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The Rhythmic Soul of Bali: An Introduction to the Gamelan Orchestra

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Halo! From the moment you arrive in Bali, you will notice its unique soundscape. This is a world of gentle whispers and natural sounds. At its very heart is the enchanting, rhythmic pulse of the Balinese Gamelan. This intricate music is more than just a performance. It is the very soundtrack to Balinese life. It accompanies sacred ceremonies, vibrant dances, and daily rituals.

Every visitor hears the Gamelan. To truly listen, however, is to discover a profound expression of Balinese philosophy. It also shows the spirit of community and spirituality. As your friendly hosts at Merusaka Nusa Dua, we would be delighted to take you on a journey. We will explore the beautiful and complex world of this traditional orchestra.

What is a Gamelan? More Than Just Music

Before looking at the instruments, it’s essential to understand a core concept. A Gamelan is considered a single, living entity. It’s not just a collection of instruments. Instead, it is a sacred community of instruments. We often give it a proper name. Artisans build and tune them to be played together.

The Ensemble: Percussive instruments dominate the orchestra. These include bronze gongs and metallophones. Metallophones are similar to xylophones but have metal bars. Drums are also important. We complement these with the soft, melodic tones of bamboo flutes. Sometimes, a bowed string instrument joins in.

The Communal Spirit: There is no single “star” or conductor. Musicians create the music collectively. Each musician plays their part in a complex, interlocking web of sound. This beautifully reflects the Balinese value of community and cooperation, which we call gotong royong.

The Shimmering Sound: A Symphony of Instruments

The unique, layered sound of a Balinese Gamelan comes from its incredible array of instruments. Let’s meet the key members of the orchestra.

  • The Gongs (The Heartbeat): The large, deep-voiced gongs are the foundation of the music. The majestic Gong Ageng, for example, marks the end and beginning of the main musical cycles. It provides a resonant and powerful heartbeat to the entire piece.
  • The Metallophones (The Melody): The majority of the instruments are metallophones. They come in various sizes, such as the gangsa and ugal. These bronze-keyed instruments carry the core melody. They are responsible for its dazzling, intricate elaborations.
  • The Kendang Drums (The Leader): The pair of two-headed drums, known as the kendang, acts as the true leader. The lead drummer sets the tempo. He signals changes in dynamics and rhythm. He also cues the dancers during a performance.
  • The Ceng-Ceng & Flutes (The Spice & Soul): The ceng-ceng add brightness and texture. These are a set of cymbals. They create sharp, rapid, percussive accents. Floating above it all, you will often hear the sweet, haunting melody of the suling, a traditional Balinese bamboo flute.

The Secret to the Magic: Kotekan and Paired Tuning

Have you ever wondered how musicians play those impossibly fast and intricate melodies? The secret lies in two brilliant Balinese concepts. These concepts define the Gamelan’s unique sound.

  • Paired Tuning (The Shimmer): The shimmering, vibrating quality of the music is intentional. Artisans make and tune instruments in pairs. One is tuned just slightly higher than the other. When they strike them at the same time, this slight pitch difference creates a beautiful acoustic beat. We call this a “shimmer.” It gives the music its vibrant and living quality.
  • Kotekan (Interlocking Parts): The lightning-fast melodic passages result from a brilliant technique called kotekan. Here, two musicians play two different, simple rhythmic patterns. They interlock and weave together perfectly. The combined result is a single, complex melody. It is too fast and intricate for any one person to play alone. It is the ultimate expression of the Balinese Gamelan‘s communal spirit.

The Role of the Gamelan in Balinese Life

In Bali, Gamelan music is not just for concerts. It is an essential part of nearly every aspect of spiritual and social life. You will hear it providing the sacred soundtrack for temple festivals (odalan) and life-cycle ceremonies. Furthermore, it is the inseparable partner to performance arts. It provides the dramatic rhythm for traditional dances like the Barong or Legong. It also accompanies the epic stories of the wayang kulit shadow puppet plays.

Conclusion: Listening with New Ears

The Balinese Gamelan is the rhythmic soul of the island. It is a profound art form. It beautifully reflects the Balinese worldview of harmony, community, and spirituality.

