BALI
By SariKnown as the island of the Gods, Bali is an island that has become a thriving hotspot for travellers of all ages, all around the world. It’s a place where one can isolate themselves from concrete jungles, a carefree environment that puts the mind, body and soul at ease... You’d want to do nothing more than sun tan and hum along with the ocean breeze. In this week’s #KRAVESCAPE, we’ll take you through food blogger J Sari Siregar ‘s top spots of her all-time favorite sanctuary.
Sari's recent adventure to Bali started off at Ubud. As she seeks the tranquility Balinese nature can offer, rice paddies as far as the eyes can see outlined the picturesque scenery by the Ayung River. The beautiful place reserves Balinese culture and history, where you’ll be able to see stonecarvings down the river you float on. A top choice for white-water rafting, Ayung River offers not just serenity – but also adrenaline-rushing activities.
Ayung River Bali 
As Sari dines with the soothing sound of the stream at Kubu in search for privacy, this quaint space at Mandapa Rserve was absolutely spot on. Sitting at their very own restaurant, Sawah Terraces provides a nice ambiance as one enjoys the mouthwatering Balinese cuisine made up of healthy delicacies and farm-to-table dishes right from the chef’s organic garden. Sari tried the Acquerello Carnarolli rice, Parmigiano Reggiano and wagyu beef cheek served with portobello mushrooms – ugh, it was a risotto to die for.
Locavore - Venue With so many wonderful ingredients at one’s doorstep, why go further afield? Sari ordered “Into the Sawah”; a dish that features ingredients inspired by Ubud’s signature rice paddies, including: Jati Luwuh rice, snails, garlic, duck eggs, catfish floss, dried fern tips and wild flowers. Truly a feast of the senses, the chef’s creations makes the meal worth every Rupiah.
Another restaurant with a farm-to-table philosophy is Restaurant Locavore, guaranteed to serve you a knock-your-socks-off kind of meal.
Invigorating Cocktails 
Tegalalang Rice Terraces Last but not least, Sari ended her list of top picks at Tegalalang Rice Terraces in Ubud. Involving the traditional Balinese cooperative irrigation system that was passed down by a revered holy man named Rsi Markandeya, the terraces have become a famous tourist attraction! The cool air at 600m above sea level is the best level to stand on as one enjoys the stunning panoramic views. Be sure to not only settle for scenery, but venture deep into the jungle and appreciate this ancient form of engineering.
