Bali

This past year, Bali—often referred to as the Island of the Gods—has unexpectedly become my second home.

Since childhood, I've been fortunate enough to visit this stunning island. Being born here has allowed me to speak fluent Bahasa Indonesia, giving me deeper insights into the cultural richness of Bali that might be missed by others. Now, I hope to share this knowledge and help bridge the cultural divide. Keep reading to learn more!

Bali hardly needs an introduction. Since tourism began to boom in the 1980s, the island has become a globally renowned destination. While it has faced challenges—such as drug-related issues and the tragic terrorist attacks in the mid-2000s—the tourism surge in the 2010s, partly thanks to the book and movie *Eat Pray Love*, has brought Bali back into the spotlight, celebrated for its natural beauty and reputation as a hub for health and spiritual healing.

Though Bali is part of Indonesia, a predominantly Muslim country where pork is rarely consumed, Bali stands out with its unique culture. Around 83% of Bali’s population practices Hinduism, and one of the island's iconic dishes, *babi guling* (spit-roasted pork), is a favorite, often served with mixed rice (*nasi campur*).

Balinese Hinduism is distinct from the Hinduism practiced elsewhere. It blends ancient Balinese traditions with Hindu principles that originated in India. This mix gives Bali its unique charm, attracting visitors from all over the world.

Bali is a fantastic destination year-round. The rainy season, from mid-December to March, brings occasional showers, but the rain usually lasts only a few hours, leaving the air fresh and cooler afterward.

Mount Agung, Bali’s highest volcano, has had some recent eruptions, causing minor travel disruptions. However, the volcano is far from most tourist areas, and the impact has been minimal. Nearby earthquakes in Lombok have also had little effect on Bali.

Bali celebrates many Hindu festivals, most of which won’t interfere with travel plans. However, one exception is Nyepi, which I’ll explain in more detail below. Understanding these holidays can enrich your appreciation of Balinese culture. The island's deep connection to Hinduism is part of what makes Bali such a special place.

Bali follows two calendars: the Saka, based on lunar cycles, and the Pakuwon, which has 210 days. Several important festivals often fall around the second week of the Gregorian calendar. Here are two of the most significant holidays:

This holiday will impact your travel if you happen to be in Bali during Nyepi, which marks the Balinese New Year according to the Saka calendar. On Nyepi, the island shuts down entirely for 24 hours, from 6 AM to 6 AM the following day. The streets are empty, and no one is allowed to leave their homes, work, or engage in entertainment. Balinese believe that remaining silent tricks evil spirits into thinking the island is deserted, sparing them for the coming year.

During one of my trips to Bali, I had the privilege of experiencing Galungan and Kuningan. Galungan celebrates the victory of dharma (good) over adharma (evil), while Kuningan follows 10 days later, marking the spirits’ return to their homes. Penjor, tall bamboo poles decorated with offerings, line the streets during Galungan, making it a particularly vibrant time to be on the island.

For first-time visitors, I recommend staying in Canggu, Ubud, or Seminyak. However, depending on your preferences, other areas might be worth considering. Below are some top accommodation options.

These luxury resorts offer the best in hospitality and elegance, often favored by honeymooners:

• Mulia Resort, Nusa Dua
• Anantara Seminyak Resort
• W Bali – Alila Seminyak
• Anantara Uluwatu Resort
• Alila Villas Uluwatu
• Goya Boutique Resort, Ubud (near Bali’s Hanging Gardens)

If you're traveling with friends or family, Bali offers many private villa options. Booking.com and Airbnb are great platforms to find everything from standard hotels to luxurious villas.

Here are some villas I've personally stayed in:

Secret River Villa, Canggu – A spacious five-bedroom villa perfect for larger groups. The villa comes with daily housekeeping and staff to help with shopping and light chores.

Mule Sayana Villa, Ubud – This private one-bedroom villa featured a large bathroom, private pool, and beautiful views of surrounding rice fields. While a bit remote (about a 15-20 minute motorcycle ride to Ubud), it’s ideal for a peaceful retreat.

Bali is diverse and offers something for every traveler. For first-time visitors, I recommend Seminyak, Canggu, and Ubud. These areas have well-established tourist infrastructures, a variety of dining options, and plenty of cultural activities.

Seminyak is known for its lively atmosphere, filled with restaurants, cafés, beach clubs, and nightlife. Everyone speaks English, making it an easy place to navigate for international visitors.

If you want a break from the beach, head to Ubud, Bali’s cultural and artistic heart. Known for its lush landscapes and laid-back vibe, Ubud offers a slower pace and more traditional activities than Seminyak, with a wide range of affordable accommodations.

Just north of Seminyak, Canggu is Bali’s trendy, laid-back neighborhood, often described as a bohemian surfer paradise. It’s a quieter alternative to Seminyak, with a growing reputation for its cool cafés, yoga retreats, and stylish beachside bars.