The next time you hear its enchanting, shimmering sounds—perhaps while dining with us or witnessing a ceremony—we hope you listen with new ears. Appreciate the intricate layers and the beautiful, collective heartbeat of Bali.

A Foodie’s Guide to the Sanur Village Festival: 5 Must-Try Dishes at the Beachfront Bazaar

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While the live music and cultural parades are fantastic, let’s be honest: the true, beating heart of the Sanur Village Festival is the food. As the sun begins to set, the festival grounds transform into Bali’s most exciting and delicious food bazaar, with the fragrant smoke of dozens of sizzling grills filling the air. For any food lover, this is a can’t-miss culinary adventure.

Navigating the sheer number of stalls can be a delicious challenge. To help you on your quest, we’ve created a foodie’s guide to the five must-try dishes and experiences that capture the incredible flavors of the festival. So, grab your friends, come with an empty stomach, and get ready for a feast!

Festival Details at a Glance

Before you go, here is the essential information for the Sanur Village Festival 2025:

The Vibe of the Food Bazaar

This isn’t a quiet, formal dinner. It’s a vibrant, bustling, and wonderfully social experience. You’ll find a fantastic mix of local families and curious travelers all exploring the endless culinary options. The sound of sizzling satay, the rhythm of the nearby music stage, and the gentle sea breeze all combine to create a truly magical dining atmosphere.

Who’s Cooking? Confirmed Food Vendors

Warung Nasi Ayam Ibu Oki

This year’s food bazaar features a fantastic mix of local legends and top resort kitchens. While the full list is extensive, you can look forward to seeing beloved local names like Warung Nasi Ayam Ibu Oki and Sate Plecing Arjuna, alongside special pop-up stalls from some of Sanur’s best hotels, including the Hyatt Regency Bali and Andaz Bali.

The 5 Must-Try Dishes

  1. Fresh Grilled Seafood (Ikan Bakar) You’re right on the beach, so this is a must! Look for the stalls with impressive displays of fresh red snapper, prawns, and squid on ice. The smoky flavor from the coconut husk grill combined with a fresh, spicy sambal matah is the taste of a perfect Bali evening.
  2. Suckling Pig (Babi Guling) A true Balinese delicacy and a festival favorite! Many famous Babi Guling vendors set up stalls at the festival, offering you a chance to try this ceremonial dish by the plate, complete with unbelievably crispy, crackling skin.
  3. Meatball Soup (Bakso) The ultimate Indonesian comfort food! You’ll see vendors serving this from their iconic pushcarts (kaki lima) all over the festival. A steaming bowl of savory broth filled with bouncy beef meatballs, noodles, and tofu is warm, satisfying, and absolutely delicious.

    Traditional Balinese snacks

  4. Assorted Balinese Sweets (Jaje Bali) Don’t forget to save room for dessert! Look for the stalls with colorful trays of traditional Balinese cakes. A plate of Jaje Bali is a delightful mix of treats like laklak (small green pancakes) and klepon (chewy balls filled with liquid palm sugar), all topped with grated coconut.
  5. Mixed Rice (Nasi Campur) When you can’t decide what to have, have a little bit of everything! Nasi Campur allows you to create your own personalized tasting platter of Balinese cuisine, choosing from dozens of small dishes like spicy chicken, tempeh, and vegetable salads to go with your rice.

Sounds of the Festival: Music Highlights

While you eat, you’ll be treated to performances on the main stage. This year’s lineup features some of Indonesia’s most popular artists, including performances from local Balinese rock icon Joni Agung and nationally acclaimed pop star Andien.

Pro Tips for Your Culinary Adventure

  • Bring Cash: Many smaller vendors and stalls will only accept cash (Indonesian Rupiah).
  • Go with a Group: The best strategy is to go with friends, order different things, and share everything.
  • Arrive Early: The most popular stalls can get very busy, especially on the weekend evenings.

This festival is a true celebration of community and cuisine. Enjoy the adventure!

