Hello, I’m Jey, currently interning with the Human Resource team at Bukit Vista. You might have come across my previous blogposts and articles, where I’ve shared insights about our company culture and stories from our dedicated employees. Today, I’m thrilled to recount the tale of my adventures with fellow interns at Bukit Vista’s Bali Base, as we delved into the stunning landscapes and rich culture of Bali.
At Bukit Vista, we are deeply committed to nurturing talent through immersive, real-world experiences. Our MSIB (Magang Studi Independen Bersertifikat) program, an integral part of the Kampus Merdeka initiative, is meticulously designed to empower interns with practical, hands-on learning opportunities. This educational philosophy was splendidly showcased in our latest group adventure – a memorable trip to Bedugul with our Batch 5 interns. This diverse group, each fulfilling critical roles, brought unique perspectives and skills to the forefront:
- Jey and Yosefine, our HR interns, are pivotal in upholding our dynamic company culture.
- Amanda, serving as our Guest Operations Intern, demonstrates exceptional skill in ensuring guest satisfaction and smooth operational flow.
- Dinda, our Community Manager Intern, acts as the vibrant voice and spirit of our community, skillfully fostering connections.
- Radit, in his role as Property Manager Intern, shows a dedicated focus on upholding the high standards of our property portfolio.
- Nanda and Alna, our Business Development Interns, drive our growth and forge new partnerships with their innovative strategies.
Our expedition to Bedugul was more than just a leisurely retreat; it was a poignant and practical learning journey. This excursion was perfectly timed as the internship period is drawing to a close on December 31st. All the interns in Bali decided to embark on this holiday together, intending to create a lasting, memorable experience before returning to their respective cities.
Catching the Sunrise
Our adventurous day commenced at the break of dawn, precisely at 4 AM, under a tranquil blanket of stars that adorned the Balinese sky. The journey began with all of us gathering at Nanda’s place in Denpasar, buzzing with excitement for the day ahead. Radit, our skilled Property Manager Intern, took the wheel, navigating us through the sleeping streets towards Bedugul. As we embarked on the 1 and a half hour drive, the anticipation within the car was palpable, each of us eagerly awaiting the renowned Bedugul sunrise.
However, nature had other plans. As we journeyed through the winding roads, the sun began its ascent earlier than expected. We didn’t manage to reach our destination in time to catch the sunrise in its full glory. Yet, this slight twist in our plan didn’t dampen our spirits. Instead, it offered us an unexpected but equally mesmerizing experience. As the sky slowly awakened, it painted itself in breathtaking hues of purple and orange. These stunning shades gradually seeped into our surroundings, creating a surreal backdrop that could be admired right from our car.
This moment, although slightly different from what we had envisioned, was no less beautiful. Witnessing the sunrise from our moving car, surrounded by the serene highlands of Bedugul, was a unique experience in itself. The soft morning light filtering through the car windows brought a sense of peace and awe. It was a gentle yet powerful reminder of Bali’s natural beauty and the ever-present opportunity to find joy in the unexpected.
For us at Bukit Vista, such experiences are treasured. They embody our ethos of flexibility, adaptability, and appreciation of the moment. As we continued our journey, the early morning experience in the car became a topic of lively discussion and reflection, setting a positive and adventurous tone for the rest of our day in Bedugul.
Breakfast and Local Experience
By 6 AM, as the first light of dawn cast its golden hues over the landscape, we arrived in the heart of Bedugul. Our search for an authentic Balinese breakfast led us to a charming streetside eatery, a place that seemed to capture the essence of local life. Here, we were about to indulge in a meal that was humble yet profoundly enriching in its simplicity and authenticity.
The menu offered a delightful introduction to traditional Balinese cuisine, featuring two classic dishes: Bali traditional porridge and nasi kuning (yellow rice). The porridge, a comforting and hearty dish, was made from rice slowly cooked to a soft, creamy consistency, seasoned with local herbs and spices that provided a burst of flavors unique to the region. Nasi kuning, on the other hand, was a vibrant and aromatic dish. The yellow rice, tinted with turmeric and cooked with coconut milk, was accompanied by a variety of side dishes that included fried chicken, boiled eggs, and a mix of Balinese sambals (chili pastes). Each bite was a delightful exploration of the rich culinary heritage of Bali.
As we savored our breakfast, the streets of Bedugul began to stir to life. The simple setting of our meal, with the hustle of local life unfolding around us, offered a stark contrast to the usual bustling tourist spots. It was in these moments, amidst the everyday rhythms of the Balinese people, that we found a deeper connection to the land and its culture.
Cultural Exploration: Pura Ulun Danu Batur
Continuing our journey through the heart of Bali, our next destination was the majestic Pura Ulun Danu Batur. As we arrived, the sight of this significant cultural landmark left us in awe. The temple, with its serene presence and spiritual aura, stands as a testament to Bali’s rich history and profound spiritual heritage.
Pura Ulun Danu Batur is not just a religious site; it is a cornerstone of Balinese culture and community life. Upon entering, we paid an entrance fee of 30,000 Rupiah, a standard rate for local tourists, which contributes to the temple’s maintenance and preservation. This small act of contribution felt meaningful, as it signified our respect and support for the local community and its heritage.
The temple, dedicated to the goddess of lakes and rivers, Dewi Danu, holds a significant place in the hearts of the Balinese people. It is revered as a protector of Bali’s water sources, playing a crucial role in the agricultural life of the island. As we explored the temple grounds, the intricate architectural details and the harmonious blend of natural and man-made beauty were captivating. The temple’s multi-tiered shrines, ornately carved gates, and the serene Lake Batur in the backdrop created a picturesque setting that was both tranquil and spiritually uplifting.
