Aman is an experiential brand, capturing the imagination of the global travel cognoscenti. Their innovative approach to luxury travel, where the experiences of guests take centre stage, complements its philosophy of opening up remote and less explored regions
Take Bali, Indonesia: mystical and enchanting, this Indonesian island offers a spiritual mix of natural wonders and centuries-old tradition, best experienced from one of Aman's three exceptional resorts.
Discover new Bali from the tranquil base of Amanusa, close to the chic shopping towns of Kuta, Legian, Sanur and Seminyak that are bursting with nightlife and quaint and quirky boutiques. Expect to see colourful textiles, carvings and jewellery and to taste moreish street food - try the Indonesian staple, chicken satay with spicy fried rice. Return to Amanusa for a Robinson Crusoe experience on the secluded beach - fringed by a coral reef, it is self-proclaimed as one of the best in Bali.
Situated above rice paddy fields and the Ayung River gorge that is excellent for white-water rafting, the design of Amandari follows that of a traditional Balinese village with pebbled walkways linking thatched-roof suites with their own walled gardens. Amandari means 'peaceful spirits' and the name is apt - for centuries, locals from the nearby Kedewatan village have walked through the resort's grounds to worship at a pool of holy water that houses three modest shrines.
Indulge your creative side by attending an art class in nearby Ubud, Bali's culture capital, or your culinary side by joining a cooking class in a traditional Balinese kitchen.
Active travellers will love Amankila. The area offers a host of activities for exploring, including mountain biking, horse-riding and diving. Alternatively, for cruising and snorkelling, Amankila offers two outriggers designed after the jukung, a traditional Balinese fishing craft. Close to the resort, you will find the last royal water palaces of the Raja of Karangasem.
More baroque than Balinese, the first impression is that of a grand Romanesque hall decorated with ornate archways. These influences can also be found in Amankila's doorways and alcoves. Don't leave without climbing the nearby Mount Agung volcano, the highest point on the island. Ascend early with a guide and you will be in time to witness the sun rising over the Lombok Strait.
Over on neighbouring Java, perhaps the most culturally compelling island in Indonesia, Amanjiwo offers many opportunities to fully immerse yourself in Javanese culture, including trips to temples and antique boutiques. Make sure you take advantage of the resort's dawn and sunset trips to Borobudur - a UNESCO World Heritage site and the world's largest Buddhist temple, containing 504 Buddha statues.
Moving from spiritual to natural wonders, Amanjiwo is located in one of the most scenic parts of Indonesia popular with trekkers and causal hikers alike. Situated within a natural amphitheatre, the limestone Menoreh Hills rise gently behind, the Kedu Plain in front and four dormant volcanoes can be seen on the horizon. Amanjiwo's design takes inspiration from the geology of the surrounding Yogyakarta locale, with its central area made from the region's paras yogya limestone.
Discover nature in the raw with an immersive stay at Amanwana and sleep under a canopy of monsoon forest on the nature reserve island of Moyo, where Aman boast the only resort. The protected marine park offers some of the best snorkelling and diving in Indonesia and the pristine coral reefs are teeming with marine life including hawksbill turtles, lobsters and Napoleon wrasse.
Guided jungle treks reward hikers with cascading waterfalls and a variety of birdlife - you may even catch a glimpse of the indigenous rusa deer that live in a sanctuary on the island. A real highlight that is not-to-be-missed is a trip to Komodo Island - home of the legendary dragons - on Amanikan, the resorts cruiser, or the newest edition Amandira, a 52-metre Phinisi sailing vessel.