Bali, Indonesia
This country has been on my list for quite some time now. After seeing the movie Eat Pray Love last night I was reminded how much I want to visit this peaceful land. Although there are some terrorist fears...I believe these fears exist in too many countries these days to waste time fearing the unpredictable!
Some Must Sees & Dos
- Climbing Mt. Batur- a volcano near the village Toya Bungkah. The trek can take from 2-6 hours depending on the difficulty you wish to bring upon yourself. The view from the top is supposed to be brilliant and is especially worthwhile to reach by sunrise!
- Visit Besakih Temple ("Mother Temple")-one of the most famous temples in Bali. Once again, a gorgeous view from the top. Just beware of being hustled for money and possibly having to negotiate a price to get in!
- Take a bike tour around the island. Probably one of the best ways to see Bali! Take in the beautiful scenery of the rice paddies and learn about the traditional Balinese culture while your pedal down the quiet roads.
- For those who wish to be a little pampered after all this sight seeing (like me!), be sure to visit one of Bali's many spas. Balinese massages and other spa treatments are famous and very cheap compared to Western spa prices! In fact I know a girl who went to Bali and ONLY got massages (although that is not how I would choose to spend an entire vacation to a gorgeous country, it's a good example of how plentiful and affordable their spas are!).
- Spend time at Legian Beach- located in Kuta, this gorgeous beach is relaxing yet exciting as there are a lot of surfers out in the water. Surfing is a big deal in Bali, so even if you don't try, be sure to watch!
Staying in Bali
Hotels range in all sorta of prices from $30-$1,000/night depending on your budget. However, it is clear that some of the "budget" hotels still offer a very comfortable and luxurious beach side getaway. If a hotel isn't your style, there are some great hostels starting at about $10/night as well.
Cuisine to Try
Babi Guling- suckling pig that is spit-roasted. Apparently this can be a tricky dish to find in touristy areas..so I suggest making some friends with the locals!
Black Rice Pudding- hot natural black glutinous rice served with palm sugar sauce and coconut cream.
Culture Tip
Although Indonesia is primarily a Muslim country, Bali is Hindu-Buddhist. Look for the small offerings of flowers, rice and salt in bamboo leaf trays throughout the country in pretty much all businesses and homes.
To Learn More About Bali...
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