Traveling to Bali with Toddlers & Young Children: A Parent’s Survival Guide

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Traveling to Bali with toddlers and young children can be a truly magical experience. This is especially true if you stay at one of the best family hotels in Bali. Imagine a trip filled with sunny beach days and unforgettable family memories. Still, the thought of a long flight and navigating a new environment can be a little daunting.

The secret to a truly successful family holiday is planning. Most importantly, it’s about choosing the right home base. As your friendly hosts here at Merusaka Nusa Dua, we have welcomed countless families to our shores. We have compiled our best tips into this parent’s survival guide. We want to help you have the most amazing and relaxing Bali adventure possible.

What to Pack (Beyond the Obvious)

Of course, you’ll pack the swimsuits and sun hats. You’ll also bring that favorite cuddly toy. But here are a few Bali-specific items. They can be absolute lifesavers.

  • A Familiar First-Aid Kit: Pharmacies are available. However, having your preferred brand of children’s pain reliever is a great comfort. You should also bring antiseptic wipes and fun-themed band-aids.
  • Child-Safe Insect Repellent: Bali is tropical. Therefore, a gentle, DEET-free insect repellent is a must for evenings. It’s also necessary for trips inland.
  • A Portable Stroller Fan: A small, battery-operated fan can be a game-changer. It clips onto your stroller. It helps keep your little one cool during walks or naps.
  • Their Favorite Snacks: Pack a small stash of their favorite non-perishable snacks from home. They are perfect for the flight. They are also great for those moments when you need a guaranteed win.

Navigating the Heat & Sun

The beautiful Bali sun is one of its biggest attractions. But it requires a smart strategy with little ones.

  • Plan Your Day in Waves: Avoid the intense midday heat. Plan your beach time and outdoor explorations for the morning. Aim for before 11 AM. Then, go back outside in the late afternoon, after 3 PM.
  • Seek Shade & Air-Con: The middle of the day is perfect for a nap. Take it in your cool, air-conditioned room. Or, enjoy shaded pools and indoor play areas.
  • Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: Always have water on hand. Offer sips of water or fresh coconut water frequently. This is key to keeping everyone happy and hydrated.

A Foodie’s Guide for Fussy Eaters

Worried your little one won’t eat anything but their usual favorites? Don’t be! Bali is surprisingly kid-friendly when it comes to food.

  • Gentle Local Flavors: Introduce them to simple, non-spicy Indonesian classics. Nearly every child loves Sate Ayam (chicken satay with peanut sauce). They also enjoy Nasi Goreng (fried rice). Just ask for it “tidak pedas“—not spicy. Fresh fruit juices are also a hit.
  • The Power of the Resort Buffet: Staying at a larger resort means you have access to extensive breakfast buffets and multiple restaurants. This is a lifesaver for finding familiar favorites. Look for pasta, bread, eggs, and fruit. These can balance out the new flavors.

The Game-Changer: Choosing the Right Resort

This is the single most important decision you will make. The right resort provides a complete ecosystem for a stress-free family holiday. Here’s what to look for when choosing among the best family hotels in Bali:

  • A Calm, Swimmable Beach: Big waves can be intimidating for toddlers and young children. Therefore, the serene shores of Nusa Dua are a top choice. An offshore reef protects the beaches. The waters at Mengiat Beach, right at our doorstep, are calm and lagoon-like. They are perfect for little feet.
  • A World-Class Kids’ Club: This is essential for parents’ sanity and kids’ fun! A great Kids’ Club is a paradise for children. It is also a gift for parents. Our Tamaya Kids Land is a dedicated, supervised space. Your children can make new friends. They can also have their own amazing adventures. This gives you precious time to relax.
  • Spacious Family Rooms:
    Having enough space is crucial. Look for a hotel dengan family room di bali. Spacious rooms, like our Deluxe Rooms (starting at a generous 48sqm), or interconnected options give everyone the space they need. You can all unwind without feeling cramped.interior and Private pool Merusaka Nusa Dua Villa
    • A Secure & Safe Environment: Peace of mind is priceless. You can stay within the secure and well-managed ITDC complex of Nusa Dua. This means you can relax. You can take evening strolls. You can also let your guard down a little, knowing you are in a safe and welcoming environment.

