If you get a chance to visit Bali Indonesia you’re sure to enjoy the nightlife, the beaches and shopping, as well as a local Balinese culture that is very much still alive.
Bali is one of those places with a foot in the modern world and one foot still firmly planted in the traditions and customs by which people have lived for centuries.
After a few sun drenched days on the beach, I’d recommend taking a day trip up to the quiet north coast of Bali, to places like the beach at Lovina and the Bali National Park.
Finding a driver to take you up for the day won’t be a problem-he’ll probably find you first-but be sure to bargain hard over the price. Lovina is a step back in time with a noticeably slower pace and prices are a fraction of what you would pay in the busy southern part of the island.
There are several cheap Lovina hotels along the beach road that sit right on the water’s edge.
Bali National Park boasts walking trails, dozens of species of birds, and some of the best snorkeling and diving on the entire island. It’s located just an hour or so from Lovina so you can easily make a half-day trip out of it.
If you do go diving be sure and keep a lookout for the dolphins that are quite plentiful along this coast. The Bali Sea is noticeably calmer than the rough Indian Ocean that you’ll find in southern part of Bali, and unless you are a surfer you will appreciate this fact.
Bali’s living culture makes it a tourist destination that can be about a lot more than just the beach and nightlife. Everywhere you go you will see temples and people engaged in their morning prayers.
As a visitor you’ll appreciate that 21st-century development has not overrun local customs. Bali should definitely be on your list of places to enjoy a holiday.
For this reason, Bali is one of the best places in Asia to pay a visit of even one week.
photo credit: Supagroova