FOLLOW
Photography – Bobby Bense + Helen Janneson Bense
Model/Creative Director – Helen Janneson Bense
Location – Samabe Suites and Villas, Hidden Hills Villas, El Kabron via Asia Collective – Bali, Indonesia
Outfit Details
Blue Bikini | Dainty Drop necklace | Rings/Cuffs
Folk Lullaby Bikini | Dainty Drop necklace | Rings/Cuffs | Hat
Summer of Love Top + Shorts | Dainty Drop necklace | Rings/Cuffs | Hat | Bag
Silk Overlay Dress (similar)
‘Ode to Bali’ Kimono | Mara Bikini | Ocean Mantra Jewelry | Hat
Embroidered Jacket | White Bikini | Necklace | Hat
Jagger Jumpsuit | Necklace | Hat
Halter Mini Dress | Jofan Boots | Carmen Hat
Hair – The Nest Hair Boutique | Blakk Extensions
Spray Tan – Perth Mobile Spray Tans
Nails – Sienna Byron Bay
Every time I go back to beautiful Bali I fall in love with the culture and sacred energy of the land more and more. The rituals and gratitude the Balinese have for life, for each other, is so humbling, and it reminds me what is most important in my life – my family, my friendships, my connection to myself, others, nature, and always being open to learning and discovering deeper levels of peace, love and joy.
On this wanderlust journey we split our time between the coast and the hills. Both quiet, picturesque locations with so much to offer in different ways. Our first stop, Samabe Suites and Villas, in Nusa Dua, was situated on the most pristine beach I’ve seen along this part of the coast. The cliff edge, with it’s panoramic views, met the whitest, softest sand, and multiple shades of turquoise ocean. The tiered infinity pool overlooking this beauty took this scene to another level. This is the place you want to wake up early and watch the sunrise. It’s spectacular, and sets you up for the most perfect day in paradise. One of the highlights of our stay here was the breakfast buffet. As avid foodies, we enjoy a big breakfast with a lot of variety + quality. This was hands down in the top five of our best breakfasts we’ve encountered to date. They even had a strawberry chocolate fondue fountain with marshmallows and strawberries. Not that I usually eat sweets for breakfast but it does give you an idea of how well this place caters for everyones whims.
Out next stop was to Hidden Hills Villas. A picture of total serenity, perched upon the hillside in Uluwatu, overlooking the Indian ocean. This is where you want to sit by your infinity pool, enjoy a cocktail or two with your lover, and watch the sunset. It’s one of the most romantic places we’ve stayed. We had complete privacy, yet super attentive hosts when required, that took care of our every need. We loved the open plan, light filled, design of the villas and attention to detail. I felt as though I’d entered my dream house with all the white wash and a perfect splash of blue. The design and layout created an ambience that made it very hard to want to leave this space…ever! And wow the food was so delicious! I highly recommend ordering in here and enjoying a few days of just relaxing and melting into this space. It’s so healing and for me personally I found Hidden Hills perfect for some much needed R & R. You won’t feel the need to leave your villa at all, and sometimes that can be just what you need.
I’m so thankful for this recent trip to Bali for opening my mind, my eyes, and my heart. For the blessings of insight. There is always so much to learn, and so many ways to enrich your life and your experience. To find deeper levels of intimacy within your relationship to yourself and others (learn more here). Finding easier ways to cope with those rough patches, and when you feel a little broken, being able to embrace your vulnerability and reach out for a helping hand…especially your own. I discovered a greater level of compassion, love and appreciation for myself, and I’m eternally grateful for that. Bali, you’ve brought me back home even deeper into my heart, just where I needed to be. I can’t wait to visit the island of the gods once again :)
A big thank you to Asia Collective who organised our travel experience from beginning to end. Make sure you check our their travel guide when you plan your next tropical escape.
With love and gratitude,
Helen xx
All text and images copyright © Helen Janneson Bense 2020
