Magic in Bali - why you should visit the island of the gods

The highly diverse, teardrop-shaped island of Bali is popular with both adventurers and those in need of relaxation, with many different regions and villages each of which offers something different to every type of traveller – and it continues to grow, and fast!

However, let’s get to the real reasons why Bali is so popular.

The spirit of Bali

Known as the Island of the Gods, the numerous religious idols of Balinese ancient Hinduism are enshrined in the locals’ daily life. Balinese culture focuses on balance and harmony and this is reflected in the numerous rituals, festivals and ceremonies yet it is the zen-like culture of Bali which makes it stand out from the rest as a memorable and wonderful holiday destination.

The colourful ceremonies, parades and exhibits make it commonplace for visitors to witness these attractions during their stay. Offering an interesting insight into a peaceful way of life these are fabulous experiences for the tourists as spectators. The Balinese live in close-knit communities all over the island and even before the arrival of the tourism, arts and crafts were passed on from generation to generation to honour their faith and ceremonies-evident in the 20,000 temples on the island! This beautiful culture is reflected in the welcoming, friendly hospitality of the locals.

Tropical climate

Bali’s temperature is guaranteed to be hot and humid all year round due to its equatorial location. There are basically two seasons; dry season and wet season. The dry season stretches from April to September, is obviously the most popular, meaning it’s an ideal climate for shorts, flip-flops and sassy shades.

The wet season generally runs from around October to March with constant downpours for days on end but the cooling, clean air is very much appreciated. There is not really a bad time to visit Bali. Despite rainy season falling over December and January, Christmas and New Year are peak seasons in Bali with most accommodation booked out months in advance.

Beaches

The coastline seems endless and stretches hundreds of miles and each of the dozens of breath-taking white sandy beaches holds huge appeal for holidaymakers. Water sports, of course, are countless with surfboarding taking number one spot – popular with beginners and professionals alike who can be found hitting the ocean waves.

While the busier beaches are located in most common tourist areas, you can find quiet beaches in local fishing villages, beaches that are home to luxury beach clubs and, of course, beaches which are the base for dedicated surfers. Everyone visits the beach whether to swim, surf, or sunbathe. Some head down for an early morning jog or to walk the dog. However, the beaches are busiest at around 6 pm when tourists and locals alike gather to watch the glorious, wondrous sunset which falls on Bali every evening.

Diversity

Bali voted the number one holiday destination for 2017 (according to TripAdvisor) attracts tourists from all over the world. Each of the many different towns and villages on the large island has a different characteristic and offer something unique to every type of traveller.

Backpackers stay in hostels and can be sighted partying in cheaper bars and clubs. Families can book suitable, comfortable accommodation and keep the children entertained with fun holiday attractions and activities – amongst the favourites are the Monkey Forest, Bali Safari and Marine Park.

Bali is, without doubt, one of the top honeymoon destinations in the world right now. And rightly so. With so much variety of culture mixed with romantic settings and upmarket hospitality, it has everything required for an enjoyable and memorable honeymoon.

Last, but not least, Bali is a great destination for large groups of fun seekers who can enjoy the great thriving nightlife, epic beaches, boutique shops, and sightseeing attractions.

Attractions & adventures

There are many historical and cultural landmarks where Bail’s rich culture and heritage can be appreciated. Various colourful festivals and ceremonies are annual events and spectating traditional Balinese dance, music or partaking in local cookery classes are great ways to learn more about the local culture. A highly recommended activity is a visit to the sacred temples and landmarks. Alternatively, for the fit and adventurous, there are soaring volcanoes (which allow access to trek down inside), crater lakes, magnificent tropical forests, astounding waterfalls, and white water rafting along one of Bali’s famous rivers on offer.

And did we mention the many beaches?

Five-star hotels and luxury villas

In years gone by, Bali’s tourism has been limited to travelling backpackers, keen surfers and holidaying Australians. Nowadays, all around Bali, there is an excellent range of private villas available for rent, all with private pools and personal butlers. These villas are great value for money as you can book them in their entirety to accommodate your holiday group or family.

With an estimated 18,000 private villas across Bali, it’s the accommodation type of choice for many as it offers a more luxurious and secluded stay that can house big groups or families. These luxurious villas normally have their own personal staff, so guests are well looked after.

Reasons to rent a villa for your Bali holiday

You should know that booking and stay at a villa is almost always going to be a better choice than a hotel room; whether your group is made up of family members, or if you’re bringing a bunch of friends for an intimate event or party. There are a whole host of benefits.

• You have the entire villa (and it’s grounds) all to yourself, no sharing.
• All of your group are under one roof, so you’re always together.
• You have dedicated staff waiting on your needs, as well as your own driver and chef if required.
• The facilities at the villa (such as swimming pool, kitchen, and garden) are all yours to use at any time of day or night.
• You can fully stock up on your own food and drink if you wish.
• You pay per night for the entire villa – not per person – so the cost can work out cheaper than hotel rooms.
• Villas are generally more secluded and set back from the main streets, so they’re far more peaceful and secluded.
• It’s far easier to customise a villa to your own needs. Need a pool guard for your young children? No problem, just request it in advance.
• You can host your own party – even wedding ceremonies!
• There are some absolutely incredible villas in Bali that offer lots of luxury for your money.

Restaurants, bars and clubs

It goes without saying that you will want to see as much as possible while you are there, but after that, a well-earned meal will be in order, so here are five of the finest dining options for your time on this magical island.

For the hardened fun-loving partygoer, Bali doesn’t sleep. Bars and beach club staff are always busy attending to their customers all day long and until the early hours of the morning.  Thus, a visit to Bali would not be complete without hanging out at one (or more) of the many famous beach clubs. They are great for all-day grazing, drinking, chilling… as well as watching the beautiful sunset at the beach is a daily ritual for thousands of tourists and locals alike.

The bar and club scene in Bali is widespread and ranges from budget bar shacks on the beach to extravagant clubs for those on a classier night out. Delicious local cuisine and great facilities mean there’s no end to the ways to indulge here. Sweeping beaches and sleek bars might leave you intoxicated in more ways than one!

Bali has also become residence to world-renowned chefs who have opened their doors to swanky restaurants and fine dining establishments. Whatever type of restaurant or cuisine whets your appetite, it can be easily found in Bali where International cuisine is aplenty, with dining choices ever-widening with every new restaurant opening. 

Shopping

From local markets and independent designer boutiques to the tourist shops, supermarkets, and your typical brand stores. Bali has the lot. There’s a lot of women living in Bali who have opened their very own clothing line, all of which is produced in Bali. Hand-made Artisan wares, beautifully designed textiles in the form of sarongs and pareos and unusual hand-made knickknacks are widely available on sale in village shops and markets.

 Neighbouring islands

Bali is just one of around 18,000 islands in Indonesia making it the world’s largest archipelago. From Bali, you can take a boat trip to small, nearby islands. They can be reached in a 20-minute boat ride and as they are considered conservation areas they are not equipped with the same tourist infrastructure as Bali.  All of these neighbouring islands are popular sites for scuba diving.

Bali offers something for everyone whether that’s shopping, surfing, relaxing, retreating, serenity-seeking, sight-seeing, attractions, exploring, or indulging in the wide options for food and drink.