Australian families are revolutionising how they celebrate milestone birthdays, trading traditional home parties for extravagant tropical takeovers at a 12-bedroom Bali estate.
The New Birthday Tradition
About half of all bookings at the luxurious Kasianda Estate in Berawa, Bali now consist of milestone birthday celebrations. Families are flying to Bali with groups of 15 to 25 people to create extended birthday experiences spanning four to five nights.
Owner Justin Parfitt explains the trend: "Instead of throwing a single big party at home, families are turning celebrations into multi-night 'birthday takeovers' where everyone stays under one roof." The estate, located in Canggu just north of Seminyak, functions as a private resort accommodating up to 29 guests across its 12 bedrooms.
Luxury Living with Full Staff
The estate offers more than just accommodation, providing guests with a comprehensive resort experience. Over 20 dedicated staff members ensure every need is met, including four chefs, mixologists, butlers, spa therapists, nannies, and drivers.
"Grandparents enjoy quality time with grandchildren without rushing, adult children actually get to relax on holiday, and the birthday person doesn't have to host anything," Parfitt adds. Celebrants arrive to find elaborate setups featuring sequins, dancers, fireworks, or candle-lit dinners, then simply wander upstairs to bed when the festivities conclude.
Surprising Affordability
While the whole-estate rate starts from approximately $3000 per night, when divided among all 12 bedrooms and considering the included staff and meals, it becomes an attractive option for extended families. Many families split flight costs between siblings or have guests cover them as their birthday gift to the celebrant.
The trend has proven particularly popular for 40th, 50th, and 60th birthdays, with 70th birthday celebrations increasingly joining the movement toward tropical milestone celebrations.