Bali is easily Indonesia’s most famous island and most popular travel destination. Bali blends spectacular mountain scenery and beautiful beaches with warm and friendly people, a vibrant culture and out of this world resorts. Bali is year after year voted by the readers of all major travel magazines as one of the most enchanting travel and holiday destination in the whole world. It was also my home for nearly 12 years before I moved to another country.
Bali is constantly changing. It’s dynamic and it’s organic. There’s rapid development of Bali’s economic, local and international tourism, the influx of people from other Indonesian islands. However Bali has managed to maintain its uniqueness and magic over the decades, and keeps enchanting visitors from all over the world. Many of whom return regularly.
Bali goes under many names. Some call it ‘The island of the gods’, others Shangri-La. The ‘Last Paradise’, the ‘dawning of the world’, the ‘center of the universe’ are yet more names for this truly beautiful tropical island inhabited by remarkable artistic people who have created a dynamic society with unique arts and ceremonies.
Daily life on Bali is culturally linked to satisfying and appeasing the gods, spirits and demons in the midst of breath-taking panoramas of cultivated rice terraces, impressive volcanoes and pristine beaches. Bali’s main volcano, Mount Agung, is still active and sometimes explosive and is considered sacred among local people as it is believed to be the center of the universe.
If you love surfing, Bali is the place to be. There are also many other things to do in Bali such as mountain climbing, tree-topping, diving, snorkeling, kite-surfing, parasailing, and of course with beaches like those, you cannot help but sun-bathing now and then. You can also explore the island to see its beautiful sacred temples, rice fields, impressive mountains, gorgeous lakes, harmonious villages where the ‘real Bali’ happens, and of course beaches. Go beyond just Kuta, and you will find and enjoy white sand beaches and if you’re lucky, you will even be the only one there.
If you are a big fan of shopping, Bali definitely offers plenty of shops and little boutiques for you to indulge. My favorites are Seminyak and Oberoi area. If it’s arts and crafts, you are looking for, then Ubud and beyond would be your favorite places.
Some stores in Nusa Dua shopping complex (Bali Collection) also offer gorgeous clothing, shoes, accessories, and whatnot. My most favorite is Pink Eleven. Their store is loaded with bold, brave and sassy fashion items. They believe that being different can make you the center of attention. It sure works! Check them out: www.pinkeleven.com and get their discount voucher in below article, especially for you. It is not shopping, it’s retail therapy. Few blocks away inside the same shopping complex, you can also find Pink Eleven’s sister’s store named At The Corner. You definitely don’t want to miss it!
While you’re still at Nusa Dua shopping complex, do check Casamia Home at Sogo, for beautiful gifts and knicks knacks from Bali you want to bring home with you. And if you are in Jakarta, you can also check Casamia Home at Alun-Alun Indonesia in Grand Indonesia shopping mall. You won’t regret!
What is Bali without having a celebration or two, right? For birthday party, graduation, wedding, anniversary, engagement, even just a tea party, one needs to head down to The Party Store on Jalan Mertanadi No. 1D (north-west of Bali Bakery Kuta) in Kuta. A one stop store for anything party related; from ribbons to balloons to confetti, to even table and party wall décor, The Party Store has it all. Find their voucher here to get a special 5% discount.
After all these activities, you definitely need to recharge your energy. There are plenty restaurants in Bali that offer delicious good food with amazing service, especially in Seminyak, Petitenget and Ubud areas. As for traditional local food, go to Denpasar, the capital of Bali. If you are a fan of grilled fish and seafood by the beach, then Jimbaran is your place to be. For those who are vegetarian or can only consume gluten-free meals, Bali also has several restaurants offering organic, gluten-free food and drinks. Otherwise, just dine at one of the many five stars resorts and hotels which offer amazing buffet and delicious ala-carte menu. Most restaurants in Bali are kids-friendly, so your children shouldn’t have any complaint about their food and drinks. There’s definitely something for everyone in Bali.
I am a big fan of bubble tea. A good one. I can drink it as often as I can, actually. And when in Bali, it’s not an exception to not drink a bubble tea. Enter Share Tea at Carrefour Sunset Road, 2nd floor, and you will experience a bubble tea like never before! A franchise from Taiwan, where bubble tea is originated, Share Tea only use fresh and original ingredients for their teas, juices, desserts and toppings. You can also adjust the sugar level and ice level to your liking. How cool is that? Share Tea outlet is also a good place to hang out with your partner, friends, colleagues or family. There are about 65 different drinks and desserts to choose from. My favorites are Taro Pearl Milk Tea, Matcha Red Bean Milk Tea, Cocoa with Rock Salt and Cheese and of course the yummy Classic Brown Rice Tea. I also love all fruit tea there, so fresh! The desserts are definitely a must try too! Delicious desserts, healthy drinks, good music and free wifi, what else one expects more? www.sharetea-indonesia.com
For the night owl, flock in to Kuta, Legian and Seminyak areas where many night clubs, bars and cafes will keep you entertain till dawn. If you are still in the mood for more drinks and food after your night out in Bali, head to some 24 hours restaurants around Seminyak, Kuta, and Jimbaran areas.
Definitely do not miss a sunset in Bali! It’s magical and breath-taking! There are many points to see the sunset depending where you are in Bali. But wherever you are in Bali, sunset is a must see! To enjoy it with your significant other or family is even better.
There are plenty of hotels, resorts, villas, motels and guest houses to stay in Bali. All depends on your budget, view and area preference, and where your activities will mostly be located. If staying in villa in Bali is your preference, and enjoy your own personal space with private swimming pool and kitchen as well as some living areas and garden, then wait no more, contact: www.balilidsvilla.com for all your villa needs—short or long term stay. If you like to make Bali your home, they can also help you with finding your perfect home for you in Bali. Find their discount voucher here.
Enjoy your holiday!
