Padang Padang | Oindrila Goes Footloose

Most of my pals who have travelled to Bali tell me it is a trip worth making. One of my friends from Australia recently vacationed there and has requested me to run her guest post on my blog. I am yet to visit this South East Asian marvel, but you can read Lena’s account below. Hope her article fuels your wanderlust to book your next holiday in this place! 🙂

Tanah Lot (Courtesy: Thomas Depenbusch)

“One of Indonesia’s most beautiful islands, Bali has seen something of a boom in popularity in recent times. According to 1Cover, the number of Australians visitors to Bali has increased by 546% since 2006! And it is not difficult to see why. Bali has it all – from history and culture to appetizing food and eye-catching views. These are only but a few delights. Here are five reasons why you need to go to Bali:-

1. For The Culture

Rice paddies in Tegalalang (Courtesy: Jamie Fenn)

One of the best things about travel is learning how people from around the world live, and seeing how different that is from your own life. Bali is no exception when it comes to providing an unusual experience. Pay a visit to the rice paddies in Tegalalang as the sun rises. Then head to the village to spend some time with the local families and explore the surroundings.

2. For The Food

Quinoa Gado Gado (Courtesy: Like the Grand Canyon)

Bali’s food scene is not to be missed! There is something for everyone, no matter what your dietary preference. With the abundance of fresh produce, each dish is guaranteed to be packed with flavour.

Five dishes to try in Bali:-

Babi guling — suckling pig
Local fish (fresh catch)
Gado-gado — vegetable salad in peanut sauce
Mie goreng — fried noodles served with vegetables (you can also add chicken, shrimp or pork)
Pisang goreng — fried bananas served with honey and coconut

3. For The History

An oasis of green (Courtesy: Artem Bali)

There’s plenty of fascinating history to explore in Bali. Ubud Palace is an excellent example of Balinese architecture, plus traditional dances are held there regularly. (They’re a must-see if you love the arts!) Also, don’t forget the temples. It is difficult to choose which ones to see, but it’s well worth ticking Besakih off the list. Known as the Mother Temple, it’s the oldest one on the island and is made up of 23 smaller temples. Dedicate a day to looking around and finding ancient secrets.

4. For The Outdoor Activities

Surfer at Uluwatu in Bali (Courtesy: Simon Sees)

Bali is best known for being a haven for surf enthusiasts. Uluwatu, Keramas and Padang Padang are the best surfing spots to ride some waves. Visitors of all experience levels will find an area to suit them. While, beginners can get started at one of the local surf schools, the more experienced surfers are spoilt for choice when it comes to new challenges.

That said, there’s more to the island than catching waves. Whitewater rafting, scuba diving, kite surfing and hiking are just some of the activities you can enjoy if you want to do more than sit on the beach all day. You can make your holiday as laidback or as adventurous as you wish.

5. For The Sunsets

Four Seasons Resort Jimbaran Bay (Courtesy: Sackerman519)

Chances are, you’ll see a stunning sunset no matter where you are on the island, but Jimbaran Bay is a remarkably good location. Bring your camera, find a spot to relax in,and snap some postcard-worthy pictures to remember your trip by.”