Welcome to Bali, Indonesia
Bali is one of the most popular and beautiful islands among the 18,000 Indonesian islands. At times it feels like you are in paradise, but like most of us visiting the island, you probably have to leave after a few weeks or months. However, you will always want to come back for another stay.
A few editor’s choices and absolutely must see
Kuta Beach
Kuta Beach is one of the most popular tourist hotspots in Bali. The classic white sand beach is a big resort area with many luxury hotels, resorts, and villas available to visitors. There are also budget hotels for those on a lower budget. The number of restaurants, bars, and clubs is huge, with them being a big drawcard to Kuta Beach.
Shopping at Kuta Beach is also highly attractive to tourists with low prices and easy accessibility from the beach. The nightlife of this part of Bali is legendary, with many clubs remaining open all night. As such, Kuta Beach is popular with the younger crowds.
While Kuta Beach can become quite crowded at times, the excellent weather makes it comfortable to enjoy the beach not only during the day but also at night. The sunsets are particularly spectacular, and watching the sun go down with a cocktail in hand at a beachside bar is one of the defining moments of a visit to this popular and charming spot in Bali.
Lovina Beach
Located in northwestern Bali, Lovina Beach is a picturesque piece of tropical coastline with calm, peaceful waters and stunning sunsets. At some times of the year, it is possible to see hundreds of the local dolphins, and dolphin-watching tours are also available. The surrounding region includes some traditional Balinese properties where you can view the local culture and way of life. Also worth a visit locally is the Hot Water Banjar, Wihara Budha shrine, and the spectacular Gigit Waterfall.
Conveniently located just 10km from Singaraja, this is a quieter part of Bali that is perfect for those wishing to escape some of the busier tourist centers. Small hotels, backpackers, villas, and five-star hotels are available, covering a wide range of tastes and budgets for accommodation.
The local village of Kalibukbuk is one of six in the region and is well set up for tourists, while still maintaining that traditional Bali feel about it. Other villages include Temukus and Anturan which are sometimes so quiet that it’s possible to be the only tourists in town.
Ubud
Ubud provides a different experience of Bali compared to what you will find in places such as Kuta. Instead of the nightlife and party scene, visitors to Ubud can experience the natural beauty and peaceful vacation that allows you to appreciate the traditional cultural and natural scenery of Bali. Known as a hub for the arts, Ubud has a small-town feel where the locals have retained much of a traditional way of life.
There are many things to see and do around Ubud and a stay of one week or more is recommended to experience it all. Take a bike tour around the countryside and enjoy old-style local cultural delights. There are several bicycle tour companies that will provide a bike as well as morning tea, lunch, and refreshments.
Another must-see location in Ubud is the Elephant Cave or Goa Gajah. This is an ancient cave that houses old statues and carvings, as well as a statue of Ganesha. Take the path to the spectacular waterfall and Balinese rice fields. For some relaxation, enjoy the Tirta Empul hot springs where you can bathe in natural thermal springs.
