The Schedule
Full itinerary · May 31 – June 5, 2026 · Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape
Anchor Moment
Local Connect
Optional
Free Time
Self Care
Logistics
TBD
Sunday, May 31 — Purnama: A Full Moon Welcome
Arrival · Canang Sari ceremony · First night together · What is Purnama?
~2:00 pm
Arrive Buahan — check in, settle in, explore
Two-hour drive from DPS. Karen, Taylor, and Dusty have been on property since May 29. Full group together for the first time.
All guests
Logistics◇ Afternoon — Free time · Pool · Unpack · Rest · Explore
5:00 pm
Canang Sari Offering Workshop at Ibu Workshop
A local Balinese priest leads the group in making traditional flower offerings — small palm-leaf baskets filled with flowers, incense, and symbolic items offered in gratitude. Afterward, the group walks to Buahan's on-property temple to place the offerings. Confirm attire with Dian — sarongs may be provided.
All guests
Anchor Moment~6:30 pm
Moon Yoga at the Pavilion
As the full moon rises over the jungle. Buahan is including this as a gift — bundled with the Canang Sari experience at no additional charge.
Optional Self Care7:30 pm
Cocktails at The Botanist Bar
The group's first real gathering. Informal, easy — everyone getting settled.
8:00 pm
Dinner at Open Kitchen
Casual and communal. First night in Bali.
Monday, June 1 — Robin's 60th Birthday
The main event · Joy · Celebration
7:00 am
Breakfast at Open Kitchen
8:00 am
Surya Hatta Yoga
Optional — included in stay. Standing flow asanas.
Optional Self Care10:00 am
Buahan Bliss Massages
Confirmed schedule: Robin & Aaron (9–11am), Allison & John (9–11am), Karen & Taylor (2–4pm), Dusty (2–4pm). Andy & Julie moved to June 3, 11am–1pm by Buahan. IDR 2,900,000++ per person.
Optional Self Care12:00 pm
Traditional Coconut Oil Crafting
Optional — included in stay. In Buahan's traditional Balinese kitchen with local women.
Optional◇ Midday — Free time · Pool · Rest before the evening
4:30 – 9:30 pm
Robin's birthday celebration
An evening celebrating Robin. Cocktails and canapés followed by dinner at the Pavilion. Wine and champagne by the bottle. Canapés: IDR 500,000++ per dozen — Dian suggests at least 3 dozen for 9 guests.
🌿 Dusk in the Jungle — Leave the little black dress at home. Tonight we dress like the jungle threw a dinner party and personally invited us. Think flowing fabrics, botanical prints, warm colors, and a little magic. Smart-casual Bali style — the vibe is lush, not stuffy.
All guests
Anchor Moment~9:30 pm
The Blue Door, Ubud — pending confirmation
Robin loves to dance. After-dinner dancing in Ubud — beer garden with live music, Club Lounge opens 9pm with DJ sets until 3am. ~30–40 min drive. If going: Buahan recommends 2 local community cars on a half-day basis — more practical than a HiAce for a flexible late evening.
@thebluedoorbaliOptional
Tuesday, June 2 — Into the Jungle
School visit · Jungle cooking · Early night for hikers
7:00 am
Breakfast at Open Kitchen
8:00 am
Element Pilates
Mat Pilates at The Pavilion — core strength and flexibility. A gentle start after the birthday.
Optional Self Care9:00 am
Village School Visit — SDN 2 Buahan
Moved from June 4 — students are on a field trip that day. School is 4 minutes from the resort. Depart 9:00am, return for 10:00am cooking class. Kids are ages 7–13 (grades 1–6); Yuri thinks ~180 students.
What to bring (optional, if you've got room): books and general school supplies for ages 7–13 are warmly welcomed, as is the novelty of US treats for the kids. The school's biggest needs are bookshelves and trash bins — Aaron & Robin are exploring this as a group gift through Buahan.
What to bring (optional, if you've got room): books and general school supplies for ages 7–13 are warmly welcomed, as is the novelty of US treats for the kids. The school's biggest needs are bookshelves and trash bins — Aaron & Robin are exploring this as a group gift through Buahan.
All guests
Optional Local Connect→ 4-minute return to the resort
10:00 am
Jungle Cooking at Dukuh Asri — with Ngadas Goat Farm
All 9 guests confirmed. Venture into Buahan's jungle-edge community farm. During the foraging walk, the group passes through the Ngadas Goat Farm — part of Buahan's Stay for Good initiative. The resort provides goats to local residents in a profit-sharing system supporting sustainable community income and resilience. Then cook the foraged harvest over an open flame in a traditional Balinese kitchen. Farm-to-table jungle lunch with live music under the trees. ~2–3 hours. IDR 2,200,000++ per person.
Optional Local Connect◇ Afternoon — Free time · Pool · Rest
6:00 – 7:00 pm
Sundown Cocktail with Storytelling
Beneath the trees and open sky, share your story as the resort shares theirs. A daily Buahan ritual.
7:00 pm
Sundown Cocktails & Storytelling, then Dinner at Open Kitchen
Dian confirmed: 6:00–7:00pm sundown cocktail with storytelling is the evening activity — beneath the trees and open sky, share your story as Buahan shares theirs. Dinner at Open Kitchen follows. Early night recommended for those planning the 2:00am hike departure.
Wednesday, June 3 — Fire and Feast
Mount Batur sunrise hike · Caldera views · Locavore NXT dinner
2:00 am
Departure — Hike to the Peak
Buahan's guided package. Pickup at 2:00am per Dian. IDR 3,700,000++ per couple · IDR 2,700,000++ single. Confirmed hikers: Robin, Aaron, Karen, Taylor & Dusty. John, Allison, Julie, and Andy are staying at the resort.
Optional→ ~1 hour drive to Mount Batur trailhead
3:00 am
Hike begins — Mount Batur (1,717m)
Pre-dawn climb through ancient tropical forest with a local guide. Timing confirmed by Dian.
~5:00 am
Summit — sunrise and volcanic steam breakfast
Eggs cooked on volcanic steam at the summit. Panoramic views across eastern Bali. Worth every step.
7:00 am
Begin descent
~8:30 am
Toya Devasya hot springs + caldera-view lunch
Hikers can stop at Toya Devasya hot springs on Lake Batur, then lunch at Penelokan rim — Akasa Kintamani for the elevated option, or a local warung for something more casual. Non-hikers cannot join. Decide on the mountain. Car charged hourly.
→ ~1–1.5 hour drive back to Buahan
Morning to early afternoon
Return to Buahan — timing TBD
What we do after the hike is TBD. We may return directly or stop along the way.
TBD11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Buahan Bliss Massage — Andy Stoll & Julie DeWitt
Moved from June 1 to June 3 by Buahan due to treatment room capacity. IDR 2,900,000++ per person.
Self Care◇ Afternoon — Free time · Pool · Rest and recover
7:00 pm
Locavore NXT dinner — Lodtunduh, Ubud
✓ Confirmed — 9 guests, Wednesday June 3 at 7:00pm. Table held 15 minutes — contact them if running late.
Menu: Tasting menu only (no à la carte). ~3 hours. IDR 2,200,000++ per person food only · 11% tax + 10% service charge.
Deposit: IDR 1,500,000 per person already paid by Aaron. Balance due at dinner.
Beverage pairings (10 drinks across the experience):
· Alcoholic — IDR 850,000++ per person (~$53)
· Non-Alcoholic / Low-ABV — IDR 650,000++ per person (~$41)
· Wine — IDR 1,500,000++ per person (~$94)
Before you go: Send dietary requirements to Locavore. Wear comfortable shoes — multiple spaces and stairs. Birthday noted on reservation.
Amend / cancel: 48+ hours in advance · WhatsApp: +62 821-4495-6226
Menu: Tasting menu only (no à la carte). ~3 hours. IDR 2,200,000++ per person food only · 11% tax + 10% service charge.
Deposit: IDR 1,500,000 per person already paid by Aaron. Balance due at dinner.
Beverage pairings (10 drinks across the experience):
· Alcoholic — IDR 850,000++ per person (~$53)
· Non-Alcoholic / Low-ABV — IDR 650,000++ per person (~$41)
· Wine — IDR 1,500,000++ per person (~$94)
Before you go: Send dietary requirements to Locavore. Wear comfortable shoes — multiple spaces and stairs. Birthday noted on reservation.
Amend / cancel: 48+ hours in advance · WhatsApp: +62 821-4495-6226
All guests
locavorenxt.com→ ~30-minute drive to Locavore NXT · Return via Grab
After dinner
A night out in Ubud — if we wish
We're already in Ubud and can enjoy a night out there if we wish.
OptionalThursday, June 4 — Give, Purify, Farewell
Soul Freedom · Farewell dinner · 5 guests depart
7:00 am
Breakfast at Open Kitchen
8:00 am
Surya Hatta Yoga
Optional — included in stay.
Optional Self Care◇ Morning — Free time · Pool · Lunch at leisure
2:00 pm
Soul Freedom Journey — Tjampuhan Waterfall
Guided by a Buahan Discovery Host and Balinese priest. Traditional attire, trek through the sacred valley, Melukat purification ritual at the confluence of sacred rivers. One of the most meaningful experiences of the trip.
All guests
Anchor Moment→ ~30-minute drive to Ubud · Dian arranging transport
Evening
Farewell dinner in Ubud — Tangelo Bali (recommended)
Dinner for all 9. Open-air, global-Balinese fusion. On Mondays, the Spirit of Sebatu Balinese dance takes place during dinner. Confirm booking.
All guests
@tangelobaliAfter dinner
Farewell Drinks · Group Splits
Karen, Taylor, Dusty, Allison, and John transfer directly from Ubud to DPS in a HiAce — transfer arranged through Buahan. Aaron, Robin, Andy, and Julie return to Buahan separately.
Logistics9:00 pm
Karen, Taylor, Dusty, Allison & John depart for DPS
Flight 1:00 am June 5. A beautiful send-off from Ubud.
Karen · Taylor · Dusty · Allison · John
LogisticsFriday, June 5 — Until We Meet Again
Final morning · Buahan chapter closes
7:00 am
Farewell breakfast at Open Kitchen
8:00 am
Element Pilates
Optional.
Optional Self Care◇ Morning — Final swim · Pack · Soak it all in
12:00 pm
Check out from Buahan
Robin · Aaron · Andy · Julie
Logistics→ ~2-hour drive to DPS-area hotel
Evening
DPS-area hotel — TBD
We may or may not need a hotel this night. Julie departs DPS at ~1:00 am June 6, and Robin, Aaron, and Andy may also fly out at the same time — to Raja Ampat (TBD). Dian is sourcing options in case we need them.
Robin · Aaron · Andy · Julie
~11:30 pm
Julie departs for DPS
Flight 1:00 am June 6. Aaron and Robin accompany, then return to hotel.
