Become a new you at these Club Med events in 2019

Become a new you and take the opportunity to grow mind, body & soul and take part in unique experiences with our new special events and retreats happening at Club Med in 2019 and 2020.

Curious to know which events you could participate in? We’ve made them more visible now with a brand new events section on this blog - compiling all the special events at Club Med with information, dates, locations and even a feature to add those to your calendar!

We’ve also done a quick summary below for you of four upcoming events at Club Med: Adventure into the wild, Eat, Play, Renew, Christmas at Club Med and Body and Soul in 2020. With many more to come soon!

Adventure into the Wild

What: Adventure into the wild

When: 13 July 2019 - 2 August 2019

Where: Club Med Cherating Beach, Malaysia

How: Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or nature-lover, immerse yourself amidst the 80 hectares of the magnificent Malaysian forest, flora and fauna surrounding the resort. The event is organised along 3 main topics: nature playground, green spirit and adventures.

Enjoy nature activities and dance in the jungle, picnic at the beach, learn massage classes and try healing, forest or paddle board yoga.

Live the green spirit during your stay with activities such as coconut hask planter, firefly jar and fun food preparation.

Adventure and enjoy a beach bootcamp, a trail workshop or a rock climbing experience!

Eat, Play, Renew

What: Eat, Play, Renew

When: 8 October 2019 - 29 October 2019

Where: Club Med Bali

How: The program is an exciting and revitalising welness retreat. The retreat is designed with foodies in mind: experience fruit carving lessons, nutrition workshops, cooking lessons… Wellbeing does not mean boring: experience balinese gamelan music classes, kecak fire dance show, balinese koreo dance classes… this retreat is not your usual retreat - also experience meditation and laughing yoga!

Christmas at Club Med

What: Christmas at Club Med

When: 24th - 25th December 2019

Where: All Club Med resorts

How: Open your precious gifts surrounded by a magical decor and spend quality time with the family around delicious food and fun activities. Experiencing a white Christmas with Club Med is super easy, you have nothing to organise and you will remember this magical and unique holiday forever!

From the Christmas magical atmosphere to the Christmas food and Christmas show,… you will have a lot of activities to choose from!

Body and Soul 2020

What: Body and Soul 2020

When: 26th May - 24th June

Where: Club Med Bintan Island

How: Join us on a wellness journey where you revitalise your mind, body and soul. The 4 thematics are Moving well, Eating well, Playing well and Feeling well.

Become a new You with our international wellness instructors and partners!

More events inside the resorts and around are coming soon! To keep you updated with the latest events, have a look at our Events section on the blog here!

What meditation is like on Eat Play Renew weeks in Bali with Joannie Lemay

Joannie Lemay is a certified mind-body practitioner and a yoga therapist working at Club Med as a meditation instructor. Through mindfulness trainings, Joannie delivers tools and tactics to enhance your happiness and maximise your potential to live your best life.

Joannie recently took part in Eat, Play, Renew weeks in Club Med Bali where she guided guests through a workshop to carry out daily meditation practice and also gave nutrition advice.

Eat, Play and Renew program, an exciting and revitalising welness retreat. The retreat is designed with foodies in mind: experience fruit carving lessons, nutrition workshops, cooking lessons… Wellbeing does not mean boring: experience balinese gamelan music classes, kecak fire dance show, balinese koreo dance classes… this retreat is not your usual retreat - also experience meditation and laughing yoga!

Discover a bit more about Joannie’s experience at Eat Play Renew in Club Med Bali below.

Hi Joannie, can you please introduce yourself?

I am a wellbeing consultant and the co founder of In Bloom. My aim is to inspire people and businesses to thrive by delivering tailored health strategies that not only improve performance, but also optimise individual’s mental, physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing.

Congrats on participating to the first edition of Eat, Play, Renew – how did you find the experience?

It was an absolute pleasure to deliver some wellbeing workshops to guests. GM’s were really engaged with the topics and sessions, and created meaningful connections through their time at Club Med by interacting with like minded people and sharing some stories about their wellbeing journey.

