20 April 2015
By Paula McInerney, Contented Traveller.
I had not seen Eat. Pray. Love. when I had this interesting experience, though I did know the basic premise of the story. It was when we decided to stay at Murni’s, an institution in Ubud, that I was asked whether I wanted a number of things; one of these being a tarot card reading. I guess with all of the hype of the book and the movie and the fact that many people in Ubud seem to be into this spiritual stuff, so tarot cards are trendy.
I had to think about it because I have never actually done anything like this before. I agreed because I thought it would make a good story, to be honest, and also because the lady is a published author, and that is always interesting. Her name is Novi.
I was a little nervous about such an experience but being a born skeptic thought that I might just be able to have some fun and meet an interesting lady. I brought Gordon with me to sit quietly and take a picture or 2 with Novi’s permission. I have no secrets from him. He had decided not to have a tarot card reading.
She asked me my full name and then thought about it. She then asked me my date of birth. She then appeared to go into a trance and I was freaked. Then she said she would shuffle the cards, and then I would shuffle them and give them back to her, which I did. Remember I would not know what one tarot card looked like from another anyhow…and besides, I had heard enough. She then spread them over the table and asked me to select 10.
She then turned 3 over to start with … and then it started. She had me nailed totally. She knew me so well, and it would have been impossible for her to know the things that she did. She then started turning the rest of the cards over, and her knowledge of me was unbelievable. She asked if I had any questions, but I didn’t know of any to ask. I think I was in a state of shock. She had come so highly recommended and I can see why.
Gordon was also in a state of shock having nearly nodded his head off the whole way through, agreeing with her. He then had his tarot cards read by Novi, and again pinpoint accuracy right down to a specific event at a specific time in his life. OMG.
Novi was originally from Java but now lives in Ubud, Bali.
So what was the analysis of me? I am not telling all – but, in a nutshell, I am a very hard worker, (control freak) with the kindest heart ever. Works for me.
Thanks to Flipkey for sponsoring us at Murni’s, otherwise we would not have had this confronting experience – and I am saying that in a good way.
Traditional Balinese painting classes are available at Murni’s Houses & Spa for artists and budding artists for guests staying at Murni’s Houses.
No experience is necessary.
Dewa, our talented local artist, who has been painting (and selling) from the age of 13, and has had exhibitions in Bali, will happily come to Murni’s Houses and teach you one-to-one. He will bring the canvas, brushes and paints and help you create a beautiful painting.
His English is good and his patience is limitless. Together you can decide the style and where you would like to paint – the garden, the lobby or the privacy of your own veranda.
He will help you draw the outline, if you need help, and give you ideas. He will guide you through to the finished product, which you can put in your suitcase and carry home.
He is full of ideas and has even created a way of painting with coffee. He’s willing to teach this unusual technique too – it’s quick and not difficult.
And if you like, he’ll also teach you how to paint wooden eggs like a pro!
Classes are charged by the hour. Materials are included.
Most people can paint a lovely picture in 2 or 3 hours.
Best times are between 10 am and 6 pm any day, subject to Dewa’s availability.
Book as much in advance as possible. Please tell us how long you would like to book.
Murni’s Houses guests can now enjoy an incredible helicopter experience flying over Bali with Helicopter Sky Tours. Perfect for an unforgettable wedding proposal! The Kintamani Volcano and Bedugul Lakes Sky Tours are stunning and a ‘must do’ while in Bali.
Prices are per flight (not per person).
It will just be for your group.
From 1 to 5 adult passengers. A child can be an extra 6th passenger. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Let us know the time you would like within the Flight Time Availability. It will be subject to flying conditions.
Minimum of 1 day’s notice.
7 HELICOPTER SKY TOURS OPTIONS
KINTAMANI VOLCANO SKY TOUR – ST1
(no landing – round trip)
From the air is the only way to see the spectacular Kintamani Volcano and Caldera lake, renowned as Bali’s most famous landmark.
Flight Time Availability: 7am to midday
Approximate Flight Time: About 25 minutes
ULUWATU TEMPLE & COASTAL SKY TOUR – ST2
(no landing – round trip)
Flying low over Bali’s beautiful southern coastline, highlighting Dreamland beach and Uluwatu’s spectacular temple perched high on its towering white limestone cliff.
