The following morning we went back to Sawah Terrace which is where breakfast is served daily. A combination of buffet and a la carte items are available, with some variation in the hot dishes daily. We took our time to fill up, with few other guests around on Christmas morning



Also a congee and noodle station











Cheeses and cold cuts



Sashimi





Mrs. ChongL went ham on the mangosteen, which is by far her favorite fruit



Daily offering of juices and smoothies are available. They will even provide cold pressed apple juice (since the kids wanted apple juice and there was none on offer)

















A local style pancake and mud cake





A la carte menu









A slightly modified a la carte menu was presented on our final days with new dishes







We had a half day excursion booked and there was some flexibility and ability to tailor the experience without opting for the customized tour. Although the red VW shown below is the customary vehicle and the one most people take, our patih suggested we take the bigger car since it would be more comfortable with the kids



It worked out for the best since the kids actually preferred the white car below because it looked like an off-road vehicle to them!



Back to the lobby area and past this Christmas tree to sign a quick disclaimer form and we were on our way. Our guide and driver pointed out landmarks and interesting things along the drive, which was about 45 minutes until our first stop. It may have been longer than necessary since they actually went out of their way to find uneven or unpaved roads so the boys could go off-road as they frequently requested



Passing by numerous rice fields













We saw quite a few loads of pigs being transported, likely to be BBQ’d as it was an auspicious day on the Balinese calendar



More rice fields



Nearing Tegallalang Rice Terrace (also known as Ceking Rice Terrace), which was our first stop of the day



We were dropped off at the entrance where our guide handled the entrance fee and led us in. We were greeted by an “I Love Bali” sign and some yelling to the side where people were getting launched into the air on swings for their Instagram-shots. We made our way down the narrow dirt paths and descended a few levels to take in the beautiful views. Although early in the day, the sun and humidity were already taking a toll on us















After a bathroom break, we returned to the car where we were given cold towels and water to help us cool off. I started wondering if we would even make it through the half day with the heat and cargo. Yes, I said cargo since mini-ChongL #2 is too lazy to walk and demanded to be carried. At some times, it was for the better with the steep stairs and narrow pathways, but boy was it a workout. We continued to our 2nd point of interest, seeking out dirt roads for the minis’ enjoyment







Passing smaller rice patties on the way





After getting dropped off in the parking lot, we crossed the street and descended down a steep flight of stairs into a cool, damp area paved by large stones over water





Eventually, this led toward the soothing sound of a waterfall. We hung out here for a little bit and let the minis stretch their legs before deciding to return to the car



Now, the hike back up the stairs was not pleasant at all. My legs were burning, and the Mrs. and I had to trade off the cargo to get back up to the top. Once we got back to the car, another cold towel and water refreshed us, and we were off to the water temple





It was extra busy today as our guide reiterated it was a good day on the Balinese calendar. Many locals and tourists come to perform a cleansing ritual at the temple



Presidential palace in the background



A higher vantage point of all the people awaiting their turn





Water supplied by underground spring



In other areas of the temple, many are praying and making an offering to the gods



On the way out, we came across a koi pond where we made a quick stop to feed them. A light sprinkle had started at this point, quickly strengthening into an outright downpour. We made it back to the car before the heaviest rain had hit and the driver had already pulled down the clear side covering to keep the interior dry



From there we head off to our picnic lunch, which to our surprise was at a coffee plantation. At first we refused the umbrellas since we thought it would be a short walk, but it turned out to be a good minute or 2 away where we were shown how the beans were processed





Rain still coming down heavily



Toasting the beans



We went further to another covered area with benches where we had a simple, but satisfying lunch





Looking across the valley



Finally, we had a flight of coffees and teas to sample before heading back toward the hotel. Luckily both kiddos had fallen asleep by this point so we were able to avoid further off-roading





We came back to the room to a nice surprise. Knowing that the kids were very enthusiastic about cars, our patih left them a small, but thoughtful gift for them



The tour ended up being one of our favorite things we did on this trip. We were initially hesitant to do the waterfall or the water temple, but ended up thoroughly enjoying every minute of the experience. It makes sense as to why this was the resort’s most popular excursion since it exposes guests to a wide gamut of experiences. It allowed us to get outside of the resort, and while still touristy, gave us a different perspective on Bali, especially seeing the locals in the small shops and towns going about their day. Next time we return, we plan to go to some local markets to get a more genuine experience

Next up: An anniversary upgrade, and more dining