Bali, An Idyllic Journey.
Picturesque beaches, tranquil tropics and some of the world’s best marine biodiversity, and of course, a thrilling, yet calming ambiance — yes, Bali is what I’m describing to you. Whether it is a laid-back atmosphere in Kuta, a power-packed weekend in Seminyak or your discoveries in Ubud — Bali, the Island of Gods, is here to feed your soul.
Indonesia’s best-kept island is a haven to explore, whether you have 5, 10, 15 days or eternity. Dive into fabled Balinese cultural experiences like cooking or visiting rice paddy fields, or take to the sun and beaches to catch that long-awaited tan, on the island’s most sought after shores. With a welcome just as warm as the weather, the beaches of Kuta & Seminyak are where sunsets beckon your attention.
This is a canopy of experiences — whether it is temples, rice paddies, heritage monuments or a high diversity of marine life. Strategically located in between Java and Lombok, this island is home to at least 10,000 temples — you know where to go if a spiritual journey beckons you.
Most of us today plan our own trips, no travel agents, no sightseeing companies; a true discovery is one that is carried out by ourselves. So, in my opinion, the below experiences cover the essence of this little, but magnetic island:
A stay in Ubud gives you access to the multitude of paddy fields and terraces. Grab a bike and explore the nearby villages — food, culture, people; warm, exciting and tantalising.
The north of Bali, dotted by pristine beaches is the best way to let off steam; a cocktail in each hand — also known as a balanced experience!
If you are an early riser, grab a backpack. The island is full of volcanoes, even those that you can hike up to. Messy yes, but the end result feels like heaven. Scramble up to Mount Batur for an unforgettable sunrise and its stunning caldera lake.
Take a cycle to explore the ancient, isolated, and mesmerising temples — after all, this could be the long awaited spiritual experience.
When in Bali, always take a cooking class. Learn to cook authentic and local dishes with a private class — who knows? you might even make a friend (Reference: Liz in Eat, Pray, Love; we all need a Ketut in our lives)
And all said and done, just peace doesn’t cut it on any of our vacations. How about a night or two of bar hopping and beach parties — the most famous island for a fun night out!
My tip would be, to experience Bali in all its authentic glory, after all the late nights and luxury hotels, to stay in a truly rustic and raw hotel; the Hideout Hotels, far south past Ubud are spectacular in design, location and experience. Truly private, choose between the Hideout Villa, Hideout Beehive and the Hideout Lightroom — three bamboo villas that ‘DEFINE’ private. Isolated (truly, from afar all you can see is the bamboo top of the villa), by a serene river and smack in the middle of a lesser known village. Grab a bag, check-in for a weekend or a whole month to find yourself, to go off the beaten path, into a true discovery mode through the jungles around. Need some entertainment? There’s a collection of musical instruments to keep you busy (and to woo a loved one around) and two resident dogs that run about the common garden area; I don’t know why, but when there are dogs around, love is felt.
After all, Bali is always the right choice!
Written By Mohit Gupta
Week 36, September ’20
