Borbudur/Amanjiwo - Moments of Soul Tranquility

I was really blessed when Clara called me up and offered me a trip to Borobudur and stay at the top-notched, luxurious Amanjiwo - ALL PAID FOR. Of course, on the condition that I would write an experiential trip on Amanjiwo for Wedding & Travel magazine. I was elated and took up the offer.

How often do you get called up by an editor (who is also a friend) to go to an all-paid trip? Especially to stay in an ultra luxurious resort/hotel? I would say, I was well-blessed and highly favoured.

So, I set off to Borobudur with Clara and the photoshoot crew, including makeup artist and a really warm, friendly model. She has no attitude of a proud model at all. She appears, just like any other girl and definitely very professional and accommodating throughout the whole shoot.

While they worked, of course, I experienced. I went to the 8th century Borobudur temple, trekked up an over 700m above sea level Menorah Hills (of course, I took a 4-wheel drive and trekked the last 10mins up, and the final 30mins all the way down), visited two other temples and took a horse cart ride through the villages. I also visited a villager's home, drank home made tea and ate home made cane sugar. A goat even released its waste right next to my feet that almost freaked me out.

With such a good resort to stay in, how could I just get all busy and not enjoy my villa at all? So, I spent moments whiling away, reading, lounging on the outdoor pavilion overlooking a lush tobacco field and sometimes, dipping my legs into the private plunge pool. I took my own sweet time showering and enjoying all the possible places to lounge around. This, was paradise (aside from Maldives).

All the hotels differentiate themselves with designs and decoration. They also differentiate themselves with their service level. I have to say, I give Amanjiwo 100% for their impeccable services. If I were to give examples, I could go on and provide a long list. But, bearing in mind that this is a blog, not a feature, I can only give a few memorable ones. For instance, they sewed my shoe that was spoiled. They remembered I only wanted unchilled water and ensured there were a couple of bottles on our excursions. They remembered I love their chocolate rolls and packed in quite a lot. And MORE...

There was no sun, sand and sea - unlike my usual trips. But I had a lot of fun with a guide and sometimes, helping out at the fashion shoot. I was filled with a sense of calmness and contentment after a quiet and easy four days at Borobudur, infiltrated with the spirits of simplicity and serenity. It was, a trip that gave me moments of soulful tranquility.

Exploring Amanjiwo

Borobudur

As usual, I had to be in the photo

Borobudur temple again

Visiting the villages

Horse cart ride - very traditional

The opulent Amanjiwo (my villa) - isn't it nice? 

Up on Menorah Hills - Children playing near the pavilion that Aman owns.

Guide made them pluck coconut for me and I had coconut juice without a straw.

Such tranquility