Prasana by Arjani Resorts, Bali, Indonesia

The Bukit Peninsula that dangles from the tip of Bali like a pearl earring was once an overlooked zone, of old quarries, scrub and hard-core surf reefs. As southern Bali’s development and traffic jams climbed off the Richter, “the Bukit” became a haven for those in the know, distancing themselves from “Paradise Kaput”. Enter the elegant, 21-villa Prasana resort (its full, rather awkward name is “Prasana by Arjani Resorts”) on the Bukit plateau. Each spacious, tasteful villa has a private pool and living room, plus one, two or three bedrooms. Throw in the survival luxuries – WiFi, big TV, bar, marble bathroom, sun sala, flora galore – and you’re in a haven within a haven. The restaurant, with its sprawling deck and infinite views east to the ocean, can tempt you to linger half the day (don’t miss the house ginger beer), fanned by trade breezes. Come time to explore, visit the monumental Garuda and Vishnu statues at nearby GWK Cultural Park, or at the vertiginous tip of the island see the legendary Uluwatu Temple (but beware its kleptomane monkeys). Beachwise, head to Dreamland or Bingin, while skipping tiny, trashy Padang Padang, and only consider surfing Ulu Watu reef if you’re truly experienced. On the main road enjoy lunch at Ayu’s “Food From the Heart” warung, then cruise home to sundowners at Prasana. The name, from Sanskrit, aptly means “joyful”, with no further explanation necessary. arjaniresorts.com/prasana