Flight Time Availability: 9am to 6 pm
Approximate Flight Time: About 60 minutes
BEDUGUL LAKES SKY TOUR – ST3
(no landing – round trip)
Bedugul is famous for its three crater lakes, water temple and nearby botanical gardens.
Flight Time Availability: 9am to 6 pm
Approximate Flight Time: About 35 minutes
KUTA BEACH SKY TOUR – ST4
(no landing – round trip)
Fly over the long white sandy beach of Kuta, an iconic world surfing landmark.
Flight Time Availability: 9am to 6 pm
Approximate Flight Time: About 40 minutes
TANAH LOT TEMPLE – ST5
(no landing – round trip)
Flying South to the Hindu Temple of Tanah Lot, Bali’s most popular tourist and cultural icon for photography and general exoticism.
Flight Time Availability: 9am to 6 pm
Approximate Flight Time: About 35 minutes
NUSA LEMBONGAN & NUSA PENIDA COASTAL SKY TOUR – ST6
(no landing – round trip)
These islands feature stunning white cliffs and deserted white beaches. Crystal bay, famous for its shimmering swathes of sand and aquamarine waters.
Flight Time Availability: 9am to 6 pm
Approximate Flight Time: About 60 minutes
GILI ISLANDS SKY TOUR – ST7
(no landing – round trip).
The Gili Islands are perfect for a tropical island experience with their clear white coral beaches and turquoise waters offering some of the best dive sites in Asia.
Flight Time Availability: 9am to 6 pm
Approximate Flight Time: About 86 minutes
Optional landing plus 2 hours waiting time: Rp.8,000,000 (price includes landing fee and waiting time only).
Book as much in advance as possible – we’ll call the company and arrange for you to be picked up at Murni’s Houses and dropped back.
Email: murni (at) murnis.com or tell Reception.
We need the tour, the time you would like to fly and for all passengers:
full name
weight, and
passport number.
You pay them direct.
Pick up is usually about an hour before the flight. Pay them direct on the day before the flight. They accept rupiahs and credit cards.
Check the current rates at time of booking.
Pick up times are subject to traffic conditions.
If the payload of passengers and luggage exceeds the payload limitation or exceeds the maximum number of passengers per flight (maximum 6 pax/flight and not more than a payload allocation of 550 kgs), the flight will not operate.
The company reserves the right to refuse any passenger whose condition presents an actual or potential safety hazard or risk (including impairment and intoxication from alcohol and drugs) to passengers, crew, staff or property.
You can inspect the company’s flight liability passenger insurance, which is provided in accordance with standard aviation regulations.
No smoking or consumption of alcohol is allowed on board the helicopter.
Damage done to property by a passenger will be charged to the passenger.
The locals love it when you try and speak Indonesian and for sure you’ll get better prices in the shops as well as having a lot of fun!
Bahasa Indonesia is not as difficult as many other languages. There are no tenses. Verbs aren’t conjugated. Plurals are often just repeating the same word twice. Same alphabet as in English and it’s pretty much spoken as it’s written. There are no tones. You can get by nicely on less than 500 words.
Balinese is a bit more difficult!
We are lucky to have a very experienced and patient teacher, Nyoman, who will happily give guests staying at Murni’s Houses classes right here at Murni’s Houses.
She’s been teaching expats and visitors since 1992 and can teach any level. She will concentrate on anything you wish.
90 minute class.
No minimum number of students.
Book as much in advance as possible. She is quite a busy lady.
Traditional Balinese Dancing classes are available for guests staying at Murni’s Houses. Classes are in the afternoon.
No experience is necessary. The Balinese Dancing lessons are tailor-made to your experience and interests.
Sriyani was born in Payangan and began dancing at the age of 8 and gained experience at many temple ceremonies in Bali. She graduated from STSI University in Denpasar. She performs at Ubud Palace and is very active teaching dance.
She has a very patient teaching manner and teaches males and females. You will learn good technique and posture.
Beginners Balinese Dancing Classes: a welcome dance such as Gabor, Pendet or Puspajali.
Dancers with experience: Legong or Baris.
If you have a particular dance in mind, please ask.
Book as much in advance as possible. Email: murni at murnis.com or tell Reception.
