In and around Indonesia's tropical island of Bali.
So… you need a break, you want to go on a holiday.., you want to leave your professional self behind.., you want to relax.., Okay., it only sounds fair to say that these expressions are what most urban dwellers desire. A getaway to an unknown land where you could be a freer you, without having to look over your shoulder but instead rest your head on warm sands or soft grass in flower-filled pastures, at any time you please, as you take the best seat in natures grandest theater. I say “Grandest”, only because, though it is available throughout our lives, schedules and deadlines blind us from nature’s elegant grandeur, but when on holiday and completely stress-free, you actually unknowingly experience that true joy of our natural world. Now don’t seclude yourself from the world, and choose the remotest cove, just to selfishly enjoy nature’s splendor, but instead learn about it from the local people who have the pleasure of enjoying it every day of their lives instead.
Culture and Tradition is the only remaining expression of the dynamic past of our human race, and there isn’t anyone on earth that do not have these embedded deep down in their roots, all it takes is a little visit to your grandparents and you can have your very first lesson in cultural ethics. If you think that’s not enough to ignite your urban soul and you seek long-distance travel so that you now no longer need to aimlessly seek a destination of tranquility but a purposeful experience with the hope of birthing a more appreciative you, Remember that just as Rome was not built in one day, you aren’t going to reach cultural enlightenment over your next trip. So take it slow, balance yourself with what you are used to and with what you learn on the way. Do not immediately travel to the amazon for the bullet ant ritual, as it will only leave you with painful fingers, swollen to the size of hot dogs, and a quick return ticket back to your urbanhood.
The island country of Indonesia is made up of thousands of islands beautifully scattered between the Indian and Pacific oceans. The lands are blessed with lush green vegetation, flowing streams of mineral rich springs, magnificent falls and an enormous and spectacular reef, abundant with colorful life of the coral with a more natural underwater city of a cosmopolitan marine biodiversity. The Islands here get their rich soil from its past and recent volcanic activity which is a thrill better kept at a safe distance, but most of all it is home to one of the most culturally driven and traditionally welcoming people in the world.
Though the culture across the country is unquestionably similar traditions amazingly vary from island to island, so getting from one island across to another is a guaranteed experience of geographical bliss, fresh cuisine and a warm welcome from the locals.
The Island of Bali is a spectacular destination to begin your trip, it’s a destination where you can effortlessly acclimatize yourself to the experience that has already begun. Bali is well known to travelers from all over the world and no matter where you are from you will find something similar to what you are used to. There are many beaches to explore, it all depends on your preferences. Some beaches are renowned for their black sands, some for their excellent sunset views, some for the surf, some for evening dinners, and some just for its nightlife. The island of Bali is filled with historic temples too, each with a perfect story of the past, just remember to leave your shoes outside and carry something to wrap around if sleeveless.
So, enjoy the sunsets and dance to the beats of Bali’s thrilling nightlife. Once you feel that you understand a bit of the culture and your tummy is a bit accustomed to the cuisine, it’s time to take a boat across to the more remote islands where you can actually delve deeper into your blissful experience.
The Gili Islands
Sunset Vibes
State of the art speedboats run between islands and timetables for bookings are available at hotel receptions or online, ensure to book a hotel or guesthouse on your island of choice, before taking the boat.
The Gili Islands are an absolute treat to the soul and walking, horse cart or bicycle are the only modes of transportation to get around, and yes,.. I did say..” horse Cart”. Almost all the islands are encircled with clear blue waters and amazing coral life. Spend a few nights at each, given the close proximity from each other they do tend to differ in thrills and remoteness. The only thing that will remain the same is the peace you get lying under the picturesquely glitter-filled night sky. Enjoy a variety of fresh beach cuisine prepared by the locals and lay back and enjoy the live music from the islands talented musicians.
Utilize the first day to explore every corner of the island and plan your very own private paradise tour, only then you may replace the stars of your rating app with actual smiles. Snorkel, even if you haven’t ever, give it a go. Spend time in the shallows with the whole gear, you may feel a bit awkward in doing so, however, you matter the most to yourself, and if you want to experience and enjoy one of Nature’s spectacular underwater delights then, practice makes perfect. Always prepare before you attempt anything you have never done before, the experience after is always ameliorating.
Tire yourself with your freedom, your island exploring, beach naps, bicycle rides, amazing tropical beverages, book worming, long walks along the island coast and the many activities available. Once you feel that your tan has its own illustrious story, its time to travel across back to the island of Bali, this time to central Ubud, Ubud is a rural and cultural region filled with terraces of rice paddy fields, majestic waterfalls and dense tropical vegetation. Among these dense tropical forests are beautiful eco-villas and cottages, a place to finally relax your overflowing soul. Choose from the many resorts the one that suits you best. Almost all of these lodgings are built in the Balinese styled architecture spectacularly blending in with the beautiful surroundings.
Once you settle in and done pinching yourself with disbelief of the tranquility in the region, you must treat yourself to a very traditional and relaxing open-air massage with the melodious sound of multitudes of tropical birds in the background. Take your time to recuperate your body and if you haven’t lost the battle with the thought of never going back, cure yourself with a hot spring bath and awaken yourself as you play who blinks first with the gentle steaming giant Mt Agung, in the distance. Ubud is an enchantingly traditional region, rich with virtues of peacefulness and serenity, a perfect way to conclude your amazing experience of Indonesia and onward with your story of life.
Beauty and Bliss
