MEET DEDI: THE CREATIVE SOUL BEHIND THE KITCHEN AT PURI DAJUMA BEACH

MEET DEDI: THE CREATIVE SOUL BEHIND THE KITCHEN AT PURI DAJUMA BEACH

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This week, we’re delighted to shine a spotlight on Dedi, a valued member of our kitchen team at Puri Dajuma Beach. Together with the entire culinary team, Dedi plays an important role in creating memorable dining experiences for our guests at Rama Restaurant, the Romantic Dinner and the Teppanyaki Restaurant. More team profiles will follow throughout the year as we continue sharing the stories behind the people who make Dajuma feel like home.
For the past 10 years, Dedi has dedicated his talent, energy, and creativity to the kitchen at Dajuma Beach. Today, he works alongside seven other team members — Rudi, Dewi, Puriawati, Udi, Tri, Lia, and Komang — making the kitchen team a close-knit family of eight people including Dedi himself. Together with his colleague Rudi, Dedi helps lead the kitchen team with passion and commitment, ensuring every dish reflects the authentic spirit of Bali and the warmth of Dajuma hospitality. Before joining Dajuma, Dedi gained experience working in several hotels across Bali before eventually returning to his hometown in West Bali. He began his journey at Dajuma as a cook and, through years of dedication and hard work, grew into one of the leaders of our kitchen team today.
Interestingly, Dedi never imagined he would build a career in the culinary world. During his younger years, he studied mechanical engineering and was also passionate about science while at school. He later continued his education at a tourism school in Denpasar for two years, where his interest in hospitality and culinary arts continued to grow.
Cooking had always been naturally close to him. Since his school years, Dedi enjoyed cooking with friends and preparing meals outdoors after hunting trips — a passion that slowly developed into the career he truly loves today. Another important inspiration came from his grandmother, whose cooking and love for traditional flavors left a lasting impression on him and helped shape his passion for culinary arts. At his 34 years old, Dedi is not only a passionate chef but also a proud father to his two sons, Delista and Saka, with his beloved wife Suci. In the kitchen, he currently focuses mostly on the hot section, where he enjoys creating flavorful dishes using local ingredients and traditional inspirations from West Bali. Beyond creating delicious dishes, Dedi is deeply passionate about introducing local flavors and regional specialties to guests visiting Dajuma. Through his creativity and love for local ingredients, he hopes to showcase the rich culinary potential of West Bali and create meaningful dining experiences for every visitor.

A PEACEFUL CULTURAL ESCAPE TO PURA BATUKARU

A PEACEFUL CULTURAL ESCAPE TO PURA BATUKARU

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Last week, Susanne, one of our long-stay guests in Joglo Room, joined one of our cultural experience programs by visiting Pura Batukaru, one of Bali’s largest and most sacred temples, surrounded by lush rainforest and a deeply peaceful atmosphere.
As part of her slow travel journey in Bali, Susanne took the time not only to explore the temple area, but also to truly connect with the island’s spiritual and cultural essence. During the visit, she had the opportunity to experience a traditional prayer ceremony led directly by a local priest, allowing her to gain a deeper understanding of Balinese traditions, spirituality, and daily life.
More than simply visiting a destination, this experience invited her to slow down, embrace the serenity of nature, and appreciate the meaningful moments found within Bali’s local culture. The calm and tranquil atmosphere of the temple left a lasting impression on her, making the visit one of the most memorable highlights of her stay at Puri Dajuma Terrace, Eco-Lodge & Spa.
Through experiences like this, slow travel becomes more than a way of exploring — it becomes a way of feeling more connected to the people, culture, and spirit of Bali.

SLOW MOMENTS ON YOUR PRIVATE TERRACE

SLOW MOMENTS ON YOUR PRIVATE TERRACE

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At Puri Dajuma Beach Eco-Resort & Spa, comfort is not only found inside the room, it also lives quietly on the terrace, gently swaying between moments of rest and the sound of the ocean breeze. Both our Deluxe Garden View Cottage and VIP Ocean View Cottage feature a private hammock on the terrace, inviting guests to slow down and embrace the simple beauty of doing nothing at all.
In the Garden View Cottage, the hammock becomes a peaceful corner surrounded by lush tropical greenery, birdsong, and the calming atmosphere of our gardens. It is the perfect place to enjoy a morning coffee, read a book, or simply reconnect with nature.
Meanwhile, in the Ocean View Cottage, the hammock offers a front-row seat to the Indian Ocean. As the sea breeze drifts through the terrace and the sound of the waves fills the air, every moment feels slower, softer, and more meaningful. Sunsets become even more memorable when enjoyed from the comfort of your own private hammock.
More than just a feature, the hammock has become one of those little details our guests remember most, a symbol of slow travel, where time is no longer measured by schedules, but by peaceful moments and genuine relaxation. At Dajuma, sometimes the best part of the journey is simply lying back in a hammock and letting Bali move at its own rhythm. Ready to try it?

