Villa Balquisse

Jimbaran

On the crystalline waters of the Indian Ocean, the Indonesian archipelago stretches for thousands of miles. This immense jewel of greenery and gleaming colors is both enchanting and fascinating. Of its 17,000 islands, Bali is undoubtedly the star attraction. As a Hindu enclave in a predominantly Moslem country, this “island chosen by the gods” is still rich in ancestral beliefs that determine the actions and the daily lives of the inhabitants. Omnipresent demons and spirits exist here and are in contact with the living, whose daily ceremonies and rituals attempt to conciliate opposing forces. Nature that remains intact and preserved, is both feared and venerated, and perceived as a powerful and living entity. The tropical forests, fertile rice fields and fine sand beaches of the southernmost tip of the island, possess a remarkable variety of landscapes whose beauty invites contemplation.

Order, beauty, luxury, calm and sensuality

On the southern tip of the Balinese coast, near the fishing village of Jimbaran, a pearl of refinement reveals its charms, ensconced in a thick layer of vegetation. Villa Balquisse, an intimate refuge in the heart of a coconut grove is, like its owner-designer Zohra Boukhari, a blend of influences and cultures. Moroccan by her origins and Belgian by nationality, Zohra Boukhari cleverly combines different genres. Inspired by her numerous visits to Tangier, she has created exotic, totally eastern interiors. As a tribute to her Moroccan origins, the rooms at Villa Basquisse contain silken, colorful fabrics, four-poster beds, Indian saris converted into quilt covers as well as furniture and accessories purchased during her walks around the island. “Everything here invites creativity”, says the designer about this haven of peace and serenity.

The experience continues in the restaurant where guests are urged to taste a variety of different spices or Mediterranean cuisine, another way to savor this little piece of heaven on earth.

“The Balinese have an everyday sense of creativity as witnessed by the beauty of their sarongs, the gracefulness of their ceremonies and the harmonious composition of their offerings. The choice of Bali was determined by its surroundings and the gentleness of life here. The idea of adding a Moroccan touch made innovation possible in an almost perfect world.” – Dominique Verdellet, associate to the designer, Zohra Boukhari