      Conclusion: Your Magical Family Holiday Awaits

      Traveling to Bali with young children can be an incredibly rewarding experience. It can be surprisingly easy with the right preparation and the right home base. By choosing one of the best family hotels in Bali—one thoughtfully designed for families—you set the stage for a truly successful holiday. This will be a relaxing time for every member of the family.

      Merusaka Nusa Dua Champions Marine Conservation with Heartwarming Sea Turtle Release Event

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      NUSA DUA, BALI – August 19, 2025 – Merusaka Nusa Dua, our beachfront sanctuary, showed its commitment to environmental conservation today. We hosted a heartwarming sea turtle release Bali event on Mengiat Beach’s pristine shores. We held the initiative with local conservation partners. It gave hotel guests an unforgettable opportunity. They got to actively help protect Bali’s precious marine life.

      Dozens of guests came together on the sand for the special occasion. This included many families and young children. With guidance from conservation experts and our team, each participant received a baby sea turtle hatchling to release. The event created a magical and educational atmosphere. Attendees watched the tiny turtles make their determined journey across the sand. Then, they entered the Indian Ocean for the first time.

      The sea turtle release in Bali is a key part of Merusaka’s sustainability program. This program has deep roots in the Balinese philosophy of Tri Hita Karana. This means harmony with God, with people, and with the environment. The event aims to do two things. First, it contributes directly to the survival of these endangered creatures. Second, it raises awareness and fosters a love for marine conservation among our visitors.

      “This event is incredibly close to our hearts,” said the General Manager of Merusaka Nusa Dua. “We believe that true hospitality includes a deep respect for our natural environment. To see our guests, especially the younger generation, connect so joyfully with this conservation effort is a truly rewarding experience. It’s a small step, but it represents our larger commitment to preserving the beauty of Bali for generations to come.”

      The successful event highlights Merusaka Nusa Dua’s position. We are a leading destination. Not just for exceptional hospitality, but for meaningful and sustainable travel experiences as well.

      The Secret Season: Why September is the Perfect Month for a Bali Holiday (And How to Find Great Deals)

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      Halo! The best time to visit Bali is a beautiful secret for savvy visitors. As the calendar turns to September, the island reveals its most perfect self. This is the “secret season.” It’s a magical window. Here, the weather is divine, peak season crowds have thinned, and you can find exceptional value.

      September marks the beginning of the “shoulder season.” It is truly the sweet spot for an unforgettable holiday. This is a time when you can experience the best of the island. You will enjoy a more relaxed and serene energy. As your friendly hosts here at Merusaka Nusa Dua, we want to share our insider’s guide. Learn the benefits of a September escape and how to find the best deals.

      The Weather: A Perfect Balance of Sun & Softness

      Imagine endless sunny days. Now, picture a softer, gentler warmth. That is the gift of September’s weather.

      The Experience: September remains firmly in Bali’s dry season. So, you can expect plenty of brilliant sunshine. The humidity is low. You will see beautiful blue skies. However, the intense winds of July and August often begin to soften. The air feels just a little bit gentler. This is the perfect kind of weather. It’s great for lounging on the beach all day. It’s also great for exploring the island’s cultural sights in complete comfort.

      The Vibe: Serenity After the Rush

      The peak August holiday crowds begin to depart. A calmer, more relaxed energy settles over the island. September offers the perfect balance of vibrance and tranquility.

      The Experience: You’ll notice you have a little more space on the beaches. It’s easier to get a reservation at that popular restaurant you’ve wanted to try. The atmosphere at the island’s famous temples feels more peaceful and unhurried. You get all the benefits of the beautiful dry season. You also get the added indulgence of greater serenity. This makes for a more personal-feeling experience.

      The Value: The Savvy Traveler’s Reward

      Fewer crowds often mean better value. September is a prime time to find exceptional deals for your dream Bali escape. This is where a savvy traveler can truly benefit.

      The Opportunity: Resorts and airlines often release attractive offers during this time. They want to entice shoulder-season travelers. The key is to look beyond a simple room discount. Instead, seek out packages that offer incredible overall value.

