The Journal

We had a refreshing getaway to the picturesque island of Bali, Indonesia in May 2017. The island lies east of Java and is approximately 8 degrees south of the equator. In March 2017, TripAdvisor named Bali as the world’s top destination in its Traveler’s Choice award.

Quick facts: Strategically located in international trade lanes. Country: Indonesia; Capital: Denpasar; Currency: Indonesian rupiah (IDR); Coordinates: 8°20′06″S 115°05′17″E

Stay and cuisine: Our stay was comfortable at the Champlung Mas Hotel And Spa Legian located in the premiere of Kuta – Legian within 10 minute walking distance to Kuta beach, Legian art market and restaurants.

The best place for dinner is the tranquil Jimbaran bay with a terrific view of sunset, scrumptious sea food and nice area to walk around. Food can be overpriced!

Local customs and traditions:

Fragrant frangipani and incense adorn the streets, vehicles and houses in Bali. We bought some harum sari (fragrant incense) from the Toko Dupa incense shop.

Places of interest, history and culture:

Tanah Lot:

Means ‘land in the sea’. The offshore shrine is situated amidst constantly crashing waves and is an iconic feature. It is located in the Beraban village of the Tabanan regency, about 30 km away from Denpasar and 20 km northwest of Kuta.

Pura Ulun Danu Beratan:

This beautiful water temple is located on the shores of Lake Bratan, known as the ‘lake of holy mountain’ in Bedugul, central Bali. Bedugul area is a cool upland with cold tropical climate at an elevation of 1200 m above sea level.

Mount Batur and lake:

Gunung Batur is an active volcano located northwest of Mount Agung in the Kintamani district of Bali. Though we missed the well known sunrise, the magnificent volcano and the crystal clear view of the lake Batur were truly breathtaking.

Temples:

Temples in Bali offer a sense of calm to the visitors. They feature magnificent architecture and scenic beauty.

Bali performances and Kecak dance shows:

Balinese dance and drama are presented live on stage by performers in vivid costumes. ‘Kecak’ is the legendary singing and dancing ritual run in open amphitheater.

Mushroom Beach, Nusa Lembongan:

Bali Zoo and elephant expedition:

Pura Luhur Uluwatu:

Strawberry stop:

Located near the Beratan temple, this place serves delicious strawberry juice and pancakes. The pure juice is fresh from the farm. The backyard has a lovely garden with greenhouses of strawberry, vegetables and flowers.

My adventures:

Cycling amidst the lush green paddy fields of Bali