We will call the dancer. If you want to hire a dance costume, please let us know. The cost is different for each costume. It’s great for exercise and photos.
Batik painting is very Indonesian. The batik course may be from 1 to 5 days, in the mornings, from about 10 am to 2 pm. If you wish you can use your optional activities to go on more than one course. You can learn the art of batik from a very basic level to a more advanced stage as desired!
1 and 2 days covers:
Brief introduction to the “story” of batik
The materials and tools used
The techniques for painting with canting and brush
Hand colour & dip dyeing in 3 to 4 colours
Dyeing sequence
Wax removal
Finishing touches for final product
3 and 4 days covers:
As above, but with the addition of :
Expanded knowledge of types of wax and effects that can be created (eg. wax and cracking)
More variation of colour through hand painting
and dip dyeing
Wider use of tools (large, small spout cantings)
Working on 2 pieces of work to utilise a variety of
techniques
5 days course covers:
Includes both of the above
but allows the student to experiment more independently using the knowledge gained in the first three – four days to bemore creative – yet still under guidance of the teacher
Learn how to make Balinese Offerings.
Offerings are called banten in Balinese, a word that may come from the Sanskrit word ‘bali’, which means ‘tribute’, ‘obligation’ or ‘gift’. This may even be the origin of the name of the island. You see them everywhere in Bali.
An offering is something that is offered for a religious purpose. It can be anything. Dances, music, cockfights and readings from the scriptures in the temple are all offerings.
More common, however, are offerings made of natural, perishable materials, like food, fruit and flowers. There is a chapter on them in our book Secrets of Bali.
We will show you how to make a beautiful offering called a canang and you will see how easy – or difficult – it is.
Book as much in advance as possible.
We will provide the materials, palm leaves and flowers.
Discover the secrets of Balinese food with Janet De Neefe and her team. Explore cooking techniques and the fascinating kitchen myths of this unique culture followed by a lavish Balinese feast and complete recipes.
Mondays Focus on Fish
9.30 am – 1.00 pm
Spiced fish in banana leaves
Asian spinach in tomato sambal
Black rice pudding
Fragrant fish curry
Carrot & cucumber salad
Tuesdays Market Tour
8.00 am – 1.00 pm
Mie goreng
Roasted white eggplant
Green coconut crepes
Tempe curry
Fern salad
Visit the bustling Gianyar night market at dusk and experience the ambiance of a Balinese pasar. Learn as you stroll through the markets about the local snacks and traditional market food. This is followed by an open-air dinner of home-cooked specialties, from braised chicken to marinated satay, spicy greens and suckling pig. Refreshments included. Meet at Honeymoon Kitchen at the Honeymoon Guesthouse at 5.15pm. CLASS NOT INCLUDED
Rp 400,000 per person
Friday Night Market Tour
5.15 pm – 8.30 pm
Visit the bustling Gianyar night market at dusk and experience the ambiance of a Balinese pasar. Learn as you stroll through the markets about the local snacks and traditional market food. This is followed by an open-air dinner of home-cooked specialties, from braised chicken to marinated satay, spicy greens and suckling pig. Refreshments included. Meet at Honeymoon Kitchen at the Honeymoon Guesthouse at 5.15pm. CLASS NOT INCLUDED
Rp 400,000 per person
Saturday Food as Medicine Vegan Class
9.30 am – 1.00 pm
Discover the extraordinary healing properties of spices and their colourful history. Enjoy pumpkin curry, tempe with fresh lemon basil, roasted coconut banana flower salad, seasonal greens and red rice followed by non-dairy coconut ice cream. Recipes included.
Rp 450,000 per person
Sunday Twilight Smoked Duck Class
5.30 pm – 9.00 pm
Learn the secrets in making one of Bali’s most celebrated dishes. The lavish smoked duck feast includes lawar, yellow rice & coconut ice-cream . Served with rice wine.
Rp 500,000 per person
NOTE:
All classes require advance registration. This is to ensure that there are enough ingredients for everyone.
Booked on a first come basis.
No refunds, returns, or exchanges will be given for cancellations made less than 2 days (48 hours) prior to the class date.
There are a minimum number of students required in order for a class to occur. Casa Luna Cooking School reserves the right to cancel a class due to unforeseen circumstances.
