Made in Bali

Adding to the impressive list of Bali-made spirits, the recently launched Marak and Ark bring a new take on the island’s traditional spirit of arak. Brought to the market by Indoestri Teluk Saba, the two brands aim to support arak farmers in Karangasem whilst elevating the name and reputation of this culturally-significant, artisanal alcoholic beverage.

Mask carvers are one of Bali’s most important artisans. Through their delicate creations, these skilled craftsmen give life to the characters on Bali’s ritual dance stage. Of course, on the island of the gods, a mask is more than just a mask: it is a sacred object, a medium, and a tool of transformation. Masks

Across the Badung Strait lies three special islands off the coast of mainland Bali. The now famous Nusa Penida, a large and rugged isle that has become a mainstream day-tripper destination, and the two smaller islands of Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan. Between Lembongan and Ceningan, a unique aspect of local life is found, in

A real craft gin, made here in Bali, bursting with flavours that represent the islands of Indonesia and its storied past. Yes, East Indies Gin has taken Indonesia’s drinks industry by storm, found on top shelves of celebrated cocktail bars keen to showcase a premium spirit that celebrates the archipelago. The evocative name, East Indies Gin,

Founded in 1994 by Ida Bagus Rai Budarsa, Hatten Wines is Bali’s first wine company and produces wines from locally-grown grapes. Gus Rai wanted to offer visitors a taste of Bali, a wine that reflected the island’s tropical terroir. Having just celebrated their 30th anniversary in August 2024, it’s an apt moment to reflect on how far

“Time Well Spent” is the official tagline for one of Bali’s rapidly growing beer brands, Island Brewing. It’s an ethos of enjoying good times and good island living. For Head of Brewing Operations Michael King, this tagline is just as appropriate for what happens in the brewery, where time and attention are responsible for the

A string of mountains runs across Bali, giant calderas and towering volcanoes, giving the island its rugged highland centre. As one ascends to these peaks, the altitude rises and temperatures drop, and just at a certain sweet spot up the mountains, Bali coffee trees find their home. On the slopes that climb towards the Batur

In Bali, textiles play an integral role in its cultural heritage, from their use in the daily lives of the Balinese to religious rituals and ceremonies, they are not mere articles of clothing but a living tradition in itself instilled in symbolism and meaning. Since 1998, one brand has been a notable champion of Indonesia’s

For centuries, the allure of the Indonesian islands has captivated travellers, traders, and adventurers from across the globe. Yet, unbeknownst to many, some of the earliest rums savoured in Europe hailed from Indonesia. Indeed, during the early years of Dutch colonial rule, the first Indonesian rums were exported, swiftly making their mark across the world.

An aspect of Balinese culture that continues to captivate visitors and locals alike is its culinary legacy, a testament to the island’s rich tapestry of traditions shaped by centuries of trade and migration. The authentic Balinese cuisine offers a glimpse into the island’s soul, where each dish tells a story of heritage, community, and the

Clang! Dug! Ting!… Clang! Dug! Ting!… The sounds of metal pounding metal can be heard from a distance. Then a shout, some laughter, followed once again by the clamour of hammers. Clang! Dug! Ting! The cacophony of sounds repeat. These are the rhythms of the pande gong, the makers of Bali’s traditional gamelan. Tihingan Village