Julie · Robin · Aaron
LogisticsJune 6 onward — Water Time
Robin · Aaron · Andy · Raja4Divers, Pulau Pef
June 5–TBD
Water time — Raja4Divers, Pulau Pef
Robin, Aaron, and Andy head to Raja Ampat — one of the most biodiverse marine regions on earth. Staying at Raja4Divers, a boutique eco dive resort on the private island of Pulau Pef. Overwater bungalows, house reef, world-class diving.
Flights: June 5 — DPS → Jakarta (GA0415, departs 8:40pm) · June 6 — Jakarta → Sorong (GA0682, departs 12:10am, arrives 6:20am). Booking ref: DHS7KW.
Arrival: Aaron, Robin & Andy arrive Sorong Saturday June 6 at 6:20am (GA0682). Raja4Divers picks up at the airport that morning and transfers to the SwissBelhotel for breakfast. Transfer to harbor at ~10am, then ~3.5hr boat to Pulau Pef.
No mobile signal on Pulau Pef — contact via satellite email: resort@raja4divers.com.
Cash only at the resort — EUR, CHF, or IDR. No credit cards.
TBDFlights: June 5 — DPS → Jakarta (GA0415, departs 8:40pm) · June 6 — Jakarta → Sorong (GA0682, departs 12:10am, arrives 6:20am). Booking ref: DHS7KW.
Arrival: Aaron, Robin & Andy arrive Sorong Saturday June 6 at 6:20am (GA0682). Raja4Divers picks up at the airport that morning and transfers to the SwissBelhotel for breakfast. Transfer to harbor at ~10am, then ~3.5hr boat to Pulau Pef.
No mobile signal on Pulau Pef — contact via satellite email: resort@raja4divers.com.
Cash only at the resort — EUR, CHF, or IDR. No credit cards.
What's Included
Everything included in your stay at Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape
Included in Every Bale — Daily
Breakfast
Daily breakfast for two persons per Bale at Open Kitchen — included every morning. Farm-fresh, zero-waste, locally sourced.
Dinner
Daily 5-course set menu dinner for two at Open Kitchen.
In-Bale snacks
Daily homemade snacks and local seasonal fruits delivered to your Bale.
BaliGroni
Daily in-Bale BaliGroni — Buahan's signature local cocktail. A welcome ritual.
Daily activities
All complimentary happenings as per the daily activity schedule — yoga, pilates, rice trekking, storytelling, and more. See the Resort Standard Activities tab.
Wi-Fi
Unlimited Wi-Fi throughout the resort. Note: Buahan is a jungle property — signal varies by location.
Escape host
Resort mobile phone and 24-hour access to a dedicated Escape host for anything you need.
Shuttle to Ubud
Complimentary drop-off shuttle service to Ubud center as per the daily schedule.
Pressing service
Complimentary pressing of up to 5 pieces per Bale, per day.
Mountain bikes
Complimentary use of resort mountain bikes — great for exploring the surrounding area.
Sunset cocktail session
Complimentary twice-weekly one-hour sunset cocktail session as per the schedule.
Resort Credit — Spa & Food
💳 Up to $200 USD Resort Credit Per Bale
Each Bale receives resort credit to use toward spa treatments or food and beverage (alcohol excluded). The credit is based on length of stay:
- All stays: $100 USD credit
- 3+ nights: Additional $100 — total $200 USD
- 7+ nights: Additional $200 — total $300 USD
Credit applies per room (non-combinable). Valid for individual spa treatments or food & beverage — alcohol excluded. Not applicable for group activities or third-party services. No cash value if not redeemed in full. Not valid on room rate.
Additional Perks
Room upgrade
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability.
Early check-in / late checkout
Subject to availability — worth requesting in advance through Dian or Yuri.
Resort Shop
Confirming with Buahan whether goods are available for purchase on property — will update once confirmed.
Arrivals & Departures
Flight details and transfer information for all 9 guests
| Guest | Arrives DPS | Flight | Buahan Arrival | Departs Buahan | Departs DPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robin & Aaron Shaddy | May 31, 12:00pm | SQ938 from SIN | May 31, ~2:00pm | June 5, 12:00pm | TBD |
| Allison & John Ashford | May 31, 12:00pm | SQ938 from SIN | May 31, ~2:00pm | June 4 (from Ubud) | June 5, 1:00am |
| Karen & Taylor Borchert | May 28, 11:50pm | KE433 | May 29, afternoon | June 4 (from Ubud) | June 5, 1:00am |
| Dusty Davidson | May 28, 11:50pm | KE433 | May 29, afternoon | June 4 (from Ubud) | June 5, 1:00am |
| Julie DeWitt | May 28, 10:30pm | VS65 (Virgin Atlantic) | May 31, ~2:00pm | June 5, 12:00pm | June 6, 1:00am |
| Andy Stoll | May 28, 10:30pm | VS65 (Virgin Atlantic) | May 31, ~2:00pm | June 5, 12:00pm | TBD |
Transport Groups
May 29 Group
Karen Borchert · Taylor Borchert · Dusty Davidson
Arrive DPS May 28 at 11:50pm (KE433). Taylor is coordinating the inbound transfer directly with the resort. They stay near the airport overnight and arrive at Buahan on the afternoon of May 29.
May 31 Group A
Robin & Aaron Shaddy · Allison & John Ashford
Arrive DPS May 31 at 12:00pm (SQ938 from Singapore). Resort arranging transport — ~2-hour drive to Buahan. Arrive ~2:00pm.
May 31 Group B
Julie DeWitt · Andy Stoll
Julie and Andy arrive DPS May 28 at 10:30pm (VS65, Virgin Atlantic) and will be staying in Ubud May 28–31. They will arrange their own transport from Ubud and arrive at Buahan at ~2:00pm on May 31.
Additional Transport Notes
All resort drives
The resort drives the group to all dinners and events. Returns from Ubud venues via Grab.
June 4 farewell
1 HiAce for the full group from Buahan to Tangelo — arranged through Buahan. Departing guests continue to DPS from dinner; Aaron, Robin, Andy, and Julie return to Buahan separately. We can ask about a direct transfer from Ubud to the airport for the 5 departing guests.
June 5 hotel
TBD — Julie departs DPS at ~1:00 am June 6. Robin, Aaron, and Andy may also fly out that night (to Raja Ampat, TBD). A hotel may not be needed. Dian is sourcing options in case.
Resort Standard Activities
Buahan's default daily program · Guests may participate in any of these they wish
A Note for Runners
We've asked Dian for running route recommendations near the resort. Note that Buahan sits on sloping rainforest terrain, which may shape the available options. Dian's recommendations will be added here when received. The Senja on Wheels mountain biking activity (daily, included) may also appeal to the more active guests.
Everything below is Buahan's standard daily program. Daily activities are complimentary — included in your stay. Paid activities carry additional costs listed in the .
Sunday, May 31
| Time | Activity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 6:00 pm | Moon Yoga daily | Tap into energies of openness, healing, and renewal. Connecting to the full moon's phases brings awareness to rhythms within body, mind, heart, and spirit. |
| 7:30 pm | Cocktail Hour at The Botanist Bar | Unwind with cocktails in Buahan's signature garden bar setting. |
| 8:00 pm | Dinner at Open Kitchen | Buahan's main restaurant — open-air, communal, and farm-inspired. |
Monday, June 1
| Time | Activity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 8:00 – 8:45 am | Surya Hatta Yoga daily | Standing flow asanas to build balance, range of motion, and stability. |
| 10:00 am – 12:30 pm | Buahan Bliss Massage — 120 min paid | Toja Spa's signature ritual: torch ginger scrub, stimulating body massage, and detoxifying herbal wrap. Morning slot. IDR 2,900,000++ per person. |
| 12:00 – 1:00 pm | Traditional Coconut Oil Crafting daily | Skilled local women guide the group through traditional Balinese recipes in the resort's open-air kitchen (paon). |
| At leisure | Lunch at Open Kitchen paid | IDR 750,000++ per person. Note: breakfast and dinner are included in the stay; lunch is not. |
| 4:00 – 5:00 pm | Rice Life Trekking daily | Walk through Buahan's heartland — picturesque villages and lush rice fields. Discover the centuries-old Subak irrigation system. |
| 3:00 – 5:30 pm | Buahan Bliss Massage — 120 min paid | Afternoon slot. IDR 2,900,000++ per person. |
Tuesday, June 2
| Time | Activity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 8:00 – 8:45 am | Element Pilates daily | Refreshing mat Pilates at The Pavilion — core strength and flexibility for all levels. |
| 11:00 am – 2:30 pm | Jungle Cooking paid | Forage wild herbs at the jungle-edge community farm, then cook the harvest over an open flame. Farm-to-table lunch with live music. IDR 2,200,000++ per person. |
| 3:00 – 5:30 pm | Buahan Bliss Massage — 120 min paid | IDR 2,900,000++ per person. |
| 4:00 – 5:00 pm | Senja on Wheels daily | Guided mountain bike ride through local villages and rice terraces — breathtaking sunset views along the way. |
| 6:00 – 7:00 pm | Sundown Cocktail with Storytelling daily | Beneath the trees and open sky, share your story as Buahan shares theirs. A cherished nightly ritual. |
| 7:00 pm | Dinner at Open Kitchen |
Wednesday, June 3
| Time | Activity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 8:00 – 8:45 am | Surya Hatta Yoga daily | Standing flow asanas. |
| 9:00 am – 1:00 pm | Tri Hita Karana paid | Bali's philosophy of harmony with nature, community, and spirit — a half-day journey through Taro Village by vintage car. Temples, community prayers, palm forest, tree planting, coconut oil making, and a Balinese light lunch. IDR 4,900,000++ per couple. |
| 4:00 – 5:30 pm | Buahan Bliss Massage — 120 min paid | IDR 2,900,000++ per person. |
| 5:30 – 6:00 pm | The Botanist Story daily | Explore the heritage of Arak — Bali's traditional spirit. Create your own cocktails and mocktails with the resort's skilled Botanist. |
| 7:00 pm | Dinner at Open Kitchen |
Thursday, June 4
| Time | Activity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 8:00 – 8:45 am | Surya Hatta Yoga daily | Standing flow asanas. |
| 10:00 – 11:30 am | Soul Freedom Journey paid | Tjampuhan Waterfall — sacred rivers, Melukat purification ritual, canang sari offering, traditional Balinese attire. Guided by a Discovery Host and Balinese priest. IDR 2,700,000++ per couple. |
| 12:00 – 1:00 pm | Palm and Press daily | A therapist-guided session in hand and palm massage — relieving tension and improving circulation. |
| 5:30 – 6:15 pm | The Botanist Story — Herbal Leaves daily | Discover local herbal leaves while enjoying a heritage-inspired mocktail at sunset. |
| 7:00 pm | Dinner at Open Kitchen |
Friday, June 5
| Time | Activity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 7:00 – 11:00 am | Breakfast at Open Kitchen | |
| 8:00 – 8:45 am | Element Pilates daily | Mat Pilates at The Pavilion. |
Area Guide
Dining, nightlife, wellness, galleries, and activities near Buahan and Ubud
Dining
Locavore NXT ✓ Booked
Modern Indonesian · 12-course tasting menu · Lodtunduh
June 3, 9 guests, 7:00pm. Deposit paid. foraged ingredients, on-site mushroom farm, food lab.
