10 REASONS TO VISIT THE WORLD`S BEST ISLAND – BALI

1.SPIRITUAL HERITAGE

The powerful charisma of Bali probably lies in the marvellous blend of various cultures and religions. Buddhists, Hindus, Christians, and Muslims live together in harmony and accept each other`s differences, as a result of which Bali can proudly present a unique architectonic heritage.

Charming temples, churches, and mosques are one of the main reasons why millions of tourists pay a visit to Bali every year. Especially, Pura Tanah Lot, Pura Besakih, Pura Uluwatu and Pura Ulun Danu Batur are the island`s holy masterpieces.

Pura Besakih

2.FUSION OF CUISINES

Another “magnet” of Bali, tempting the travellers is its cookery. Different religions bring diverse foods and Bali is a perfect example of the world`s cuisine fusion, combining four distinct culinary traditions.

Food lovers will lick their fingers after tasting the well-seasoned, spicy Balinese dishes, all cooked with fresh ingredients only. Nasi Goreng, Nasi Campur, Mie Goreng, Gado Gado, Bebek Betutu, Babi Guling, are typically served on a banana leaf in any warung around Bali.

Bumbu, Bakso or Satay are common street food snacks. Arak whiskey, Balinese rice wine, and Bintang beer are well-liked by both, locals and foreigners. And the legendary Luwak coffee is the absolute winner!

Traditionally served Balinese food

3.WONDERFUL CULTURE

Balinese people are considered to be one of the friendliest nations in the world. Kind, peaceful, polite and happy land of always smiling faces. Balinese society is deeply religious, community orientated and devoted.

The locals are known for making daily offerings and regularly holding spiritual ceremonies, filled with joy, food, and prayers. Dance, art, and crafts play an extremely important role in everyday life and reflect Balinese culture, which is dedicated to their own beliefs but very respectful to others.

Dance, music and art are the key elements of the Balinese culture

4.NATURAL BEAUTY

Nature admirers will find a haven in the lush rainforest that covers the majority of the area. Verdant rice terraces, chilli, coffee and flower plantations only amplify the omnipresent greenery. Abundant wildlife and vegetation create perfect conditions for adventure and thrill.

Bali island cannot be left without climbing one of the imposing volcanoes;  Mount Agung and Mount Batur seem to be great hiking ideas, as well as trekking around Lake Buyan and Lake Batur and exploring the natural hot springs, waterfalls, and streams.

Rice fields near Mount Agung

5.TASTE OF SERENITY

Many visitors come to Bali to find peace and tranquillity in the lush, tropical interior. Ubud is the favourite amongst artisans, natural healers and free spirits who enjoy living their alternative lifestyle.

Tastefully arranged workshops display the famous Balinese furniture, while other shops sell Balinese fabrics and lace. The place teems with yoga and meditation retreats, vegan and organic cafes, dazzling massage and spa centres, and the whole ambience truly is a medicine for the soul.

Spa retreat in Ubud

6.SURFER`S PARADISE

Fans of surfing, beach, and lifestyle will get their satisfaction at Uluwatu. The rough waves of Indian Ocean along with golden sand and abundant sunshine attract experienced surfers, while the sunsets over the Uluwatu cliff-top temple amplify the dramatic images.

When driving a scooter around the Bukit Peninsula breathtaking images come into view on every corner. Nyang-Nyang Beach, Uluwatu Beach, Padang Padang beach, Dreamland Beach and Balangan Beach are the most spectacular ones, visited mainly by surfers, but also photographers and fans of the “Eat, Pray and Love” story.

Nyang Nyang Beach, Uluwatu

7.UNDERWATER WORLD

It is not a secret that Bali is a “dreamland”. In fact, it is not just the ‘land’. The island`s bountiful underwater world offers a great environment for divers and snorkelers.

Particularly, Amed is a place of an extraordinary biodiversity and marine life. It is known as the Japanese shipwreck in the Lipah Bay that provides a territory inhabited by assorted corals, sponges, stingrays and different fish schools.

The seas around Tulamben hide lots of secrets, including the submerged Sleeping Buddha at the Suci`s Place.

Amed is famous for shipwreck diving and snorkelling

TRAVEL TIP

The tranquil islands of Nusa Lembongan and the nearby Gili Islands have one of the best diving and snorkelling conditions around Bali. Giant turtles, barracuda, frogfish, octopus, sea snakes and sharks can frequently be seen here. Besides, the islands are regarded to have the most idyllic beaches in Bali.

Nusa Lembongan, Dream Beach

8.DIVINE BEACHES

The scent of frangipani and jasmine, a never-ending supply of exotic fruit, sipping cocktails in an infinity pool, a sound of rolling surf delightfully blended with the rhythm of gamelan, lazy days in warungs, balmy nights in style, and those epic sunsets – simply Bali vibes.

Whoever has visited Bali would surely have these recollections of their past holiday (and likely feel an urge to return). Beaches are the main reason to visit the island for most of the tourists. Whether it is the flashy Kuta, fancy Seminyak, resort Nusa Dua, tranquil Lovina, laid-back Candidasa or the surfer`s favourite Uluwatu – the beaches of Bali are just divine!

Legian beach is dotted with chill-out beach bars

9.NIGHTLIFE & CHILL-OUT

The infamous Kuta – who would not have heard about it? The controversial backpackers’ area and the epicentre of trashy nightlife. Often compared to Phuket, Kuta has earned a reputation for being the party hub of Indonesia.

Sky Garden (4-level nightclub, strip club, many bars, VIP club), and beachfront bars – these are the highlights of Kuta. As an extension to Kuta, Legian and Seminyak are other seaside resorts that provide non-stop entertainment and friendly hospitality.

Walking from Kuta to Semyniak, it would be around 5 kilometres of a pleasant stroll along the beach from one side, while from the other the road is dotted with fancy hotels, resorts, shopping malls and fine dining restaurants. Not backpacker, but rich tourists occupy these areas.

Expensive hotels, beachfront restaurants, & clubs and elite parties – this is Seminyak. Gay Street & Potato Beach Club are probably the major beach attractions, but also Legian`s Cocoon Beach Club rocks, the regularly held Splash Party is totally ‘must-take part in’!

Potato Beach Club, Seminyak

10.SHOPPING SPREE

Shopping has become incredibly popular in the last few decades, and luxurious malls are literally popping out like mushrooms after rain.

Kuta, Semyniak, Legian and Nusa Dua attract visitors not only by the lavish resorts and fashionable, elegant shopping centres but also endless beachfront promenades, spotted with matchless lounge bars, seaside restaurants and exclusive beach clubs with swimming pools.

Beach Walk Shopping Mall, Kuta

WHEN TO TRAVEL

The best time to visit Bali is between May-October, in the dry season. Especially, fans of beach, diving and snorkelling will enjoy the clear, calm waters and bright skies in these months. The peak season is June-September, the prices go up and hotels often fully booked.

Nevertheless, Bali is as enjoyable during the wet season provided you travel for relax and fun. With lower prices and pleasant temperatures, the rainy months (Dec-Feb) will definitely not prevent you from enjoying the magical Bali vibes.

HOW TO GET THERE

Fly to Denpasar. Use the reliable Bluebird Taxi services at the airport to bring you to your hotel (unless pre-arranged).

For all international flights visit www.sckyscanner.com or www.momondo.com