A Journey Remembered Bali

Yes, I've finally managed to go to Bali. I’ve been wanting to go there for a very long time. Bali is the most famous island of Indonesia, a country in Southeast Asia. I say this because it’s often the case that the island’s name is even more well-known than the country itself.

Bali is a very large island. In the research I did before going, I saw that there are so many places to visit on the island. From Ubud to Uluwatu, and from Canggu to Seminyak, there are countless areas to explore. With that in mind, I decided to stay on the island for a week. And I can say that even that amount of time wasn’t enough to fully explore the island. Plan your trip accordingly.

First, I have to say this: If you’re traveling to any Asian country, you’re bound to encounter a culture that’s more distinct, exotic, and unique compared to Europe. From the climate to the architecture, and from the culinary traditions to the natural beauty, everything here is a bit different. Bali is a wonderful example of this.

One of the most striking features of this region is that it is one of the hottest and most humid places in the world. You start to feel this the moment you arrive in Bali. Life in Bali also flows at an extremely slow, calm, and stress-free pace. In this regard, Bali reminded me of the “slow movement” trend. After all, the island—especially the Ubud region—is filled with yoga centers. But you feel this slowness no matter where you go on the island: in the birds’ chirping, the breeze, and the way people behave…

When I think of Bali, the first things that come to mind are rows of trees, rice fields stretching as far as the eye can see, and roaring waterfalls. Everything is lush and green. The famous composer Gustav Mahler used to go to a forest near his home with his father when he was a child. His father realized he had forgotten something and went back home. It wasn’t until late in the afternoon that he remembered, amid the commotion at home, that he had left young Gustav in the forest. When he returned to the forest, he found young Gustav waiting exactly where he had left him, spellbound by the beauty of nature. I think this story applies to Bali as well.

Rain is Bali’s hallmark. This rain, which you’ll encounter as you explore the area and often falls in heavy downpours, may slightly dampen your comfort, but it’s also what gives life to all the beauty I mentioned earlier…

Cooling off at the waterfalls I mentioned earlier—which are scattered all over Bali—watching people working in the rice fields, and riding the motorcycle or bicycle you’ve rented along tree-lined roads is actually a form of yoga and meditation in itself.

One of the most iconic events that comes to mind when you think of Bali is undoubtedly the Kecak Dance. The origins of this dance trace back to Hindu mythology. Every evening, tourists pack the Uluwatu Temple to watch this local dance, which consists of five stages and lasts about an hour. Although over time this performance has come to be seen as somewhat of a tourist attraction, it remains incredibly captivating. No music is used during the dance, and about seventy people perform this ritual live and naturally right before your eyes. You must go and see it.

Even someone like me—who’s picky about food and avoids trying new things unless absolutely necessary—will be pleased with the Indonesian cuisine in Bali. Since the dishes are generally spicy, it’s a good idea for those with sensitive palates to mention this in advance. Indonesian cuisine consists of a menu heavy on rice, vegetables, chicken, and fish. However, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste.

Since Bali is an island, there aren’t as many museums or historical sites as you might find in Europe. The sea is also a bit too rough for those seeking a classic beach vacation with sun and sand. However, Bali awaits all visitors, ready to enchant them with its ancient temples—notably Tanah Lot and Uluwatu—its art markets brimming with unique items, and its natural beauty. If your travels take you to Asia, don’t forget to add Bali to your itinerary. You definitely won’t regret it.