Closed toe shoes are recommended for all hands-on classes.
Dangling or excessive jewelry as well as loose hanging clothing is not recommended.
Book as much in advance as possible.
We will call for you and book it.
Email: murni at murnis.com or tell Reception.
Market & Gourmet tours depart from Casa Luna.
All other classes meet at Second Honeymoon Guesthouse, Jalan Bisma Ubud.
All bookings must be paid in full prior to the event.
To contact us:
Please fill in the form or, if you wish, email us at: murni (at) murnis.com
We always reply within 24 hours, usually more quickly.
If you don’t get a reply using the form, something has gone wrong, so please email us.
Murni
Bali Hai Day Cruises: Lembongan and Nusa Penida Islands
Cruises, snorkeling or scuba diving or a boat trip to a deserted island.
We can book these for guests staying at Murni’s Houses & Spa.
Lembongan Island Reef Cruise
Pick up time: 7.15 am – 7.30 am.
Boarding 8.35 am – return at 3.15 pm – arrives 4.15 pm.
Morning/afternoon tea, coffee and snacks
Buffet Lunch, Fun Activities including Unlimited Banana Boat Rides and a thrilling 35 meter water slide, Coral Reef Restoration Tour, Lembongan Village Excursion, Free Snorkeling Equipment, Locker.
Boarding 8.35 am – return at 3.15 pm – arrives 4.15 pm. 13.35 Treasure Hunt for Children.
Morning/afternoon tea, coffee and snacks
BBQ Lunch. You can drop kids off at the Kid’s Club. Access to Snorkelling Reef Pontoon. Unlimited Banana Boat Rides. Beach Club Facilities, including volleyball and pool. Sunbathing. Coral Reef Restoration Tour. Lembongan Village Excursion. Free Snorkeling Equipment and Instruction. Locker.
Lunch. Volley Ball. Treasure Hunt for Children. Tug of War on the Beach. Access to Snorkelling Reef Pontoon. Snorkelling tours. Unlimited Banana Boat Rides. Coral Reef Restoration Tour. Lembongan Village Excursion. Free Snorkeling Equipment and Instruction. Locker.
Aquanauts is a new marine adventure. A unique underwater experience which allows you to breathe underwater while walking amongst Indonesia’s vibrant tropical reefs and diverse marine life. Not for suitable children under 9 years.
Book as much in advance as possible – we’ll call the company and arrange for you to be picked up.
What to bring:
Towel (except for Sunset Dinner Cruise)
Sunscreen (except for Sunset Dinner Cruise)
Sun hat (except for Sunset Dinner Cruise)
Swimming costume (except for Sunset Dinner Cruise)
Camera
Money for drinks, souvenirs and optional activities.
June 2022
Lembongan Island Reef Cruise
Pick up time: 7.15 am – 7.30 am.
9.15 am – 4.15 pm.
Morning/afternoon tea, coffee and snacks
International Buffet Lunch, Guided Village Tour, Unlimited Banana Boat Rides, Snorkelling Equipment and Instruction, Semi-Submersible Coral Viewer
Aquanauts is a new marine adventure. A unique underwater experience which allows you to breathe underwater while walking amongst Indonesia’s vibrant tropical reefs and diverse marine life. Not for suitable children under 9 years.
For Cruises, snorkeling or scuba diving or a boat trip to a deserted island:
Email us for the prices. Note that prices can change.
You will be conducted on a walk amid the rice paddies of Ubud.
You will discover herbs that grow along the edges of the rice paddies.
You will see turmeric and coconut palms, taro plants and banana trees, lemon grass and citronella, soursop, jackfruit, pineapple and breadfruit growing side by side.
We will pull, pick and crush roots and leaves and smell the strong fragrances. We will stop to taste edible leaves, suck the nectar out of the red flowers of the closed hibiscus tree, and drink fresh, young coconut juice.
Included:
herbal tea
herbal drinks
Balinese cake
tropical fruit
Bring comfortable foot wear with non-slip soles, as the walk can be wet and muddy, as well as a hat and sun block and a camera.
9 am meet at Puri Lukisan Museum on the main road.
Ends about 11.30 am.
Book as much in advance as possible.
