Why Traveling to Bali is Always a Good Idea

Much has been said and written about Bali. The island is trendy, and perhaps that’s why, in the last couple of years, we haven’t stopped seeing the same images of the same beaches in the same iconic spots over and over again, shared by influencers, celebrities, and friends across all social networks, especially Instagram. With that said, we present a proposal for both those who have never been to Bali and those who have already traveled to this corner of the world, convinced that after reading this, you will want to go back.

In case you didn’t know, Bali is the name of both an island and a province in Indonesia. The province includes the island of Bali, Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan. It is located at the westernmost end of the Lesser Sunda Islands, with Java to the west and Lombok to the east. Today, it is a popular tourist destination and is known, like Java, for its refined arts, including dance, sculpture, painting, metalwork, leather crafting, and a distinctive musical style, with the gamelan being the most notable. The gamelan is an Indonesian orchestra that performs court music and accompanies theatrical performances and public processions, with the number of instruments varying according to the occasion.

But beyond being a tourist destination, Bali has increasingly become a meeting point for wholesalers of fashion, jewelry, footwear, furniture, or décor from all over the world who buy from the island to later export to their home countries and, of course, sell at a higher price. It is also known as “The Island of the Gods” due to its deep religious devotion, though many call it “The Magic Island.” When you visit, you feel a special energy that makes your imagination soar and ideas flow without the need for any mind-altering substances, which explains why lately, many young—and not so young—people are leaving everything behind to move to Bali and pursue their professional dreams in what could be called the new “Island of Opportunities.”

Moreover, Bali has become a paradise for newlyweds—a honeymoon destination for adventurers, yoga lovers, snorkelers, and especially surfers. It’s an unmissable trip for those looking to disconnect for a few days, enjoy stunning beaches and landscapes, and experience a new culture, history, people, and cuisine.

The thing is, Bali offers many—perhaps too many—options for planning your trip. In this case, we won’t cover them all. Instead, we propose a route that includes Denpasar, Bukit, Jimbaran, Seminyak, Ubud, and a brief mention of Kuta and Canggu, highlighting special hidden spots in each place that many travelers have yet to discover.

Denpasar

Denpasar is the capital city and the epicenter of Bali province in Indonesia. Nearby, you can find Pura Blanjong Temple, the Bali Museum, and the Hindu temple Pura Jagatnata, which features a sanctuary made of white coral. Puputan Square is in the city center, right next to Taman Werdhi Budaya or the Denpasar Arts Center, a sprawling complex showcasing local art and cultural events. It is also home to the Bali Arts Festival, which takes place every year with traditional music, dance, and art.

Bali has too many wonders to explore, so we won’t linger much longer in Denpasar, except to note the airport, which handles more than 20 million passengers annually.

Bukit

Known as “Bali’s lookout point,” the Bukit Peninsula attracts people seeking the other Bali, the one not featured in travel catalogs. You can access it via a single road connecting Kuta and Jimbaran, which leads to Uluwatu via secondary roads. Once there, the more adventurous move around by motorcycle, taxi, or, for much less than you’d imagine, with a private driver. Though the area can be difficult to access, Bukit boasts some of the best beaches in all of Bali.

Notable beaches include Uluwatu, the most famous one—the same beach that appears in the well-known 1973 documentary Morning of the Earth by Albert Falzon, where its waves were surfed for the first time. Today, the beach is where seasoned surfers take advantage of the quality waves to train for the season. Other beaches worth mentioning are the exquisite Balangan, Bingin, Suluban—an absolute delight when the tide is low and where surf competitions are held—and finally, Padang Padang, located close to the famous Uluwatu Temple, which is well worth a visit.

For an authentic Balinese experience, consider staying in a private bungalow at the pristine Gravity Hotel or the Toraja Bambu Boutique Hotel, the latter featuring bamboo structures. Another option is the Suarga Padang Padang Hotel, ideal for those looking for a little more Asian luxury.

Don’t miss watching the waves late at night at Single Finn, having a healthy breakfast at Suka Espresso, or trying Drifters, which doubles as both a restaurant and a surf shop. You must also try the delicious and authentic Indonesian food at Yeye’s or any of the small roadside stalls you’ll find along the way. Another option is watching the sunset with a cocktail in hand and dining at El Kabrón, where you can also indulge in a taste of Spain at their impressive restaurant specializing in paellas with an infinity pool overlooking the sea (advance reservations are essential).

