Lang's Journey
Surrounded by the stunning coastline and Balinese culture, Lang immersed herself in the everyday rituals and personal connections that informed her poetry. Explore the moments that moved her—shared gestures, meaningful conversations, and the beauty of a place seen through the eyes of its people.
Poet’s Overarching Property and Destination Experience
Lang’s journey at Alila Villas Uluwatu began with the breathtaking beauty of Bali’s coastline. Set high above the ocean, she immersed herself in its energy, where every view and every moment feels connected to the soul of the island.
Connection to Place and Sustainability
Here, sustainability runs deep—from earth to table. Lang’s experience brought her into close contact with the land’s bounty, where the ingredients that shape Bali’s flavors are grown with care and respect for the earth.
Connection with Bali’s People
Lang was deeply moved by the people of Bali—especially the women, whose daily acts of devotion and reverence altered her understanding of the island. Watching them carry out their sacred rituals reminded her of the unsung heroes who maintain tradition and build community.
Spiritual Experience in Bali
Lang’s spiritual journey began with prayer—an act of fierce reflection in the presence of Bali’s sacred energies. Immersed in the island’s serene landscapes, she found herself more attuned to the rhythms of the universe, connecting with both the inner and outer environments.
Sustainability
Bali’s commitment to sustainability left a lasting impression on Lang. As she witnessed the island’s mindful practices, from sourcing ingredients to an unyielding commitment to environmental stewardship, she found herself inspired by a respect for nature that permeates every aspect of life on the island.
Writing Craft
As she reflected on the rhythms of Bali and its people, Lang’s poetry took on new language. Each Moment she encountered deepened her creative process, bringing fresh clarity and insight to her work.
Market Experience with Chef
At the local market, Lang immersed herself in all the senses of Bali. Guided by our chef, she explored vibrant spices along with fresh herbs and produce, learning about the flavors that have enhanced Balinese cuisine for generations.
Fishing Village Experience
In the fishing village, Lang connected with the island’s coastal traditions. Watching the fishermen and learning from their way of life, she felt the pulse of Bali’s community—where the sea and its people are inseparable.
Cooking Class Experience
Lang’s culinary experience came full circle in a cooking class, where she learned to craft dishes that bring together the island’s natural diversity and abundance. This Moment celebrates Bali’s deep connection to its food, its culture, and the community that sustains it.
Lang’s Writing and Transformation
Lang’s journey at Alila Villa Uluwatu unexpectedly and dramatically moved the poet. Immersed in the island’s colors and its people, she found new layers of inspiration that enhanced her craft and offered a fresh perspective that would continue to influence her work and her self.
In Her Own Words
Poetry of People is a tribute to the subtle gestures that carry meaning—shaped by the everyday rituals of the women Lang encountered in Bali. Her poem is a reflection on how culture is passed on—not through performance, but through care, repetition, and trust.
Explore the complete poem; read it at your own pace, or immerse yourself in the words with Lang’s reading.
We arrange flowers for my daylight offering,
neatly ordered, like keeping time; Frangipani,
Marigold, Ylang Ylang and Hibiscus.
My guide, Oshin says, this is Canang Sari.
She dresses me in a ceremonial sarong,
shows me how to kneel in reverence
at this ancient place, I have come to,
where time lapses into memory,
my palms turned upward to the sky,
where holy water drips from my fingers.
She says, here we cultivate our gardens
to appease the Gods, in gratitude,
we sow and bear and bloom, toil in their honor.
When Oshin speaks the name of the sun God Surya,
He comes surging through the clouds,
His face an orb of such astonishing light
even the hummingbird is stilled—I see,
a hand reaching across the threshold
of existence, ever searching for mine.
At the altar before me, I place my offering.
Beyond Words: One on One with Lang
In this exclusive conversation, Lang explores how poetry can find us when we need it most—and change us completely. She reflects on the serenity and surprise that travel and poetry bring, uncovering lost pieces of herself and discovering new depths of connection.
Lang’s Moment
Alila Moments open a window into the heart of a destination, where culture and connection come alive through meaningful experiences. Lang’s Moment brings you into the ancient practice of Balinese rituals—offering a chance to witness and participate in the acts of care and tradition that shaped her poetry.
Sacred Waters: A Poetic Pilgrimage
By LANG LEAV
Paths to Deeper Connection
Alila Moments invite you to connect more deeply—with nature, culture, and the parts of yourself you may not yet know. Whether you seek quiet reflection, cultural immersion, or creative spark, every Moment offers a new way to see the world.
A World Told in Three Voices
Our story unfolds through four distinct poems—Lang’s, another by Yrsa Daley-Ward and two by Nikita Gill. Discover how each poet’s words bring Alila to life, offering unique reflections on connection, place, and the personal discoveries that can unfold during any Alila stay.
POETRY OF OUR WORLD
By WRITTEN BY NIKITA GILL
POETRY OF PLACE
By WRITTEN BY YRSA DALEY-WARD
POETRY OF WONDER
By WRITTEN BY NIKITA GILL
What World Awaits You?
Across continents and cultures, Alila destinations invite you to see the world differently—and feel more deeply as you move through it.