SATE MARANGGI: A TASTE OF INDONESIAN HERITAGE

SATE MARANGGI: A TASTE OF INDONESIAN HERITAGE

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Indonesia’s culinary treasures are filled with stories, traditions, and flavors that have been passed down through generations. One of these beloved dishes is Sate Maranggi, a grilled skewer specialty known for its tender meat, aromatic spices, and irresistible smoky flavor. Marinated with a blend of traditional seasonings, then grilled over charcoal, Sate Maranggi offers a delicious balance of savory and slightly sweet notes with every bite. Its roots reflect the local wisdom of regions such as Purwakarta and Cianjur, West Java, celebrating simplicity, togetherness, and culinary traditions that continue to live on today. More than just a dish, Sate Maranggi carries the warmth of culture and the story of Indonesia’s rich food heritage.
At Dajuma Terrace, our Sate Maranggi is served with fresh pickled vegetables and sweet soy sauce mixed with sliced shallots and chopped chili, creating a refreshing and flavorful complement to the grilled meat. You can enjoy it with steamed rice or crispy fries, according to your preference. Together with Balinese favorites, Indonesian classics, and international cuisine, it is one of the many delicious experiences waiting to be discovered at Dajuma Terrace.

TRY SLOW TRAVEL AT DAJUMA

TRY SLOW TRAVEL AT DAJUMA

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The Slow Travel concept is gaining increasing importance in today’s tourism industry. But what does it really mean? In many ways, it’s a modern evolution of the old idea: “Don’t just get tanned, understand the place.” Slow Travel encourages guests to move away from mass tourism, where destinations are often experienced quickly and superficially. Instead, it invites travelers to take their time—exploring more deeply and meaningfully by connecting with local people, culture, and nature. This philosophy has been at the heart of Dajuma since its creation in 2002. Today, we are proud to take it even further with the opening of our second resort, Dajuma Terrace, nestled in the rice fields. Across both resorts, we offer a wide range of authentic experiences. One of our guests’ favorites is a scenic trek through the rice fields leading to the beautiful Sing Sing Waterfall. On the way back, a stop in a nearby village offers something truly special: a warm welcome from a local family, a delicious home-cooked lunch, and a glimpse into their daily life and traditions. Moments like these are rare, genuine, and deeply appreciated by our guests. Viva Slow Travel!

REMOVAL OF OUR BELOVED TALIPOT PALM TREE

REMOVAL OF OUR BELOVED TALIPOT PALM TREE

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Dajuma experienced an extraordinary moment last week: the removal of our beloved Talipot palm tree, which had long stood guard over the Dajuma main temple. Planted in 2002 at the very beginning of Dajuma, it grew to more than 20 meters tall over the years, becoming a truly iconic presence. The Talipot palm is a remarkable species that blooms only once in its lifetime, after which it dies a few months later. This natural cycle is what occurred with our tree. As much as we cherished it, we had growing concerns about the risk of it falling during strong winds. A specialized team from Singaraja carried out the removal with great care and professionalism, strictly following all safety procedures and using proper equipment. Our gardening team has already planned a beautiful new garden to take its place. While it is difficult to say goodbye to such a magnificent tree, we are confident that what comes next will be just as captivating. Well done to everyone involved!

CELEBRATING SACRED HARMONY: ODALAN ON PURNAMA KEDASA

CELEBRATING SACRED HARMONY: ODALAN ON PURNAMA KEDASA

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A few days ago, on April 2nd, under the full moon of Purnama Kedasa, our temple hosted a beautiful Odalan ceremony, a meaningful Balinese Hindu celebration honoring the divine. The evening was filled with devotion, offerings, and the enchanting sounds of gamelan. Sacred dances added to the atmosphere, including the graceful Tari Rejang Dewa performed by local girls, and the welcoming Tari Panyembrama. Our guests were captivated by the authenticity and spirit of the ceremony, sharing in a unique cultural experience. As the night ended, a deep sense of peace and gratitude remained, reflecting Bali’s harmony between the spiritual and everyday life.