Jimbaran

Jimbaran is a fishing village and tourist area on Bali’s southern coast. Jimbaran Bay has an expansive beach with calm waters and seafood restaurants surrounded by tropical forests. At the northern end is the open-air Kedonganan fish market, where colorful boats dock.

Don’t miss its beaches or the local seafood barbecues on the shore, where you can handpick your meal and, if you’re lucky, discover the “secret sauce.” Also, don’t forget to try the culinary experience at Cuca, a Michelin-starred restaurant where, for just over 50 euros, you can enjoy a tasting menu created by renowned Canadian chef Kevin Cherkas, who boasts an enviable career, having worked in such prominent places as Arzak, Le Broche, and the now-closed El Bulli in Spain, as well as Daniel in New York.

Seminyak

Located north of Kuta, Seminyak is known for its international atmosphere and upscale hotels. Seminyak offers a wide variety of international restaurants and the most exclusive shops. And although it’s a major tourist center, it’s a slightly quieter area for those who aren’t looking for Kuta’s party vibe.

This area is one of the best for a great day of shopping, whether you’re into fashion, accessories, or home décor. You can also enjoy a cosmopolitan dining experience if you’re a little tired of eating only Asian food.

Kuta

Kuta is one of the most famous areas in Bali and one of the island’s main tourist destinations. It is located just a few minutes from Denpasar Airport, which has made it one of the first places most travelers visit upon arrival in Bali.

Kuta is best known for its lively nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants. The beach is ideal for beginner surfers, as the waves are not too intense, and there are many surf schools in the area. However, Kuta can be crowded and noisy, so if you’re looking for a more relaxed and authentic experience, it might be worth exploring other areas of the island.

Canggu

Canggu is a relatively new addition to Bali’s tourist map, but it has quickly become one of the island’s most fashionable spots. This small town on Bali’s southern coast is known for its laid-back vibe, trendy cafes, and surf beaches. It’s a favorite among digital nomads, and it has a growing community of expats who have chosen to live in Bali while working remotely.

Batu Bolong Beach is one of the best-known surf spots in Canggu, and you’ll find many beach bars and restaurants where you can relax after a day of surfing. Echo Beach is another excellent option for watching the sunset with a cocktail in hand.

Canggu is also famous for its wide range of healthy food options. Many cafes offer vegan, vegetarian, and organic dishes, with popular spots including The Shady Shack and Crate Café. If you’re looking to experience Bali’s wellness scene, Canggu is a great place to try yoga classes or enjoy a wellness retreat.

Ubud

Ubud is the cultural heart of Bali. Nestled among lush rice terraces and surrounded by forests, Ubud is known for its traditional crafts, art galleries, and a vibrant yoga scene. It’s a great place to relax, immerse yourself in Balinese culture, and explore the island’s spiritual side.

The Ubud Monkey Forest is a popular attraction where you can see hundreds of long-tailed macaques in a natural setting. However, be cautious with your belongings, as the monkeys are notorious for grabbing anything they can get their hands on.

For a spiritual experience, you can visit the Pura Taman Saraswati temple, a stunning example of Balinese architecture surrounded by lotus ponds. Ubud is also home to the famous Tegalalang Rice Terrace, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into the traditional way of life in Bali.

When it comes to food, Ubud has something for everyone. You can try traditional Balinese dishes like babi guling (suckling pig) or sate lilit (minced fish satay) at local warungs (small eateries), or indulge in gourmet dining at restaurants like Locavore, which offers a modern twist on Indonesian cuisine.

In Ubud, you’ll also find plenty of opportunities to learn about Balinese culture through cooking classes, dance performances, and art workshops. It’s the perfect place to slow down and experience the essence of Bali.

Final Thoughts

Bali is more than just a tropical paradise; it’s a place that offers something for everyone, whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deeper cultural experience. From the bustling streets of Kuta to the tranquil rice terraces of Ubud, Bali invites you to explore its diverse landscapes and vibrant culture.

No matter where you go on the island, you’ll find hidden gems, friendly locals, and a sense of magic that keeps travelers coming back time and time again. So whether it’s your first time or your tenth, Bali will always leave you with a desire to return and discover more of what this enchanting island has to offer.

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