Citakara Sari is translated as “The Essence of Arts.” The richness of Balinese arts is what drew us to this unique land in the first place. Here, artists, musicians, dancers, and creative people of all sorts are held in highest regard, and in most instances entire communities will take part in performances, as musicians in the Gamelan orchestra, as actors, dancers, singers, puppeteers, or even in combinations of several different capacities. Every aspect of Balinese culture, from government functions to religious ceremonies, is a creative endeavor. This vibrant and lively approach to life has informed the concept and design of Citakara Sari Villa.
Our villa is located in Candi Dasa, a quiet haven on the coast of east Bali, completely unlike most tourist destinations on the island. Candi Dasa was ‘discovered’ in the mid-eighties, but has remained a quiet refuge for artists, writers, and discerning travelers, seeking a beautiful retreat away from larger westernized resorts. The bustle of major cities like Ubud and Denpasar are within easy commuting distance, their excitement and entertainment is no more than one hour’s drive from Citakara Sari. We have fully equipped kitchens open to our guests; enterprising cooks can experiment with Balinese ingredients, which are readily available at the local markets. Exotic fruits and spices, as well as local staples, are all close by. There are also many wonderful restaurants in the area, ranging from small Warungs, or cafés, to upscale establishments where Western chefs experiment with fusions of Balinese and Western food, and even offer cooking classes.
Citakara Sari Villa was designed to wed elements of the traditional and the modern, combining Javanese woodwork and Balinese thatching with western amenities create a comfortable, natural flow. Believing that in architecture “less is more,” we have utilized sliding-glass doors to create the kind of open space prized in traditional Japanese design. And behind it all, the ocean, framed by one of the only white-sand beaches to be found in Candi Dasa.
