After three days in bustling Seminyak, a busy beach town in Southern Bali, we traveled 90 minutes through the center of the island to Ubud, regarded as the cultural hub of Bali. As we weaved through villages and rustic local roads, we were simply not prepared for the amazingness that is COMO Shambhala Estate.

Stepping out of our taxi and onto the grounds of COMO Shambhala, we were greeted by sweeping views of their 9-acre retreat - a cascade of vibrant greenery, bright blue skies, and the calming natural hues and clean lines of the estate. The natural beauty was so overwhelming and I felt so grateful, I even cried!

Breathtaking view at COMO Shambhala Estate.  Everything you see is part of the resort. — Breathtaking view at COMO Shambhala Estate. Everything you see is part of the resort.

COMO Shambhala Estate is the flagship property for COMO Hotels, and I had dreamed of visiting since it opened in 2005. Thanks to my amazing and generous former boss Mark Cunningham, my dream came true. We've truly found paradise in the jungle.

The design is seamlessly woven into the surrounding landscape, the food is light, organic and delicious, the service is top notch, and the spa treatments (available in the serene spa or in outdoor bungalows dotting the trails around the property) are heaven. Our dedicated "personal assistant" is the type who thinks of what we want before we think to ask for it.

Our residence at COMO Shambhala Estate, Tejasuara.

We've spent hours hiking the lush valley paths which reach down to the rapid Ayung River, jumping in the gorgeous natural spring pools and lounging on the private sunbeds with the sounds of the jungle lulling us to sleep. Included in our rate is a daily massage or facial for both of us, and we've definitely made the most of it. It's safe to say that this is the most amazing hotel that we have ever stayed in, and we are trying to think of jobs to apply for here so we never have to leave.

-Michelle

Natural spring pool at COMO Shambhala Estate.

A waterfall on the grounds of COMO Shambhala Estate.