      The Power of Packages: This is the perfect time to search for Bali vacation packages. Premier resorts often bundle accommodation with incredible perks. These can include daily breakfast, dining credits for their signature restaurants, or rejuvenating spa treatments. Sometimes, complimentary airport transfers are included. These packages often provide far more value than booking each element separately.

      Unlocking the Best Bali Hotel Specials & Deals at Merusaka

      Collage showing highlights for a Bali itinerary 4 days: Uluwatu Temple cliffs, Nusa Dua beach, and Ubud rice fields.

      Here at Merusaka Nusa Dua, we love the beautiful, serene atmosphere of September. Therefore, we have curated special offers. These help you experience it to the fullest.

      We believe that a package should enhance your holiday. It should make it more seamless and memorable. To explore our current, curated bali hotel specials deals, visit our official offers page. You can find stay-and-dine packages or wellness escapes there. Booking directly with us is the best way to ensure you receive the most up-to-date and valuable promotions. You can then plan your perfect September holiday.

      [Click Here to Explore Merusaka Nusa Dua’s Current Offers & Packages]

      Conclusion: The Insider’s Choice for Paradise

      For those in the know, September is the golden month in Bali. It offers a perfect trifecta of beautiful weather. It also has a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere. Plus, it provides excellent value for your money. It’s the insider’s choice for a truly perfect and unhurried escape to paradise. We look forward to welcoming you.

      Merdeka! A Look Back at Our Joyful Independence Day Celebration

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      Halo! The spirit of Merdeka (Freedom) was alive at Merusaka Nusa Dua! We had a wonderful time celebrating Indonesia Independence Day with our guests. We filled the resort with joy, laughter, culture, and incredible food.

      If you were here, thank you for making it such a special day. If you missed it, here is a little look back at the fun-filled celebrations.

      An Afternoon of Fun & Games

      The heart of any Independence Day celebration is the traditional games, or lomba. Our gardens filled with laughter as both kids and adults joined the fun.

      At Tamaya Kids Land, our little VIPs had their own special celebration. We packed their day with creative activities. For example, they learned to tie-dye clothes in patriotic red and white. They also had fun with face painting. The highlight was a series of classic Indonesian games. These included the intense spoon and marble race (Lomba Balap Lari dengan Kelereng). We also had the hilarious pencil in the bottle race (Lomba Masukkan Pensil dalam Botol).

      Meanwhile, our adult guests enjoyed a perfect blend of relaxation and culture. The day began with a serene Morning Yoga Exercise. Afterwards, they had a refreshing Water Stretch & Cardio session in the pool. The afternoon brought friendly competition. Guests played a lively Water Polo Match. They also had a truly special cultural workshop. They learned to make a traditional Balinese Penjor. It was wonderful to see our guests engage with this beautiful art form.

      A Feast to End the Day: The Nusantara Festival Journey

      As the sun set, we ended the celebration with our Nusantara Festival Journey. We transformed our Lobby Garden into a festive culinary wonderland. Guests were treated to a delicious tour of the archipelago with 8 unique regional dishes. Furthermore, live Balinese dances enchanted them. A spectacular fire dance performance also lit up the night sky. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.

      Thank You for Celebrating With Us!

      A huge thank you to all our guests who participated. You brought such wonderful energy to our Indonesia Independence Day celebration. The spirit of community and joy was truly special.

      If you missed it this year, we hope you’ll have a chance to join us for the celebrations next August!

      Merusaka Nusa Dua Commemorates 40th Anniversary with “Grow The Coast” Mangrove Planting Initiative

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      NUSA DUA, BALI – August 15th, 2025 – In a significant demonstration of its commitment to environmental stewardship, Merusaka Nusa Dua hosted a major mangrove planting event titled “Grow The Coast” on Friday, August 15th, 2025, at Pulau Pudut. The initiative was a cornerstone of the resort’s 40th Anniversary corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities, bringing together team members from across the property to make a lasting positive impact on the local ecosystem.

