Photos (above): Canva
Why Bali?
“The emerald girdle” of Indonesia is located in Southeast Asia and consists of over 14,000 islands. One of them is Bali. Small in size, yet rich in geographical diversity. From sprawling white beaches and active volcanoes to vast rice terraces. Not only is the nature fascinating, but also the culture. Ninety-six percent of the population is Hindu, keeping ancient traditions alive. The most worshiped deity on the island is Dewi Sri, the goddess of rice. She symbolizes fertility and protects the rice fields. For the Balinese, rice is a divine gift. We feel the same about Bali—beautiful, pure, and a must-visit destination for couples on their honeymoon.
5 Things to Do in Bali
1. Rafting on the Ayung River
How about a day of adventure? Near Ubud, you can go rafting on the Ayung River. Slightly tumultuous but completely safe; a perfect outing for adventurous couples. Along the way, you'll see locals offering tributes to the goddess of rice and water spirits. The river's landscape is breathtaking and diverse, featuring gorges, waterfalls, and lush farms.
2. Temple Visits
Where to start on an island with more temples (Pura) than houses? Each village has a minimum of three. The Pura Desa (for village guardian spirits), the Pura Puseh (temple for village founders), and the Pura Dalem (temple for the deceased). You can also visit a number of larger temples.
One such temple is the Pura Besakih or the Mother Temple, the largest temple in Bali. Located on the slopes of Mount Agung, it is accessible via a long staircase. It comprises about 200 structures spread over 30 complexes. During the fourth lunar month of the Balinese calendar, a major festival takes place here, attracting Hindu Balinese from all over the island to make offerings.
Pura Tanah Lot, the only sea temple in Bali, is also worth visiting. It is the most visited on the island—at sunset, the number of tripods makes the view forest-like—but it is truly worth a visit. Imagine the scene without camera flashes and selfie sticks to see Tanah Lot in all its glory. According to legend, this temple is guarded by poisonous snakes. At low tide, it can be accessed via a sandy dam about twenty meters long. However, access is limited to the first five meters of the mini-island. The accessible section has a 'cave' with a magical spring. Although the temple is situated in the sea, fresh water flows from the spring.
3. Gunung Batur
Gunung Batur is an active volcano and one of Bali's most stunning natural wonders. You can also climb the volcano, preferably at sunrise (beautiful!). The first eruption of Gunung Batur was recorded in 1804, the last in 1963. So, your feet won’t get hot. The abundance of fish in the deep blue crater lake is a vital food source for the villages around the lake. The four-hour trek to the central crater is not difficult but does require some fitness. Love is... puffing together? Consult your travel specialist for a (guided) tour.
4. Biking
Bali may not be synonymous with cycling, but this Indonesian island is perfect for a bike or mountain bike ride due to its rolling landscape. Take a ride together through the rice fields and traditional villages or cycle through Ubud, the cultural center of Bali. Consult your travel specialist for bike rentals or a bike route.
5. Visit the Gili Islands
From Bali, you can easily extend your tour with an idyllic beach stay in the Gili Islands. Close to the northwest coast of Lombok are the charming tropical islands of Gili Air, Gili Meno, and Gili Trawangan. Gili Trawangan is the largest and most popular island and offers beautiful diving and snorkeling excursions to Turtles Point, Meno Wall, and Shark Point. In the evening, the area becomes especially lively with numerous bars and restaurants.
Gili Meno is the least touristy of the Gili Islands. However, Meno is considered the most beautiful with the most idyllic beaches. Perfect for those who love privacy, peace, and romance. Gili Air is a nice mix of the other islands, offering enough facilities but also the peace and privacy of Meno.
No matter which island you choose, the golden sandy beaches, the heavenly blue water, and the intriguing underwater world of the Gilis will surely enchant you. We are happy to arrange a tour extension of your Bali trip with the Gili Islands.
Our Favorite Spots
Alila Manggis
At the foot of Mount Agung, in eastern Bali, lies the stylish four-star design hotel Alila Manggis. All rooms overlook the palm garden with the sea and the beach in the background. Inside, polished white concrete is combined with subtle Balinese details. In the evening, the hotel is enchantingly lit.
Mathis Retreat in Ubud
Five minutes from Ubud, amidst the rice fields, is the charming Mathis Retreat hotel. The hotel offers 21 modern rooms and bungalows with a Balinese touch. Be sure to take a Balinese cooking course or book a massage at the spa.
Jimbaran Puri Bali
Jimbaran Puri Bali is located in Jimbaran Bay, known for the most beautiful beaches in Bali. In the morning, enjoy breakfast overlooking the hotel's ponds. In the evening, dine outdoors on the beach. Book a delightful foot massage or a complete treatment at the spa.
Komaneka Bisma
Komaneka Bisma is a luxurious charm resort with a splendid view of the tropical valley, rice fields, and coconut palms. This resort is run by the owner of the famous Neka Art Museum in Ubud. Here, experience ultimate traditional Balinese hospitality combined with the country's typical architecture and culture.
The hotel is peacefully located, amidst rice fields on the valley slopes of the Campuhan River. A short 15-minute walk takes you to the center with restaurants, bars, shops, and art galleries.
Indigo Beach Hotel
The Indigo Beach Hotel is separated from the trendy and busy Seminyak beach by a path for pedestrians, cyclists, and scooters. Nearby, you can enjoy shopping in small boutiques and dining in local restaurants. Seminyak is bustling.
Indigo Beach opened in 2017 and immediately ranked among the top hotels in Bali. The hotel interior is modern and luxurious, with typical Balinese elements. The beautiful sleek wood stands out with soft design lighting.
The rooms are spread over several buildings: all are very quiet, overlooking greenery or the sea (side view). In the villas, enjoy a private pool for complete relaxation. Pamper yourself in the luxuriously equipped bathroom, or unwind on your patio.
The hotel atmosphere is calm, with a constant soft loungy beat. The breakfast buffet is trendy and extensive: offering everything from super healthy to heavier, Asian to international items. At the bar, you can choose your own morning juice blend: countless vegetables, fruits, and herbs await. A perfect detox to start the day. The service is also especially attentive. Recently, a beach bar opened on the sand, and by the end of 2018, a sea-side restaurant will open, aligning with other trendy beach clubs nearby.
During the day, choose to relax at the tree-lined "shade pool" or at one of the other two pools. Indigo also features a luxurious spa for indulgent treatment.
Article in collaboration with Amazing Destinations
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