphere manages to feel lively without being overwhelming, with music, beachfront dining, and occasional fire shows adding to the experience.

We also appreciated the fully equipped gym, allowing us to maintain our routines while travelling. Above all, the service throughout the resort was exceptional. Every member of the team was warm, attentive, and genuinely welcoming, making the entire stay feel seamless from start to finish.