| 4 mins read
Bali, Indonesia has been one of Southeast Asia’s ultimate getaways for nearly 50 years. As soon as adventure travelers discovered the beaches, food, culture, stunning landscapes and friendly locals, the word spread like wildfire. Today Bali is a surfer’s paradise, go-to honeymoon destination, ultimate school/work holiday spot and expatriate magnet. Why are so many people from all walks of life exhibiting varied interest drawn to this tiny island-province of Indonesia? Here are just a few of the reasons:
A Comfortable Introduction to Asia
Bali has been hosting travelers, tourists, adventure seekers and beach bums for a long time. The small island has seemingly found the perfect medium between holding strong to its local culture/customs, while catering nonchalantly to outsiders tastes. Visitors will be awestruck by the stunning landscapes, ancient temples and traditional practices; yet they will gladly accept the comforts of modern cafés, boutique shopping spots, western eateries and fun, lively bars. Bali is an excellent place to experience all the draws and attractions of Asia, without battling through culture shock along the way.
The Definition of Tropical Paradise
Bali’s landscapes are a mixture of jungle terrain and coastal paradise, with active volcanoes, rice paddy tiered hillsides, winding mountain passes, solitary islands and picture-perfect beachfronts. As you sip your coconut juice straight from the coconut with banana and palm trees swaying behind you, with monkeys scampering in the jungle nearby while you look out onto the ocean - you know you’re in the ultimate tropical getaway.
Ancient Bali
Another major draw of this Indonesian favorite is the ancient history, culture and religion. Your Bali Tour Guide will effortlessly point out traditional Bali, from local attire and ever-present religion to the endless temples dotting the scenery (all over the roadsides, mountain trails and even in the local’s houses). Don’t miss the Tanah Lot Sea temple (arguably the most picturesque), Besakih Temple (the largest of Bali’s temple complexes), or the cliff-side Uluwatu Temple, beautiful Balinese temples set against magnificent backdrops.
The Great Outdoors
Thanks to its mountainous & coastal location, Bali is home to some excellent outdoor activities. For wildlife lovers, head for the Bali Safari and Marine Park or the Elephant Safari Park where you can experience some majestic wildlife up close. For the active outdoors person, take a sunrise/sunset hike to the peak of Mount Batur (one of Bali’s most active Volcanoes), or try your luck in catching a wave along some of Bali’s excellent surf spots. For the more laid back traveler, Bali is renowned for its fantastic beaches and crystal clear waters… no visit to Bali is complete without lounging on the beach! Whether you’re visiting the rowdy Kuta Beach, classic Sanur & Nusa Dua Beaches or the tropical beach getaways of the Gili Islands- you are bound to leave relaxed & refreshed… and probably a little depressed as well (unless you decide to stay forever).
The Entertainment
Bali is no prude when it comes to having a good time. The infamous Kuta area is known for its 24/7 buzzing atmosphere, with happy hours, cover-free bars/clubs, all night dance & beach parties… you name it and Kuta has it. Hence couples and families seeking peace and quiet may want to stay away from the Kuta area! Another good place to experience Bali’s party scene is the Seminyak area. Home to some classier establishments, chic bars, restaurants and clubs make up this trendy area of the island. Other tourist/non-tourist regions of the island will have some cool nightlife options, but don’t expect them to rage on into the wee hours of the night.
For those who need some pampering while on vacation, the island is famous for its spas, Balinese massages and special health retreats: perfect for the newlywed couple, stressed out traveler, sore volcano hiker or liverish party animal.
Whatever be the reason you decide to visit Bali (or for no reason at all), rest assured you will find that special expereince or activity that will endear this island to your travel memories.