When the toughest decision you need to make is whether to soak in your private plunge pool or dive into the over 12,000 square foot turquoise lagoon pool right outside your villa, you know you’re vacationing at a once-in-a-lifetime resort. That was the case for me last summer when I spent almost two weeks at the St. Regis resort in Bali. I was only supposed to be there for a few days, but after being spoiled with lobster omelettes and freshly made dumplings for breakfast every day, soothing massages in the zen -like spa, and relaxing in the exquisitely decorated villa, I had to extend my stay until work forced me to return home. Once you cross the private bridge onto the St. Regis property, you enter a different world, and what a world it is! The staff caters to your every need and is happy to surprise you with your favorite sushi roll or a complimentary glass of the house specialty cocktail just when you need it. The rooms are decorated with typical Balinese limestone and dark woods with custom glass lamps and lighting fixtures that blend well with the local accessories. Eating dinner al fresco in the resort’s formal restaurant was a treat I will never forget, and the pastry chef made sure we ended our meal with a bang as he crafted desserts that were as ornate as they were delicious.
— Ricci DeMartino