      Preserving Bali’s Coastline

      Under the banner “Plant Today, Protect Tomorrow”, dozens of enthusiastic employees gathered at the coastal location to participate in the hands-on conservation effort. The team worked together to plant hundreds of mangrove saplings along the shoreline. The event, filled with a spirit of collaboration and purpose, underscores Merusaka’s dedication to preserving the natural beauty of Bali’s coastline for future generations.

      This initiative highlights the vital role mangroves play in maintaining a healthy coastal environment, including preventing soil erosion, providing a critical habitat for marine life, and acting as a natural barrier against tidal forces. The “Grow The Coast” event is a key part of Merusaka’s ongoing sustainability program, which is deeply rooted in the Balinese philosophy of Tri Hita Karana—creating harmony between people, nature, and the divine.

      The Merusaka Nusa Dua team posing for a group photo after successfully planting mangrove saplings during the 'Grow The Coast' CSR event.

      Our team came together to ‘Plant Today, Protect Tomorrow’ as part of our ongoing commitment to Bali’s environment.

      Commitment to Protect Future

      “For 40 years, this property has been a cherished part of the beautiful Bali coastline. The ‘Grow The Coast‘ initiative is our pledge to the future,” said the General Manager of Merusaka Nusa Dua. “It’s about more than just planting trees; it’s about nurturing our environment, protecting our community’s natural heritage, and ensuring that the beauty of this island thrives for the next 40 years and beyond. I am incredibly proud of our team’s passion and dedication to this important cause.”

      The successful event marks a significant milestone in Merusaka Nusa Dua’s anniversary celebrations, reinforcing its position as a leader in responsible and sustainable hospitality in Bali.

       

      Merdeka! A Visitor’s Guide to Indonesian Independence Day in Bali (August 17th)

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      Experiencing Indonesian Independence Day in Bali on August 17th offers a wonderful and joyful glimpse into the nation’s patriotic spirit and deep love for community fun. As August arrives, you will see the island transform. Streets, homes, and businesses become a sea of red and white, proudly flying the national flag and creating a vibrant, festive atmosphere that is impossible to miss.

      This is Indonesia’s most important national holiday, and witnessing the celebrations is a fantastic opportunity to connect with the local culture. It’s a day filled with history, pride, and most of all, a lot of laughter. As your friendly hosts at Merusaka Nusa Dua, we’d love to guide you through the festivities and invite you to a very special celebration of our own.

      The Spirit of Merdeka: Understanding the Day

      To truly appreciate the celebrations, it’s lovely to know the story behind them.

      • The Historical Significance: August 17th, known as Hari Kemerdekaan, celebrates the day in 1945 when Indonesia proclaimed its independence. It is a day of immense national pride, commemorating the country’s sovereignty. The spirit of this day is captured in one powerful word: Merdeka, which means “Freedom.”
      • The Red and White Flag: You will see the Indonesian flag, the Bendera Merah Putih, flying everywhere. Its symbolism is simple yet profound: the red stripe represents courage, while the white stripe represents purity.

      The Fun & Games: The Joyful Community Lomba

      While the morning is marked by formal flag-raising ceremonies, the afternoon explodes with fun, laughter, and a wonderful sense of community! The highlight for most people are the traditional, and often hilarious, competitions known as lomba, held in villages and neighborhoods across the island.

      Look out for some of these classic games:

      • Panjat Pinang (Pole Climbing): Perhaps the most entertaining spectacle, where teams of young men work together to climb a slippery, greased pole to reach prizes at the top. It’s a hilarious display of teamwork!
      • Lomba Makan Kerupuk (Cracker-Eating Contest): A game beloved by children and adults, where participants must eat a dangling cracker (kerupuk) with their hands tied behind their backs.
      • Balap Karung (Sack Race): The classic hopping race in a large rice sack, always a source of great fun and friendly competition.

      A Taste of Freedom: Celebrating at Merusaka Nusa Dua

      While the community games are a wonderful daytime spectacle, the celebrations continue into the evening. For those looking for the thrills and excitement of Indonesia’s Independence Day, we are hosting our own special event at Merusaka to honor the day with a journey through the nation’s incredible flavors.

