YOU Magazine | 33
Bali – a delight to visit
DESTINATION with Maxine
Last time I travelled to Bali was over 25 years ago so this year we decided to head back for a holiday. I was surprised and delighted at the change in Bali. Known as the “Land of the Gods” Bali is beautiful with an amazing ability to provide something for everyone. Bali back 25 years ago was a paradise for those that loved to surf but is now well recognised for not only its great surf and stunning beaches but an array of water sports, resorts, restaurants and nightlife. The regions of Bali are all unique and this makes it impossible to describe Bali simply. Each area has its own individual charm. If you move away from the main beaches, Bali’s interior consists of fertile grassy plains, terraced rice paddies, striking lakes and vast volcanic mountains. Bali offers great value, accommodation is well priced and plentiful including 5-star resorts, villas and 3-4-star great family options. Shopping is abundant, varied and cheap. Food is delicious and great options from the “local” $20 option to 5-star a-lacarte there is something for all budgets and taste buds. We decided Seminyak was the area for us and stayed beachside at Double-Six Luxury Hotel. Overlooking the famous Seminyak coastline with several restaurant
options within a 5 to 10 minute walk and the beach right there it was a great spot. We walked along the beach to Kuta (about 30 minutes) and back up through the streets. It was great to see the different areas of Kuta and Legion on our return walk to the Seminyak area.
The Grand Zero Memorial site in Kuta is a striking and very moving memorial to the 202 victims of the Paddy’s Pub (or Kari Club) 2002 event and is somewhere everyone should visit to show their respect to those who lost their lives. Hiring a driver is easy and a great way to have a look around. We headed up to Ubud for a day travelling through the rice paddies, the Monkey Forest – (Ubud’s most popular attraction) and a local coffee plantation where we tried local coffee and Tea. Bali is popular for art, gold, silver and carvings. The local carvers are very talented and you can purchase some great items at very reasonable prices. Market shopping is everywhere and if you enjoy bartering then you will love the shopping. Balinese cooking classes are popular or you can try white water rafting, escape the crowds and join a cycling tour and discover the diving environment with over 3000 species of fish to see. Whether it is your first or tenth time diving you are sure to see something amazing. Bali is a great place for a holiday and I won’t be leaving it 25 years to return for my next holiday. If you would like to know more about Bali or book your holiday to this great spot call into House of Travel – we love to create holidays. Advertising feature
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