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There are so many villas in Bali now, making the choice almost impossible. Can you trust the reviews and will the villa meet all your needs? If you value luxury and attention to detail, please choose Villa Samuan. Located a short walk from all of Seminyak’s trendy restaurants and bars, you are immersed into you own private sanctuary, complete with a giant refreshing pool and full service staff. As soon as you enter this villa, you are immediately blown away. We loved the stylish design, luxurious amenities, beautiful swimming pool, and decadent bedrooms. There is plenty of space for families or honeymooners as the villa can be rented as a two or five bedroom space. One of the main highlights of our stay were the accommodating and discreet staff who gave you all the privacy you required but were available at the push of a button. Indulge in their mouthwatering daily breakfasts poolside, treat your guests to an in villa bbq prepared by a personal chef, or host a dinner party or family dinner at the grand dining room. The living spaces boast high ceilings, meticulously selected furniture and decor, and floor to ceiling sliding glass doors which lead right out into the stunning plunge pool. Even the bathrooms are fit for a king with massive wardrobes, deep bathtubs, and refreshing rainfall showers. We didn’t miss the convenience of a five star resort as everything was provided to us at all hours and our children enjoyed every minute. An impressive slice of luxury at the heart of Seminyak.


December 4, 2017 0 comment
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On our first few visits to Bali we never made it to Sanur but heard about the pretty beaches and great food, so were very excited to finally explore the area with The Pavilions Bali. The stunning cluster of villas is set in lush gardens and greenery, boasting nostalgic floral clusters at every corner. Our two bed pool villa was a cozy and rustic home away from home with two large bedrooms, a cute dining area, and useful kitchenette which can be so convenient when you are travelling with kids. Their free shuttle takes you the short five minute drive to Sanur Beach where you can enjoy lunch with your feet in the sand or indulge in an affordable massage. Our refreshing plunge pool was relaxing after a long day and for a romantic evening we dined at the serene and ambient, Jahe. The friendly staff go out of their way to make you feel at home and we loved the personalised touches throughout our stay. An ideal sanctuary in Bali for those who want to explore Sanur.


November 28, 2017 0 comment
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Uluwatu and Pecatu are one of our favourite areas to stay while in Bali. The laid back surf beaches, organic cafes, captivating sunsets, and cliff edge views have completely captured my heart, which is why when we consulted with The Luxe Nomad we asked them to find us the perfect view worthy villa in the area. Not only does Villa Bayu boast spectacular views, location, and a gigantic swimming pool, but we were pleasantly surprised that it is the most child friendly villa we’ve encountered yet. As we descended the stairs to claim our rooms the children ran straight to the open living space and delved into the giant toy selection. The lounge is great for toddlers as it can be completely closed and air conditioned for those rainy days or just when you want to keep them contained. There were two ensuite bedrooms offering plenty of space and privacy, and the master bedroom houses a small connecting children’s room complete with bunk beds, story books, and a baby cot. Our kids loved that the door to their room opened onto a small garden where they could play and explore. We spent most of our days soaking in the generous lap pool and took full advantage of the comfortable poolside loungers. Every meal was prepared by our private in villa chef who catered to our preferences and all the children’s dietary requirements. Dinner was served each evening at sunset, just as the sky was painted insane shades of pink and orange. We felt so relaxed and settled in the beautiful outdoor dining space, perched above the villa for optimal views and breeze. Everyone slept deeply in their luxurious rooms and when the kids had their fill of swimming, there was even a grassy sports area for them to enjoy. Villa Bayu is ideal for those travelling as a family and value copious space, great service, and luxurious comforts.


November 24, 2017 0 comment
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Travelling with two toddlers isn’t always sunshine and rainbows, as we may have you believing from the pretty Instagram feed. There’s a lot involved. Keeping them occupied, tons of activities, child friendly meals, large family size rooms, and great facilities. Sometimes a beach bungalow just doesn’t work, which is why I’m sure many parents are relieved resorts like Movenpick Bali exist. This resort is a kid’s heaven from the moment you walk in. Dedicated children check in counters, a two floor kids club which could entertain any little one from infancy to tween age, dining areas dedicated to fun and games, and very family friendly food options. The resort houses several pools including a lap pool, relaxing lagoon pool, and two children’s pools complete with slides, sprinklers, and so much more. Stay in the junior suite and be amazed by the amount of luxurious space you will have for the whole family including balconies that overlook the beautiful resort. Located only a few minutes from the beach, you don’t have to miss out on the sandy action and all that the Jimbaran area has to offer. I highly reccommrd the seafood bbq for family dinners where you will be spoilt with fresh local seafood, traditional performances, and super friendly staff. Don’t worry, they didn’t leave the parents out. Indulge in spa treatments at their incredible spa and make sure to grab cocktails at their rooftop bar, Above Eleven while the professional kids club staff cater to all your babysitting needs. Our kids could not have enjoyed our stay more and of course when they are happy we are happy. The ultimate, five star family resort for those with small children travelling to Bali.