Can you tell us more about your meditation and nutrition trainings during the event?

I hosted daily morning and evening meditations, which were simply a wonderful way to get more out of your vacation by being present to every moment of the day. People told me many times that they felt more connected throughout their days.

The nutrition seminars were delivered at lunch time, and really  gained in popularity throughout the week from world of mouth! This is the best way to know that people enjoy the sessions when they come back and tell other guests about their own positive experience! All the nutrition workshops have a different topics, such as Nutrition 101, achieve optimal digestion on vacation and understand one’s relationship with food.

How did you interact with the participants, who were they and how did they respond to your training?

I am actually still in conversation with some of the participants! A sense of trust and support was created and I had people sharing powerful insights from what they’ve realised through the workshops and how they will change their approach to their everyday life back at home.

Describe your typical day in Club Med Bali during Eat, Play, Renew?

All days were blissful, healthy and truly relaxing!

From morning meditations, to interacting with guests at meal times, mid day water based activities to sunset yoga sessions, I felt like the days flew by! 

Where were your favourite spots to relax?

Right under the Frangipani tree, overlooking the ocean! And the Zen pool, so enjoyable.

What did you pack in your bag for the event?

Yoga clothing, swimwear, books, sunnies and my hat!

How did you feel once the event was finished?

Fulfilled and relaxed, peaceful and joyful! Ready to come back and deliver more Eat, Play, Renew Retreats around the world!

What Club Med would you like to try next?

Club Med Kani, Club Med Magna Marbella and Club Med Cefalu!

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the next session of Eat Play Renew in Club Med Bali from 8 to 29 October 2019. Discover more about Club Med Bali here.

Tribe in Paradise Part 2: A 50th birthday to remember in Bali

What’s better than a special birthday surrounded by loved ones in paradise? With her group of 15 family members and friends, Jane Hamill celebrated her 50th in style in Club Med Bali, Indonesia. Her relaxing days consisted of sunrise walks with her mum, yoga by the beach, lazing by the pool and cocktails of course! The Zen pool was a big hit for adults while kids enjoyed the Junior Club. It was a perfect balance and successful time away for all family members!

1. Why did you choose to go to Club Med Bali?

I had been to Club Med Bali 5 times already and always loved it. The whole family enjoys being there and as a mum it is a true holiday for me as I can just relax and don't need to think about a thing. What better place to meet up with friends and family to celebrate my 50th Birthday!

2. Who did you travel with during your stay?

We had a group of 15 including my husband, 13 year-old son and 10 year-old daughter. We met up with two other families, my best friend from school and my parents.

3. What was your typical day in the resort?

Meeting my mum at 6:30am for a sunrise walk, yoga by the beach, breakfast and lazing by the pool, watching trapeze, lunch, more lazing by the pool, archery, afternoon pilates, cocktails by the beach. My son hung out with the junior club and enjoyed trapeze, archery and pool games. The child free couples were able to take advantage of the beautiful zen pool. Each night we met up for dinner in the restaurant and the staff made sure we had a table that could accommodate our group.

4. What was your highlight from the trip?

My birthday dinner in The Deck restaurant. The staff were fantastic with our booking and I received the Club Med rendition of Happy Birthday! Spending relaxing time with my family and friends was the best gift of all.

5. What do you love most about Bali as a destination?

🌴 Beautiful spacious grounds

🌞 Gorgeous weather

😊 Lovely people

6. What did you enjoy the most in the resort?

The food and the friendliness of the GO team.

7. What is your top tip for a successful family trip in Club Med Bali?

Just let everyone go their own way and meet up for meals. It is a safe environment for the kids to experience some independence.

8. What are your favourite activities for a perfect family holiday in Club Med Bali?

Archery, table tennis and pool games are great for all the family, plus watching the shows at night.

9. What could you pack in your suitcase for a family holiday in Club Med Bali?

Yoga pants, bathers and something white for White Night.

