Photo: Contiki
If you’re wondering why you should visit Bali, there must be a reason. Maybe you’ve seen the hype around social media and have decided that it’s overrated. Maybe you’ve just never considered Bali as a travel destination before. But we’re here to tell you that if heaven on earth exists, it’s surely in Bali and you’d be remiss to skip this holiday!
Our mission today is to convince you – we’re the biggest Bali cheerleaders out there, and we’re going to show you 10 fantastic reasons you have to visit Bali at least once in your life. And if you’re still not convinced by the end then… I don’t know, maybe you don’t deserve Bali after all (kidding x).
1. World class snorkelling and diving
Like a lot of South East Asia, Bali is a nature lover’s paradise, especially if that love is specifically geared towards the sea. With clear waters and some colourful and vibrant marine life swimming under the surface, the diving opportunities are endless – and a must-do.
Whether you want to pick up a new skill or you’re a seasoned under-water-explorer, there are companies offering these experiences all over the place.
Image source:Contiki
2. Great nightlife
If you like to have a good time and spend your nights dancing with friends and a drink in your hand, Bali’s nightlife has got you covered. The nightlife here is incredible. Think cold Bintangs on the beach for sunset, live music, or DJs performing at rooftop clubs. Seminyak and Canggu will deliver all the good vibes, ranging from electronic and neon club nights to beach bars where you can party in the sand. If you don’t want to go all out, there are chill spots as well like lowkey bars and plenty of restaurants and chill social spots.
3. Temples galore
So rich in cultural heritage (more on that in a moment), one of the stand-out attractions in Bali is the handful of more than gorgeous temples you can visit. Bali temples are truly something else – some are set in the heart of thick emerald jungles, others on crystal clear waters. These are places of worship and deep intricate history where you can not only be awed, but also learn something new. Make sure you wear the appropriate templewear (see our Bali packing guide) and you’re good to go.
Image source:Contiki
4. Drop dead gorgeous views
If you didn’t already know this (and I mean, how could you not already know this?) Bali is absolutely stunning. And I mean STUNNING! It’s not just the magical temples and the stretches of pristine beaches. It’s also the jutting cliffs and majestic rocks rising from the sea. It’s the infinitely green rice paddies which drape over mountainsides, and the countless powerful waterfalls.
When you visit Bali, make sure to bring an empty camera roll with you because you’re going to need all the space you can get! Your Insta followers won’t know what’s going to hit them.
5. Incredible food
When you’re all tired out from chasing waterfalls and swimming in the glassy sea and just generally having the best time ever, you’ll need to fuel up, and Bali food will definitely hit the spot. Made up of Asian favourites like rice, grilled meats, fragrant sauces and fresh AF fruits and vegetables – your belly’s sure to be very happy.
Not only is Balinese food amazing, it’s also cheap as chips! So you can devour the flavourful spiced and coconut-y foods to your heart’s content.
Image source:Shibupavizha George / unsplash
6. Beaches for daaaaays
Of course, Bali is known for its beaches. Duh. It’s sort of the reason most people visit Bali and honestly it’s a great one. If the only reason you head there is to dig your toes into hot white sand and bake under the tropical sun, that’s totally understandable.
But seriously, Bali beaches are out of this world, and each one offers something unique! Marine life, beach bars and clubs, snorkelling, kayaking, hidden turquoise coves and caves, blinding sun and glittering waves. Ugh, I wish I was tanning on a Bali beach right now…
7. Rich culture
Beyond just temples, Bali, and Indonesia, is a country filled with wonderfully rich culture. With a deep merchant history, culture in Bali is influenced by China, India, and the Netherlands. The arts in Bali are something very special, especially the traditional dances and costumes that go along with it. If you can check out the Monkey dance at sunset in Uluwatu, do it!
Hinduism is the major religion in Bali as well, which influences much of this destination’s temples and festivities.
Image source:Niklas Weiss / unsplash
8. Friendly locals
Not only is Bali beautiful, but the people are too. The locals are very warm and friendly and welcoming, and if you learn a few phrases like ‘apa kabar’ (how are you) and ‘selamat pagi’ (good morning) you’re all going to get along just fine! So much of the wonder of travel comes from meeting new people, so don’t be shy, and get to know the locals.
9. Adventure activities
Want to get your adrenaline spiking? Then Bali is also filled with so many exhilarating adventure activities! We’ve already touched on the snorkelling and diving opportunities, but you can also enjoy plenty of hikes and bike rides, hit the waves and go surfing, or really shake things up with some white water rafting. Then, when you’re done, hit up the beach or the spa to work all that stress out.
Image source:Contiki
10. Wellness opportunities
On the opposite side of the above, another great reason to visit Bali is to take advantage of the luxurious wellness treatments you can get for quite an affordable price. If you want to totally chill and relax and reset, enjoy plenty of wellness and spa treatments. Yoga retreats are also quite common in Bali, so if you want to get zen and clear your hectic mind, this paradise is the place to go.
