Subak – The cultural Landscape of Bali

InterContinental Bali Resort’s unique brand concept ‘In the Know’ invites guests to visit the cultural landscape of Bali and delve into the extraordinary agrarian organisation behind it. The island’s irrigated padi fields are achieved through an ancient and complex system of aquatic engineering, uniquely managed by the farmers through village cooperatives known as ‘Subak’. Irrigation is critical to Balinese wet-rice agriculture because of the long dry season that extends from April to October, while the substance of rural life is dependent on the accuracy of…Continue Reading “Subak – The cultural Landscape of Bali”

10 Most Romantic Things to Do in Bali

It’s no wonder that Bali is one of the world’s most popular spots for honeymooners. With stunning scenery, plush accommodation, pampering spas, and some of the best food and drink in the world, Bali makes a wonderful destination for a couple’s holiday, whether you’ve just tied the knot or you’re celebrating a whole lifetime together. Row a Boat For Two Across a Romantic Lake What could be more romantic than rowing a boat across a lake with your sweetheart? Tamblingan Lake with its primal forest…Continue Reading “10 Most Romantic Things to Do in Bali”

Nyepi Day

Once a year, the island of Bali completely shuts down. Every shop is closed, there isn’t a car or motorbike to be seen on the usually bustling streets, and at night the island descends into an inky blackness with no lights or fires to be seen. Even the entire airport shuts down on this day with no flights landing or taking off for 24 hours. This day, known as Nyepi, is unique to Bali and marks the first day of the New Year according to the Saka…Continue Reading “Nyepi Day”

INTERCONTINENTAL BALI RESORT PROUDLY SUSTAINS THE CHARM AND SPIRIT OF ITS ISLAND HOME

Bali is renowned worldwide for its romantic architecture and furnishings, decorative handcrafted features and gorgeous artwork. In fact, art in every form is the masterpiece of the highly-valued Balinese culture. Visitors to the island will not fail to notice intricately carved doorways, ornate stone statues and wood sculptures, splendid paintings, hand-woven textiles, highly wrought metal work, the traditional architecture of temples and houses, and beautifully crafted offerings to the Gods.  InterContinental Bali Resort was conceived to showcase this ancient culture. Here, the essence and ambience…Continue Reading “INTERCONTINENTAL BALI RESORT PROUDLY SUSTAINS THE CHARM AND SPIRIT OF ITS ISLAND HOME”

THE SIGNIFICANCE AND RITUAL BEHIND THE CREATION OF BALINESE OFFERINGS

  The Balinese Hindus believe that the spirit of the gods is present in all things, from everyday objects to nature. For this reason, it is very important for humans to foster good relationships with the spirit world, and to remember to give thanks in the hope that the good spirits will bring fortune, prosperity and health to all the family. It is also necessary to appease the bad spirits so that they will stay away. Offerings to the gods are an integral part of…Continue Reading “THE SIGNIFICANCE AND RITUAL BEHIND THE CREATION OF BALINESE OFFERINGS”

‘ODALAN’ TEMPLE CEREMONY AT INTERCONTINENTAL BALI RESORT

Wednesday 17th August 2016 was an auspicious day for InterContinental Bali Resort, marking the anniversary of the resort’s Hindu temple which fall on Indonesia’s Independence Day. The anniversary ceremony is known as the ‘Odalan,’ taking place every 210 days in accordance with the Balinese ‘saka’ calendar. The Balinese Hindus believe that this is the time when the gods descend from the heavens to be present in that particular temple. It took three days to prepare for the festival, which was organised by our Hindu employees. Our Resort temple…Continue Reading “‘ODALAN’ TEMPLE CEREMONY AT INTERCONTINENTAL BALI RESORT”

FULL MOON TEMPLE RITUALS AT INTERCONTINENTAL BALI RESORT

The full moon, or ‘Purnama’ is considered to be a very auspicious day in Bali; an ideal time for healing and guidance, for performing good deeds, and for completion. On this sacred day, the gods are honoured with offerings of food, fruit and flowers.  The Balinese Hindus believe that at every full moon the gods will descend to the earth to bestow their blessings, thereby initiating temple ceremonies and self-purification rituals performed using holy water, incense smoke, petals and rice grains. Visitors to Bali delight…Continue Reading “FULL MOON TEMPLE RITUALS AT INTERCONTINENTAL BALI RESORT”

THE SPECTACULAR WATERFALLS OF BALI

Bali has a wonderful selection of waterfalls, especially in the central-northern highlands, offering the opportunity for both gentle and challenging nature treks through jungle and mountain forests to hidden cascades where you will be rewarded with gorgeous scenery and a cooling dip. Here is an overview of just some of these secret treasures, all of which can be visited by guests of InterContinental Bali Resort as part of the ‘In the Know’ insider guide to the best of Bali. All of these falls are in…Continue Reading “THE SPECTACULAR WATERFALLS OF BALI”

BALI’S ROYAL PALACES

You may be surprised to learn that Bali has quite a large number of royal palaces (puri), a legacy of the island’s eight ancient kingdoms, which were ruled by rajahs. After Indonesia’s declaration of independence in 1945, these rajahs lost their powers and much of their vast lands to the new democratic republic. The high-caste descendants and heads of these royal families still reign but no longer have legal power and therefore do not rule. Some have opened their doors to the public so that…Continue Reading “BALI’S ROYAL PALACES”

Experience The Unique Balinese New Year in The Lap of Luxury

Take pleasure in a traditional Nyepi Day at InterContinental Bali Resort and be part of all the customary rituals that this unique holiday entails. Our expert local knowledge will ensure that your Nyepi Day is filled with enriching experiences. ARCHIPELAGO DINNER  Tuesday, 8 March 2016 Taman Gita Terrace 6:00 pm – 10:30 pm Two sittings at 6:00 pm and 08:30 pm Savour authentic Balinese cuisine and local delicacies at an extensive buffet presentation for your Nyepi Day dining  pleasure. Gold package: IDR 750++ per person…Continue Reading “Experience The Unique Balinese New Year in The Lap of Luxury”