Email: murni (at) murnis.com or tell Reception.
We will call them for you, check availability and reserve the places.
Bali Bird Walks will take you on a variety of trails around the countryside of Ubud.
Following a brief introductory talk, we set off on our walk, for about 3 1/2 hours, 5 or 6 kilometres, and returning for lunch about 12.30 pm.
Over 100 species of birds are found around Ubud, of which you are bound to see 30 or so, including Indonesian endemics such as Java Kingfisher, Bar-winged Prinia, Black-winged Starling, Scarlet-headed Flowerpecker, Java Sparrow, and many brilliant birds.
You may also see Birdwing and Swallowtail butterflies, different types of rice cultivation, rustic temples and monuments, magnificent trees, stunning scenery, and wildflowers.
Bali Bird Walks provide:
lunch
cool Aqua on the trails
coffee and tea, and
a limited number of binoculars
Bring comfortable footwear with non-slip soles, as the walk can be wet and muddy, as well as a hat and sun block and a camera.
Elephant Safari Park Rafting Trekking and Cycling can be booked in any combination.
Enjoy an incredible experience riding and even bathing with the elephants as they take their morning bath, and that includes the babies. It’s also possible to combine this with other activities, such as cycling and/or white water rafting.
Bathe and Breakfast with the Elephants Tour
Pick up time*: 6.30 – 7.00 am
Continental or American Breakfast, Bathing the Elephants, Elephant Show, Safari Ride
Bathe and Breakfast with the Elephants and White Water Rafting Tour
Pick up time*: 6.30 – 7.00 am
Continental or American Breakfast, Bathing the Elephants, Elephant Show, Safari Ride, White Water Rafting, Buffet Lunch
Elephant Safari Park Ride Tour
Pick up time*: 8.00 – 8.30 am or 1.30 – 2.00 pm
Gourmet Buffet lunch, Elephant Show, Safari Ride
Elephant Safari Park Tour
Pick up time*: 8.00 – 8.30 am or 1.30 – 2.00 pm
Gourmet Buffet lunch and Elephant Show
Elephant Safari under the Stars
Pick up time*: 4.30 – 5.00 pm
Night Safari, Show and Dinner
Afternoon Rafting, Elephant Night Safari, Show and Dinner
Pick up time*: 12.30 – 1.00 pm
Rafting, Elephant Safari Night Ride, Show, Dinner
Afternoon Cycling, Night Safari, Show and Dinner
Pick up time*: 1.30 – 2.00 pm
Cycling, Elephant Safari Night Ride, Show, Dinner, insurance included
Trekking and Safari Ride
Pick up time*: 9.00 – 9.30 am
Gourmet Buffet lunch, Elephant Ride, insurance included
Rafting & Elephant Safari Ride
Pick up time*: 8.15 – 8.45am.
Gourmet Buffet lunch, Elephant Show, Safari Ride
Rafting & Elephant Park Visit
Pick up time*: 8.15 – 8.45am.
Rafting, Gourmet Buffet Lunch, Elephant Safari Park Entrance, (Safari Ride not included)
White Water Rafting is an exhilarating rafting adventure on the beautiful Ayung River.
The river stretch is 8 km through 27 class II and III rapids in a wild unspoiled rainforest, towering gorges and magnificent rice paddy terraces.
Professionally trained and experienced guides pilot safety-equipped Avon rafts through the best river runs, dramatic drops and spectacular waterfalls to make your Bali rafting ride a fun and awesome experience.
It takes about 1 1/2 hours. There are hot showers, clean towels and changing rooms.
Morning
Pick up time*: 9.00 – 9.00am
Gourmet Buffet Lunch, hot showers, changing rooms
Afternoon
Pick up time*: 1.00 – 2.00pm.
Gourmet Buffet Lunch, hot showers, changing rooms
We will send prices of White Water Rafting to guests staying at Murni’s Houses.
Join us for this amazing trek on the active volcano, Mount Batur. Starting in the dark of the early morning, ascend to the highest peak and crater for a glorious sunrise and stunning morning views.
From the beautiful lake of Mount Batur, climbing up to its summit, witnessing the large troop of monkeys exit the largest crater, pass by steam fissures where we cook our eggs for breakfast, relax and enjoy morning tea or coffee with the warmth of the early rays of the sun in the breathtaking panorama of the volcanic landscape.
