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Shamim Pirzada

Dec 09, 2018

Edited: Dec 10, 2018

Spa Village Resort - Tembok, Bali

My wife and I spent four nights at the Spa Village resort in Tembok, Bali in Nov (the week of US ThanksGiving) in 2018. This was our third visit to the resort, so obviously, we like going there!

Reservations

We have the Citi Prestige credit card, which gives the fourth night free, so we used that to book. You can use the Citi ThankYou points website to book but we used the concierge to book directly with the hotel. This took a couple of days as there was some back and forth between the Citi concierge and the hotel reservation center. We chose the Blissful Retreat package - which included the room, all three meals and one 50 min spa treatment per person per night. We thought that to be an outstanding deal for $200 (plus tax etc) per night.

We also booked an airport pickup through them for $75.

Location and Arrival

The hotel is on the north east coast of Bali, about 120 km from the airport and which takes about 3 hours. That is quite a pain after a long flight (we flew straight from San Francisco) and a long immigration line at DPS airport. But we got there around 8pm (well after sunset), taking the coastal road - we've taken route through Ubud and Google maps suggested that traffic was heavy in Ubud at this time. The driver literally took the coastal road so took the full 3 hours - Google had suggested an alternative route which (according to them) would have knocked 45 mins off the route but I didn't know enough to tell driver at the time. As is customary, the Spa Village gives a foot, neck and shoulder massage upon arrival - which was supremely welcome and checkin was smooth and painless. We got there in plenty of time to have dinner at the restaurant. Since we knew the hotel well, my wife asked to be moved to different wing, closer to the beach. On the second day, they gave us a complementary upgrade to one of their two Villas. We were delighted at that!

Villa

The Villa is almost beach front, has it's own, private plunge pool and cabana.

The Villas are the only accommodation at the resort with TVs, which was good for us, lazy folks. It is quite spacious with a nice king size bed, volume thatched roof and good Balinese decor.

The bathroom is quite spacious, with the separate shower and WC and a tub (without jets). Note that their regular (Kamar) rooms have European style shower over tub which results in water spilling beyond the tub, not such issue in the Villa. Rather surprisingly for such large bathroom, there was only one sink. But the counter was large. Artificial lighting was rather dim there (in the day, we could open the shades to let more light in).

Grounds etc

The hotel is small but with well manicured grounds and charming fish, lily ponds.

The beach is volcanic black sand with lots of pebbles so you've gotta to wear shoes. The hotel provides crocs which work out well. And it's eminently swimmable. I didn't go into the water this time but saw others swimming and snorkeling. We did go on a (also included) sunset cruise which was great as we saw many dolphins (others said they also saw some whales).

Activities

We went there to relax. And boy did we do that. Food was good, very well presented and there were decent variety (at least for the 4 days we were there for, several of the other guests where there for 1-2 weeks). Three course lunch and dinner and american or balinese or continental breakfast. They must have changed their chef as we noticed a marked improvement over the previous times we've visited.

And the spa was great as usual. I got the Balinese and Malay massages and a cucumber wrap. And also a foot massage. In addition, my wife got a facial and some other things. All very well done and delightful.

We did yoga (my first time but my wife said it was more advanced than her classes back in the States) and stargazing (happened to be a full moon so perhaps not as effective as it might have been).

But there are many other (free) activities than can take (word carving, basket weaving, etc). We had taken them on our previous visits so wanted to do nothing. Which we did.

The gym was comprehensively equipped but the air conditioning was wanting (or wasn't working at all) so I almost collapsed doing a simple workout and didn't venture there again after the first day. Also, there was no internet in the gym. One tip is that there is a laundry right across the street from the resort. We paid roughly $3 for about 4 days of clothes, quite useful, if you're going to be there for any length of time. We gave it around 10am and got them back by 4:30pm.

Service

Service was superb throughout. Many of the staff knew us by name. Several recognized us from prior visits. Special shout out to the manager, Fauzi, who upgraded us and enquired about our comfort several times. When we asked for things (turn down, iron, etc), they were delivered almost instantly.

Internet

They only have internet in the lobby. And that is quite slow, I measured 3.68Mbps down and 4.2Mbps up. It felt slower than that. If you want to use the internet, I suggest getting a hotspot or something.

Muslim friendliness

Bali is a fiercely Hindu enclave in predominantly Muslim Indonesia. And the population and the attitude reflect that. I saw no staff member one wearing a hijab (Muslim head scarf) and pork/ham was on the menu. Though, we asked for, and easily got, halal food (including beef bacon). There was no qibla direction in the hotel room nor prayer rug nor quran (or any other religious artifact). However, there was a mat carpet in one section at the foot of the bed, which made praying easier on my knees.

