Bali, Indonesia
Bali sounds so exotic and it is. The island of Indonesia is a mere 8,500 miles from the western coast of the United States. It is only a hop and jump by plane, about 20 hours! The question is what to see in Bali. The surroundings are exotic, the sands are white and the water is so clear you can “see forever”. Just the thing for a weary traveler looking for relaxation. It is easy to find the answer to that question.
More and more people have chanced upon Bali. It is a tropical favorite that tourists love to flock to. There are around 10,000 temples scattered throughout the region. In March 2017, TripAdvisor named it the world’s top destination.
Bali defines the history, rich culture, tranquility, and beauty of Indonesia. It beckons and enthralls all. If you are lucky enough to visit Bali, you will understand why it is a top destination.
Bali is renowned for its annual Bali International Film Festival. But do not stop with that. There are famous beaches as well as the Coral Triangle. The Triangle has the highest biodiversity of Marine species in the world. The World Wide Fund for Nature considers the region to be a top priority for marine conservation.
If when you think of Bali you only think of the great beaches that it has to offer, you are missing out on many more sights and sounds. Here are a few that are not to be missed.
Uluwatu Temple
Resting on a colossal limestone cliff situated along the Bukit Peninsula and overlooking the Indian Ocean, this majestic temple exudes grandeur. Many of the Temples are located in unusual and striking places on the Island. This Temple overlooks the Indian Ocean. It is a magnificent view.
The architecture of the Island, the ancient sculptures, and the spectacular cliff-top setting makes this an important place to visit. The Island is home to the Sangeh Monkey Forest. The monkeys are believed to guard the temple against bad influences. However, in reality, you need to take care that they do not swipe your personal items.
Located at the base of the cliff, Uluwatu Beach is renowned for surfing. It is not for the timid. Only the most experienced surfers feel at home in the waters of this beach. If you decide to give surfing a try, be aware that this is not the beach for a novice.
Proper attire is a must at the Temples in Bali. At the Uluwatu Temple, visitors must wear a sarong and a sash, as well as appropriate dress considered common for temple visits. But not to worry, vendors at the entrance of the Uluwatu Temples sell those items to those who came unprepared.
Pura Ulun Danu Batan
Also widely known as Bali’s Temple by the Lake, this temple perches on the edge of the lovely Lake Bratan. This temple was built in 1633 to worship and honor Dewi Danu, the water goddess who takes care of locals’ water supply. The Water Goddess received offerings in the Temple. She protected the water in the Islands, including its lakes and rivers. Lake Bratan is the main source of irrigation in central Bali and thus of the utmost importance to the lives of its inhabitants.
Ubud
Ubad is said to offer the best of the best of Bali in terms of nature, temples, rolling rice fields, museums, man-made gardens, and culture. One would not think that this serene place would offer so much. On the island, you can find yoga and meditation, cooking classes, whitewater rafting, and beautiful nature spas and massages. The rice patties are a sight to behold. It is amazing how the population made their environment work for them.
Ubud does not back down from bringing the best in theater and the arts either. Stroll down the Ubud Art Market adjacent to the Puri Saren Royal Ubud Palace and enjoy yourself on a lavish shopping spree. In the market, you will find the finest handcrafted woven bags, hats, baskets, silk scarves, and shirts from the artisans in Bali.
Bali is a destination that is begging you to visit. You will be enthralled after just one trip. It has so much to offer to all visitors. Its magnificent temples highlight its rich history. If you prefer a more serene vacation, just enjoy its beautiful beaches. You can do as much or as little as you want.
When you have had your fill of Bali, it is time to start thinking of visiting Thailand. The country is full of temples and historical structures. Not to mention the food and the people.
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