After resting and feeling recharged, experienced guides will explain the history of the volcano as you continue your trek along the rim of the caldera, observe steaming fissures, explore the three younger craters and the most recent lava flows, marveling at the varied landscapes. On clear days it is possible to see Mount Rinjani in Lombok.
Conclude your trek with a delightful descent through farmlands and bountiful fields of tomatoes, spinach and other crops. Venturing back down the mountain, enjoy a scenic drive through Kintamani and its neighboring villages.
Stop along the way for an educational visit to a Bali coffee plantation where you can sample fresh coffee or cocoa as you observe the roasting process, and personally see the unusual process of the well-known Coffee Luwak.
The Mount Batur Volcano Sunrise Trek is a relatively easy climb and is suitable for most persons and children. It is one of the most attractive volcanoes and you can usually bet on a gorgeous sunrise and splendid views of the lake and surrounding mountains in the morning and the rocky beauty of an active volcano.
Suggested clothing for climbing: sport shoes, coat and long pants.
Tour includes:
Air conditioned hotel transfer
Tea or coffee and light breakfast
Mineral drinking water
English speaking climbing guide
Safety equipment
Stunning scenery and photo opportunities
Pick up is about 2.30 am and return between 10 am and 11 am.
This special opportunity for Tarot readings is for guests staying at Murni’s Houses & Spa.
You will visit Novi in her own house for a Tarot reading.
You will be surprised by her warmth and accuracy.
She is the favourite tarot reader of top government ministers in Jakarta.
You pick the cards. Her interpretation is spot on. She has a gift for explaining very simply.
It’s great fun, even if you don’t have any problems.
If you have questions, you will leave with clarity, and a sense of relief.
“It is unusual to find the level of skill and perception that Novi offers anywhere in the world, let alone in Ubud. Novi really cares about people. Beautiful integrity and a huge heart. You will enjoy her reading immensely.”
Mia Watson
Craniosacral therapist
The Javanese define life as “nothing more than a pause on the path to drink a cup of tea”.
Novi’s approach to tarot is influenced by her background in Sumatran philosophy.
“We start from the idea of our humanity, from acceptance that we will never be perfect and that we will always make mistakes,” she says.
This is what makes Novi’s readings so encouraging and uplifiting.
My Tarot Card Reading in Ubud, Bali.
Paula McInerney
Contented Traveller, 20 April 2015
“I had not seen Eat. Pray. Love. when I had this interesting experience…”
Noviana is one of the most amazing women I’ve ever met. In the magical atmosphere of Ubud, Bali, she will tell you the truth about your life, fears and concerns. If you are ready to listen, of course. I was surprised, happy and I still can hear her words after two months. Because of her, I’ve started to dance, to have more confidence in myself and to understand that nothing is random in this world.
1.Dear Noviana, can you tell me your story in just one sentence?
I’m always flowing and don’t make plans, because I always believe everything is my karma and “takdir” (destiny), so I just enjoy my job.
2. What does Bali mean to you, especially Ubud?
Bali reminds me of my childhood in Java, where I always felt connected with the universe. Ubud is more like “I am home”.
3. What is the most common question that your clients ask you?
My clients are various, until now I’ve read about 5.000 people, but the majority worry about money and love life hahahaha. And I’m always suggesting them to fix their “now” first, because the future is what we plant now.
4. What are people looking for in Ubud?
Before the film “Eat Pray Love” boomed, they were coming here because they were drawn by the energy of this place, but after the movie – many people felt inspired by it and thought they can be like Julia Roberts in 3 months. That’s why many people became disappointed, they forgot that life is a long hard working journey for finding happiness. People often forget that the first key to happiness is “acceptance” – once they can accept their life as it is, they can be happy wherever they go.
5. The magic of the island is real. It is a combination of nature, spirituality and good people – for me at least. But for you? What is this magical thing about Ubud?
For me Ubud is home. The energy here helps me a lot to be more focused inward.
6. Tell me more, please, about your work.
I left my job as the creative director in BBDO INDONESIA in 2007 and moved to Ubud. Then, I worked as a trainer and senior teacher in the Indonesian Language School Cinta Bahasa and also as the Media Manager for Balispirit Festival until now, but in the mean time I do the tarot reading, since I was in Jakarta.
