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As promised, here is part 2 of my experience at Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort (check out part 1 here). Turning to the spa experience at SoSPA tucked away in a secluded corner of the resort ground - it has dark, mysterious entrance which was next to SoFIT (an innovative gym space boasting state-of-the art equipment, and exercise programs that I am yet to try out). Like every other spa place, you sit by impatiently to fill in a form indicating your preferences before the actual treatment. But the difference here is that you’re sitting by an ornamental pool in the lounge area with high ceilings, intricately carved wood panels, mood lighting, and a fireplace in the middle.
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Upon entering Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort, I was escorted by a helpful front desk and greeted by their management in French - it was only then I realized Sofitel originated from France. They were not surprised, and explained that it can difficult to tell owing to how its resorts and hotels around the world often blend in local elements into their designs. The guided private tour began, predictably, in the main lobby. We were instantly surrounded by distinctive décor which incorporated French influence with local Balinese artwork - the wooden installation that occupied the central spot representing the circle of life is a meaningful and stunning piece that sets the tone for the resort; whereas the staircases are ones that you’d expect in a Parisian museum. Staying consistent with the wooden tones and making good use of natural light, the interiors of the resort give off a modern and contemporary impression overall yet staying true to the local culture. From there, we walked through the corridors and paths (some were in a circular arrangement echoing the lobby’s structure), leading to the gray and cream toned exteriors of the villas and suites that complement well with the main pool. As a design fanatic myself, these details are very much appreciated.  The Art Space exhibition "Très'Ors" is about everything gold, it being a carefully curated space featuring pieces of glamour and wealth, showcases limited editions of luxury cutleries, jewelries and watches. One thing that stood out to me was how people of older times (perhaps with limited technology and long travel times) used to pack meticulously all daily necessities into a small briefcase - ranging from utensils to tea cups, nail clippers to combs and scents. French curator Anne Camilli did an amazing job in also tribute to MGM's golden days by including elements of the hotel's symbols.
 I was super excited to be invited by Veuve Clicquot to a place I've been hearing good things about. Having stopped by for I Love You So Coffee a few times — LOVE their balanced mix of Indonesian antiques with metal frame structures, and of course, chilling on their oh-so-cozy lounge sofas — Potato Head Hong Kong is also home to KAUM that I've just been dying to try. The place pays tribute to the ethnic, traditional crafts of the Indonesian archipelago by engaging their small-scale producers to create a culture-rich space. The bespoke wooden ceiling panels were hand-painted by Toraja tribe artisans in South Sulawesi; cushions and chair covers feature textiles from North Sumatra, hand-woven by the Batak tribe; even the teak furniture was hand-crafted. The hanging plant boxes by Sou Fujimoto and wooden furniture gave the place an ease. I headed in through the blue curtains, to find an intimate space with open kitchen and wooden communal tables, echoing the name of the restaurant, meaning “clan” or “tribe” in Indonesian.
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