And the construction made it not entirely sound proof. Which was useful in two ways. One we could hear the waves, which was nice. And we could hear the adhaan (at least in the morning, when it was generally quiet), which was very nice. The traffic noise was not so nice.

The height of the sink was okay for wudu (ablution).

Overall

We had a great time and would highly recommend this place.

Links

http://www.spavillageresort.com/tembokbali/

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Damnmy Li

Oct 07

MMOEXP New World:New World – The Fight the World Challenge: Understanding Invasions

In New World, Invasions are one of the most intense and rewarding challenges players can face. Part of the game's dynamic endgame content, Invasions are large-scale, faction-driven events where enemies assault settlements, and players must defend their territories to protect their resources and maintain control over the land. These invasions, often referred to as the New World Gold coins "Fight the World Challenge," are not only a test of combat skill but also of teamwork, strategy, and coordination. Here's an in-depth look at what Invasions entail and how you can prepare to defend your territory.

What Are Invasions?

Invasions are massive PvE (player versus environment) events that occur when Corrupted forces launch an attack on a specific settlement. These forces come from the dangerous realm of the Corruption, and their goal is to breach the gates, take control of the settlement, and eventually destroy critical infrastructure. If the Corruption is successful in overtaking a settlement, the controlling faction loses the town, its resources, and access to certain bonuses.

Invasions are triggered once a settlement reaches a certain corruption threshold, often influenced by the activities of nearby players, such as their territory influence, resource gathering, and missions. Once the invasion is announced, players are called upon to defend the settlement against waves of enemies.

Waves of Destruction

Invasions are structured as waves of enemies that increase in difficulty as the battle progresses. The enemy forces consist of various types of Corrupted mobs, including brutes, archers, and elite units that require a variety of tactics to overcome. Some enemies may be focused on damaging walls and structures, while others might target players directly.

Each wave culminates in the appearance of powerful mini-bosses or Corrupted commanders, whose defeat is necessary for progressing through the invasion. These powerful foes can inflict massive area damage and summon additional forces, making them a primary focus for players.

Defenders’ Role: Strategy and Coordination

Defending against an invasion requires effective teamwork and strategic positioning. Each defending faction needs to coordinate roles across different classes and specializations. Here’s a breakdown of key roles and tactics:

Tanks: Tanks should focus on holding back the hordes of enemies, particularly the elite mobs and bosses. They need to maintain control over choke points and areas of high traffic.

DPS: DPS players must prioritize high-value targets like enemy mini-bosses and commanders. These players need to be mobile, dealing maximum damage while avoiding overwhelming enemy forces.

Healers: Healers are crucial for keeping the defending team alive through waves of destruction. They should position themselves to support the team while staying clear of enemy onslaughts.

Structure Defenders: Some players need to focus on repairing and defending critical infrastructure like gates, walls, and resource storages. If the Corrupted forces breach these structures, they may trigger additional waves or lead to the downfall of the settlement.

Preparing for the Invasion

Preparation is key to surviving an invasion. Here are some tips for getting ready:

Gear Up: Ensure that your gear is at its optimal level. Powerful weapons, armor, and potions are essential for surviving the lengthy and brutal waves of enemies.

Communicate: Invasions are team events, and clear communication with your faction or company members is critical for success. Designate leaders for different roles and ensure everyone knows their objectives.

Upgrade Settlement Defenses: Before an invasion happens, consider upgrading the settlement’s defenses. Fortifications and resource production upgrades can significantly bolster your chances of survival.

Stockpile Resources: Make sure you have enough health potions, ammunition, and repair materials to keep fighting through the invasion. These items can make all the difference when the tide turns against you.

Rewards and Consequences

Invasions are not just about defending a settlement; they offer substantial rewards for those who successfully defend the land. Players can earn loot, experience points, and reputation with their faction. Additionally, defending a settlement successfully helps maintain control over territory bonuses, which are critical for resource gathering and crafting.

However, failure to defend a settlement can have severe consequences. The settlement may be lost to the Corrupted, and the faction that controlled the settlement loses access to its bonuses. It can also create an opening for enemies from rival factions to take control.

Conclusion

Invasions in New World represent one of the game’s most challenging and rewarding PvE events. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the game, participating in these large-scale battles offers an exciting test of skill and teamwork. By preparing your gear, coordinating your efforts, and ensuring your faction's defense is in good shape, you can help protect your settlement from the corrupting forces and claim valuable rewards in the process. The Fight the World Challenge is a buy New World Gold coins unique opportunity to experience the intensity of New World’s endgame PvE content.

chnabel Nevin

Oct 28

Replying to

MMOexp Dune: Awakening Spice Harvesting Guide – Control the Universe’s Most Valuable Resource

In the harsh desert world of Arrakis, one thing reigns supreme: Spice Melange. Revered across the galaxy for its ability to extend life, enhance awareness, and power interstellar travel, spice is the foundation of both wealth and power in Dune Awakening Items. Every faction, smuggler, and House fights to control this precious resource—and as a player, learning to harvest spice efficiently and safely will determine your success in the dunes.