10. Which Club Med are you going to next?

We are looking forward to our first Club Med ski holiday to Pragelato Vialattea, Italy and coming home via Club Med Bintan.

Answers by Jane Hamill from Perth, thanks for your participation!

If you like to hear more about this destination, head to the Club Med Bali page to plan your next holiday.

And if you’d like to send us your Club Med experiences, feel free to drop us a note on hello.au@clubmed.com

#MeetOurG.Os - VIDEO: Incredible G.O stories from Club Med Bali

This month people all around the world recognised World Heritage Day,  a celebration of unique cultural heritage, a value that Club Med encompasses every day in their resorts.

On this special day Club Med Bali interviewed a few of our amazing G.Os, allowing them to share insights into their unique and multicultural background - check it out below!

Want to become one of our passionate G.Os? Club Med is always on the look out for new amazing individuals to join our team! Discover all job offers now on clubmedjobs.com.au

#HowTo... Make The Most of a Bali Holiday With Kids

Bustling streets, beautiful beaches and wonderful Indonesian culture… who wouldn’t want to visit Bali?With direct flights from Sydney and a travel time of less than 7 hours, it’s a great place to take your family. Here, we line up our top tips for taking the kids on a Balinese adventure…

Basic tips for going to Bali with kids

✔️ Stay at a resort out of the hustle and bustle of Kuta. The busy streets will only make travelling with the kids more difficult.

✔️ Check if your accommodation in Bali offers child-minding services or a Kids Club. Ensure the staff are qualified in childcare services, especially for babies, and also check the children-to-staff ratio.

✔️ Choose a resort with an adults-only pool! Sometimes on holidays you’ve got to take some time for yourself.

✔️ Get the family up-to-date with their vaccines. In Bali it’s recommended you have a Tetanus and Diphtheria shot, as well as Hepatitis A. Some Kids Clubs will ask for your child’s vaccinations records (including Club Med), so make sure to bring them with you.

✔️ Book your transfers before you arrive! Take the worry out of finding a taxi and cramming the whole family inside, and organise a bus to take you to the resort or hotel.

Best spots for families in Bali

So you want to see the sights, but you’ve got the kids in tow. Take a look at these family friendly activities that everyone will love!

✔️ Temple of Tanah Lot: Take the family on an adventure to a traditional Indonesian temple, filled with cultural significance.

✔️ Kintamani: What could be cooler than visiting a volcano? At 1500m, The Kintamani area is a beautiful place to appreciate Bali’s natural beauty. Meet the residents and experience local traditions first hand.

✔️ White Water Rafting: Maybe one for the older kids! Take a thrilling plunge in a raft down the Ayung River and through the Indonesian jungle.

✔️ Ubud Monkey Forest: Get up close and personal with the macaques in the mountains.

✔️ Waterbom: This Kuta waterpark is popular with the kids, whether they’re young or teens. With loads of waterslides and rides for all ages, it’s a great place for fun in the sun.

Tips for families travelling with younger children

✔️ When choosing a resort with child-minding facilities, be sure to pick one with a small staff-to-children ratio to ensure the little ones will be properly taken care of.

✔️ Find out what activities are on offer ahead of time! Resorts like Club Med will have an app or web pages dedicated to information on what is available for the kids.

✔️ No doubt you’ll be spending in the water, so bring the floaties and Aqua Nappies for the younger kids.

✔️ Even if your toddler can walk, bring a stroller for the busy streets of Kuta. With uneven footpaths and crazy motorcyclists, it’ll be much easier to push them around.

What about the big kids?

✔️ Choose a resort with a dedicated teens club to allow your older kids to socialise and meet others.

✔️ Consider booking a second adjoining room to give your teens space on holiday. After all, you might need it too!

Plus, some general tips for travelling to Bali…

✔️ The Balinese are accustomed to Aussies, but don’t get too comfortable! Don’t be afraid to haggle at markets.

✔️ Make sure you lather up the kids (and yourself) in sunscreen to protect yourself against harsh UV rays. Don’t be fooled: in tropical climates, you can still get sunburn.

