Do you have the travel-bug? Want to adventure somewhere dreamy and unique? Then Bali is the destination to experience! Here’s some brief info so you can start packing and enjoy your trip:
Where?
Bali is an island in the midst of Indonesia. With beautiful glassy waters and emerald trees, you may think you’ve stepped into some world from a dream, but Bali really is a gem in the ocean, offering adventure and unforgettable experiences to those who seek out the island. Those who have been to Bali are not afraid to boast of the island’s atmosphere, even calling it the “Island of the Gods.”[1] With a nickname like that, who wouldn’t want to check out this special place?
Who?
Typically people, not just sights and attractions, leave the greatest impact in your heart. One article on the Lonely Planet website describes the Balinese as “a generous, genuinely warm people.”[2] The overall vibe certainly reflects this friendliness. It is this very characteristic of the people that sets Bali apart from other tourist destinations.
Bali’s history plays into its modern culture. For years, Balinese have tended to practice Hinduism, which is unique from most of Indonesia.[3] Bali holds many traditions and beliefs.[4] You may see some of these if you visit during a holiday or see some of the sacred sites. One article says the island was found to be useful during the years of trading, and because of this, it felt the influence of many cultures throughout its past, including the early influence of Java, as well as later Netherlands and Japan.[5] Now, the Balinese have opened their doors so they can share the beauty of their unique culture. After you return from Bali, it will be hard to decide which you miss the most – the scenery or the people!
What?
So, what should you do while you’re in Bali? Ditch the resorts and explore the island because there are countless things to see and do! Temples and sacred areas dot the lush island. See the Ubud Monkey Forest, also known as the “Sacred Monkey Forest,” a beautiful area dedicated to the many monkeys that make their home there.[6] Then, grab the sunscreen and head to the gorgeous beaches for surfing and relaxing by the waves. Bali has several, so take your pick! You can go to Balangan Beach, Jimbaran Beach, Seminyak Beach, and, well, you get the point. Later, go deeper into Bali to experience the rich culture. The Museum Negeri Propinsi Bali offers a unique taste of Balinese culture and history.[7] Or if you’re more into art, don’t miss the incredible collections in Ubud, like the Neka Art Museum.[8] For the explorers at heart, Goa Gajah, an interesting cave with religious and historical background, is the place to go if you don’t mind walking.[9] And with the vast amount of waterfalls, mountains, volcanos, and views, you may want to spend your whole trip hiking. At last, before you leave Bali, make sure you check out some of the shopping in the local markets. No matter what you choose, you’re going to make some pretty cool memories!
When?
Now you’re ready to book tickets to Bali! So, when is the best time to go? Think spring, early summer, and fall.[10] Not only will these times have decent weather, but it will also be much cheaper than the busy season and holidays.
How?
Any special requirements to go to Bali? The island makes it pretty easy for travelers. Trip Advisor explains that you can visit with a “Free Tourist Visa.”[11] In other words, the areas that travelers visit and explore the most are typically “Tourist Visa Free Facilities,” meaning that, within a certain length of trip, you can visit Bali with this free visa.[12] You’ll probably want to check ahead of time, however, just to make sure that you’ll be able to see all of the areas you planned on exploring. In addition, you’ll need a passport, so don’t forget it![13]
Why?
So why should you travel to Bali? Well, the island’s beauty and adventures alone are enough to convince anyone to go. Plus, the people are generally open and friendly, with a generous hospitality. And if you budget well, it doesn’t even have to break your wallet to visit this tropical gem. So if you have wanderlust and want to experience culture, adventure, and beautiful landscapes, travel to Bali and discover an island that goes much deeper than vacation brochures.
Contributed by Addie Davis
Sources:
[1] “Bali Indonesia Guide,” Bali.com, accessed December 29, 2016, https://www.bali.com/. [2] “Introducing Bali,” Lonely Planet, accessed December 29, 2016, http://www.lonelyplanet.com/indonesia/bali/introduction. [3] “Bali History and Culture,” Baliclick.com, accessed December 30, 2016, http://baliclick.com/about-bali-history-culture.asp. [4] “Balinese,” Countries and their Cultures, forum, accessed December 30, 2016, http://www.everyculture.com/wc/Germany-to-Jamaica/Balinese.html. [5] “Bali History and Culture.” [6] “Ubud Monkey Forest, the Natural and Sacred Site,” Ministry of Tourism, Republic of Indonesia, accessed December 30, 2016, http://indonesia.travel/en/destination/point-of-interest/ubud-monkey-forest. [7] “Museum Negeri Propinsi Bali,” Lonely Planet, accessed December 31, 2016, https://www.lonelyplanet.com/indonesia/denpasar/attractions/museum-negeri-propinsi-bali/a/poi-sig/441888/356551. [8] Ibid., “Neka Art Museum,” https://www.lonelyplanet.com/indonesia/ubud/attractions/neka-art-museum/a/poi-sig/1189801/356560. [9] Ibid., “Goa Gajah,” https://www.lonelyplanet.com/indonesia/bedulu/attractions/goa-gajah/a/poi-sig/1189892/1318644. [10] Ibid., “When to Go and Weather,” http://www.lonelyplanet.com/indonesia/bali/weather. [11] “You Should Know: PASSPORTS AND VISAS,” TripAdvisor, accessed December 31, 2016, https://www.tripadvisor.com/Destinations-g294226-q38659-Bali.html. [12] Ibid. [13] Ibid.