A Taste of Bali - Outdoor Cooking Class with Nadia’s Group

A TASTE OF BALI: OUTDOOR COOKING CLASS WITH NADIA’S GROUP

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There is something truly special about bringing people together through food, especially when it happens in a serene, open-air setting surrounded by nature. During their 9-day stay with us, the wonderful Nadia Yoga group embraced this experience wholeheartedly through a delightful cooking class. With a group of 8 participants, we curated a more intimate and immersive session by hosting the class outdoors. As the evening breeze set in, the cooking session began at 6:00 PM, creating the perfect ambiance for a hands-on culinary journey. The menu was thoughtfully selected to introduce the group to authentic Balinese flavors. Participants learned how to prepare sate lilit & jukut ares, a traditional Balinese dish rich in local ingredients and cultural heritage. Alongside this, they also crafted fresh lawar salad, crispy spring rolls, and the beloved Indonesian dessert, dadar gulung.
What made the experience truly unforgettable was the energy and enthusiasm of the group. Laughter, curiosity, and excitement filled the air as everyone worked together, chopping, mixing, and cooking under the open sky. For many, it was their first time experiencing a cooking class in such a natural setting, making it not just a lesson, but a cherished memory. Moments like these reflect the essence of what we aim to offer: meaningful experiences that connect people not only to local culture, but also to each other.

A JOURNEY BACK HOME: GUSTI'S STORY

A JOURNEY BACK HOME: GUSTI’S STORY

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At Puri Dajuma Terrace, every team member has a story—and Gusti’s is one of passion, homecoming, and genuine connection.
I Gusti Putu Imanyasa, or simply Gusti as we fondly call him, is the friendly face behind many of our tours and transfers. Before becoming part of our guides-drivers team, Gusti worked as a driver for a tourism transportation company. It was on the road, meeting travelers from different parts of the world, that he discovered something more than just a job—a true passion for tourism. Driven by this passion, Gusti began learning how to become a guide, eager to share stories, culture, and experiences with others.
Life then brought him full circle. When Puri Dajuma Terrace opened its doors and began recruiting, Gusti saw more than just a job opportunity—he saw a chance to come home. Located in his own hometown, this opportunity allowed him to reunite with his family while continuing to grow in the industry he loves. With his experience and enthusiasm, Gusti joined the team and has been part of the journey since the very beginning.
For Gusti, this is more than work. Every day, he meets new people, shares the beauty of Bali, and tells stories about its rich culture, breathtaking nature, and deep-rooted traditions. Through every tour and every journey, he creates meaningful connections—turning simple trips into memorable experiences. And it shows, Gusti has received countless positive impressions from guests he has guided or assisted, a reflection of his sincerity and dedication. For him, the greatest reward is seeing guests leave with smiles, memories, and a deeper appreciation of Bali.

WHEN TWO CELEBRATIONS MEET: NYEPI AND EID AL-FITR AROUND PURI DAJUMA

WHEN TWO CELEBRATIONS MEET: NYEPI AND EID AL-FITR AROUND PURI DAJUMA

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This year brings a very special moment in Bali, as two important celebrations from different cultures fall very close to each other. The island is preparing for Nyepi, the Balinese Day of Silence for Hindus, followed shortly after by Eid al-Fitr, the joyful celebration marking the end of Ramadan for Muslims. Around Puri Dajuma, both traditions can be seen side by side, creating a unique atmosphere of harmony, culture, and community.

In the villages surrounding Dajuma Terrace and Dajuma Beach, preparations for Nyepi have been underway for weeks. Balinese youth groups have been working together to build impressive Ogoh-Ogoh, large artistic statues symbolizing negative forces. These creations, made with incredible creativity and teamwork, will be paraded through the village streets on the eve of Nyepi before being ceremonially burned, symbolizing the purification of the world.

Another important ritual that takes place before Nyepi is Melasti, a sacred purification ceremony held by the sea. Not far from Puri Dajuma, groups of villagers dressed in traditional white attire walk in procession toward the beach, carrying sacred temple objects and offerings. Accompanied by prayers, music, and colorful ceremonial umbrellas, the ritual symbolizes spiritual cleansing before entering the quiet reflection of Nyepi.

While the Hindu community prepares for their sacred day of silence, the Muslim community around Dajuma Beach is also busy preparing for their upcoming celebration of Eid al-Fitr. Young people in the village enthusiastically build beautiful miniature of mosque, which will later be carried through the streets during the Takbiran parade. This lively procession takes place on the night before Eid, filled with joyful chants, lights, and community spirit.

What makes this year particularly special is the timing. Because Nyepi and Eid fall so close together, the atmosphere in Bali feels especially festive. From spiritual ceremonies and cultural traditions to joyful community parades, the island is alive with preparation and celebration.

For guests staying at Puri Dajuma, it is a rare opportunity to witness two beautiful cultural traditions unfolding almost at the same time. One brings a day of complete silence and reflection, while the other celebrates togetherness and gratitude after a month of fasting.

Together, these moments reflect the true spirit of Bali: a place where different cultures, beliefs, and traditions live in harmony, creating a rich and vibrant tapestry of life.