Bali - exploring the Island of the Gods, between nature and spirituality
Yep, the next country we will tell you about is perhaps a little obvious and very touristy. Many avoid it because it is too crowded and because it is said to have lost its authentic charm due to strong Westernization. In our opinion, there is a more authentic way to experience Bali, without fueling that transformation that is driving away solo travelers in search of authenticity🌴.
We will tell you about our experience and how we managed to fall unconditionally in love with this country, which we continue to dream about every day. The kindness and smiles of the Balinese, the tropical fruit, our first nasi goreng, geckos as roommates, the sound of cicadas and the powerful energy of the temples🦎🛕🌺. All this and much more, if experienced with the right respect and consideration, will be what you will take with you from a trip to the famous island of the gods.
All the little things, apparently insignificant, will make you smile and look back at your trip with joy. You will be grateful to yourself for having lived with respect an island that has given so much to tourism and that deserves to be treated with the same care, to be able to continue to enjoy the privilege of being able to visit it again.
Whether you are leaving from Italy or any other country outside Asia, Bali will take your breath away from the very first moment. As soon as you leave the airport, you will feel a thick and hot humidity, the kind that sticks to your skin. We were arriving from New Zealand, where autumn was just starting. Imagine the thermal shock… and Giorgio’s face, who hates the heat! 😅
Getting to Bali is simple: after a short queue for the visa, you will be outside of the airport in a few minutes. To avoid stress, we recommend booking a shuttle in advance through your hotel or homestay, so you do not have to look for transport after a long journey.
We spent a month exploring the island, but if you have less time, it is important to choose the perfect itinerary. Here is an overview of the places we visited, hoping it will help you find the perfect one for you! 🌿☀️
Uluwatu: Just 40 minutes away from the airport, Uluwatu is a great first stop. With its authentic look, it has managed to preserve its identity, without being too influenced by Western culture. Spectacular beaches and breathtaking temples await you here! 🌊
Kuta: Being the closest city to the airport, Kuta is perfect as a final stop, especially if you have an early morning flight. However, it was the destination that impressed us the least, very touristy and with few points of interest. Still, it's ideal for surf lessons and breathtaking sunsets! 🏄♂️🌅
Canggu: If you love nightlife and trendy spots, Canggu is the place to be. It’s the most Westernized area of Bali, with a lively and dynamic atmosphere. We used it as a base to explore markets and temples, but it didn’t completely win us over. 🌆✨
Ubud: Although touristy and somewhat Westernized, Ubud still hides authentic corners where you can truly experience the Balinese atmosphere. If you know where to go, it can offer unique experiences. It was our favorite destination! 🌿💛
Our journey began in Uluwatu, with a homestay near Jimbaran. We reached our accommodation in 45 minutes with a private shuttle (around €20) and chose a budget stay for about €15 per night, including breakfast. Bali offers a wide range of accommodations, but we always prefer staying with local families to better experience the authenticity of the place.
Balinese people are generally very smiley and friendly, making it easy to have a chat with them. But the first “friends” you’ll meet will be the geckos in your room! 🦎 They’re harmless and extremely useful for keeping mosquitoes away, so learn to live with them… they’ll be your best allies! 😄
The most practical way to explore the island is by renting a scooter, which is available everywhere for just a few euros per day. If you’re unsure where to find one, ask your host, they’ll probably arrange one for you. Always try to negotiate the price, and if you're good at it, you will get a great deal!
"When you get a scooter with just over 450,000 km on it!!"
Rental providers will rarely ask for documents, but it's still essential to have an international driving license to avoid fines. And remember, always wear a helmet, even if many locals don’t! 🪖🚦
Driving for the first time in Asia is an unforgettable experience: the traffic is chaotic, and intersections are packed, but after a few days, you’ll get used to it… and that’s when the fun begins! 😄🛵