Lars and Anya’s Family Journey Through Indonesia
"You can spend hours just admiring the sea."
For Lars and Anya, members since 2019, Christmas and New Year
brought a truly memorable family escape to Indonesia-splitting
their stay between Villa Asmara in Bali and Villa Ombak on the
island of Lembongan. While just a short journey apart, the two
villas offered distinct and complementary experiences.
"The two villas are very close to each other but offer completely different experiences."
They began their holiday at Villa Asmara, nestled in serene Balinese surroundings, before heading to the dramatic coastline of Lembongan and Villa Ombak, where nature takes centre stage.
"As a family, our favourite thing about Villa Ombak is the spectacular location. Bali has become more crowded over time, but at Villa Ombak you have a sense of how Bali would have been decades ago."
From their cliffside outdoor pavilion, they enjoyed daily breakfasts with sweeping views over a rocky bay and natural sea cave-an ever-changing seascape that quickly became a favourite part of their day.
Nature and the sea were ever-present during their stay.
"We absolutely loved snorkelling here and on this occasion we saw pods of wild dolphins while we were out on the water."
They also spotted sea turtles regularly from the villa and recalled
earlier visits where they had swum with manta rays and turtles.
With one guest in the group keen on scuba diving, Lembongan
delivered again-its underwater world living up to its
reputation.
"Lembongan is also the place to try surfing and to swim at the white, sandy beaches. A number of local beaches are within walking distance of the Villa."
Beyond the beach, they found the island's energy had shifted since their last visit-with a flourishing restaurant scene bringing new flavours and atmosphere.
"The restaurant scene has really matured. Near to the Villa, Sandy Bay Beach Club has always been good, but we tried Hai Ri Zen at Mushroom Bay and it was excellent."
"Another one we would recommend is La Bianca - run by a French family, the location beside the beach is perfect at any time of day. Coffee here is excellent, and so too is the grilled lobster."
Convenience was never an issue, with most restaurants offering pick-up and drop-off services to the villa, making evening outings effortless.
Looking back on their membership since 2019, Alok and Sylvia say the variety and quality of The Hideaways Club's homes keep their travels exciting.
"The membership has also allowed us to gift stays in beautiful properties to our family, something that has created some really special memories."
So, where to next for the family?
"We'll be spending most of July in Italy trying the Hideaways properties in Rome, Lake Maggiore and Tuscany!"