For our interns, this visit was more than just a cultural tour; it was a journey into the soul of Bali. The experience of walking through the sacred halls, witnessing the devotion of the local people, and feeling the peaceful ambiance of the temple grounds was deeply moving.
The visit to Pura Ulun Danu Batur was not just an educational experience; it was an opportunity to create core memories that would stay with each intern long after their tenure at Bukit Vista. These memories, forged in the heart of Bali’s cultural landscape, would serve as a constant reminder of the beauty and depth of the Balinese culture and the importance of preserving and respecting this heritage in our work.
Adventure at The Sila’s Agrotourism
Our adventure continued as we made our way to The Sila’s Agrotourism in Bedugul, a place where fun and learning converge amidst the beauty of nature. Upon arrival, each of us paid an entrance fee of 20,000 Rupiah, a small price for the excitement that awaited us.
The Sila’s Agrotourism is renowned for its range of activities that not only provide entertainment but also offer insights into sustainable tourism practices. Our first activity was arrow shooting, for which we each paid 30,000 Rupiah. Holding the bows and aiming at the targets, we found ourselves immersed in an activity that required focus and precision. The thrill of releasing the arrow and hitting the target was exhilarating, bringing out a sense of friendly competition and camaraderie among us.
Next up was the highlight of the day – paintball, an activity that cost 140,000 Rupiah per person. Dressed in protective gear and armed with paintball guns, we were divided into teams and set loose in the designated area. The game was intense and lively, with each of us strategizing, ducking, and dodging to avoid being hit while trying to tag our opponents. The excitement of the game, the bursts of color, and the laughter and shouts that filled the air made it an unforgettable experience.
What made these activities particularly special was the bonding they facilitated. As interns at Bukit Vista, we often worked in our specific roles, focusing on our individual contributions to the company. However, engaging in these group activities allowed us to interact in a completely different setting. The barriers of formal work relationships dissolved, replaced by the thrill of shared adventure and the joy of teamwork. We cheered each other on, shared tips, and laughed together, strengthening our bonds and fostering a sense of unity.
Journey to Ubud
Our journey continued to Ubud, known as a melting pot of Balinese culture and cuisine. The vibrant streets of Ubud welcomed us with their unique charm as we made our way to Bakso GG, a popular local eatery. Here, we indulged in a delightful lunch, introducing our interns to the rich flavors of Balinese culinary delights. The warm, savory bowls of Bakso (Indonesian meatball soup) served as a perfect energizer for the adventure that lay ahead.
The highlight of our Ubud excursion was an exhilarating ATV ride with Bali Skutis Adventure. Eager for the thrill, we each paid 350,000 Rupiah for a single ATV and 450,000 Rupiah for two-seater ATVs. Geared up with helmets and briefed on safety, we embarked on a journey that promised to be a highlight of our day.
Our ATV adventure took us off the beaten path, allowing us to explore the authentic beauty of Bali’s landscape. We drove through local villages. As we maneuvered through the lush green rice fields, the beauty of Bali’s agrarian landscape unfolded before us. The trail then led us deeper into the jungle. Our final destination was a breathtaking waterfall, a hidden gem within the heart of Bali.
The ATV ride with Bali Skutis Adventure was not just about the thrill and excitement; it was a journey of discovery.As we concluded our ATV adventure and made our way back to the hustle and bustle of Ubud, this experience was a vivid reminder of the importance of exploring and cherishing the hidden treasures that Bali has to offer.
Coffee and Relaxation at Seniman Brewery, Ubud
As evening approached, we relaxed at Seniman Coffee on Goetama Street. Some interns opted for traditional massages, while others enjoyed the coffee. This downtime was essential for team bonding and understanding the diverse leisure activities available in Bali. Our return journey was filled with reflections on the day’s experiences.
Return Journey and Dinner at Mak Beng Ubud
As the sun began to dip below the horizon, we embarked on our return journey, hearts and minds brimming with the day’s adventures. The drive back was a time for reflection, with each of us sharing our favorite moments and insights gained from the experiences. The laughter and chatter in the car were a testament to the stronger bonds we had formed throughout the day.
Our day of exploration and adventure found its perfect conclusion at Mak Beng Ubud, a renowned eatery famed for its authentic Balinese seafood. Here, each of us paid 55,000 Rupiah for a meal that promised to be a delightful culinary experience. Mak Beng’s reputation for serving some of the best traditional seafood dishes in Bali had set our expectations high, and we were not disappointed.
The meal at Mak Beng was a simple yet profoundly satisfying affair. We were served a delicious fish soup, a flavorful broth that was both soothing and rich in taste, perfectly capturing the essence of Balinese spices and cooking techniques. Following the soup, we were treated to fried sea fish, a dish that was crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, seasoned to perfection, and served with a side of sambal that added just the right amount of kick. The balance of flavors in each dish was a testament to Balinese cuisine’s culinary.
As we savored our dinner, the conversations around the table were heartwarming and lively. We discussed our learnings from the day, the beauty of Bali’s landscapes we had traversed, and the cultural insights we had gathered from our visits to Pura Ulun Danu Batur and the local villages.
As we concluded our meal and stepped out of Mak Beng, we felt a sense of gratitude for the day’s experiences. The dinner had not only satiated our appetites but had also provided a fitting end to a day filled with exploration, learning, and bonding. As we journeyed back to our accommodations, we carried with us not just the memories of a well-spent day but also a deeper connection with each other and with the beautiful island of Bali.
If you’re intrigued and wish to dive deeper into the vibrant world of Bukit Vista and explore more about our employee activities, we warmly invite you to visit our website. There, you’ll find a treasure trove of stories, experiences, and insights that showcase not only our adventures but also the values and community spirit that drive us. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to discover more about our culture and how we blend work with fun, learning, and exploration. Visit us now and be a part of our journey!