Serene Private "Old Bali" Estate w/pool&Staff, Tucked Away short Walk From Ubud.

About Michael Goodman

I am a physician and surgeon in the U.S., and have both volunteered medically and taught here, and at one time owned one of the first Balinese design & import companies, which I sold ages ago. In th U.S. I practice medicine part-time, write (3 books, one medical textbook, dozens of scholarly articles & many many essays), garden, play tennis & keep fit, and spent much time with my sweetheart & family. I used to live in Mendocino, CA; for the past 18 years live in the University community of Davis, in Northern California, and have just moved back to the country outside of Winters, CA. I have traveled to Bali at least annually since 1975, and of course have seen MANY changes. Two constants: the Balinese people & culture, and this home, frozen in time...

Michael Goodman purchased this Estate in 1980

Why Michael Goodman chose Penestanan

I designed and built this home while I was in Residence in Bali for 1 year during 1979-1980. The home was purposefully designed for "ecological living" (well- when I built it there was neither electricity nor telephone in this part of Bail.) The water system was gravity feed from a spring box higher than the home, so as to provide running water as well as "run-through" for both the pool and lily pond. Originally, there was a small 12 volt power system brought from U.S. and assembled onsite. It was the very first solar voltaic system in Bali! Well, things have changed obviously- we now have WiFi, A/C, electricity, and the land where the spring was is being converted from sawah (rice paddies) to a luxury hotel... The home is mindfully planned; I purchased all the land from the building site, terraced down to the river. Across the gorge, on the top, well hidden, is the local "cremation ground" a holy area. Unfortunately, a new hotel is being built below this holy place, and as it is "lower" than the holy ground, it is OK, but the Balinese are upset. My home is open and airy surrounded by "jungle," although the hotel is visible in the distance.. This home has been my sanctuary. I am here at least annually. The same family who cared for the property in 1980 still does so today. They care for and unobtrusively coddle visitors-- just like "...family!"

What makes this Estate unique

You are close by everything in Ubud, but in a pristine, serene, totally private "real Bali" unique environment. Nothing like it anywhere (you will see!) You are unobtrusively pampered by an unassuming, low-key, attentive, English-speaking staff. Ketut (wife of Made, the house manager) could open a gourmet restaurant. She has an amazing knack with Balinese spices, as well as an international repertoire. She will cook simple, or feast-like meals for you as part of your daily rate. Laundry, occasional childcare- all provided . Home is fine for a honeymoon, a family, or a cozy 2-some or 2 couples. We have 2 honest, safe, English-speaking drivers on retainer.