1.The Views

I can honestly say that there is no place on earth like Bali. It is truly an Instagrammers dream! The natural beauty at every turn is a feast for the eyes. Bali had been on my ‘Go List’ for years before I decided to take the plunge and book a ticket.

2. The Relaxation

You can’t visit Bali and leave stressed or tense, with all inexpensive spas available you can get one every day that you’re there and not break the bank. If you happen to make it to a spa, take a flower-covered bath, but be aware that all spas are not equal so do your due diligence in research prior to booking a treatment.

3. The Beaches

I visited a couple of beaches briefly while in Bali, I honestly wish I had spent much more time there! My advice is to make your way to Nusa Penida and the beaches there if you have limited time like myself. The waters and views are amazing! Specifically, check out Kelingking beach or Secret Point, so that you can get a view of the infamous v Tyrannosaurus Rex Rock formation.

4. The Animals

Since I’m an animal person visiting animals was definitely on my list. I made it to see and play with the elephants (which I felt kind of sorry for after seeing them). I also made my way through monkey forest, which was quite an adventure off its own!

5. The Shopping

While some of the shop owners and workers could be a little pushy if you decided not to purchase, my experience overall was pleasant. Most of my shopping was done in Seminyak and a little in Ubud. Many of the shops had an island vibe (of course), think flowy maxi dresses and straw hats all day, which is totally my vibe! So you can imagine I came back with an empty wallet and full suitcase.

6. The People

The people in Bali seemed to be always smiling, pleasant and eager to engage. I learned a lot about life there by speaking to people that work in the shops and tour guides.

7. The Spiritual Practices

Most of the citizens practice Balinese Hinduism, which from what I could tell rolls a couple of religions including Buddhism into one practice. While I’m a Christian, it was interesting to learn about other spiritual practices. While I chose not to participate in rituals and certain practices while there due to my own beliefs, I was still able to appreciate someone else’s religion. Did you know that the name of Bali actually comes from the temple in India, Balipuram, or small Bali.

8. The Temples

This could have gone in with the scenery, but the temples deserved a spot all their own. There are temples everywhere, even in peoples homes. There are so many because their religious practices honor various gods and they have temples for various reasons, worship, cremation, ceremonies etc. The temples are all unique and beautiful in their own ways, some were open spaces and some enclosed, but each had a purpose.

9. The Adventures

Do you have the burning desire to swing over rice fields 250 feet below? Want to slide down a waterfall 100s of feet long? Enjoy mopeding high in the mountains? Want to try new foods like Lawar, Lindung, Kakul or Luwak coffee (I did not try this by the way lol)? Then Bali is the place for you! As a little bit of a risk-taker when on vacation, I wanted to do all the things and I’m sure you will too!

10. The Accomodations

From the walk-up balconies that lead to pools to the private villa that you can rent for you and your friends Bali’s accommodations are spectacular in my view. I moved around a bit and stayed in Ubud and Seminyak while there and never had a bad experience with hotels (except for a bug bite). The staff was always extremely friendly and accommodating, the rooms were spacious and felt super luxurious for the prices. Many of the places incorporated inside-outside living which I am in love with. Check out videos and more pics on my Instagram.

Bonus

The Culture

There is a rich, deep history to the Balinese people and while there I wasn’t able to learn a lot about the culture, but when I go back I will definitely take some time to speak with residents more about this aspect.

Tips for traveling to Bali

• If you’re coming from the U.S, it will be a long flight. The flight is about 24 hours with a layover, usually in the middle east. If I would have done some things differently I might have stayed in Qatar or the Middle East for a couple of days prior to continuing on my journey.
• Take some time to settle in and look around, my trip was pretty short in comparison to some. If you’re coming from the U.S take a lot of time off so that you can explore Bali and the surrounding areas. When I go again I will definitely spend some time in Thailand, Vietnam, and Australia since they are all so close
• If you are traveling alone, you may want to book through a solo travel agent that is familiar with the area. They can also point you in the direction of fun activities as well
• Join online groups and event boards so that you can get a feel for Bali before you go. Take the time to speak with others that have been there a couple of times, it will be truly beneficial if this is your first time
• Bali is located in a high-risk area known as the Ring of Fire and is a hot spot for earthquakes and volcanos. In fact, the week before I went there were several back to back earthquakes, a volcano erupted and there was worry of a tsunami. So, take these things into account prior to travel