After a harrowing journey through windy roads up a mountain and down the other side we finally arrived in Pemuteran in northern Bali. This is what we came for! Two of our best friends were getting married!
We could already feel the energy in the hotel. We’d been alone with just our little family for the last 10 days so it was really fun to see the familiar faces of other wedding guests arriving. Let the party begin!
On the part bus!
Pondok Sari was such a cool hotel – probably the most unique place I’ve ever stayed. All the architecture was in the traditional Balinese style, lots of wood structures but everything felt uniquely handmade from the bed frames to the faucets to tables and chairs. Nothing in this place was generic.
the cool fish faucet
Our dreamy bedroom
The outdoor loo took a little getting used to though. The shower, bathtub, sink and toilet were all al fresco. It was private in that no one could see you but your neighbor sure could hear you! Of course, now back in Venice I’m trying to figure out a way to build an outside commode.
Pippa looking glum in the outdoor tub.
The next eight days were just pure fun. The hotel pool was the perfect temperature and had a Buddha statue in the middle that the kids called “Buddha Island.” They would swim for hours on end.
The pool with Buddha Island.
The ocean was so delicious and buoyant I felt like I could float forever. This is the place Shepard learned to swim! Huge underwater statues of Ganesh and Buddha made BioRock coral reefs to dive down and explore.[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Ipz0YMO-aI[/embedyt]
My boy swimming by himself in the sea!
There were volleyball tournaments, a boat trip to snorkel for the day, daily early morning yoga classes, glass bottom kayaks but mostly R&R. I went to the spa for one treatment or another every single day. Man, I miss Pemuteran.
Front and center, ready to get Zen.
Ursula meditating.
Me snorkeling near Menjangan Island.
Our week came to a climax with Ursula and Drew’s wedding. It was nothing short of perfection. Every detail was thought out and reflected them as a couple – the flowers, the colors, the place settings. Just beautiful and magical.
The beautiful bride and groom. Perfection.
My stab at a traditional Balinese wedding outfit.
Alan toasting the happy couple.
The cutest flower girls and boy ever.
The exquisite table.
Next Stop, the Gili Islands!
* I’m selling these beautiful sarongs from Bali and donating ALL of the money to two great charities. Take a look here!
Leo modeling the green sarong;)