Tangelo Bali
Global-Balinese fusion · Open-air fine dining · Sebatu
Recommended for the June 4 farewell dinner. On Mondays, the Spirit of Sebatu Balinese dance takes place during dinner. Confirm booking for 9.
Night Rooster
Craft cocktail bar · Italian bites · Jl. Goutama, Ubud
By the Locavore group. Creative cocktails with local ingredients and Indonesian folklore woven into the experience. Open daily from 4pm.
Hujan Locale
Modern Indonesian · Rooftop · Temple views · Jl. Sri Wedari No. 5
Two-story restaurant — batavia-style café downstairs, chic dining upstairs with temple views. Family-style share plates. Open daily 12pm–10pm.
Mozaic
Award-winning French-Indonesian · Fine dining · Jl. Raya Sanggingan
Joint #1 fine dining in Indonesia (Savour BlackBookAsia 2025). Seasonal tasting menus combining French technique with Indonesian ingredients. Garden setting.
Room 4 Dessert
Dessert degustation · Award-winning cocktails · Jl. Raya Sanggingan · Closed Mondays
21-course dessert and cocktail experience by World's 50 Best chef Will Goldfarb. One of the most unique dining experiences in Bali. Open Tue–Sun 4–10pm.
Aperitif at Viceroy Bali
International/European · Ubud's finest beyond Locavore
The pinnacle of Ubud fine dining. Worth knowing for independent evening exploration. Lunch and dinner.
Nightlife
The Blue Door
Speakeasy · Club Lounge · DJ sets · Open until 3–4am
Beer garden with live bands opens early. Club Lounge opens 9pm. Late-night happy hour 10–11:30pm. Robin loves to dance — being discussed for June 1 and/or June 3.
Night Rooster
Craft cocktail bar · Relaxed late-night · Jl. Goutama, Ubud
The more laid-back option. Creative cocktails with local ingredients and Indonesian folklore. Perfect for those who prefer a late drink over dancing.
Wellness
The Yoga Barn
Yoga · Meditation · Sound healing · 7am–9pm
Ubud's most beloved wellness center. Good for any morning the group wants something off-property.
Pyramid of Chi
Sound healing · Moon ceremonies · Breath and voice · 8am–9pm
Ancient sound healing and moon ceremonies in Tegalalang. Perfectly aligned with Robin's year of intention.
Bali Eling Spirit
Balinese philosophy · Yoga · Meditation · Cleansing rituals · 8am–8pm
Wellness rooted in Balinese tradition. Closer to the resort — ideal for a morning without a long drive.
Amrta Siddhi Ayurvedic
Authentic Ayurvedic medicine · Life-changing programs · 8am–6pm
A natural fit for Allison or anyone drawn to holistic wellness and alternative health.
Creative & Cultural Activities
I Wayan Gama Painting Class
Traditional Keliki-style painting · Keliki, Tegallalang · 9am–7pm
Preserving a dying Balinese art form. A beautiful afternoon for Robin — directly connects to her creativity intention.
Batik Class — Threads of Life
Eco-friendly batik with natural dyes · Kajeng Street, Ubud · 10am–6pm
Batik-making with plant dyes in a secluded village. Educational, sustainable, and hands-on.
John Hardy Master Class
Handcrafted silver jewelry · Mambal Street · 10am–6pm
Design your own wax piece, cast into a silver keepsake. A meaningful Bali souvenir.
Ubud Horse Stables
Horse riding through rice fields · Pupuan Village · 8am–5pm
Ride through lush landscapes and tranquil rice fields. A beautiful and unexpected experience.
Galleries
Neka Art Gallery
Pioneer of Bali fine art · Ubud center · 9am–5pm
The finest gallery in Ubud. Great for Andy, Julie, and anyone who loves Balinese painting.
Sika Gallery
Innovative contemporary Balinese artists · 10am–6pm
Showcase for forward-thinking artists. The most cutting-edge gallery option in Ubud.
Kuluk Gallery
Museum-quality textiles, antiques, jewelry, and artifacts · 9am–6pm
Indonesian antiques from across the archipelago. Perfect for meaningful souvenirs.
Wayan's Shop
Balinese handicrafts by local artists · 9am–7pm
Reasonable prices, high quality. Great for gifts and keepsakes.
Wine List
Buahan's curated wine list · IDR thousands · USD at live rate · +21% tax and service
Champagne
| Wine | Vintage | Region | IDR (000s) | ~USD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dom Pérignon Brut | N.V | Épernay, France | 15,250 | ~$953 |
| Louis Roederer Brut | N.V | Champagne, France | 5,550 | ~$347 |
| Billecart-Salmon Brut Le Réserve | N.V | Champagne, France | 4,750 | ~$297 |
| Moët & Chandon Brut | N.V | Épernay, France | 4,750 | ~$297 |
| Duval Leroy Brut Réserva | N.V | Reims, France | 3,250 | ~$203 |
| Louis Roederer Brut 375ml | N.V | Champagne, France | 2,900 | ~$181 |
Sparkling
| Wine | Vintage | Region | IDR (000s) | ~USD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Louis Perdrier Brut | N.V | Burgundy, France | 350/glass · 1,450/btl | $22/gl · $91/btl |
| Two Island Prosecco (Balinese) | N.V | Sanur, Bali | 1,150 | ~$72 |
| Sababay Ascaro Brut (Balinese) | N.V | Saba, Bali | 975 | ~$61 |
| Aga Tunjung Sparkling (Balinese) | N.V | Sanur, Bali | 850 | ~$53 |
Rosé
| Wine | Vintage | Region | IDR (000s) | ~USD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Château d'Esclans Whispering Angel | '22 | Côtes de Provence, France | 2,600 | ~$162 |
| Barton & Guestier Rosé | '21 | Côtes de Provence, France | 1,700 | ~$106 |
| Aga Rosé | N.V | Saba, Bali | 850 | ~$53 |
| Matua Rosé | '24 | Marlborough, New Zealand | 1,500 | ~$94 |
| Beringer Zinfandel Rosé ⚠ Limited stock | '22 | California, USA | 320/glass · 1,500/btl | $20/gl · $94/btl |
White
| Wine | Vintage | Region | IDR (000s) | ~USD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Louis Jadot Chassagne Montrachet ⚠ Limited stock | '22 | Burgundy, France | 7,500 | ~$469 |
| Penfold Bin 144 Yattarna Chardonnay ⚠ Limited stock | '17 | South Australia | 7,350 | ~$459 |
| William Fèvre Grand Cru Valmur Chablis ✕ Not available | '21 | France | 6,750 | ~$422 |
| Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc | '21 | Marlborough, New Zealand | 3,450 | ~$216 |
| Terroir al Límit White | '22 | Priorat, Spain | 3,250 | ~$203 |
| Caldora Pinot Grigio (Organic) | '13 | Abruzzo, Italy | 1,500 | ~$94 |
| B&G Chardonnay (Organic) | N.V | Languedoc, France | 340/glass · 1,500/btl | $21/gl · $94/btl |
| Matua Sauvignon Blanc (Organic) | N.V | Marlborough, New Zealand | 340/glass · 1,500/btl | $21/gl · $94/btl |
| Two Island Sauvignon Blanc (Balinese) | N.V | Sanur, Bali | 950 | ~$59 |
Red
| Wine | Vintage | Region | IDR (000s) | ~USD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gaja Barbaresco DOCG Nebbiolo ⚠ Limited stock | '22 | Piedmont, Italy | 10,150 | ~$634 |
| Joseph Drouhin Vosne Romanée Village | '17 | Côte de Nuits, France | 8,650 | ~$541 |
| Penfold St. Henri Shiraz | '21 | South Australia | 6,800 | ~$425 |
| Pio Cesare Barolo DOCG Nebbiolo ⚠ Limited stock | '23 | Piedmont, Italy | 6,250 | ~$391 |
| Beringer Knights Valley Cabernet Sauvignon | '22 | California, USA | 3,000 | ~$188 |
| B&G Château Magnol Haut-Médoc Merlot | '20 | Côtes du Rhône, France | 3,000 | ~$188 |
| Lavau Côtes du Rhône Grenache Shiraz | '21 | Rhône Valley, France | 1,600 | ~$100 |
| Black Cottage Pinot Noir | '21 | Marlborough, New Zealand | 340/glass · 1,500/btl | $21/gl · $94/btl |
| Bodega Norton Reserva Malbec | '23 | Mendoza, Argentina | 340/glass · 1,500/btl | $21/gl · $94/btl |
| Two Island Shiraz (Balinese) | N.V | Sanur, Bali | 950 | ~$59 |
| Sababay Reserve Red (Balinese) | N.V | Saba, Bali | 900 | ~$56 |
Botanist Bar
Cocktails, spirits, beer, and non-alcoholic drinks · All prices IDR thousands · +21% tax and service
Botanist Cocktails
| Cocktail | Ingredients | IDR (000s) | ~USD |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kakap | Sirih leaves, turmeric, young coconut water, housemade gomme, dry vermouth, spiced rum | 225 | ~$14 |
| Cem Cem | Iwak Ameritha arak, spondias pinnata leaves, chili, lemongrass, fresh lime juice, orange syrup | 225 | ~$14 |
| Kecombrang | Tejakula aged arak infused with orange peel, torch ginger, fresh ginger, marigold vinegar syrup | 225 | ~$14 |
| Mesui | East Indies Gin, Mesui wood-infused bitters, housemade smoked liquid | 225 | ~$14 |
| Cascara | Arak Bali Mula infused with coffee skin, Bali Kintamani espresso, wild honey | 225 | ~$14 |
| Waluh | GGH arak infused with coconut, Kaja vodka, pumpkin reduction | 225 | ~$14 |
| Seasonal Creation | Botanist crafts a unique cocktail using seasonal ingredients | 225 | ~$14 |
Housemade Liquor — "Arak" Balinese Spirit
| Spirit | IDR (000s) | ~USD |
|---|---|---|
| Cold brew coffee | 145 | ~$9 |
| House-made bitter | 140 | ~$9 |
| Kintamani citrus | 120 | ~$8 |
| Singaperang vanilla | 120 | ~$8 |
| House farm Pandan | 100 | ~$6 |
| Arak Les 10 YO | 145 | ~$9 |
Vodka
| Spirit | IDR (000s) | ~USD |
|---|---|---|
| Kaja, Bali craft | 180 | ~$11 |
| Grey Goose | 225 | ~$14 |
Gin
| Spirit | IDR (000s) | ~USD |
|---|---|---|
| East Indies, Bali craft gin | 150 | ~$9 |
| Kaja, Bali craft gin | 160 | ~$10 |
| Bombay Sapphire | 190 | ~$12 |
| Hendrik's | 310 | ~$19 |
| Monkey 47 | 350 | ~$22 |
| Botanist | 360 | ~$23 |
Tequila
| Spirit | IDR (000s) | ~USD |
|---|---|---|
| Jose Cuervo reposado | 200 | ~$13 |
| Patron anejo | 325 | ~$20 |
Whiskey
| Spirit | IDR (000s) | ~USD |
|---|---|---|
| The Singleton 15 YO | 450 | ~$28 |
| Chivas Regal 18 YO | 370 | ~$23 |
| Monkey Shoulder | 320 | ~$20 |
| Black Label | 225 | ~$14 |
Bourbon
| Spirit | IDR (000s) | ~USD |
|---|---|---|
| Jim Beam | 450 | ~$28 |
| Bulleit | 225 | ~$14 |
| Maker's Mark | 250 | ~$16 |
Prices are per glass (45ml).
