Bali has plenty of sand and sea for sun worshippers, but what sets this island apart are the people. The Balinese are a generous and genuinely warm people with a fun and sly sense of humor. When the weather is clear, locals will often exclaim ‘Bung ujan’ (it’s a beautiful day!), a reference to their hairless heads.
A visit to Bali would be incomplete without a trip to its cultural and spiritual centre: Ubud. This mystical town is the heart of traditional dance, music, wood carving and fine art in Bali. It is also known for its serene yoga studios and retreats.
The best way to experience the beauty of Bali’s lush rice paddies is to take a stroll around one of them at sunset. You will find many places that offer guided walks, but a good option is to rent a scooter and explore the surrounding villages. Most of the villages have their own particular specialty, such as woven cloth or wooden carvings.
Ubud is a great place to shop, with its wide variety of boutique and designer stores. You can find unique jewellery and clothing that combines functionality with the quintessential Bali aesthetic. The popular boutique store Berawa Luxe is a good choice for women looking for stylish, easy-to-wear clothing.
In the mountains of Central Bali, you can enjoy first-class white water rafting on the mighty Ayung River or trek through the West Bali National Park, where you will see a diverse range of wildlife.