I got to experience the beauty of Bali during and following a mission trip for a school build called The True Love Project. The mission was a success and I fell in love with Bali, the people, the culture and the food. I cannot wait to go back. I listed my recommendations for the most amazing experiences, places to stay, and how to respect and connect with their culture when you get to go to Bali.  

Bali is an Indonesian island located in the westernmost end of the Lesser Sunda Islands, . Known as the “Island of the Gods,” Bali is famous for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. Balinese culture is imbued with spirituality. Bali is a place where you go to slow down, to re-learn the simple principles of happiness, and to connect with nature, with yourself and with other people. 

One of the most striking things about Bali is its landscape. From the volcanic mountains to the stunning beaches and rice terraces. OMG the rice terraces are stunning.  Bali is a place of unparalleled beauty. The island is home to a diverse range of ecosystems, including rainforests, coral reefs, mangrove swamps, which provide habitats for a wide variety of plant and animal species.

But Bali’s beauty isn’t just in its natural landscape. The island is also home to a vibrant and unique culture that’s deeply rooted in Hindu traditions. Temples and shrines can be found throughout the island, with their intricate carvings and colorful offerings adding to the island’s charm and mystique. It is respectful for woman to wear Batiks, which are sarong like floor length skirts when in places of worship.  We got to experience how to wrap batiks and did some on site fabric shopping at Gusti Koko Homestay” giving us the perfect dress attire for all our temple visits.  The temples are places of worship and should be respected. There is something that touches your soul when you visit them. 

Balinese dance and music are also an important part of the island’s culture, with performances that are both mesmerizing and captivating. The Frangipani flower is seen throughout Bali, whether or not you’re just popping one in your hair or just enjoying in a centerpiece the smell is divine. I think it is a favorite of the island.  I loved it so much I got incense and massage oils to bring back to New York, to remind me of this lush, beautiful island.  Speaking of massage, the availability of massages from simple to luxurious spas will fulfill all your wants to refresh, and unwind. I enjoyed several, including room service daily evening massage at Gusti Koko Home stay, after a day of building this was heavenly!

The people of Bali are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming nature. Balinese culture and people have much to teach us. If you let it, this small island will dive deep into your soul, and this experience in Bali just might make you rethink your priorities and how you live your life. Each morning a tradition of the Balinese is to express their devotion to the gods to maintain balance and harmony and to ask for protection and blessings making three offerings. The offerings are usually small, weaved baskets, holding flowers, rice, incense and other small items maybe even candy. They are not to be touched and are replaced the following day. These offerings are throughout the city of Ubed and are very special. The traditions of the Balinese people and their faith ,truly touch my soul.

Visitors to the island are often greeted with smiles and friendly faces, making them feel right at home. They are genuinely kind, warm and inviting.    The local cuisine is also a highlight, with an abundance of fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and aromatic spices that tantalize the taste buds. I absolutely loved the food, healthy, yummy and fun to make.  I go to experience a fun cooking class at “Gusti Koko Homestay” as part of my stay in this village.

Bali’s beaches are among the most beautiful in the world, with warm crystal-clear waters and pristine sands that stretch for miles. Whether you’re looking to surf, sunbathe, or simply take a leisurely stroll, Bali’s beaches are the perfect place to relax and unwind. I need to return to surf.

For the shopper, the handmade items, wood carvings, silver jewelry, the fabrics and prints of the batiks (which by the way are fabulous beach wraps) or maybe even a travel skirt for the long journeys, are inexpensive. It is a shopper’s paradise.  I got some great gifts for friends but I must say ,I did bring home some wonderful for me gifts,  Don’t you love when some one asks where did you get that? and you respond Bali!  Come on you do, LOL  

In conclusion, Bali is a truly magical destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality. It’s no wonder that so many people fall in love with this stunning island and return time and time again. Whether you’re looking to explore the island’s natural wonders, immerse yourself in its vibrant culture, or simply relax on its beautiful beaches, Bali is a destination that’s sure to leave you feeling inspired and rejuvenated.

1. Rimba by Ayana, a beautiful hotel with pools, spa and breathtaking views of the ocean.

2. Gusti KOKOs Homestay : A village like experience with the locals, from the food to the expertise of Koko to make your stay one of safety, and adventure. He is the best tour guide, his love and passion shows. He is committed to ensuring everything is perfect. This is real Bali life. He knows all the secret spots, 

3. Wayan Café: eat love pray famous

4. Ritz Carlton Spa / lunch / rice fields / pool / along the river .  you can just for lunch 

5. White water rafting, wood carving, silver shops, waterfalls, Temples ( KOKO)

6.Tejaprana resort and Spa: beautiful infinity pools each room, breath taking views, spa, Balinese dancing

7. Palm Gove Villas, beautiful villas, in a walking town, to beach, street spas for inexpensive massages, pedicures, great restaurants, and fabulous music, escape for a boat ride for snorkeling

8. Poppies place in busy area Kuta Bali, lots of shopping and walking to surf city beaching, the place to surf, busy active 

Just a couple of places that each were unique, whether it was an outside shower, a jaw dropping infinity pool, an over the top spa, or real life in a village setting,  each place holds it very own special memory.