      • The Event: Nusantara Festival Journey We invite you to join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating “Merdeka di setiap rasa” – Freedom in every taste!
      • The Experience: Embark on a culinary journey from Sabang to Merauke as we present 8 unique regional dishes that showcase the diversity of Indonesian cuisine. The evening will be set in our beautiful Lobby Garden, complete with cultural décor, traditional drinks, and captivating live Balinese & fire dance performances.
      • The Details:
        • Date: August 17th, 2025
        • Time: 18:30 – 21:30
        • Price: IDR 475,000 net per person
        • (For guests on our All-Inclusive Package, a surcharge of IDR 250,000 net applies)

      This is a wonderful way for our guests to experience the spirit of Independence Day in a beautiful, delicious, and culturally rich setting. Seats are limited, so we encourage you to reserve your spot for a night of taste, culture, and celebration! 

      A Visitor’s Guide to Enjoying the Day

      • What to Expect: August 17th is a public holiday, so banks and government offices will be closed. However, most restaurants, shops, and attractions in tourist areas like Nusa Dua will remain open and ready to welcome you.
      • Be a Great Spectator: If you come across a local lomba, feel free to watch, smile, and cheer! The atmosphere is friendly and joyful. As always, be respectful when taking photos, especially of people [link to Etiquette post].

      Conclusion

      Being in Bali for Indonesian Independence Day is a unique opportunity to witness the nation’s incredible community spirit and joyful patriotism firsthand. From the fun of the afternoon games to the flavors of the evening feast, it’s a day you won’t soon forget.

      We hope you have a wonderful time enjoying the festive red and white atmosphere, and we look forward to celebrating with you at our Nusantara Festival Journey!

      Contact Us!

      Freedom in Every Taste: Celebrate Indonesian Independence Day with Our Nusantara Festival Journey!

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      This August 17th, the red and white flags will fly proudly across the island. As a result, we invite you to celebrate the spirit of Merdeka (Freedom) with a truly special culinary and cultural experience right here at MERUSAKA Nusa Dua.

      Join us for our Nusantara Festival Journey, an unforgettable evening. It is dedicated to the rich diversity and vibrant flavors of the Indonesian archipelago.

      “Merdeka di setiap rasa” – Freedom in every taste!

      Embark on a delicious journey from Sabang to Merauke. You don’t even have to leave our serene Lobby Garden. Our talented culinary team has crafted a spectacular dining experience. Therefore, they are presenting 8 unique regional dishes that showcase the incredible breadth of Indonesia’s heritage cuisine.

      The Experience:

      First, immerse yourself in a festive atmosphere with beautiful cultural décor and traditional drinks. As you savor the authentic tastes of the archipelago, you will also be captivated by spectacular live performances. For example, we have enchanting Balinese dances and a dramatic fire dance that will light up the night.

      This is more than just a dinner; it’s a celebration of Indonesia’s rich culture and diverse flavors. It also honors its unified spirit. Consequently, it is the perfect way to celebrate this special day in a beautiful and memorable setting.

      Join Our Celebration:

      • What: Nusantara Festival Journey: A Culinary & Cultural Celebration
      • When: Saturday, August 17th, 2025 | 18:30 – 21:30
      • Where: Lobby Garden, MERUSAKA Nusa Dua
      • Price: IDR 475,000 net per person (For guests on our All-Inclusive Package, a surcharge of IDR 250,000 net applies)

      Spaces for this special event are limited. We invite you to reserve your table and create an unforgettable Independence Day memory with us.

      Reservations and inquiries.

       

       

      Why a Balinese Cooking Class is a Must-Do Experience: A Taste of Tradition

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      A Balinese cooking class is a truly special way to connect with the heart of the island. It’s a joyful, hands-on adventure for all your senses. You’ll go far beyond simply tasting the food to understanding the soul behind it. This experience invites you into a local kitchen to discover the secrets of Bali’s aromatic and flavorful cuisine.

      Eating at a restaurant is wonderful, of course. However, learning to grind fresh spices and prepare a meal yourself is unforgettable. It’s a chance to learn a new skill and connect with the local culture. Therefore, you get to take the most valuable souvenir of all home with you: the taste of Bali.

