OK, OK I know…. I’ve been quiet. It “is” exhausting checking in and out of glamorous resorts throughout Indonesia, and without stable and reliable WiFi connection unfortunately you haven’t heard a peep, unless you follow me on Twitter and Instagram (now aren’t they addictive?!).
I am just back from one of my fondest destinations…Bali, I was invited as a guest of Aman Resorts to attend Amankila’s 20th Anniversary celebration in Manggis. This was a great thrill for me as I have been staying at Amankila for years and have always held it up there as my very favourite beachside retreat worldwide (read my previous blog “Resort to Glamour” here).
This was more than just a pool party beside one of the world’s most iconic swimming pools… it was a night to celebrate the much loved and the architectural beauty that is the essence of Amankila. The rain held off and the stunning General Manager (and dear friend) Tracy Atherton was on hand to greet every guest personally as they arrived to what would be one fabulous party at one legendary hotel! The scene was set at the gorgeous Amankila Bar and adjacent Restaurant…here the guests mingled against the backdrop of amazing views over the lantern-lit iconic Amankila pool.
At sunset we watched the fabulous Kecak dancers perform… these guys were the “real deal” all the way from Ubud. Aman is famous for these authentic experiences, which they do so well, they will help you experience the REAL Bali.
While the Gamelan orchestra played poolside below us, we drank fabulous cocktails and dined under the stars as the restaurant was transformed for an Indonesian feast… my favourites – the Sate Lilit, Martabak (a fried, stuffed egg pancake) and Perkedel (corn fritters). Oh, and I am now officially addicted to Sambal – the spicy, chili based sauce.
Mr Adrian Zecha, the man behind the Aman Resort Collection, and just quietly… “THE” luxury hotel legend, along with the esteemed architect responsible for the incredible architecture of Amankila, Mr Ed Tuttle were both in attendance. Also celebrating were Ferdinand Wortelboer- Aman Resorts Managing Director, Trina Dingler Ebert- Aman Resorts Director and Sean Flakelar- Regional General Manager of the five Indonesian Aman properties. Along with the fabulous Chrissie Lincoln – Regional Sales Manager and Tracy Atherton the General Manager, they are all responsible for creating this wonderful and unforgettable luxury beach retreat.
As the night drew to a close in the bar I chatted and laughed with those international jetsetters that had flown in for the event and who were such great company (you know who you are!) One special mention goes to the fabulous Gill Marais “My Maude”, with whom I shared the car ride from Ubud. We were some of the last to leave… of course! I remember calling my driver some time after 1am to collect me and we were whisked back to Ubud and the luxury of Amandari. Without a car on the road we made the trip in a flash!
I will tell you more about the equally fabulous Amandari in Ubud next ….
Book your 2013 stay at Amankila with me to receive these exclusive Where’s Brent Been? amenities:
- Upgrade on arrival (subject to availability)
- Continental breakfast for two guests
- A complimentary lunch or dinner for up to two people per room excluding alcohol taxes and gratuities.
Where's Brent Been? 
To ‘experience’ an Aman resort is my dream hotel destination. One day, one day……sigh!