In the westernmost end of the Lesser Sunda Islands between Java to the west and Lombok to the east, lies one of the most evocative islands in the Indonesian archipelago, Bali.
Best known for its natural attractions, perfect climate, and relaxed atmosphere. Also referred to as the Land of the Gods, Bali has had its popularity fuelled by the film adapted from Elizabeth Gilbert’s memoir Eat, Pray, Love, drawing more visitors and with an increased number of digital nomads settling for long enough to call the island home.
Whichever way you look at it, though, Bali’s essence lies in the island’s generous Balinese people. In the intoxicating fragrance of incense and ripening fruit that hangs on the tropical air, the peanuts sizzle alongside busy streets and how traditional music plays above the sea of mopeds.
Despite the pockets of madness, the island is home to immense natural beauty and tranquillity, luring surfers to its legendary swells since the 1930s, with impressive scuba diving and beaches on which to languish. The island’s rich arts scene, incredible spa facilities, and affordable shopping also appeal.
Spirituality adds another dimension to the island’s allure and seeing the sacred Hindu temples and partaking in traditional ceremonies has moved many to stray even further off the beaten track and stay. The Pura Luhur Batukau hillside temple — one of an estimated 1,000 temples in Bali — and the revered Gunung Agung mountain, draw contemplators and worshippers.
Bali enchants with its dramatic dances and colourful ceremonies, its arts and crafts, luxurious beach resorts, and exciting nightlife. It’s also the kind of place that warrants a sabbatical journey, or at least a stay long enough to write that much-talked-about novel.
Summiting Mount Batur
Each morning sees the adventurous trek two hours to the 1,700-m summit of volcanic Mount Batur in the predawn darkness, using headlamps and guided by the light of the moon, arriving in time to watch the sunrise over the mist-shrouded mountains, the enormous caldera, and beautiful Lake Batur, the island’s main source of irrigation water. It is a rewarding and magical way to start the day, a pilgrimage to pay respect to Hinduism’s most sacred mountain in Bali.
Bali is more than a place. It is a mood, it’s magical. It’s a tropical state of mind ― Unknown
Choosing a romantic getaway or honeymoon destination is never an easy decision to make as we are spoilt for choice as we look to options. Yet Bali, where volcanic mountain ranges meet tropical rainforests and ancient temples to create a magical environment, has become renowned for its romantic and relaxing moods and the memories created there. So, is Bali the most romantic place on earth? Looking at the following list, it just might be. Read more at: Is Bali The Most Romantic Place on Earth?
** This post forms part of my 100x Magical Places series which offers an introduction to my favourite destinations.
** Read my other Bali articles.
** Pics sourced on Pixabay and Pexels