      As your friendly hosts at MERUSAKA Nusa Dua, we believe this is a must-do experience for any food lover. Here is what to expect from this fun-filled culinary journey.

      More Than a Meal: It’s a Cultural Journey

      Before you even start cooking, you’ll find out that a cooking class in Bali is about much more than just recipes.

      A Connection with Locals: This is an incredible opportunity to learn from a passionate local chef. Many of the best classes are held in beautiful, open-air kitchens. These are often set within a traditional family home or an organic garden. Therefore, they offer a glimpse into the authentic Balinese way of life.

      Understanding the Philosophy: You will learn that Balinese cooking is deeply rooted in a philosophy of balance. For instance, it’s about using fresh, natural ingredients from the island. They are combined in a way that is not only delicious but also harmonious.

      The Anatomy of a Balinese Cooking Class: What to Expect

      Every cooking school has its own charm. Still, most follow a wonderful and engaging structure. This takes you on a complete journey from the market to the table. Here’s what your delicious day will likely look like.

      Basa Gede (The Base Spice Paste): Learning this is like learning the secret handshake of Balinese cooking.

      Part 1: The Vibrant Morning Market Tour Your adventure often begins in the early morning at a bustling local market. Guided by your chef, you’ll navigate the vibrant aisles. Your senses will be filled with the sights and smells of Bali. This is where you will see incredible local produce up close. For example, you’ll find exotic fruits and mountains of fragrant spices.

      Part 2: An Introduction to the ‘Secret’ Spices Back at the kitchen, you’ll gather for an introduction to the key ingredients. Your chef will show you the “spice family” of galangal, turmeric, and ginger. Subsequently, you’ll learn how to create Basa Gede, the iconic base spice paste. It is truly the soul of countless Balinese dishes.

      Sate Lilit (Minced Meat Satay): One of Bali’s most famous and fun-to-make dishes.

      Part 3: The Fun, Hands-On Cooking Session Now, it’s time to get your hands dirty! You’ll get your own cooking station. Under the expert guidance of your chef, you will begin to cook. This is the fun part! You will probably use a traditional stone mortar and pestle to grind your own paste. Then you’ll learn the unique technique of wrapping Sate Lilit around a lemongrass stalk. Finally, you will prepare other classic dishes from scratch.

      Part 4: The Grand Finale – A Well-Deserved Feast! This is the ultimate reward for your hard work. After the cooking is done, you and your fellow students will sit down together. You’ll enjoy the magnificent, multi-course Balinese feast that you all just prepared. It’s a proud and social moment, sharing the delicious results of your collective effort.

      What Delicious Dishes Might You Learn to Make?

      The menu changes between schools, but you can expect to prepare a full, balanced Balinese meal. Some popular classics often include:

      • Basa Gede (The Base Spice Paste): Learning this is like learning the secret handshake of Balinese cooking.
      • Gado-Gado (Vegetable Salad with Peanut Sauce): A fresh and flavorful start to the meal.
      • Sate Lilit (Minced Meat Satay): One of Bali’s most famous and fun-to-make dishes.
      • Pepes Ikan (Fish Steamed in Banana Leaves): A classic technique that seals in moisture and flavor.
      • Dadar Gulung (Pandan Crepes): A delicious sweet treat to finish, filled with grated coconut and palm sugar.

      How to Book Your Culinary Adventure

      Bali has many excellent cooking schools. A large number are located in and around the Ubud area. This area is known for its lush, natural settings.

      Booking in Advance: It’s always a good idea to book your class a few days ahead. This is especially true during the peak season, as the best schools can fill up quickly.

      Let Us Help You Arrange It: For a seamless experience, our MERUSAKA Concierge team would be delighted to help you. We can recommend and book a high-quality cooking class. We can also arrange comfortable, private transportation for your day trip. This ensures a stress-free and memorable adventure from start to finish.

      Take the Taste of Bali Home with You

      A Balinese cooking class is an unforgettable, hands-on experience. It is consistently rated as a highlight of any trip to the island. It’s a chance to laugh, learn, and create something truly delicious. Ultimately, this experience allows you to take the authentic flavors and warm spirit of Bali right back into your own kitchen.