COMO Shambhala Estate (formerly known as Begawan Giri)
I still don’t know how exactly it happened, but I ended up with being upgraded to one of the private houses at Begawan Giri (I had my booking for the smallest & cheapest room). The house had a lovely name, Sukma Taru (Spirit Tree), and it had 2 dedicated butlers (I felt too humble to ask for anything to them and they had to force me to let them serve afternoon tea every day…), 2 huge bedrooms (one of which I never used), a living room (which I never used), a terrace for lounging, indoor and outdoor bath & shower and its own big swimming pool. I felt completely out of place… Didn’t complain about the upgrade though.
Talking of spirit, I have never been a spiritual person. But the village of Ubud, near the hotel, was very beautiful with full of Hindu culture and I was convinced that the place was enchanted, especially in the evening.
Begawan Giri was definitely one of the best places I have ever stayed and the staff was absolutely charming, helpful and friendly. I made one of the restaurant staff cry because I was so upset and in tears on my departure. I really hope that one day I can go back to this magical place.