Rum
| Spirit | IDR (000s) | ~USD |
|---|---|---|
| Nusa Cana light | 150 | ~$9 |
| Nusa Cana spice | 170 | ~$11 |
| Bacardi carta blanca | 180 | ~$11 |
| Ron Zacapa | 210 | ~$13 |
| Black Tears spiced | 220 | ~$14 |
Indonesia Craft Beer
| Beer | IDR (000s) | ~USD |
|---|---|---|
| IOI Salaca wheat beer | 110 | ~$7 |
| IOI Padiluwih Lager | 120 | ~$8 |
| Island Brew summer pale ale | 139 | ~$9 |
| Island Brew small hazy | 159 | ~$10 |
| Island Brew IPA | 189 | ~$12 |
Zero Alcohol, Coffee & Tea
| Drink | Notes | IDR (000s) | ~USD |
|---|---|---|---|
| Equil still water 330ml | Indonesian premium natural mineral water | 40 | ~$3 |
| Equil still water 750ml | 80 | ~$5 | |
| Equil sparkling 330ml | 45 | ~$3 | |
| Equil sparkling 750ml | 90 | ~$6 | |
| Farm Foraging Elixir | Wild Buahan honey, young coconut water, sea salt — choose Moringa, Kepiduh, or Kayu manis | 85 | ~$5 |
| Kunyit Asam | Housemade Javanese herbal drink — turmeric, tamarind, honey, sea salt | 85 | ~$5 |
| The Botanical Juices | Slow-pressed seasonal fruits with local herbs and vegetables from the farm | 85 | ~$5 |
| Kombucha | Daily harvest housemade with spices, herbs, fruits, or preserved ingredients | 85 | ~$5 |
| Coffee (espresso, flat white, latte…) | Bali Kintamani Ulian house blend | 65 | ~$4 |
| Ice Coffee / Buahan Hot Chocolate | 85 | ~$5 | |
| Buahan Farm Iced Tea | Cold-brewed with Rosella, Marigold, or Pandan Ginger | 75 | ~$5 |
| Tema Tea Collection | Autumn · Summer · Serenity · Winter · Remedy · Courage — 80% locally sourced | 75 | ~$5 |
All prices are in IDR thousands and subject to 21% government tax and service charge. USD estimates at ~16,000 IDR per $1.
Pricing
Paid activity rates at Buahan · Check each activity for applicable tax information
| Activity | Rate (IDR) | ~USD | Basis | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canang Sari + Moon Yoga | 2,700,000++ per couple 1,700,000++ single | ~$169 / ~$106 | Per couple or single | All 9 guests confirmed · Moon Yoga bundled as Buahan's gift · +21% tax and service |
| Moon Yoga | Complimentary | $0 | Per person | Included as a gift from Buahan — bundled with the Canang Sari experience |
| Buahan Bliss Massage | 2,900,000++ | ~$181 | Per person | 2-hour treatment · +21% tax and service |
| Jungle Cooking | 2,200,000++ | ~$138 | Per person | Includes lunch · +21% tax and service |
| Tri Hita Karana | 4,900,000++ | ~$306 | Per couple | Half-day journey · +21% tax and service |
| Hike to the Peak | 3,700,000++ / 2,700,000++ | ~$231/$169 | Per couple / single | Confirmed by Dian · +21% tax and service |
| Locavore NXT — June 3 | 2,200,000++ | ~$138 | Per person — food only | Deposit of IDR 1,500,000 per person already paid by Aaron. Balance due at dinner. |
| Soul Freedom Journey | 2,500,000++ | ~$156 | Per couple | Aaron's treat · +21% tax and service |
| Lunch at Open Kitchen | 750,000++ | ~$47 | Per person | Breakfast and dinner included in stay; lunch is not |
| Full-Day HiAce Transfer | 3,500,000++ | ~$219 | Per vehicle (8 hrs max) | IDR 600,000++ per additional hour |
Transport Pricing — From Dian
| Transfer Type | Vehicle | IDR (000s) | ~USD | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airport (DPS ↔ Buahan) | MPV — Community | 1,500++ | ~$94 | Per car, one way |
| Airport (DPS ↔ Buahan) | Hybrid MPV / SUV | 2,300++ | ~$144 | Per car, one way |
| Airport (DPS ↔ Buahan) | Alphard | 2,500++ | ~$156 | Per car, one way |
| Airport (DPS ↔ Buahan) | HiAce (group) | 2,500++ | ~$156 | Per car, one way |
| Ubud / Locavore centre | MPV — Community | 500++ | ~$31 | Per car, one way · max 4 pax |
| Ubud / Locavore centre | Hybrid MPV / SUV | 1,000++ | ~$63 | Per car, one way · max 4 pax |
| Half-day charter (post-hike) | MPV — Community | 800++ | ~$50 | Max 4 hrs · IDR 200,000++ per additional hr |
| Half-day charter (post-hike) | Hybrid MPV / SUV | 2,000++ | ~$125 | Max 6 hrs · max 4 pax · IDR 500,000++ per additional hr |
++ indicates rates before applicable tax. Tax and service rates vary by activity — confirm with Dian before booking.
USD estimates based on ~16,000 IDR per $1 USD · Rate updates dynamically
Covered by Aaron — No Charge to Guests
The following are Aaron's gift to the group.
Canang Sari ceremony
May 31 — Balinese priest-led offering workshop and temple walk for all guests.
Birthday celebration
June 1 — Cocktails, canapés, birthday dinner at the Pavilion, wine and champagne.
Soul Freedom Journey
June 4 — Melukat purification ritual at Tjampuhan Waterfall for all guests.
Before You Go
Decisions needed · Visas · Apps · Money · Phone plans · Packing
⏰ Decisions Needed — by noon, Wednesday May 20
Please send Aaron your answers before noon on Wednesday, May 20.
- Buahan Bliss Massage — June 1: Do you want a massage? Morning (9am–12pm) or afternoon (2pm–5pm)? IDR 2,900,000++ per person.
- Jungle Cooking — June 2: Are you in? 10:00am–~12:30pm. IDR 2,200,000++ per person. Includes a visit to the Ngadas Goat Farm during the foraging walk.
- Hike to the Peak — June 3: Are you hiking? Departure 2:00am. Summit ~5:00am. IDR 3,700,000++ per couple · IDR 2,700,000++ single. Moderate to high cardio fitness. Hot springs and caldera lunch optional after — decide on the mountain. Non-hikers cannot join.
- June 4 departures — Karen, Taylor, Dusty, Allison & John: Checkout is noon. Soul Freedom Journey is a wet activity. Buahan offers a spa treatment room to freshen up after. Prefer a late checkout instead? Coordinate with Dian.
🎵 Bali Birthday Playlist — add your songs
Help build the soundtrack for Robin's 60th. Add songs before and during the trip — what makes you think of Robin, of celebration, of adventure?
📷 Bali Birthday Photo Album — share your photos
Accept the iCloud shared album invite and upload your photos during the trip. A shared memory of Robin's 60th — from everyone who was there.
📋 Passport Copies & Dietary Restrictions — send to Buahan
Please email your passport copy and any dietary restrictions directly to the Buahan team before May 25. This allows them to prepare your registration in advance — check-in will only require a signature and email address.
Dian Purnama: Dian.Purnama@banyantree.com
Yuri Permata: Made.Yuri@banyantree.com
Visas & Entry
Bali e-VOA — Do this now
All 9 guests need to apply online before departure — much faster than the on-arrival queue. Cost: $35 USD per person. You'll need a passport photo, return flight details, and Buahan's address: Banjar Selat, Buahan Kaja, Payangan, Gianyar, Bali 80572. You'll receive a QR code — save it to your phone and print a backup. evisa.imigrasi.go.id
Bali Tourist Levy — also required
Separate from the e-VOA — this is a mandatory provincial tax of IDR 150,000 (~$10 USD) per person, all ages. Pay online before departure and save the QR code voucher to your phone. You can pay for the whole group in one transaction by adding each passport separately. If you skip it online, you can pay at the counter in the DPS arrivals hall — but doing it in advance skips the queue. Only use the official site — scam lookalikes charge triple. lovebali.baliprov.go.id
All Indonesia Arrival Card — also required
A third mandatory step — free, ~2.5 minutes, must be completed within 72 hours before arrival. Combines immigration, customs, and health declarations into one digital form. You'll receive a QR code to present at both immigration and customs on arrival. Can be submitted as a group — use the link below. Only use the official .go.id site — scam lookalikes charge $5–$20 for a free service. allindonesia.imigrasi.go.id (group link)
Singapore — no visa
US passport holders enter visa-free for up to 30 days. No action needed.
South Korea (ICN transit)
US citizens transiting through Incheon do not need a visa for airside transit.
Passport validity
All passports must be valid through at least December 2026. Check everyone's expiry date now.
Vaccines
CDC recommendations
Standard recommendations for Bali include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and current Tetanus. Consult a travel doctor before departure. Allison can advise the group. CDC Indonesia travel page
Travel pharmacy
For local vaccine options: kohllsrx.com/vaccines/travel
Apps to Download
Grab
The Uber of Southeast Asia — works in Singapore and Bali. Set up your account and add a payment method now. You'll need it for returns from Locavore, The Blue Door, and Ubud venues. grab.com
Google Maps
Download offline maps for Bali (Gianyar region) and Singapore before you leave. Works without data.
WhatsApp
Most Bali vendors, drivers, and Dian communicate via WhatsApp. Essential.
XE Currency
Quick IDR/USD converter for markets and tipping. Current rate: ~16,000 IDR per $1 USD.
Google Translate
Download the Indonesian language pack for offline use.
