West Bali: Menjangan, Bull Races and the Rice Bowl of Bali
The West of Bali is no less charming than the more famous, vibrant parts of the island that are well advertised. What makes this part of the island unforgettable? First of all, your quest to the west begins with a vast rolling paddy terrace that starts from the higher ground down to the beach where the
North Bali: Hotsprings, Lovina and Buddhist Enclaves
North Bali’s mainstay are its rolling green hills and the authentic and traditional Balinese villages dotted across the region. Gaze upon the hills stippled with flowers and the picturesque rice fields while the local village children greet you with genuine smiles and warmth. I find it rather odd to learn that a place as beautiful
The Circle of Life
Just a generation ago Bali was a rural farming community where the seasons dictated life, where the connection with nature – and God – was direct. People lived simple lives, understood their community, their religion, their role, and were relaxed and happy. Then came the opportunity to make money, to jump on the bandwagon and
Getting Around Bali: Rules, Tricks and Tips
Being a relatively small island, it’s easy to get around Bali. But before you hit the road and ex-plore the countryside, we thought we’d share a few basic dos and don’ts that we think will help you to better understand the Island of the Gods and how things roll here. 1. Menstruating women, and women
Taman Ujung Water Palace and the Enchantment of East Bali
The spectacular coastal roads of eastern Bali is an adventure in its own right, with green hills on one side and stunning cliffs and raw ocean views on the other. Many of the villages don’t really receive a large number of visitors, thus ideal for those who wish to avoid tourist crowds. Karangasem in East
Rural Gianyar: Art, Adventure and Local Life
Away from the glitz of Ubud, rural Gianyar is characterised by its terraced rice fields, dense forests, and dramatic, rolling landscapes. The vastness and beauty can be quite startling to visitors. Any visitors approaching the area will appreciate it, and it is worth stopping just to absorb the beauty of it all. As the second
Discoveries in Kintamani: Beyond Batur
Who would’ve thought that there would be so much more than a lake and volcano of Batur on the hilly region of Kintamani. Here, in addition to observing some of the most astonishing views on the island, vistas that will likely leave you breathless, you can also learn about the island’s religious history and multiculturalism.
One Fun Day at Finns Bali: From Bouncing to Bowling
It is without a doubt that this island offers numerous activities to keep children engaged. Ranging from nature visits to water-based fun, video gaming halls to sporting activities, the list is endless, and all dedicated to allowing parents a little breathing space while at the same time giving them a chance to bond with their
Bali On Foot: A Walker’s Wonderland
“Walking is a man’s best medicine”. It is hard to live by that quote with all the advanced transportation options available these days. The possible fact that walking solves many of your health problems, even if presented with shreds of scientific evidence, doesn’t seem enough to persuade us to manage one brisk 10-minute walk a
Pleasant Surprises Along the Sanur Bypass
The Sanur Bypass is indeed one of the busiest roads on the island, being a convenient access to connect the island’s south and the popular Ubud along with other attractions in Greater Gianyar. But many might think that there is not much to see along the road. And so we recently took a trip down
The Bitter Lessons Experience Teaches Us
The recent (gentle) eruptions of Mount Agung have taught Bali quite a few lessons, which I hope everyone has learned. The first is so obvious, and so often repeated: ‘don’t put all your eggs in one basket’. Bali is very, very dependent on tourism, and when the tourists stopped coming, there was universal pain around
Before Tying the Knot: The Perfect Bali Hens Party
Especially for the ladies, and in addition to providing quality time together with the closest girls, a hens party has become a rite of passage and is as central to getting married as the tiered cake and that pretty wedding gown. Here in Bali, you can easily plan your luxurious ladies day out and book
Exploring Canggu: Surf, Sunsets and Street Art
Take a tour through Bali’s most happening area, Canggu, in this photo and travel essay with writer Joannes Rhino and photographers George Speirs and Namhar Hernanto, exploring the surf, sunsets and street art of the area. If you are looking for a destination with new-age Bohemian vibes, Canggu has become popular for holidaymakers and local residents.