A small but mighty tapestry of land, sea, and ceremony, Bali is an exquisitely unique island, misty with fantasy. It is home to the geographical opus, Mount Agung, an active volcano deemed holy by local residents. Small, yet mighty, this iridescent island quivers and shimmers with a vibrancy of life that one simply will not find every day. Steal away to this reef-lined landscape for an exquisite slice of true felicity.
the romance
Splurge on a private villa, deliciously equipped with a pool, sauna, and even a vegetable garden, for some ultra one-on-one time. Or settle into a breezy suite furnished in teak and Javanese marble. A thatched roof resort also makes for extra-cosy sleeping quarters. Take in an evening of beachfront dining over Jimbaran Bay, sampling such sun-kissed, sea-swept cuisine as grilled fish in banana leaves, starfruit in sweet sauce, and fern tips in garlic dressing. An afternoon for two should include a little cuddly meandering through the Orchid Garden of Ubud, or a carefree cruise around the charming Benoa harbour.
the scenery
Cradled by the Indian Ocean, Bali sports an abundance of tropical tropes such as strikingly grey beaches, as well as sumptuous exports of cacao, vanilla, and chilies. Tamarind trees grow in the North, cloves in the highlands, and acacia to the South. Rice fields, fruit farms, and dense forests color the acres, while lush spreads of water lilies, hibiscus, and magnolia taunt the senses. Sea eagles crown the skies as flocks of stunning white herons nest below.
the adventure
Jungle trek on the back of a Sumatran elephant or scuba dive deep down for a glimpse of a moray eel or whale shark. Venture into the sacred Monkey Forest and behold a sanctuary for various unique species of wildlife and Balinese ceremonial traditions. Don the role of ‘one of the boys’ while you game fish for Mai-Mai, or rent a board off of Ulu Watu. Go bold by attending a Negara bull races. The list of offered stimulus goes on and on - paraglide from Bukit hill, snorkel off of Lovina Beach, or do the Doolittle with a camel ride along the beach in Nusa Dua.
the secrets
A fascinating structure of spiritual essence, Pura Besakih is the island’s oldest and largest Hindu temple dating back to the 11th century. You’ll find it etched with wayang art, floating pavilions, and lotus ponds. Batabulan temple hosts sandstone carvings of age-old frenemies angels and demons. In Sanur, seek out the art of painter Le Mayeur and view the works inspired by his muse and true love - the lithe Balinese dancer Ni Polok. Experience the secular sweetness of a school of dolphins at play off the shores of Lovina and Candi Dasa. Up for more open-waters? Explore nearby island clusters on board a traditional Buginese schooner.
the attractions
In the capital of Denpasar, you’ll find the local bird market aflutter with song. For some one-of-kind shopping, head down to the region of Kuta where you’ll find everything from kites to stone carvings. Bali hosts many festivals celebrating its temples and dance. Stop by the Taman Budaya Cultural Center to orient yourself with the embedded historicity of the land. While bobbing to the beats of local gamelan music, and nibbling a bite of pancong or coconut cake, make your way to other such sites as Ubud ‘s Bamboo Gallery, Agung Rai Museum of Art, as well as the Taman Tirta Gangga Water Palace, built by Karangasem’s final king.
before you go
What to Expect
Dry Season: May to September are sunny and hot months (25-30°C/high 80s°F), and surfers can catch the best waves during this season. May, June, and July are considered to be the best months to travel in terms of the weather.
Wet Season: October to April are hot months (25-30°C/high 80s°F), and even though it’s the monsoon season, you’re still likely to enjoy many sunny days
Clothing
Wear light clothing for the heat, but keep in mind that the holy sites (such as the temples) require you to cover up (saris can be rented for this purpose)
Currency
Indonesian Rupiah
The Lingo
Balinese, Indonesian, English
Documents
A valid passport
Local Delicacies
Urutan: a spicy sausage made from pork
Lawar: Balinese salads that usually contain chopped vegetables, coconut, minced meat and spices.