November 21, 2017 0 comment
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Our recent trip to New York took us to Brooklyn for the first time, and I was completely charmed by all the cute neighborhoods and enticing shop and restaurant lined streets. Franklin Guesthouse located in Greenpoint was one of our favorite spots. The inviting boutique hotel houses studios fully equipped with kitchens, lounges, outdoor areas, and cozy bedrooms creating the ideal home away from home. Surrounded by fragrant coffee shops, intimate bars and restaurants, and only a few minutes walk to the East River Ferry, it’s such a perfect jumping off point for exploring the area and beyond. I loved the friendly staff, convenient 24 hour gym, laundry machines and free car service for the local area. An ideal choice if you want to live like a local during your holiday.

November 21, 2017 0 comment
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As a family of four with a nanny in tow, it’s always a priority to find space and comfort during our holidays. We reached out to Bali Luxury Villas to match us with an ideal home away from home in and they couldn’t have made a better choice. Located just outside of Sanur and only a short distance from Ubud, Casabama is a perfect location for all your Bali adventures. The five bedroom villa housed all we needed and more. As soon as we stepped into the entrance, we were instantly stunned by the grand open air lounge, large sun soaked swimming pool, and the stylish and spacious living spaces. We indulged in decadent family dinners prepared by the talented in villa chef, relaxed with wine in the light and airy lounge, entertained the children all day in the generously sized pool, and even treated ourselves to a massage in the private spa room. Service was faultless throughout our stay and we had plenty of privacy in all the ensuite bedrooms to fully unwind. I would highly recommend Casabama to those who value design quality, space, and five star service.


November 21, 2017 0 comment
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Flying is my time to switch off, relax, and anticipate the next adventure. I crave long quiet flights where I delve into addictive books, catch up on questionable romantic comedies, and drink wine while flying in the air. United Polaris offers this and so much more in their Business Class, making long haul flights not only enjoyable, but a truly luxurious experience. During our direct flight from Hong Kong to San Francisco, Dan and I were lucky enough to experience Polaris for the first time. As soon as we boarded the plane their friendly staff greeted us and we were shown to our spacious side by side seats. Every seat has isle-access and features 180-degree flat-bed recline and up to 6’6” of suite-like bed space. United have partnered with Saks Fifth Avenue to create insanely comfortable bedding including plush duvets, lightweight day-blankets, gel-cooled pillows, and even custom slippers and pjs. After a smooth takeoff, we were excited for our dinner date in the sky. Their gourmet meals, with menus created by talented chefs from The Trotter Project, were delicious, light and expertly matched with a decadent wine pairing. I was happy I saved room for the DIY ice cream sundae trolley, where I generously chose toppings like a greedy child. We never felt rushed and the staff’s efforts to meet our requests were always above and beyond. After the satisfying meal, lights were slowly dimmed, and I snuggled into my fully reclinable seat. I took advantage of the quality Cowshed toiletries, their “Do Not Disturb” signs and mood lighting to ensure I got plenty of rest before our arrival. I managed to sleep almost the entire flight, and woke to a delicious breakfast before landing. I can’t think of a better way to travel to the U.S., making long haul flights a breeze with their comfort, luxury, and great service.

October 17, 2017 0 comment
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Back from another few weeks in Taipei and I’m pretty sure we are getting more addicted with each visit. I wouldn’t recommend August as the optimum time to visit with soaring temperatures and humidity, but we discovered plenty of indoor activities and the city/country still sits at the top of our list of child friendly destinations.

If you want affordability, you can’t beat Taipei. Noodle shops, onion pancakes, dumplings galore, and an abundance of local, organic produce. What more could you ask for? Everything is just a fraction of the cost of HK while managing to be far fresher and healthier. Cafes are always a popular option with kids. You can get your caffeine fix, Dads can usually pick up a craft beer, and there’s fresh juice and easy sandwiches for the little ones. Find an Instagram worthy window front and set up for a relaxing afternoon.

