I must admit I wasn’t eager to return to Bali. Memories of traffic-clogged streets, garbage-strewn beaches and masses of tourists made me wary. But just a few hours after arriving, I remembered all the wonderful things about this island: the dramatic landscapes, the beautiful architecture, the tasty Balinese cuisine and, not least, the genuinely friendly people.

Each time I visit Bali, I’m reminded that it’s home to some of the finest properties in Asia. On this trip, I visited two contrasting retreats in the jungle near Ubud before a stay at a clifftop resort overlooking the ocean. Now that I’m back home, any recollections of traffic and pollution have been eclipsed by memories of a trek through rice paddies, a healing ceremony in an ancient temple and sunsets over the Indian Ocean. I can say without hesitation that I’m looking forward to my next Balinese adventure.

Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape

Due to a delayed flight and gridlock, we arrived at Buahan, a remote 16-villa property outside of Ubud, close to midnight. The staff showed us to our room, a Rainforest Pool Bale, in the dark, and we fell straight into bed.