7. If you could have anything in the world, what would you choose?
A peaceful mind and a kind heart.
8. Teach us, please, an exercise for receiving abundance and love in our lives.
For me, abudance is when we always feel gratitude and surrender, and our mind is not controlled by worries. As a Javanesse, my culture taught me that everything is already in the Grand Design; life is a continuous movement and reality changes all the time, we have to learn to know and respect what is there for us and at the same time not to get too attached to it. Counting the blessings. For Love is just simple, give more love to all sentient beings and life (including ourselves), with no expectation in return.
9. Why dreams do come true so fast in Ubud?
Bali is a magic land, every morning and evening the whole island gives offerings to this land. This positive accumulation of energy makes the manifestation fast, BUT that also depends on how you plant the good karma seeds. Because everything is fast, bad karma is fast too. It’s a purification land. What you plant is what you harvest.
Readings are up to 45 minutes.
We need advance notice to be able to arrange this. Novi is heavily booked up.
We will call for you and check availability and arrange transport to and from her house.
It will take about 30 minutes to get to her house. The driver will wait for you.
It’s compulsory to wear a mask.
Book by asking at Reception or emailing murni@murnis.com
For many travelers, a trip to the spa for some pampering is one of the highlights of any trip. A few hours spent in a tranquil environment, getting massaged, cleansed and relaxed can do wonders for any stressed out globetrotter.
In the tropical paradise of Bali, the spa experience goes to a new level. Nestled in lush gardens or along sandy shores, the spas in Bali are legendary and thousands of travelers book flights to this tiny nation every year for rest and rejuvenation. From full service spa resorts to simple day spas, these are some of the best bets for your money in this paradise. All prices are in Australian dollars.
Tamarind Spa at Murni’s Houses
Located under the shade of a Tamarind tree in the tourist hotspot of Ubud, Tamarind Spa at Murni’s Houses is one of Bali’s most consistently top rated spas. With trademark Balinese hospitality, the spa is surrounded by tranquil gardens and fountains, and offers a full range of spa services from massages and rubs to manicures and pedicures. Tamarind Spa is also unique in that it is an artistic as well as relaxing experience. Murni, the owner of the spa and adjacent guest houses and villas, has a background in fine art and has filled the spa with Balinese and Indonesian art, offering a glimpse into the local heritage. Prices for such luxury are surprisingly reasonable, with full day packages average about $100.
“Lovers of old Ubud will relish the four guest-houses of Murni’s, hidden in the nice garden of a cosy Balinese compound on the edge of rice fields – there is no signboard, so you may need to ask for directions. Everything is made to make guests feel at home in peaceful seclusion, yet it is within walking distance from Ubud’s main street. Gourmets will appreciate the great breakfasts, with Murni’s famous home-made yoghurt.”
Nancy Royden
The Sentinel Newspaper
27 January 2010
It was my good fortune earlier this month to go to the small city of Ubud. Its natural beauty, friendly people, exotic views, culinary delights, rice terraces and spiritual aspects fascinated me.
As I stood outside my room at Murni’s Houses and said to myself, “everyone should see a place like this before they die.”
Highly spiritual Bali is described aptly by Ni Wayan Murni, of Murni’s Houses and other travel-related facilities in the Ubud area, as highly spiritual.
“The vital thing to appreciate is that there is hardly any division between the religious and the secular world. God is everywhere and in all things,” she wrote on her Web site, murnis.com.
Preparation for the trip started months ago when I booked a flight for about $1,500 with Japan Airlines, and later, a jaunt was taken to a medical travel office in Annapolis for immunizations.
For five days, my goals were to see and experience as much as possible in this land of the gods.
After landing at the airport in Denpasar, I was met by a driver from Murni’s Houses and taken to the place I would call home for my short duration in Bali. He was extremely friendly and made me feel welcome in his country.
A magical place.
Murni and her husband, Pat, own and operate the guest houses, where I stayed, as well as a warung (store) with a four-level restaurant in the Ubud-Campuhan area. They also maintain Villa Kunang-Kunang, a 10-minute drive outside Ubud.