If you are craving a stroll, check out a local market and pick up tropical fruit and homegrown veggies. We love Dongmen Market and also always visit Addiction Aquatic Development for fresh seafood and Japanese fare. The Taipei Jianguo Holiday Flower Market is also a weekly spot where we pick up pretty bouquets to brighten our stay, and make sure to explore one of the city’s many night markets for an interesting sight and foodie heaven. Shinlin Night Market is located near many child friendly restaurants and playrooms so make a day of it and check out one of Taipei’s most popular neighbourhoods.

Indoor playrooms are available in abundance, from free government funded options in each area to kiddie heavens complete with restaurants. Mr. Tree Underground Station and Mr. Treehouse are always popular with my kids. There’s a restaurant where you can order basic meals and the options of play areas are endless. If the thought of spending several hours chasing your child around a ball pit doesn’t sound fun, (my husband hates it), try the National Taiwan Museum for their educational dinosaur display or head to Daan Park and let loose at the playground before feeding squirrels along the many beautiful walking paths.

For accommodation, we highly recommend the spacious suites at Regent Taipei. Take the family out to a mouthwatering meal at Robin’s Grill and make use of their refreshing rooftop pool. Once the kids are settled, ask for babysitting service from the concierge and enjoy a quiet evening of cocktails in their luxurious Tai Pan Lounge. There’s plenty of shopping right at your doorstep and it’s the ideal jumping off point to explore the city.

For a more affordable option, Ximending is a lively and fun area. Stay at Click Hotel for a wallet friendly boutique hotel, which sits right at the centre of all the action. Their rooms are spacious, staff are friendly, and they even provide children’s toys, tents, strollers and more to make your stay as easy as possible.

These were just a few places we visited this time but we’ll keep sharing our Taiwan tips with each visit.

Hope you guys enjoyed reading and make sure to check out my YouTube channel for video diaries of our stay.

Xx

August 31, 2017 0 comment
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Mandapa, A Ritz Carlton Reserve still stands strongly as one of my absolute favourite resorts. Located in artistic and bohemian Ubud, Mandapa brings luxury while keeping a traditional and natural charm. From the moment you gaze down at the expanse of land from their lobby perched at the top, the excitement will start to bubble. 60 exclusive Villas are immersed with lush greenery and boast calming views of the River Ayung. The design holds decadence and quality while mindfully keeping the surrounding nature and culture untouched. Bali's beauty is on show at this five star resort, and placed alongside quality and discreet yet impeccable service. Enjoy a champagne infused, mouthwatering afternoon tea poolside, or a romantic and dreamy picnic by the river. Swim in your private pool, indulge in massages, or take a walk through the alluring grounds. There's plenty for kids to do including an interactive kids club where they can view live farm animals and engage in planned activities. Make sure to dine at the delicious restaurants all featuring the best produce and unique design. Your butler is at your service 24 hours a day and I was throughly impressed with how quickly they come to anticipate your needs. Although you feel secluded, calm, and a million miles away during your stay, the heart of Ubud is actually only a few minutes drive from the resort. This sanctuary is the perfect jumping off point for exploring local markets and sights, if you can manage to pull yourself away. A truly dreamy destination for a romantic retreat or memorable family trip. Somewhere we will always want to return.

July 23, 2017 0 comment
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The Mandarin Oriental Bangkok fuses, grandeur, beauty, and elegance along a beautiful and serene river setting, creating a sanctuary at the heart of the city. After staying beside bustling streets and the towering skyscrapers of Bangkok, we were eager to settle in at “The Grand Dame.”  As soon as you enter the lobby every sense is instantly swept away by the classic ambiance and polished service.  Our connecting guestrooms were ideal for a family of four and offered river views, sumptuous beds, and luxe amenities.  Check out their renowned afternoon tea located in the Authors’s Lounge, one of the most photographed heritage buildings in Bangkok.  Head upstairs for a decadent date night at Le Normandie, or enjoy riverside views by candlelight.  Jump into their private and tranquil pool or relax at the five star spa.  Everything within the city is only a quick boat ride or taxi away and your luxurious room is the ideal spot to unwind after a long day.  We absolutely loved staying in such a historical and beautiful location and one of the most well serviced hotels we’ve ever visited.  I highly recommend The Mandarin Oriental if you value attention to detail, quality, and luxury at its finest. If you’re single and ‘ready to mingle’, Bangkok is a great place. Have you ever heard of the Absolute Angels? Mostly likely not… I’ll leave it for you to find out!

July 22, 2017 0 comment
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