Selecting the “best place to visit” is similar to selecting your favorite dish in that it greatly depends on your current state of mind, personality, and preferences. While some want excitement, others seek tranquility. Some enjoy cold mountain mornings, while others seek for seaside sunsets. Some people simply want to lose themselves in an old city, where each lane and wall has a story to tell.
However, many would say that Bali is the one destination that, in some way, meets the needs of numerous types of tourists.
Now, listen to me before you say, “Oh, that’s too obvious.” Although Bali may seem like a well-worn recommendation, there’s a reason why so many visitors from all over the world return. Even while the beaches are lovely, it’s not just for them. Bali has a peculiar ability to make you feel at home, even if it’s your first visit. Something about it gently and subtly strikes your heart and then simply remains with you.
First, let’s discuss nature. Bali’s green is distinct. It’s glowing in addition to being green. In Ubud, the rice terraces resemble light waves reflecting off the ground. You sort of forget everything else when you’re standing in the center of those fields, listening to the sound of water running in tiny channels between the crops and seeing birds fly by. It’s quiet, but not deserted. It makes you feel as though you’re a part of something ancient and unadulterated.
The ocean comes next. There are cliffs that plunge into the sea in locations like Uluwatu if you head south. How about the sunsets there? Unbelievable. There are temples atop cliffs where you may sit and simply listen to the waves crashing far below, as the sky becomes pink and orange. And surfing comes next. Bali makes you want to try it even if you haven’t. The beaches are safe for beginners to learn on, and the inhabitants are quite kind.
But it’s the people, not simply the scenery. Some of the sweetest, most gentle individuals you will ever encounter are Balinese. They don’t simply smile with their mouth; they smile with their entire face. Even though they are constantly occupied with their ceremonies, flower offerings, and compound cleanup, they will always find time to assist you or simply talk. Spending time there makes you experience a profound sense of spiritual serenity. They seem to live their lives more from the heart than the clock.
One of the most intriguing things you’ll observe is how religion and culture are interwoven and not distinct from one another. Little woven trays filled with flowers and incense are set out on doorsteps, motorcycles, and even stores in the morning. These are daily sacrifices made out of love and thankfulness rather than duty. It forces you to consider your own life. For example, how often do we pause and express gratitude for simply being here?
Let’s talk about food now. The cuisine, oh man. In Bali, you may dine well without going to upscale places. Small “warungs”—local eateries that serve hot, fresh, tasty cuisine at incredibly low prices—can be found on any street. Satay, tempeh, sambal, mie goreng (fried noodles), and nasi goreng (fried rice) are all comforting and spicy. Additionally, this island is a paradise for vegans and vegetarians. Health cafes, smoothie bowls, fresh juices, and treats that seem like cheating but are actually healthy abound in Ubud in particular.
Additionally, there is a creative feeling about the island. Yogis, musicians, writers, and artists all find their place here. Perhaps it’s the atmosphere, or perhaps it’s just how laid-back everything feels. Street art, craft markets, open mic nights, painting classes, you name it. There are also yoga classes, meditation retreats, and even solitary weekends in the mountains for those who prefer to be alone. You truly have a choice.
And for some reason, Bali doesn’t seem to be attempting to be anything, even though millions of people visit it. It is simply itself. Even more upscale neighborhoods like Seminyak and Canggu, which have beach clubs and hip cafés, feel more laid-back than other popular tourist destinations worldwide. The north of Bali and neighboring islands like Nusa Penida or Nusa Lembongan are still undeveloped and uncomplicated if you want to get away from all of that.
The rain in Bali is another enchanted feature. The day is not ruined by it. The entire island actually seems to soften when it rains. Frogs emerge, the streets have a wet earth odor, and everything seems comfortable. Sipping a strong cup of Balinese coffee and taking in the scenery while you sit in a café and listen to the rainfall tapping on the roof. Time doesn’t seem to be slipping away. It’s simply there.
Of course, no location is flawless. During peak season, Bali can get congested. In some places, the traffic gets a little ridiculous. The Wi-Fi isn’t always very good. Oddly enough, though, none of that seems to be a deal-breaker. Because you get something greater from the island. It provides you with a sense of tranquility that you were unaware you required. Additionally, it alters you somewhat if you’re receptive to it.
Perhaps the best thing about traveling to Bali, or truly anywhere, is not just the destination, but also the person you meet there. You go more slowly. You begin to notice minor details once more. On the road, a child is grinning at you. A canine dozing in a temple. The wind carrying the scent of cloves. The way your shoulders fall after bearing stress for days that you weren’t even aware of. Bali simply knows how to do it better than other places. Travel has a way of giving back to you.
And you’ll notice something amusing when it’s time to go. You won’t feel burdened, but you won’t want to say goodbye. The island seems to assure you that it will be waiting for you if you ever wish to return. And they do most of the time.
What is the ideal destination, then? It truly depends on you. However, Bali might be the solution for you if you’re looking for a place with just the right amount of enchantment, beauty, heart, kindness, and knowledge. It’s more than just a place to go. It’s an emotion. One that lingers long after your journey is over.
It’s possible that the ideal places are those that reveal something new about you as well as something new about yourself.