Money
Bali currency — IDR
Indonesian Rupiah. ~16,000 IDR = $1 USD. IDR 100,000 ≈ $6. IDR 1,000,000 ≈ $62. Resort prices are in the millions — don't be alarmed.
ATM at DPS
Withdraw IDR from ATMs at the airport on arrival. Good rates and convenient. Notify your bank before traveling.
Cash for the week
Budget IDR 2,000,000–3,000,000 per person (~$125–190) for tips, markets, Grab rides, and incidentals.
Tipping
Not mandatory but always appreciated. IDR 20,000–50,000 ($1–3) for drivers and service staff. The resort's service charge covers tipping there.
Singapore — SGD
Cards are accepted almost everywhere. Having $50–100 SGD is useful for hawker centers.
Notify credit cards
Let all banks know: Singapore, Indonesia, and South Korea. May 26 – June 12.
Phone & Data
Check your carrier first
T-Mobile Magenta includes free international data in 215+ countries. Verizon and AT&T offer $10/day international passes. Check your plan — you may already be covered.
Airalo eSIM — if not covered
Buy a Singapore + Indonesia eSIM before you leave. Keeps your US number. ~$10–15 for 10 days. Works on iPhone XS and newer. airalo.com
Buahan WiFi
The resort has WiFi, but it's a jungle property — don't count on strong signal everywhere. Download everything you need before arriving.
Packing — Buahan Specific
Shoes
Outdoor shoes with grip — the property is on sloping rainforest terrain. Also sandals for the pool and casual use.
Running
Running on the property is not recommended — jungle terrain with steep inclines, stairs, and uneven surfaces. The surrounding village roads also have dogs along the route. Buahan suggests rice field trekking, morning walks on the property, or using the natural inclines for a workout instead. The Senja on Wheels mountain biking activity (included) is also a great active option.
Clothing
Lightweight activewear. A jacket or shawl for evenings (22°C/72°F). Smart-casual for the birthday dinner and Locavore. No high heels.
Temple attire
Shoulders and knees covered when visiting temples. Sarongs available on-site — bring a light shawl as backup.
Provided at each Bale
Adventure bag, torchlight, night lantern, rain ponchos, binoculars (on request), SPF 30 sunscreen, and mosquito repellent. No need to pack these.
School visit — June 2
Moved from June 4 (students on field trip). 9:00am visit to SDN 2 Buahan (4 min from resort) before the 10:00am cooking class. Kids are ages 7–13 (grades 1–6).
Optional, if you've got room: books and general school supplies for ages 7–13 are warmly welcomed, as is the novelty of US treats for the kids. The school's biggest needs are bookshelves and trash bins — Aaron & Robin are exploring this as a group gift through Buahan.
Optional, if you've got room: books and general school supplies for ages 7–13 are warmly welcomed, as is the novelty of US treats for the kids. The school's biggest needs are bookshelves and trash bins — Aaron & Robin are exploring this as a group gift through Buahan.
Gifts for hosts
Small gifts for local families at the cooking class or school visit are always meaningful. Avoid single-use plastic.
Health
Vaccines
Hepatitis A, Typhoid, current Tetanus recommended. See CDC Indonesia page or kohllsrx.com/vaccines/travel. Allison can advise the group.
Medications
Bring all prescriptions in original packaging with extra supply for the full trip.
Travel insurance
Strongly recommended — medical evacuation coverage especially, given the volcano hike and remote resort location.
Water
Do not drink tap water. The resort provides filtered water. Buy bottled water when out.
Culture & Language
Customs, etiquette, common phrases, and pronunciation guide
Customs & Etiquette
The right hand
Use your right hand for giving, receiving, eating, and gesturing. The left hand is considered unclean in Balinese and Indonesian culture.
Remove your shoes
Remove shoes before entering homes, temples, and some restaurants. A shoe rack at the entrance is your cue.
Dress modestly at temples
Shoulders and knees must be covered. Sarongs and sashes are available at most temples — wearing them, even over shorts, is a sign of respect.
Offerings on the ground
You'll see small canang sari offerings everywhere — on the ground, on steps, in doorways. Step around them, never over them. They are sacred.
Pointing
Pointing with your index finger is considered rude. Use your thumb or whole hand to gesture instead.
The head is sacred
Never touch someone's head — even a child's. It is considered the most sacred part of the body.
Smile and patience
Balinese culture is warm, gentle, and unhurried. A smile goes a long way. Don't rush or raise your voice.
Bring something
When visiting homes or communities, a small gift — fruit, sweets, or school supplies — is always appreciated.
Photography
Always ask before photographing people or ceremonies. Many sacred rituals are not meant to be photographed. Read the room.
Bargaining
Gentle bargaining is acceptable at markets. Start at about 50–60% of the asking price. Always smile and keep it light.
Common Phrases — Bahasa Indonesia
Balinese (Bahasa Bali) is the local language, but Indonesian (Bahasa Indonesia) is understood everywhere. Even a few words are deeply appreciated. Click 🔊 to hear the pronunciation.
| Phrase | Pronunciation | Meaning | Note | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Terima kasih | teh-REE-mah KAH-see | Thank you | The most important phrase. Use it often. | |
| Sama-sama | SAH-mah SAH-mah | You're welcome | Standard reply to terima kasih. | |
| Selamat pagi | seh-LAH-maht PAH-ghee | Good morning | Said until about 11:00am. | |
| Selamat siang | seh-LAH-maht see-AHNG | Good afternoon | Said from about 11:00am to 3pm. | |
| Selamat malam | seh-LAH-maht MAH-lahm | Good evening/night | Used from late afternoon onward. | |
| Apa kabar? | AH-pah KAH-bar | How are you? | Reply: 'Baik, terima kasih' | |
| Baik | BYE-k | Good / Fine | Useful in many contexts. | |
| Tolong | TOH-long | Please / Help | Used to make requests politely. | |
| Maaf | MAH-ahf | Sorry / Excuse me | Gentle and used often. | |
| Berapa? | beh-RAH-pah | How much? | Essential at markets. | |
| Terlalu mahal | ter-LAH-loo mah-HAHL | Too expensive | For gentle market bargaining. | |
| Enak! | EH-nahk | Delicious! | Say this after every meal — faces will light up. | |
| Tidak apa-apa | tee-DAHK AH-pah AH-pah | No problem | Reassuring and frequently useful. | |
| Di mana…? | dee MAH-nah | Where is…? | Di mana toilet? | |
| Om Swastyastu | om swas-tee-AH-stoo | Balinese greeting | Sacred. Use it with sincerity. | |
| Matur suksma | mah-TOOR SOOK-smah | Thank you (Balinese) | Extra points for using this one. |
🔊 Pronunciation uses your device's built-in text-to-speech. Indonesian pronunciation is closest to what you'll hear in Bali.
Quick Pronunciation Guide
'c' is always 'ch'
Canggu = CHAHNG-goo · Canang = chah-NAHNG
'j' like English 'j'
Jalan (road) = JAH-lahn
Vowels are pure
a = 'ah' · e = 'eh' · i = 'ee' · o = 'oh' · u = 'oo'
Stress: penultimate
Ubud = OO-bood · Bali = BAH-lee · Gamelan = gah-meh-LAHN
Weather
Payangan highlands, Bali · Updating in real time via Open-Meteo
Loading current forecast for Ubud/Payangan…
What to Expect in June
Season
June is solidly in Bali's dry season — one of the best months to visit. The wet season runs November to March, so you're well into comfortable conditions.
Sunshine
Approximately 9 hours of bright sunshine per day. Mornings tend to be clearest; afternoons can bring some cloud buildup.
Rainfall
Only about 5–6 rainy days in June. When it rains, it's typically a brief tropical shower — not an all-day event. Rain ponchos provided at each Bale.
UV
June sun is strong. Sunscreen is essential for outdoor activities. SPF 30 is provided at each Bale.
Mount Batur summit
At 1,717 meters, the summit is significantly cooler — bring a warm layer for the 2:00am departure. Temperatures can drop to 12–15°C (54–59°F) at night and early morning.
Bottom line
June is an ideal time to visit Bali — warm, sunny, drier, and with manageable humidity. The timing couldn't be better.
Links, Contact & Other
All websites, contacts, power adapters, and resources in one place
Bali e-VOA
evisa.imigrasi.go.id
Apply for your Indonesian visa before departure
Bali Tourist Levy
lovebali.baliprov.go.id
Mandatory ~$10 provincial levy — separate from the e-VOA, required for all guests
Buahan Resort
escape.banyantree.com
Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape — home base
Buahan Guest Portal
escapebanyantree.duve.co
Complimentary activities and discovery experiences
Locavore NXT
locavorenxt.com
June 3 dinner — already booked
The Blue Door Bali
@thebluedoorbali
After-dinner dancing in Ubud
What is Purnama?
balidriverandtour.com
Understanding the Balinese full moon celebration
The Yoga Barn
theyogabarn.com
Ubud's beloved wellness center
Grab
grab.com
Southeast Asia rideshare — set up before you go
Airalo eSIM
airalo.com
International data — keep your US number
Ubud Center
ubudcenter.com
Events and dance performances in Ubud
🎵 Bali Birthday Playlist
open.spotify.com
Add your songs to Robin's Bali birthday playlist on Spotify
📷 Bali Birthday Photo Album
iCloud Shared Album
Upload your photos to Robin's shared birthday album
Incheon Airport Guide
airport.kr
ICN layover info — one of the world's best airports
CDC Indonesia Travel
wwwnc.cdc.gov
Official vaccine and health recommendations for Indonesia
Travel Vaccines — Kohl's
kohllsrx.com
Local travel vaccine pharmacy
Contact
Dian Purnama
Buahan concierge · Dian.Purnama@banyantree.com · WhatsApp: +6281 936 574 246
Power Adapters — Bali & Singapore
| Bali (Indonesia) | Singapore | |
|---|---|---|
| Plug type | Type C and F — two round pins | Type G — three rectangular pins (different from Bali) |
| Voltage | 220–240V / 50Hz | 230V / 50Hz |
| US adapter needed? | Yes — Type C or F | Yes — Type G |
| Voltage converter? | Usually no — check for '100–240V' on device | Usually no — same rule applies |
Most devices are fine
Check your charger brick for '100–240V.' If it says this, you only need a plug adapter — covers almost all phones, laptops, cameras, and tablets.
Hair tools — caution
Single-voltage hair dryers or straighteners rated '120V only' will be damaged. Use the hair dryer provided in each Bale.
Buy a universal adapter
Bali and Singapore use different plug types. A universal travel adapter covers both — buy one before you leave.
The Lion City Long Weekend
May 28 – May 31, 2026 · Aaron, Robin, John & Allison · Artyzen Singapore
A four-day food, drink & adventure plan before Bali. ★ = locked reservation. Local input from Jane (SG resident) and Fora (luxury travel) integrated throughout.
