NZ Jellys on tour

Sometime in my late twenties I spent a few months engrossed by that iconic computer game, Sim City. I worked out that the way to win accolades and parades as mayor was highly dependent on the number of parks I built in the suburbs. It was also, of course, highly desirable to keep industrial areas contained, and not too big, otherwise you ran the risk of hazardous pollution, and then no one wants to live in your city regardless of the numbers of parks. Angaga Island lagoon, Maldives It is a fascinating game and brought about an appreciation for what governments and councils need to consider. The spontaneous parades (come on, who doesn't love accolades?) were a great reminder that people just want to kick back sometimes. In March 2013, we left our exemplary real life version of Sim City - otherwise known as Singapore - for a holiday that rates as one of our best ever.

For our wedding anniversary this year I organised a relaxed beach Bali holiday. (We take turns organising anniversary weekends as a surprise for the other one.) Using Airbnb for the first time I wanted a quiet villa, with a pool, within walking distance to a beach. Mission accomplished with Villa Bodat in Seminyak. Having heard mixed reports about Seminyak, I was wondering what our experience would be. Lots of reviews, including some from friends, talk about Seminyak being overrun with tourists and the accompanying traps. So, let me say right up front - we loved it. We were happy with our villa and the environs. Perhaps, being the low season, we weren't pestered as much, and there certainly weren't any crowds of jostling tourists to contend with. Perhaps, because we live in Singapore where friendly service is not the norm, we were ridiculously pleased by anyone who smiled as they took our money. These factors, mixed with low Bali prices meant we had a great weekend away. D...