Known as the Land of the Gods, Bali is considered to be the most popular tourist destination in Indonesia. Located between Java and Lombok, the island of Bali has an area of only 5,632 square kilometers—a relatively small island with much things to offer.
Getting to Bali is easy with the number of available direct flights to Denpasar (the capital of Bali). It will take about 4 hours of travel time from Manila to Denpasar (Ngurah Rai Airport).
Accommodation in the island is surprisingly cheap; through booking.com, a Superior Double room of Grand Istana Rama is around P5000.00 for 4D/3N and can accommodate up to four (4) people (price still varies on when you book a reservation, it is best to book as early as possible).
There are malls, retail shops, restaurants and massage parlors accessible around Kuta’s prime area. Just be mindful when going in a bargain store, some locals get pissed off easily when customers come in and don’t buy anything.
“Surfer’s Paradise” for most tourists, Kuta beach is one of the island’s famous destinations for its strong and big waves. For brave amateur surfers, you can try these killer waves with a trainer. Morning waves are too strong and most enjoyed by professional surfers; for starters, it is more advisable to try surfing around 12nn onwards to avoid getting wiped out all the time, the waves are quite safer by this time. Expert surfers may also try other surfing spots around Ulu Watsu.
Tanjung Benoa Beach is also for adventure-seekers. This is where all other water activities are done; parasailing, banana boat ride, fly fish ride and more. Never leave the island without trying any of these activities. You may have it arranged at your hotel for discounts and packages.
Tick-off these items from your bucket list: try out paragliding in Bukit, White Water Rafting on the Ayung River, or bungy jumping by A.J. Hackett International in Double Six, Club.
If you want peace and tranquility, a 30-minute drive to the south of Kuta, Jimbaran Beach will definitely give you a relaxing ambience and a beautiful sunset view. For a slower paced, lazy day, get out of Kuta and go to Bali’s secluded beaches: Pantai Geger past South of Nusa Dua , Impossible Beach—a 30 minutes away from Denpasar Airport, Balangat Beach located in the Bukit region of Uluwatu, and Amed—a 2 hour drive in North of Denspasar.
Aside from the wonderful beaches, Bali is not Bali without its 10,000 pura—a Balinese Hindu temple. Majority of the population are practicing Hinduism.
To top the must-see list is the over 1000-year old Mother Temple or the Besakih Temple, the most important temple in Bali. Other must-see temples are: Pura Luhur Temple, a Balinese Sea Temple located at Uluwatu, famous for its overlooking view. Pura Tirta Empul, known for its sacred spring water and is believed to have a healing properties. Taman Ayun Temple, a royal temple of the Mengwi Empore, located in Mengwi Village. There are many temples in Bali, and you don’t need to see them all as it will take you a lot of time, but make sure not to miss seeing some of it.
Bali is not your ordinary tropical paradise—this culture-filled island will take you back in the beginning of time. Its colorful traditional ceremonies, ancient patterns and details in every corner, and its captivating scenery will make your stay worthwhile.
Photos taken: May 2013
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