7.Bali Chronicles: A Sip of Luwak Coffee and a Swing Over Tegallalang Rice Fields
Date: 05-01-2020
After a rejuvenating morning rest, the day unfolded with the promise of unique experiences, blending the flavors of Luwak coffee and the breathtaking vistas of Tegallalang rice fields.
Luwak Coffee Farm: Where Beans Take a Unique Journey
Our journey began with a detour to a Luwak coffee farm, a place where coffee aficionados discover the curious tale of the Civet cat’s role in crafting one of the world’s most expensive coffees. This quirky coffee-making process involves the Civet cat consuming coffee berries, digesting them, and eventually excreting the beans. The beans, altered by the cat’s digestive enzymes, are then collected and processed into Luwak coffee.
The farm’s host, amidst the giant statue of a Civet cat that adorned the street, introduced me to the art of coffee tasting. The array of flavors included Herbal Tea, Mangosteen Peel, Ginger Tea, Rosella Tea, and the star of the show – Luwak coffee. While the bitter taste of Luwak coffee didn’t quite suit my palate, the overall experience, complemented by the aroma of the coffee plantation, was truly enriching.
My curiosity led me to witness traditional coffee bean grinding, the old-fashioned way, and a delightful swing with the coffee farm as a scenic backdrop.
Tegallalang Rice Field: Swinging Amidst Bali's Green Tapestry
The journey continued towards the famed Tegallalang rice terrace in Ubud, an iconic location known for its stunning landscapes and the allure of the Bali swing.
As I arrived, the commercial aspect of the terrace became apparent, dominated by the towering swings that have graced many Instagram feeds. The host, seamlessly connecting me with different counterparts along the way, guided me to the ticket counter.
Opting for the single swing, I joined the queue, observing the mix of anticipation and joy on the faces of fellow tourists. Dress hire for Instagram-worthy captures added a playful touch, with options in blue, green, and yellow. Choosing peacock blue, I awaited my turn, witnessing the Balinese attendants expertly assisting each visitor onto the swing.
As the swing soared over the rice terraces, the thrill was palpable. The local photographers encouraged exuberant screams and backward head bends for that perfect shot. Flying above the verdant fields, every push felt like a dance with the wind, making the entire experience not just an adrenaline rush but a visual feast.
Post-swing, I explored a bird’s nest Instagram spot amidst the rice fields, capturing moments that blended nature’s beauty and playful human creativity. The sudden downpour marked the end of this adventure, prompting a return to reality.
Grand Sehati & Spa, Ubud: A Sanctuary Amidst Monkey Forest
The day culminated in the embrace of Grand Sehati & Spa in Ubud, a haven nestled near the famous Monkey Forest. The hotel, exuding warmth, welcomed me with a refreshing fruit juice, setting the tone for a comfortable stay.
The spacious room, adorned with advanced bathroom facilities and a wide bathtub, offered a retreat within the vibrant Ubud. The hotel’s spa complex, a sanctuary for relaxation, beckoned, and a facial and body massage session proved to be heavenly.
Exploring Ubud, I encountered numerous restaurants, including Indian cuisines, and indulged in the vibrant local atmosphere. Souvenir shops lined the streets, but caution with monkeys, notorious for pilfering valuables, was the unwritten rule.
As the night descended, Grand Sehati & Spa became not just a hotel but a home away from home, promising comfort and tranquility amidst the cultural tapestry of Ubud.
For Bookings: Grand Sehati & Spa, Ubud
Adventure Continues: Bali Bliss: Waterfall Wonders and Monkey Forest