Bali

Earlier this year I completed my "eat, love, pray" trilogy by visiting a place known as the "island of the gods" and "land of a thousand temples." This island is home to so much ancient culture and so many exotic temples. Indeed, at any turn you may encounter a beautiful palace, an iconic sight, a breathtaking natural backdrop, or a festival drenched in culture and tradition.  

Natural beauty will envelop you all around the island and can be witnessed up the mountains, on the coastlines or in the valleys. With a mix of natural greenery, aesthetic highlights, and hospitable locals, Bali is sure to be a one of a kind experience. 

I spent just three days in Bali and stayed at the Hilton Bali Resort located in Nusa Dua. The resort was perfectly situated on a private beach which was perfect for enjoying the evening sunsets. Below are some of my favorite sites I visited during my short, but full stay in Bali.

Just north of Ubud, I visited one of Bali's most iconic rice fields best known as the Tegallalang Rice Terraces. As you approach the fields, you get a stunning panoramic views of the terrace and the traditional Balinese irrigation system known as the subak. The Tegallalang Rice Terraces offer a perfect photo opp. with its dramatic views and deep green valleys. Once in the terraces, you will likely find locals working in the fields and some may even offer to take a photo for you or with you (be sure to tip). The locals may also have rice-field hats and/or a special rice carrying bamboo set-up that you can throw over your shoulder for a photo prop. If time permits, don't settle for just the view. Venture deep into the valley, find some place to sit and appreciate the ancient subak. Back at the top of the terrace there are small shops offering things like sarongs and handicrafts on both sides of the road. Allot 1-2hrs. to spend here.

While in the area, be sure to visit the Tegenungan Waterfall. The journey to the main attraction is packed with smaller natural springs, artsy signs and, of course, beautiful greenery. At the bottom of the cliff, you can grab a seat and take in the view, climb to the top of the waterfall from the other side of the cliff, or take a swim. You should allot at least 2hrs. to this site. 

Located in central Ubud is another popular attraction; a natural forest sanctuary that is home to families of grey long-tailed macaques.  Although I opted for a self-guided tour, official tour guides may provide a great source of information about the cultural and historical significance of the sites and temples within the sanctuary grounds. Once in the village, you'll find playful monkeys in their natural habitat, swinging through canopies, lounging along pathways or feeding on bananas. The site also offers cool walks along paved pathways within the leafy nutmeg forest. Stunning ancient temples with guardian statues covered in moss are also feature throughout the forest. 

While it may be tempting to touch or feed the monkeys, you are advised against it. Keep in mind that, although familiar with human contact, the monkeys are wild animals and you should be sure to follow the rules listed at the entrance of the sanctuary and throughout the site grounds.  Allot about 3-4hrs to fully enjoy the premises and interact with the monkeys. 

While in Bail, a visit to the spa is a must. During my time in Bali I visited the the Karsa Spa which is a hidden gem tucked away in the rice fields of Ubud. The grounds offer a serene experience only heightened by the beautiful music and sound of nature playing in the background. Visitors are served tea both before and after their massage to complement their experience. Staff members maintained Balinese hospitality as they were extremely caring and professional. The spa therapists were also very attentive to any special requests including your preferred massage strength and your particular selection of homemade scrubs and oil. The floral bath will certainly be the highlight of your experience at the spa as you literally get a chance to soak it all in. Overall, the Karsa Spa offers superb customer service and a peaceful ambiance to round off your stay in Bali. I would highly recommend. 

Did I mention that I paid no more than $25 for an hour massage, facial and flower bath? Amazing! 

1. Women are often required to cover their bottom halves and are not allowed to enter any holy site during certain times of the month. I would therefore encourage all ladies to carry a scarf around with them or be prepared to borrow one at the different sites for a small fee. 

2. All of the sites listed above and most of those listed below require an entrance fee. As such, be sure to carry some (not a lot) of cash for admission fees, tips, food, and other necessities. 

3.Don't be discouraged by the distance and time it takes to travel to these various sites. Indeed some may take up to four hours to reach. Fortunately though, Bali is relatively cheap and you can easily rent a car for the day at an afford rate. I'd recommend planning out your day in advance, starting early and grouping sites together by area. 

4. Most of these sites have lots of steps and require quite a bit of walking. Keep this in mind if you are travelling with small children, injured, or differently-abled.