Finding Inspiration in Bali with John Hardy

The visionary John Hardy has led a legendary career in jewelry, hospitality, design and education. In this episode, he takes Melissa through the thrilling journey of his life – from the beginning of his iconic jewelry line to the Green School (which gained global recognition from his TED talk) to the innovative boutique hotel, Bambu Indah. He shares his thoughts on why Bali is unlike anywhere else in the world, and why he believes bamboo is the hope for the future. Plus- on this week’s Indagare Insight Melissa shares her insider tips for jewelry shopping abroad.

Lightning Round with John Hardy

• Favorite beach in Bali? In a nutcase or a nutshell, my favorite beach in Bali is Sumba.
• Favorite restaurant in Bali? Dapur Bali Mula by Chef Yudiawan
• What do you love most about Balinese culture? The Balinese have been living a Hindu minimalist life since the beginning of time. They have been largely unconquered and when you go to a ceremony, you see the kids, the teenagers, the mothers, the grandmothers, and everyone else all there together. I don't think there's many beliefs where they can say this.
• A characteristic of the Green School you find the most inspiring? Green School produces activated happy powerful students and I've never seen a school that was so full of energy.
• Favorite area of Bambu Indah? The crystal pools across the river are my favorite, favorite place. They are quiet and they're beautiful. They originate from a spring which has probably been running into the river since the beginning of time.
• Something first-time travelers should know before a trip to Bali? Partying, hoopla, or other types of industrial tourism, you should find a place other than Bali. If you’re coming for love, beauty, culture, and peace, you should come to Bali.
• A souvenir that travelers should bring back with them? The Balinese are still making things with their hands, handicraft and art ---beauty ! Bring something back that was made by humans and not by far off machines. Enjoy the pleasure it will give you.
• Favorite family travel destinations? We are really on a quest to visit places where people are still practicing the old way of life of food of design of living a shrinking part of the global economy that is converting almost everything to something else.