✔️ Don’t feed the monkeys. They might look friendly, but they can bite.

✔️ Not everyone gets ‘Bali Belly’! Try and drink from sealed bottled water to keep the family free of sickness. Also, you can trust resorts like Club Med Bali to provide you with fresh gourmet dining.

Discover more about Club Med Bali in the video below or by clicking here.

All You Need to Know About a Holiday to Bali, Indonesia

Towering coconut palms and long, sandy beaches under the warm tropical sun… it’s no wonder Bali is one of Australia’s favourite holiday destinations. Bali has a rich cultural and spiritual history, with fragrant foods, temples and traditional festivals just waiting to be discovered.Sound like a dream? It definitely is. If you’re planning a holiday to Bali, here’s everything you need to know about this tropical paradise…

Best time to go to Bali

Depends on what you’re after! May – July are the peak months of dry season. If you’re a surfer, catch the best waves between April – October, and if you’re looking for culture, don’t miss the Nyepi Festival in March or the Galungan Festival in February.

How to get there

Bali is only a 6 hour flight from Sydney or a 4 hour flight from Perth. Virgin, Jetstar and Garuda all fly direct.

Visas and Vaccinations

We have some good news: Australian tourists no longer require a visa to visit Bali for less than 30 days. And while it’s not required, it’s recommended you check up on your shots: Tetnus and Diptheria, Hepatitis A and B. It’s important to note that some Club Med Kids Clubs will ask for proof of immunization for the little ones!

Your guide on what to do and see in Bali

One of the best things about a holiday to Bali is immersing yourself in the rich culture, and making the most of beautiful surroundings. From surfing the seas to savasana in yoga, we’ve got our top picks below.

Embrace local traditions

✔️ Take a lesson in Bahasa, the official language of Indonesia

✔️ Participate in a traditional Balinese tea ceremony

✔️ Learn how to create delectable delicacies such as lawar or bebek betutu at a Balinese cooking class.

Chase your adrenaline

✔️ Soar through the air on a flying trapeze amongst the palms!

✔️ Enjoy a competitive match of beach volleyball on the sandy shores of Nusa Dua.

✔️ Try your hand at stand-up paddle boarding or windsurfing alongside pristine shores

✔️ Venture to UIuwatu or Padang Padang to experience the very best swells Bali has to offer – surf on waves of up to 12 ft!

Embark on an adventure

✔️ Escape to the Uluwatu Temple to uncover beautifully crafted Balinese architecture and spirituality, or watch the sun set from a cliff towering above the seas

✔️ Visit world-heritage listed Borobudur and experience Buddhist spirituality and history first-hand

✔️ Take the plunge and feel the thrill of white water rafting down the Ayung River and through the dense Balinese jungle.

A few more helpful tips before your trip to Bali…

• Wild animals look cute, but be wary! Not only will wild monkeys try to steal your food, but they might get in to your luggage too. Keep a lookout for these little critters and take photos, but keep your distance.

• Rainy season doesn’t mean constant downpours. While the weather is out of anyone’s control, often rain is limited to a few brief spells rather than a constant downpour.

• Haggling is okay for products and services but save it for markets and stores. Most international resorts and hotels in Bali, including Club Med Bali, have fixed rates within the resort.

Survival Bahasa – Basic words you need to know

Good morning: selamat pagi

Good afternoon: selamat sore

Good evening: selamat malam

Hi, how are you? Hi, apa kabar?

I’m from Australia. Saya dari Australia.

Thank you! Terima kasih

Please: tolong

Really, there’s something for everyone in Bali. Whether you’re looking for exhilarating experiences, a cultural awakening, or simply somewhere to laze by the pool, you really can’t go wrong.

Take the kids, take a partner, or bring all your friends; you’ll have a ball under the Balinese sun!

Discover more about Club Med Bali in the video below, or by clicking here.

The Best Places To Go For Christmas and January Holidays

The weather is warming up and summer is on the horizon… and that means it’s the perfect time to start dreaming of blissful end-of-year holidays. From January school holidays to snowy Christmas holidays, we have the best spots for you.

