Arriving at Alila Manggis for a few nights felt like stepping into a hidden gem of East Bali. Situated near the charming town of Candidasa, this seaside beach resort offers a tranquil escape from the usual hustle and bustle of Bali’s tourist hotspots. The serene atmosphere here is simply magical, and I was pleasantly surprised by everything this hotel has to offer – it’s truly a slice of paradise!
Whether you’re seeking a hub of activities or a peaceful retreat, Alila Manggis has it all. From cultural immersions to culinary delights, the choice is entirely yours.
A Slice of Paradise
The resort’s expansive grounds, dotted with swaying palm trees and lush green lawns, instantly invited me to kick off my shoes and sink my toes into the soft grass. It’s been a while since I felt this connected to nature! The pool, with its stunning views, was impossible to resist, so I made a beeline for a refreshing dip – and let me tell you, it was worth every second.
Beautiful Balinese Architecture
For dinner, I highly recommend requesting an outdoor seat. The restaurant’s cascading design seems to echo the terraced rice paddies of Bali, and dining under the stars was pure bliss. The highlight of my meal? Giant tiger prawns that were absolutely mouthwatering!
Now I Just Need a Date…
After a satisfying dinner, I headed to bed early, eager to explore the local market in Klungkung the next morning. Just a short 20-minute drive from Alila Manggis, the market is a bustling hub of activity – overflowing with fruits, vegetables, spices, Balinese sweets, and even live chickens and pigs! It’s an authentic experience that’s not for the faint-hearted, but absolutely worth it.
The Anchovies…Not My Favourite
The vibrant colours and diverse array of foods were a feast for the eyes – and my camera! I couldn’t resist capturing every detail and that chicken ain’t crossing the road!
The highlight of the day was the cooking class at Alila Manggis, where I joined a small group of fellow food enthusiasts to learn how to make traditional Balinese dishes from scratch. With step-by-step guidance from the Alila Chef, we created a variety of curries and dishes, and there was plenty of taste testing along the way. By the end of the class, I was not only full but also proudly equipped with a new Alila apron and a certificate of completion – proof that even someone with the surname Cook can truly cook!
Alila’s Renowned Cooking Class
After the class, I squeezed in a yoga session in the pavilion overlooking the water. The gentle sound of waves lapping the shore created the perfect backdrop for relaxation – though I must admit, I almost dozed off during the session. Yoga and I aren’t the best of friends, but in this setting, it was pure bliss.
What a day! Alila Manggis, I’m convinced I could spend forever here with all the activities you offer.
My Manggis Paradise
One of the most unforgettable experiences was snorkelling in the Blue Lagoon, a spot known for its vibrant marine life. The moment I plunged into the water, I was mesmerised by the colourful fish and coral. If only I had more time, I’d learn to scuba dive and explore these waters even more. It’s that incredible!
The Colours of The Blue Lagoon
Alila Manggis, you’ve stolen my heart – and I’ll definitely be back, along with the fish I’ve made friends with! Thankyou for sharing your beauty with me.