This MMOexp Spice Harvesting Guide will teach you everything you need to know about locating spice fields, managing harvesters, surviving sandworms, and profiting from the most valuable substance in the known universe.

1. What Is Spice in Dune: Awakening?

In the lore of Dune, Spice Melange is a rare organic substance that naturally forms beneath the sands of Arrakis. It’s the central currency of power—used for trade, crafting, and survival.

In Dune: Awakening, spice functions as both a gameplay resource and a risk-reward mechanic. It’s essential for:

Crafting advanced gear and consumables.

Enhancing physical and mental abilities.

Trading for high-value currency and rare materials.

Progressing in faction influence and economy-based systems.

MMOexp Tip: Spice is volatile—harvesting too greedily without preparation can draw the attention of predators, rival players, or the dreaded sandworms.

2. How to Find Spice Fields

Spice doesn’t appear randomly—it emerges from spice blooms, temporary resource nodes that form after deep desert storms.

Ways to Locate Spice Fields:

Scout after storms: After each sandstorm passes, use your ornithopter or scanner to search for new spice fields across open dunes.

Use environmental cues: Look for shimmering golden dust rising from the sand—this signals an active spice bloom.

Listen for audio cues: The faint hum of spice often precedes a bloom’s emergence.

Faction Intel: Some factions provide coordinates of spice fields in exchange for favors or resources.

MMOexp Tip: The best spice fields are usually in the deep desert zones, but they’re also the most dangerous. Go prepared with vehicles, water, and anti-sandworm measures.

3. Preparing for Harvesting Operations

Before you deploy your spice harvester, preparation is critical. The desert of Arrakis is unforgiving—heat, dehydration, and enemies can all end your mission before it begins.

Checklist Before You Harvest:

Survival Gear: Bring stillsuits, extra water, and environmental shields.

Weapons and Ammunition: You may need to defend your operation from raiders or rival players.

Spice Harvester: Craft or purchase one through faction workshops or the player economy.

Crew or Allies: Harvesting solo is possible, but dangerous—having backup increases efficiency and survival chances.

Escape Vehicle: Always keep a sandcraft or ornithopter nearby for emergencies.

MMOexp Tip: Equip a Spice Sensor Module on your suit—it increases detection range and provides live feedback on bloom activity.

4. Deploying Your Spice Harvester

Once you’ve located a spice field, it’s time to extract your fortune.

How to Deploy:

Clear the area of enemies or hostile wildlife.

Deploy the harvester at the center of the bloom.

Activate the suction system to begin collecting spice particles.

Maintain perimeter defense—AI factions and players may ambush you for your yield.

Keep an eye on your Sandworm Alert Meter—vibrations from harvesting attract attention.

As the harvester works, it will fill up gradually. The longer it runs, the more spice you collect—but the higher the risk becomes.

MMOexp Tip: Experienced players often use multiple short harvests rather than long operations to reduce worm threat and player detection.

5. The Sandworm Threat

Nothing embodies the danger of Arrakis more than the colossal Shai-Hulud, the sandworms. These massive creatures sense rhythmic vibrations—like those made by spice harvesters—and will attack without warning.

Avoiding Worm Attacks:

Monitor the Tremor Gauge: Every action increases local vibration levels. When the meter peaks, a sandworm may spawn.

Use Thumpers Strategically: Place thumpers away from your site to lure worms off course.

Emergency Extraction: Keep your harvester’s recall system ready—pack up and move when danger levels rise.

Stay Airborne: If possible, deploy an ornithopter to escape once a worm is detected.

MMOexp Tip: Worm sign appears as sand ridges and vibrations before emergence. If you see this—run immediately.

6. Defending Your Spice Field

You’re not the only one hunting spice. Other players, NPC factions, and smugglers will compete fiercely for control.

Defense Strategies:

Turrets and Automated Drones: Set up deployable cheap Dune Awakening Items defenses around your harvester.

Perimeter Patrols: Assign allies to guard specific zones.

Stealth Harvesting: Operate during low visibility storms to reduce the chance of detection.

Alliances: Join or form a faction to share protection and profits.

MMOexp Tip: PvP encounters near spice fields can be intense—always assume someone is watching. Keep your radar active and your escape plan ready.

7. Transporting and Storing Spice

Once your harvester is full, you must safely transport your spice to a refinery or trade hub. This is one of the riskiest stages of harvesting—many ambushes happen during transport.

Best Transport Practices:

Use Fast Vehicles: Hovercraft and sandrunners are ideal for quick extraction.

Avoid Main Routes: Stay off predictable paths to avoid raids.

