Surf and Yoga Retreats: Interview with Rob Underwood

Many regular TPW clients will know Rob Underwood as the ever-friendly, experienced and hospitable surf guide at Kandooma Resort, the Maldives. Rob and his beautiful, talented, partner Jolie have recently established Surf and Yoga Retreats at both Kandooma and Hidden Valley Resort, Bali.

You now have the opportunity to deepen your yoga practice, develop your surfing skills, and enjoy the beauty of Bali or the Maldives all while setting you up for optimum health.

TPW – Rob, tell us what you’ve been up to lately?

Rob – Hey Benny, I’ve just finished the season in the Maldives, had a short holiday in Thailand and have now been hanging out at Hidden Valley, in Bali.

How were the waves this season in the Maldives?

The waves were sick in the Maldives this year…. Probably the best season I’ve had in 4 years… Early season April / May was especially great. The cascading dollar left a lot of tourists at home and a consistent early season meant plenty of waves for punters and guides alike.

Any other highlights?

Other highlights included 4 live, intimate Surf Music In Paradise gigs with Tex Perkins. It was great to hang out with Tex and Murray Paterson (guitarist) for a week. I even got to take Tex and his family surfing. Had a great time with them and the guests that came along for the concerts. Was very lucky to share those incredible gigs in such a beautiful place. Looking forward to doing it all again with Pete Murray at Kandooma this June, and Tex and Phil Jamieson at Hidden Valley in Bali in Sept 2016.

Where are you now?

I’m at Hidden Valley on the Bukit Peninsula in Bali. Located just a few minutes’ drive from all the world class waves including Padang Padang, Uluwatu, Bingin, and Dreamland.

Argh awesome. I love it there – so affordable and yet quite luxe in a surf sense?

For sure! The resort is unreal. There’s numerous swimming pools, immaculate gardens, super comfy rooms and friendly staff. I’ve had a great time here!

Tell me more about Bali right now – are you still able to score uncrowded waves?

Bali is definitely very popular among surfers, for a very good reason. The waves here pump and there is a lot of variety. There are still, however, places to go where you can escape the crowds and get amazing waves. The culture and spirituality of the place is still mysteriously fantastic, not to mention the weather and array of amazing restaurants so this is something that keeps a lot of people (including me) coming back.

What can a client expect at your Surf and Yoga Retreats?

Someone who comes for a weekly surf and yoga retreat can expect fun waves (guided by experts so there is less hassle finding the right waves for the conditions), a designated yoga practice to keep supple and in tune so they can surf longer and feel invigorated and a stress and hassle free environment so the usual day to day grind can be absolutely left at home.

What about surf school?

Beginners are also welcome. There are qualified surf instructors to teach all levels and beautiful beaches where beginners can learn and try something new in a safe and controlled environment.