Anchor Moment
Optional
Free Time
Self Care
Logistics
The Setup
Flight in
Thursday, May 28 · 5:00 AM landing at Changi · All four on SQ605 via ICN
Flight out
Sunday, May 31 · SQ938 to DPS, departs 9:15 AM · Leave hotel ~5:45 AM · All four together
Hotel
Artyzen Singapore · 9 Cuscaden Road, Orchard · +65 6363 6000
Thursday, May 28 — Arrival Day
Land · settle · Tian Tian · ATLAS tea · Chin Huat welcome dinner
5:00 am
Land at Changi
Logistics6:30 am
Through customs · Grab to hotel
Request early check-in in advance — many hotels accommodate for overnight arrivals.
7:30 am
At hotel — store bags, shower, freshen up
8:30 am
Light kaya toast & kopi
Ya Kun or Killiney — or stay in-hotel.
9:30 am
Nap
You've been traveling 24+ hours from Omaha. Don't fight it.
Self Care11:30 am
Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice — Maxwell Food Centre, Chinatown
Bourdain + Bo's pick. Expect 30–45 min line; often sells out mid-afternoon. Local note from Jane: Tian Tian is nice but not super special — chicken rice is everywhere in Singapore. If jet lag is hitting hard or the line is brutal, bail and eat chicken rice anywhere else.
Anchor MomentDecide One — After Tian Tian, before ATLAS tea
A. Back to hotel — Shower, charge phones, prep for ATLAS tea. Jane (local) recommends this — you'll be tired after 24+ hours of travel.
B. Chinatown wander — Buddha Tooth Relic Temple (5 min away), Pagoda St shophouses, Sri Mariamman Temple. Jane's note: Chinatown is a tourist spot — just streets with stores. Skip if tired.
3:00 pm
★ ATLAS afternoon tea
Parkview Square, Lobby Level, 600 North Bridge Rd, 188778. Top-10 World's Best Bars, art deco gin palace. Smart casual — no shorts, no flip-flops.
Anchor Moment5:00 pm
Grab back to hotel · freshen up
7:30 pm
★ Chin Huat Live Seafood — welcome dinner
Blk 105 Clementi St 12, Sunset Way. Host dinner — menu in your host's hands.
Anchor MomentFriday, May 29 — Marina Bay
Free morning · Gardens by the Bay · Marina Bay sunset & satay night
Decide One — Morning & afternoon (until 4:00 PM)
A. Pick from the Choose-Your-Own-Adventure Menu below — National Gallery, ArtScience Museum, Botanic Gardens, Long Bar Singapore Sling, bumboat ride, shopping, spa.
B. Slow Chinatown wander — Sri Mariamman Temple, Pagoda St, browse the shophouses.
C. Hotel + pool — Cool off, swim, recharge before the long evening.
This is now your biggest free block of the trip (street food tour moved to Saturday). Plenty of time for 1-2 things, food breaks, and pacing.
4:00 pm
Gardens by the Bay — Cloud Forest + Flower Dome combo
Climate-controlled. Book tickets in advance.
5:30 pm
Ce La Vie at Marina Bay Sands rooftop
Cocktail with sunset views. Bo's tip: just buy a drink, skip the observatory.
7:00 pm
Lau Pa Sat satay street
Stalls 7 & 8 (Bo's pick). 5 min walk from MBS. Be there by 7 to beat the line. Jane's note: Uniquely Singapore — definitely worth it.
Anchor MomentDecide One — Friday nightcap (after Lau Pa Sat)
A. Garden Rhapsody at Supertrees — Walk back across the bay for the 8:45pm light show (free, ~15 min).
B. Duxton Road bars — 5-min Grab from Lau Pa Sat. Trendy nightlife area per Fora. 28 HongKong Street (speakeasy) and Native (Top 100 Asian botanicals) are right here. Recommended by both Jane and Fora.
C. Back to hotel — Big day Saturday.
Late
Back to hotel
Big day Saturday.
Saturday, May 30 — Street Food + Katong Peranakan
Light morning · Street Food Tour · Katong evening
8:30 am
Light breakfast at hotel
Save your appetite — the Street Food Tour at 11am will be substantial. Skip the heavy hawker morning; this is the day for measured pacing.
Self Care9:30 am
Optional — light wander
Walk near the hotel, hit Orchard Road shops, or visit Singapore Botanic Gardens (walking distance from Artyzen). Stay close — you need to be at the food tour meet point by 11am.
Optional11:00 am
★ Singapore Street Food Tour
11 AM – 1 PM. Confirmed. Hits multiple hawker centers and iconic dishes — likely covers chwee kueh, laksa, satay, kaya toast, and similar Singaporean staples. This replaces the original morning hawker crawl (Tiong Bahru, Tekka, Banana Leaf Apolo) — the tour delivers a more curated, guided version of the same experience.
Anchor Moment1:00 pm
Hotel rest + pool
You'll be full and warm. Decompress before the evening.
Self CareDecide One — Saturday afternoon (2:30 – 6:30 PM)
A. ★ Hotel rest + pool — Charge up for the Katong dinner marathon. Recommended.
B. Explore Tiong Bahru or Geylang deeper — Per Fora: go deeper into a single neighborhood rather than checklist-hopping. Tiong Bahru is bakery/bookstore/quiet; Geylang has great food and is fun to see (not shady or dangerous per Jane). Pick one.
C. Pick from the Adventure Menu — Botanic Gardens, ArtScience Museum, Long Bar Singapore Sling, etc.
Local input: Jane (SG) says skip the sports angle — "we are not known for sports hahaha." The Saturday afternoon is better spent resting before the Katong marathon or doing one neighborhood deeply.
7:00 pm
Grab to Katong/Joo Chiat
~25 min.
LogisticsDecide One — Saturday dinner (group pick)
A. Guan Hoe Soon — 7:30 PM. Homestyle Peranakan classics: itek sio, ikan asam nanas. Bourdain's Parts Unknown spot. Oldest Peranakan restaurant in Singapore. Walking distance to 328 Katong Laksa for a quick after-dinner stop. Original pick.
B. Candlenut — Per Fora. The world's only Michelin-starred Peranakan restaurant. Refined modern take on the same cuisine. Dempsey Hill area. Reservation essential — book ASAP.
Both are valid: Guan Hoe Soon = grandma's-cooking authentic; Candlenut = Michelin-starred elevation. Reservation needed either way.
9:00 pm
328 Katong Laksa (if Guan Hoe Soon)
5 min away — the laksa you can't leave without. Quick eat. Open till ~9:30. Skip if going to Candlenut (Dempsey area, no nearby laksa stop).
Decide One — Saturday late night (10:00 PM)
A. ★ Hotel & pack — Responsible call. In bed by 11 PM. Wake fresh for the 5 AM alarm. Recommended.
B. Late-night Geylang detour — Grab to Geylang Claypot Rice (Bourdain Tier 1, open late) for one more iconic Bourdain stop. Jane's note: Geylang is the red-light district but not shady or dangerous — fun to check out, and the food is genuinely great. Bedtime closer to midnight; you'll feel it Sunday.
C. CBD cocktail nightcap — Quick drink at Long Bar at Raffles (the Singapore Sling, peanut shells on the floor), Manhattan Bar at Regent (Top 50), 28 HongKong Street (speakeasy), or Native (Asian botanicals, Top 100). One drink, 11:30 PM bedtime.
Bedtime
Alarm set for 5:00 AM · bags by the door
Sunday, May 31 — Departure
Early morning · no activities · on to Bali
5:00 am
Alarm
5:45 am
Grab to Changi
20–30 min.
Logistics6:15 am
Arrive at airport
Check-in, immigration, wander Jewel if time allows before boarding.
9:15 am
Departure — SQ938 to DPS
Arrives Bali ~12:00pm · On to Buahan.
LogisticsPre-Trip Booking Checklist
Hotel
Email Artyzen to request early check-in for Thursday 5 AM arrival
Gardens by the Bay
Book Cloud Forest + Flower Dome combo tickets (Friday 5/29)
Ce La Vie
Reserve table for Friday 5:30 PM
Saturday dinner
Reserve EITHER Guan Hoe Soon (7:30pm, homestyle Peranakan) OR Candlenut (Michelin Peranakan, Dempsey Hill) — group decides. Candlenut books out further, so check first.
Grab app
Download before arrival — cheaper than Uber (Bo's tip)
Smart-casual outfit
Pack one per person for ATLAS (no shorts, no flip-flops)
Sunday airport transfer
Pre-book Grab for 5:45 AM, or arrange with hotel
Choose-Your-Own-Adventure Menu
Optional activities to slot into open windows · Where the flex lives: Thu 12:30–2:30pm, Fri morning + afternoon (biggest open block), Sat 1:00–6:30pm, Fri or Sat late nightcaps
Culture & History
National Gallery Singapore — Largest SE Asian art collection, in the gorgeous old Supreme Court building. 2–3 hrs. Friday afternoon ideal.
ArtScience Museum at MBS — Lotus-shaped, immersive exhibits. 1.5 hrs. Friday afternoon — already heading to MBS for Ce La Vie.
Peranakan Museum — Context for Saturday's Guan Hoe Soon dinner. 1 hr. Friday afternoon.
Buddha Tooth Relic Temple — 5 min walk from Maxwell/Tian Tian, free. 30 min. Thursday 12:30 slot.
Thian Hock Keng Temple — Oldest Chinese temple in Singapore, Telok Ayer Street. 30 min.
ArtScience Museum at MBS — Lotus-shaped, immersive exhibits. 1.5 hrs. Friday afternoon — already heading to MBS for Ce La Vie.
Peranakan Museum — Context for Saturday's Guan Hoe Soon dinner. 1 hr. Friday afternoon.
Buddha Tooth Relic Temple — 5 min walk from Maxwell/Tian Tian, free. 30 min. Thursday 12:30 slot.
Thian Hock Keng Temple — Oldest Chinese temple in Singapore, Telok Ayer Street. 30 min.
Iconic Singapore
Singapore Sling at Long Bar, Raffles — The cocktail's birthplace, peanut shells on the floor. 30–45 min. Any afternoon or nightcap.
Bumboat ride, Singapore River — 40 min, ~S$30, colonial-era views of the quays. Friday afternoon.
Merlion + Marina Bay waterfront walk — Bo's pick. Quick photo stop. Friday before Ce La Vie at 5:30.
Bumboat ride, Singapore River — 40 min, ~S$30, colonial-era views of the quays. Friday afternoon.
Merlion + Marina Bay waterfront walk — Bo's pick. Quick photo stop. Friday before Ce La Vie at 5:30.
Nature
Singapore Botanic Gardens — UNESCO World Heritage, National Orchid Garden inside. Shaded, heat-friendly. 2 hrs. Friday afternoon. Walking distance from the Artyzen.
Henderson Waves + Mount Faber — Wavy pedestrian bridge with skyline views; cable car to Sentosa option. 1 hr.