Have a White Christmas in the French Alps

For those chasing a warm climate closer to home, you can’t go past a Singapore holiday over the Christmas break. Bring your partner or the kids and head down to Orchard Road to admire the beautiful Christmas decorations, then celebrate the New Year in style at the Marina Bay Sands.

Afterwards, recover from the festivities with a stay at Club Med Bintan Island, where sun, sand and sea are aplenty. New Year’s Resolution to treat your body and soul… Check!

The ultimate Christmas present: a trip to the Maldives

While the bright blue waters of Western Australia and white sand beaches of Jervis Bay are incredible, nothing quite compares to a Maldives holiday. With azure waters, palm trees swaying in the breeze, and fresh seafood and fruit, you’d struggle to find somewhere quite as idyllic as the Maldives.

Ring in the New Year with champagne*, and celebrate with exciting evening entertainment – then recover the next day on the balcony of your overwater suite. Paradise in 2016? Yep, it’s here.

Tip: Club Med Kani is perfect for a summer holiday with kids, while The Finolhu Villas are the ideal romantic holiday destination and couples getaway.

*only available in the Manta Lounge

Celebrate Christmas with a family holiday to Bali

Rally the troops and head off on a family holiday to Club Med Bali over the summer break! With endless festivities, a visit from Santa, and beautiful cultural discoveries including tea ceremonies and Bahasa lessons, Bali is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a year of hard work. Cheers!

Celebrate Christmas on China’s best ski slopes

Christmas, ski… and China? Yes, you read that correctly. As hosts of the 2022 Olympics, the recent years have seen China develop their ski fields to a world-class level. Beidahu, located in the Jilin province north of Beijing, is a winter wonderland over Christmas and January holidays. Home to the 2007 Winter Olympic Games, the ski runs snake through a beautiful national forest – and in the evenings, Club Med Beidahu offers local Northern hotpot, noodle, and dim sim dining.

Plus, if you’ve ever wanted to go to China, Christmas is great: the majority of Chinese cities are bustling over the Christmas and New Year break and don’t close until Chinese New Year.

#ThoseHolidayMoments Around The World

The best holiday memories are those that are shared – whether it’s reminiscing during a family dinner, exchanging stories over a drink, or uploading your photos and videos on social media to share with friends. We spoke to clients in our Resorts to discover their favourite memories during their Club Med holiday.

Little ones share their favourite moments on a holiday to Bali

“My favorite food is ice cream, especially the one with chocolate, vanilla and strawberry. I have it every day.” - Charlie at #ClubMedBali.

“You see your friends every morning, and wake up to a nice breeze and golden sunshine.” - Ella at Club Med Bali

“My favorite place in the resort is the flying trapeze […], this is not something you can do every day in Melbourne.” - Samuel at Club Med Bali

A getaway into the wild on a holiday to Malaysia

“I think spending time together has been the greatest thing. There is something here for everybody, so everybody is doing what they love […], and then you all come back together again, have your meals together, that’s been really good, really relaxing.” Ross, Patricia and Lucinda on a multigenerational family holiday to #ClubMedCherating

“I have to say it was really amazing to leave the kids with the Mini Club and they had an absolutely fabulous time… And they gave them a medal too, but while this we got to go to the Zen Pool which was fantastic!” Martha, John, Samuel and Emily on a family holiday to Club Med Cherating

A piece of paradise on a holiday to the Maldives

“[My favourite moment] is sundowners… watching the sun go down, listening to some music on the deck, it’s lovely. It’s just a great end to a day on the beach.” Kelly and Natalino on a honeymoon at #ClubMedKani

“They did their first dive with me, they did a tri-dive in the lagoon, they came out on the boat with me, and we did a dive together… That was pretty important and special. Out of all the dives, that’s my favourite one.” Darren, Nat, Maddie and Luke on a family holiday at Club Med Kani

Share your favourite moments with us too!