Secure Containers: Use reinforced spice containers to prevent loss if attacked.

Deliver Quickly: Spoilage and heat can degrade spice quality over time.

MMOexp Tip: If you’re part of a faction, schedule group convoys for spice deliveries—safety in numbers.

8. Refining and Selling Spice

Raw spice must be refined before it reaches peak value. Refining increases purity, boosts market worth, and unlocks new crafting options.

Refining Steps:

Deliver the spice to a Refinery Station in a safe zone.

Use your crafting skills or hire specialists to process it.

Choose your desired output—high-purity trade spice, or crafting-grade material for special items.

Sell refined spice on the Exchange Market or through Faction Traders.

Prices fluctuate depending on the galaxy’s demand and ongoing political events.

MMOexp Tip: Track economic updates on MMOexp—they often reflect market trends and event cycles affecting spice prices.

9. Faction Influence and Spice Control

Controlling spice is about more than just profit—it’s political power. The Houses, Smugglers, and Fremen Tribes all fight for dominance over spice zones.

House Operations: Large-scale harvesting supported by heavy defenses and machinery.

Smuggler Camps: Independent outposts offering black-market trades.

Fremen Operations: Guerrilla-style harvesting focused on stealth and survival.

Choosing your allegiance will determine how you gather, trade, and protect spice.

MMOexp Tip: Early on, ally with a faction that matches your playstyle—defensive players thrive with Houses, while explorers often prefer Smuggler independence.

10. Advanced Harvesting Tactics

Once you’ve mastered basic operations, advanced techniques can greatly improve your spice yield:

Double Deployment: Operate multiple harvesters in nearby zones while monitoring worm activity remotely.

Night Operations: Use cooler nighttime conditions to minimize heat exhaustion and detection risk.

Storm Timing: Deploy right after a storm—fresh spice fields appear, and visibility for enemies is reduced.

Sensor Drones: Send drones to scout future harvest zones and identify resource density.

MMOexp Tip: The best harvesters constantly move. Staying mobile keeps you ahead of both sandworms and other players.

11. Spice Addiction and Character Effects

Spice isn’t without its dangers. Prolonged exposure leads to Spice Addiction, a gameplay mechanic affecting stamina, perception, and health.

Short-Term Benefits: Increased awareness, faster reflexes, and enhanced crafting focus.

Long-Term Effects: Dependency, withdrawal penalties, and physical mutations.

Management: Use anti-spice tonics or controlled consumption to balance benefits and risks.

MMOexp Tip: Regularly monitor your spice tolerance in the character menu. Some faction technologies help manage addiction safely.

12. Profiting from the Spice Economy

With refined spice in your possession, you can influence the economy itself.

Trade Hubs: Sell at major player markets or faction capitals.

Auction Houses: Compete with others for the highest bids.

Faction Contracts: Exchange spice for technology, blueprints, or influence.

Crafting Profit: Turn spice into high-grade stimulants or equipment enhancers for better margins.

MMOexp Tip: Keep an eye on market cycles—spice prices rise sharply before major faction wars or drought events. Timing your sales can double your profits.

13. Surviving the Desert Long-Term

The desert of Arrakis is merciless. Long-term success requires efficient resource management and survival strategy.

Maintain Hydration: Always carry extra water packs.

Use Stillsuits Properly: Keep them maintained for maximum moisture recovery.

Avoid Heatstorms: Seek shelter or travel at night to minimize exposure.

Upgrade Vehicles: Faster movement reduces travel time and risk.

MMOexp Tip: Every death in the desert costs time and resources—prioritize survival over greed during spice runs.

14. Spice Harvesting in Endgame

In the late game, spice harvesting becomes a large-scale operation involving PvP conflicts, politics, and massive profits.

Control Zones: Capture and defend high-yield spice regions for passive income.

Coordinate Faction Harvests: Schedule harvesting rotations to maintain control.

Invest in Technology: Advanced harvesters and worm deterrents improve yields.

Participate in Spice Wars: Seasonal faction events offering exclusive rewards and rare gear.

MMOexp Tip: In endgame play, teamwork is everything—solo harvesters rarely survive large-scale conflicts.

Final Thoughts

The path to power on Arrakis runs through spice. To harvest it is to walk the line between fortune and death, between glory and oblivion. Every successful extraction brings you closer to mastering not just the desert—but the universe itself.

With this MMOexp Dune: Awakening Spice Harvesting Guide, you now have the knowledge to find, extract, and control the most valuable resource in existence. Whether you choose to profit, dominate, or survive, remember one thing:

He who controls the spice, controls the universe.

Would you like me to create a follow-up guide titled “Dune: Awakening – Faction Power and Spice Wars Explained” next? It would expand on PvP, political alliances, and spice economy dominance.