MacRitchie TreeTop Walk — 3-hour rainforest hike on suspension bridges. Active. Only if you've got energy and time.
Henderson Waves + Mount Faber — Wavy pedestrian bridge with skyline views; cable car to Sentosa option. 1 hr.
MacRitchie TreeTop Walk — 3-hour rainforest hike on suspension bridges. Active. Only if you've got energy and time.
Wellness
Hotel spa / pool — Best during hot midday between activities.
Reflexology at People's Park Complex — Cheap, walk-in, classic Singapore experience. 30–60 min.
Hotel spa booking — Auriga (Capella), Remède (St Regis), Banyan Tree — luxe, book ahead.
Reflexology at People's Park Complex — Cheap, walk-in, classic Singapore experience. 30–60 min.
Hotel spa booking — Auriga (Capella), Remède (St Regis), Banyan Tree — luxe, book ahead.
Shopping
Orchard Road — ION, Ngee Ann City, Takashimaya. Premium malls. Walkable from hotel.
Mustafa Centre, Little India — 24-hour Indian mega-mall. Wild sensory experience, open anytime.
Haji Lane (Kampong Glam) — Boutiques, street murals. 1 hr.
Bugis Street market — Cheap stuff, souvenirs.
Mustafa Centre, Little India — 24-hour Indian mega-mall. Wild sensory experience, open anytime.
Haji Lane (Kampong Glam) — Boutiques, street murals. 1 hr.
Bugis Street market — Cheap stuff, souvenirs.
Quirky / Off-the-Beaten-Path
Haw Par Villa — Bizarre 1937 Chinese mythology theme park with "10 Courts of Hell" dioramas. Free. 1.5 hr. For the dark/weird-curious.
Sultan Mosque — Golden dome, Kampong Glam. Free, 20 min.
Indian Heritage Centre — Little India context, pairs with Saturday Tekka visit. 1 hr.
Emerald Hill shophouses — Off Orchard, gorgeous Peranakan facades. 20 min walk.
Sultan Mosque — Golden dome, Kampong Glam. Free, 20 min.
Indian Heritage Centre — Little India context, pairs with Saturday Tekka visit. 1 hr.
Emerald Hill shophouses — Off Orchard, gorgeous Peranakan facades. 20 min walk.
Nightcap Alternatives
For energy left after Lau Pa Sat (Fri) or Guan Hoe Soon (Sat):
Long Bar at Raffles — The Singapore Sling experience.
Manhattan Bar (Regent) — Top 50 World's Best Bars.
28 HongKong Street — Speakeasy, excellent cocktails.
Native — Asian botanicals, Top 100 World's Best Bars.
Long Bar at Raffles — The Singapore Sling experience.
Manhattan Bar (Regent) — Top 50 World's Best Bars.
28 HongKong Street — Speakeasy, excellent cocktails.
Native — Asian botanicals, Top 100 World's Best Bars.
Notes from Jane (Singapore local)
Tipping
No tipping culture in Singapore. Service charge (10%) and tax (9%) are added at restaurants.
Weather
Very warm — dress light, always bring an umbrella in case of rain.
Chinatown
Tourist spot, just streets with stores. Skip if tired.
Little India
Tourist spot similar to Chinatown — only if you're up for it.
Tian Tian Chicken Rice
Nice but not super special. Chicken rice is everywhere in Singapore — you can eat it anywhere.
Ya Kun
Uniquely Singapore — good call. You can eat at Jewel (mall at Changi Airport) on arrival day.
Lau Pa Sat
Uniquely Singapore — worth it.
Gardens by the Bay
Nice, near the malls — worth checking out.
Tiong Bahru Market
One of the hawkers — good food but there are hawkers everywhere, so not extra special. The neighborhood is nicer than the market itself.
Sports
"We are not known for sports hahaha." Skip the polo/badminton angle.
Geylang
Red-light district, but not shady or dangerous. Fun to check out — and the food is genuinely great.
Notes from Fora (luxury travel)
Must-do restaurants
Candlenut — world's only Michelin-starred Peranakan restaurant, Dempsey Hill. (Burnt Ends was suggested but reservations open only 30 days in advance and are released one day at a time — effectively unavailable for May 29-30.)
Skip
Newton Food Centre (most tourist-heavy hawker center).
Neighborhood approach
Go deeper into one neighborhood (Tiong Bahru, Geylang) rather than checklist-hopping multiple tourist spots.
Duxton Road
Trendy nightlife. 28 HongKong Street and Native are in this area. Strong Friday nightcap option.
Tea tasting
A more refined experience option — can be added if time permits in a free block.
Notes from Bo
Alcohol
Expensive across the board — ATLAS & Ce La Vie are worth the splurge
Payment
Credit cards work almost everywhere, including public transport · Cash only at some old-school hawker stalls
Heat
Singapore heat is brutal — hydrate hard · Indoor/AC midday breaks are built in
Getting around
Grab is cheaper than Uber and works everywhere
Hotel
Artyzen Singapore
9 Cuscaden Road, Orchard, Singapore 249719 · +65 6363 6000 · info.sg@artyzenhotels.com · artyzen.com
About
A heritage lifestyle hotel in Orchard, occupying the restored tropical-garden mansion "Villa Marie." 142 rooms and suites, all with balconies. Outdoor pool, spa, complimentary Mercedes S-Class shuttle around the immediate area. Near Singapore Botanic Gardens and Orchard Road.
Flights — All Four Travelers
May 26 — OMA → MSP
Delta DL3831 · Departs 11:11am · Arrives 12:28pm
May 26–27 — MSP → ICN
Delta DL171 · Departs 1:35pm · Arrives Seoul (ICN) May 27, 5:20pm
May 27–28 — ICN → SIN
Singapore Airlines SQ605 · Departs 11:50pm · Arrives Singapore May 28, 5:00am
May 31 — SIN → DPS
Singapore Airlines SQ938 · Departs 9:15am · Arrives Bali 12:00pm · On to Buahan
Practical Info
Visa
No visa required for US citizens — entry permitted for up to 90 days
Currency
Singapore Dollar (SGD) · 1 USD ≈ 1.35 SGD · Cards widely accepted everywhere
Time zone
GMT+8 · 13 hours ahead of Omaha (CDT)
Emergency services
999 (police/fire/ambulance) · Nearest hospital: Mount Elizabeth · 3 Mount Elizabeth · +65 6737 2666 · ~5 min by taxi
US Embassy
+65 6476 9100 · 27 Napier Road, Singapore
Getting around
Grab (Southeast Asia's Uber) works excellently in Singapore · MRT subway is fast and cheap · Hotel shuttle for the immediate area
Raja4Divers
Pulau Pef · Raja Ampat · Robin, Aaron & Andy · June 2026
A boutique eco dive resort on the private island of Pulau Pef — one of the most biodiverse marine regions on earth. raja4divers.com
Flights — Aaron (Booking Ref: DHS7KW)
June 5 — DPS → Jakarta
Garuda GA0415 · Departs 8:40pm · Arrives Jakarta 9:40pm · Terminal D → Terminal 3 · Seat 07H
June 6 — Jakarta → Sorong
Garuda GA0682 · Departs 12:10am · Arrives Sorong 6:20am · Terminal 3 · Seat 06C
Jakarta layover note
Both flights operate from Terminal 3. Transfer between terminals by sky train takes ~15 min. Terminal layout subject to change due to construction — check information desks on arrival.
Getting There — Sorong to Pulau Pef
Arrive Sorong Saturday June 6
GA0682 arrives Sorong at 6:20am. Raja4Divers picks up at the airport and transfers to the SwissBelhotel for breakfast. Transfer to the harbor at ~10:00am for the boat to Pulau Pef. Note: the resort advises Friday arrival for most guests — Saturday arrivals that land before 9:00am can still make the boat transfer.
Saturday — boat to Pulau Pef
Transfer from hotel to harbor at ~10:00am. Boat trip ~3.5 hours depending on weather. Water and snacks provided on board. Transfer boat waits until 11:00am for delayed flights that should have landed before 9:00am.
Luggage
Raja4Divers collects luggage at the harbor and transfers it to the resort boat. Label and lock all checked bags.
Return Journey
Friday afternoon
Boat transfer from Pulau Pef to Sorong departs ~3:00pm after lunch. Transfer to SwissBelhotel in Sorong for overnight — room, breakfast, and airport transfers included. Dinner not included.
Saturday morning
Raja4Divers transfers guests to Sorong Airport for onward flights.
Booking Confirmation
Dates
June 6–13, 2026 · 6 nights at Raja4Divers + 1 night SwissBelhotel Sorong (return)
Bungalow 1 — Aaron & Robin
Double occupancy · PADI certified 2001, SSI refresher 2026, last dived February 2026 · €1,025 per person + 20% tax = €1,230 each
Bungalow 2 — Andy
Single occupancy · PADI certified 2008, last dived 2023 · €1,525 + 20% tax = €1,830
Diving
Unlimited diving €810 per person (incl. 20% tax) · 3 boat dives/day, Nitrox, tank, weights, guide, optional twilight/night dives on house reef · Individual dives also available
Boat transfer
Sorong ↔ Pulau Pef · €350 per person each way · ~3.5 hours
Dive gear rental
Available on site — Regulator €75 · BCD €50 · Computer €50 (compulsory) · Wetsuit 3mm €50 · Mask & snorkel €25 · Fins €25 · Sorting on arrival
Payment
Via Wise (Brussels account) · Full payment within 10 days of invoice · No credit cards · Separate invoices per bungalow · Guest data sheets arriving by Saturday May 23
Includes
Full board · Drinking water in bungalows · Coffee, tea, snacks · Laundry service · Limited WiFi · Kayak hire · Snorkellers may join dive boats at no extra charge
Essential Information
Payment
Cash only — EUR, CHF, or IDR. Wire transfer also accepted. No credit cards at the resort.
Communication
No mobile phone signal on Pulau Pef. Contact via satellite email: resort@raja4divers.com · Sorong office: +62 (0)811 485 7705
Time zone
Pulau Pef runs GMT+10 (island time — sun sets 7:30pm). Sorong and Raja Ampat are GMT+9. Bali and Singapore are GMT+8.
Visas & arrival card
e-VOA required — evisa.imigrasi.go.id. All Indonesia Digital Arrival Card required — allindonesia.imigrasi.go.id. Some airlines check the arrival card QR code at check-in. Passport valid 6+ months after departure from Indonesia required.
Alcohol
Wines and spirits are difficult to obtain in Raja Ampat. Guests can import 1 litre of alcohol per person duty-free (no duty-free shop on Indonesia arrival). Raja4Divers requests guests bring gin, tequila, Cointreau, Campari, or Pernod from the duty-free shop in Jakarta or Singapore — they reimburse the cost and use it to stock the Pef Bar at reasonable prices.
At the resort
Insect repellent, biodegradable shampoo, soap, and conditioner provided free — please use these rather than bringing your own. Coral-friendly sunscreen available at the island store.