To me, Murni’s Houses was a magical place to stay, especially at night when insects chirped and animals howled outside as I slept. The first night, the loud noises frightened me but by the last night, I couldn’t wait to hear all the wonderful sounds just beyond the door.
The bottom portion of the house was similar to American homes, but the top was different. It was screened to allow air from outside to circulate throughout. The huge, decorative and colorful umbrella and painted wooden angel above the bed provided a nice sight to wake up to each morning.
Each morning at Murni’s, breakfast was a much-anticipated thing. The plain yogurt with different types of fresh fruit and honey was divine. Coupled with tea, it was the perfect way to greet a new day.
Stunning views of the palm trees beyond the guest houses, and sights of statues and shrines on the grounds of Murni’s is a photographer’s delight.
Ubud
About a three-minute walk down two streets is the fascinating town of Ubud, a place known for artists, temples, very good food, batik items, and a wide variety of stores.
One place with several interesting areas is the temple Pura Taman Kemuda Saraswati on Ubud’s main street. Every part of this temple has different things to see and possibly photograph, with very stunning bright colors, coupled with the terracotta color of main portions of the temple dedicated to the goddess of art and learning, Saraswati.
Feast for the eyes
One of my favorite memories from my visit to this temple is a woman who was on her knees, bowing to pray. It was a beautiful sight in a lovely place, with the Café Lotus and large, pink lotus flowers nearby.
Another highlight of a trip to Bali was the talented dancers in their breathtakingly beautiful costumes.
The Legong “Jobog” and Ramayana dances by the Bina Remaja Troupe at the Ubud Palace Court Yard in downtown Ubud were a feast for the eyes.
The Legong dance is based on the story of two brothers, kings Subali and Sugriwa, who are turned into monkeys. They wind up fighting and eventually recognize each other as brothers, according to the dance’s program.
The Ramayana dance features Rama, Sita and her brother Laksamana, who enter the jungle of Dandaka for a journey and are discovered by demonic minister Maricha of Alengka Kingdom.
Petulu Village
Another interesting site in the Ubud area is the Petulu Village, where the white herons live. There are three different types of herons residing in this village.
The herons arrived in Petulu in 1965. A large ceremony was held at the pura desa, or village temple, shortly following their descent.
A pamphlet explains: “It came as a surprise to the villagers the herons arrived after their ceremony and consider it as a blessing from God. In order to encourage the herons to live in Petulu and increase their population, the villagers make special ceremonies called memendak kokokan.
Motorbike tour
Thanks to my motorbike guide who took me to the village, I have some treasured photos of these gorgeous birds, some of them with the orange-colored necks. One of them gracefully spreads its wings in a photo.
I Nyoman took me to Santi Agrowisata in Gianyar. It is an awesome coffee and tea plantation operated by I Wayan Sudarana, who is most welcoming to tourists from all over the world.
I Wayan treated me like an honored guest, as I sampled some of the best drinks I’ve ever experienced – Bali coffee, Bali cocoa, lemongrass tea and ginger tea.
Natural beauty
Since a few days have now passed since I returned from the trip, I think about the natural beauty of the Ubud area and the things that make it so wondrous – the dancers, the folklore, multitude of craftsmen, the music, the orchids and the temples.
I remember my new friends and hope their beautiful surroundings in Ubud/Campuhan will never change due to development to strip the land of its natural beauty.
As Gede, I Wayan, I Nyoman, the folks at Murni’s and others showed me hospitality, peace and gave me wonderful memories, I wish them the same in return.
I wish for the exotic sounds of animals and birds to continue and all the array of traditional things they treasure to carry on for generations to come.
“Central Ubud. Murni’s Houses, Jalan Raya (up the ramp opposite Pura Dalem on the main street, left at the top, 2nd gate on the right), 4 delightful units [now 6], a 5 minute walk from the center, peaceful, traditional, clean, and very reasonably priced. Beautifully furnished by Murni in Balinese style. Well-kept gardens and the excellent Tamarind Spa in the grounds. Pick up, drop, activities, tours, and classes can all be arranged. US$60-115, includes Murni’s Big Breakfast.”
Bali, The Ultimate Guide to the World’s Most Spectacular Tropical Island, Linda Hoffman, Tuttle Publishing, 2012