Hand luggage tip
Pack a warm layer in your carry-on — airports and domestic flights in Indonesia can be very cold.
Diving — What to Bring
Gear
Dive and snorkel gear. Long-sleeve/leg wetsuit or dive skin recommended. Limited rental stock — notify Raja4Divers if you need to rent.
Tanks
Aluminium DIN-tanks with INT adaptors provided — no need to bring your own adaptor.
Certification
Dive certification card mandatory. Enriched Air (Nitrox) card mandatory if using nitrox. Certificate of diving fitness strongly recommended.
Insurance
Diving insurance covering emergency evacuation is mandatory. Bring your insurance card as proof.
Baggage tip
Tell the airline you have dive equipment — some or all may be carried at no extra charge depending on the carrier.
Contact
Resort (satellite email)
Booking — Caroline
info@raja4divers.com · Guest data sheets and invoices arriving by Saturday May 23. Payment via Wise (Brussels account).
Sorong office
+62 (0)811 485 7705 · +62 (0)811 485 7711
Website
Emergency Contacts
For family use · Where everyone is and how to reach them
🚨 In a genuine emergency
Call Aaron's US mobile first: +1 (402) 850-7026. Robin's US mobile: +1 (402) 850-1916. If no answer, call the property directly.
May 26–31 · Singapore · Artyzen Singapore
Hotel: +65 6363 6000 · 9 Cuscaden Road, Orchard
Aaron, Robin, John & Allison — all four on same flights
Nearest hospital: Mount Elizabeth Hospital · +65 6737 2666 · ~5 min by taxi
Emergency services: 999 · US Embassy: +65 6476 9100
May 31–June 5 · Bali · Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape
Resort: +62 361 620 8181 · Banjar Selat, Buahan Kaja, Payangan, Gianyar
Yuri (planning): +62 813 9878 9635 · Dian: +62 819 3657 4246
Nearest clinic: BIMC Ubud · +62 361 200 2000 · ~20 min · 24hr
Nearest hospital: Sanglah General, Denpasar · +62 361 227 911 · ~45 min
Emergency services: 110 (police) · 118 (ambulance) · US Embassy Jakarta: +62 21 5083 1000
June 6–13 · Raja Ampat · Raja4Divers, Pulau Pef — NO MOBILE SIGNAL
Satellite email (monitored daily): resort@raja4divers.com
Sorong office: +62 811 485 7705 · +62 811 485 7711 — ask them to relay urgently
Booking / Caroline: info@raja4divers.com
Nearest hospital: RSUD Raja Ampat, Waisai · ~3.5 hrs by boat · resort coordinates evacuation
Dive emergency (DAN, 24hr): +1 (919) 684-9111
Where They Are — Day by Day
May 26–31 · Singapore
Aaron, Robin, John & Allison
All four on same flights
Aaron, Robin, John & Allison
All four on same flights
All four depart Omaha together May 26 on Delta DL3831 → DL171 → SQ605 via Seoul. Arrive Singapore May 28, 5:00am. Depart together for Bali May 31 on SQ938.
Hotel — Artyzen Singapore
9 Cuscaden Road, Orchard, Singapore 249719
+65 6363 6000 · info.sg@artyzenhotels.com · artyzen.com
Nearest hospital — Mount Elizabeth Hospital
3 Mount Elizabeth, Singapore 228510 · +65 6737 2666 · ~5 min by taxi
Aaron mobile: +1 (402) 850-7026 · Robin mobile: +1 (402) 850-1916
John mobile: +1 (402) 779-6457 · Allison mobile: +1 (402) 968-4023
Emergency: 999 · US Embassy: +65 6476 9100
Hotel — Artyzen Singapore
9 Cuscaden Road, Orchard, Singapore 249719
+65 6363 6000 · info.sg@artyzenhotels.com · artyzen.com
Nearest hospital — Mount Elizabeth Hospital
3 Mount Elizabeth, Singapore 228510 · +65 6737 2666 · ~5 min by taxi
Aaron mobile: +1 (402) 850-7026 · Robin mobile: +1 (402) 850-1916
John mobile: +1 (402) 779-6457 · Allison mobile: +1 (402) 968-4023
Emergency: 999 · US Embassy: +65 6476 9100
May 31–June 5 · Buahan
All 9 guests
All 9 guests
Resort — Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape
Banjar Selat, Buahan Kaja, Payangan, Gianyar, Bali 80572
+62 361 620 8181 · Reservations-Buahan@banyantree.com · escape.banyantree.com
Nearest clinic — BIMC Ubud
Jl. Raya Sanggingan, Ubud · +62 361 200 2000 · ~20 min drive · 24hr
Nearest major hospital — Sanglah General Hospital
Jl. Diponegoro, Denpasar · +62 361 227 911 · ~45 min drive
Yuri (Sales & Planning): +62 813 9878 9635
Dian (Asst. Director of Sales): +62 819 3657 4246
Resort email: Reservations-Buahan@banyantree.com
Aaron mobile: +1 (402) 850-7026
June 3 note: Robin, Aaron, Karen, Taylor & Dusty will be on Mount Batur (volcano hike) from approximately 2:00am–9:00am and unreachable. Contact the resort — they will relay urgent messages.
Banjar Selat, Buahan Kaja, Payangan, Gianyar, Bali 80572
+62 361 620 8181 · Reservations-Buahan@banyantree.com · escape.banyantree.com
Nearest clinic — BIMC Ubud
Jl. Raya Sanggingan, Ubud · +62 361 200 2000 · ~20 min drive · 24hr
Nearest major hospital — Sanglah General Hospital
Jl. Diponegoro, Denpasar · +62 361 227 911 · ~45 min drive
Yuri (Sales & Planning): +62 813 9878 9635
Dian (Asst. Director of Sales): +62 819 3657 4246
Resort email: Reservations-Buahan@banyantree.com
Aaron mobile: +1 (402) 850-7026
June 3 note: Robin, Aaron, Karen, Taylor & Dusty will be on Mount Batur (volcano hike) from approximately 2:00am–9:00am and unreachable. Contact the resort — they will relay urgent messages.
June 5 · In transit
Aaron & Robin
Aaron & Robin
Overnight flights: DPS → Jakarta (GA0415, departs 8:40pm) → Sorong (GA0682, departs 12:10am, arrives 6:20am June 6). Booking ref: DHS7KW.
Aaron mobile: +1 (402) 850-7026 · Garuda Indonesia: +62 21 2351 9999
Aaron mobile: +1 (402) 850-7026 · Garuda Indonesia: +62 21 2351 9999
June 6 morning · SwissBelhotel Sorong
Aaron, Robin & Andy
Aaron, Robin & Andy
Arrive Sorong 6:20am, breakfast at hotel, then boat transfer at ~10:00am.
Raja4Divers Sorong office: +62 811 485 7705 · Aaron mobile: +1 (402) 850-7026
Raja4Divers Sorong office: +62 811 485 7705 · Aaron mobile: +1 (402) 850-7026
June 6–13 · Raja4Divers, Pulau Pef
Aaron, Robin & Andy
Aaron, Robin & Andy
Resort — Raja4Divers, Pulau Pef
Raja Ampat, West Papua, Indonesia · GMT+10 (island time)
No mobile signal on the island.
Satellite email (monitored daily): resort@raja4divers.com
Booking / Caroline: info@raja4divers.com
Sorong office: +62 811 485 7705 · +62 811 485 7711
Nearest medical — RSUD Raja Ampat
Waisai, Raja Ampat · ~3.5 hrs by boat from Pulau Pef · Medical evacuation coordinated by resort
Dive emergency (DAN): +1 (919) 684-9111 (24hr international line)
To reach Aaron or Robin: Email resort@raja4divers.com — the team has satellite internet and will deliver messages. For a true emergency, call the Sorong office and ask them to relay urgently.
Raja Ampat, West Papua, Indonesia · GMT+10 (island time)
No mobile signal on the island.
Satellite email (monitored daily): resort@raja4divers.com
Booking / Caroline: info@raja4divers.com
Sorong office: +62 811 485 7705 · +62 811 485 7711
Nearest medical — RSUD Raja Ampat
Waisai, Raja Ampat · ~3.5 hrs by boat from Pulau Pef · Medical evacuation coordinated by resort
Dive emergency (DAN): +1 (919) 684-9111 (24hr international line)
To reach Aaron or Robin: Email resort@raja4divers.com — the team has satellite internet and will deliver messages. For a true emergency, call the Sorong office and ask them to relay urgently.
June 13+ · Return
Aaron & Robin
Aaron & Robin
Return flights TBD. Expected route: Sorong → Jakarta → Seoul (ICN) → Salt Lake City → Omaha. Aaron will share details before departure.
Aaron mobile: +1 (402) 850-7026
Aaron mobile: +1 (402) 850-7026
Group Members — At a Glance
Aaron Shaddy
+1 (402) 850-7026 · ashaddy@gmail.com · With Robin throughout
Robin Shaddy
+1 (402) 850-1916 · rshaddy@gmail.com · With Aaron throughout
Andy Stoll
+1 (319) 855-0895 · andy@stoll.net · Buahan May 31–June 5 · Raja4Divers June 6–13
John Ashford
+1 (402) 779-6457 · johnnyash5@gmail.com · Singapore May 26–31 · Buahan May 31–June 4 · Departs Bali June 5, 1:00am
Allison Ashford
+1 (402) 968-4023 · allisonramey@gmail.com · Singapore May 26–31 · Buahan May 31–June 4 · Departs Bali June 5, 1:00am
Karen Borchert
+1 (402) 215-8360 · karenborchert@gmail.com · Buahan May 29–June 4 · Departs Bali June 5, 1:00am
Taylor Borchert
+1 (402) 214-2351 · taylorborchert@gmail.com · Buahan May 29–June 4 · Departs Bali June 5, 1:00am
Dusty Davidson
+1 (515) 231-2903 · dusty@brightmix.com · Buahan May 29–June 4 · Departs Bali June 5, 1:00am
Julie DeWitt
+1 (402) 871-8552 · julie.dewitt12@gmail.com · Buahan May 31–June 5 · Departs Bali June 6, 1:00am
Emergency Services
Bali — Medical (BIMC Kuta)
+62 361 484 948 · 24hr English-speaking international hospital
Bali — Emergency numbers
110 (police) · 118 (ambulance) · 113 (fire)
US Embassy Jakarta
+62 21 5083 1000 (24hr emergency line)
US Embassy Singapore
+65 6476 9100
Raja Ampat — Nearest hospital
RSUD Raja Ampat, Waisai · ~3.5hrs by boat from Pulau Pef · Medical evacuation coordinated via resort
DAN — Dive Emergency (24hr)
+1 (919) 684-9111 · Divers Alert Network — international diving emergency line
Prepared May 26, 2026 · For family use only · Not for distribution