By Danny R. Johnson – Travel and Entertainment News Editor
BALI, INDONESIA – San Diego County News recently visited Bali, and it is as alluring as everyone says. This island, slightly bigger than Delaware, has it all: beaches, volcanoes, terraced rice fields, forests, renowned resorts, surfing, golf, and world-class dive sites. But what sets Bali apart from other nearby tropical destinations is the Balinese tradition, which villagers are dedicated to celebrating. The hundreds of temples, dances, rituals, and crafts linked to their ancient Hindu faith are not a show for tourists but a living, breathing culture in which visitors are warmly received by the Balinese, who cherish their identities.
Bali’s Top Reasons to Go
Culture Club: Balinese people love sharing their entrancing Hindu culture with newcomers. Visit an odalan, or local temple festival, for a peek at the ancient rituals:
Witness a unique cultural experience with a Kecak fire and dance performance on the grounds of Uluwatu Temple. Watch native Balinese dancers perform a breathtaking show of traditional Hindu dance while the sun sets in the background. Kecak is a Balinese dance and rhythmic chant depicting the battle from the Hindu epic Ramayana in which Rama fights the demonic King Ravana with the help of the monkey god Hanuman. Let yourself be hypnotized by the swirling flames combined with vibrant traditional attire as the performers take you on a journey through Balinese Hinduism. The show is scheduled to coincide with the sunset so that you can be sure of the good views of Uluwatu.
Get Wet: Surrounded by clear blue seas, Bali has terrific beaches for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, and surfing. Long walks on the beach are practically required:
Learn a Trade: Bali’s famed artists and artisans give lessons in painting, carving, and other island crafts, as well as traditional dance, music, and puppetry.
Take a Hike: Climb a live volcano, ramble around terraced rice fields, or trek through fragrant plantations with vistas of the distant mountains:
Chill Out: Get rid of stress with yoga classes, traditional therapies, legendary spa treatments, or just feeling the breeze in a tropical garden:
The Renaissance Bali Nusa Dua Resort/Marriott Vacation Club
San Diego County News stayed at the Bali Resort in Nusa Dua | Marriott’s Bali Nusa Dua Terrace. It is one of the hotels that leaves a memory of Bali you will never forget. The resort opened in 2022 in the idyllic upscale beach town of Nusa Dua, where you find the kindest, most generous, hospitable hotel staff anywhere! I stayed in a luxurious two-bedroom apartment with a private dip pool and a huge private balcony. Imagine a collection of beautifully designed rooms, suites, apartments, and villas within clusters of courtyards. Each courtyard has its unique character and charm. The rooms and suites feature spacious balconies and upscale amenities, creating a luxurious experience for guests. Garden apartments are ideal for those seeking even more privacy and tranquility. Whether you are enjoying the gentle rustling of leaves or the soothing sound of Mother Earth, this serene setting promises a delightful stay.
Immerse yourself in the perfectly appointed Balinese interior designs of these suites, apartments, and villas, where three swimming pools await—each with its distinctive, heavenly setting and vibe. It is as if you have stepped into a wonderfully scaled-down version of a traditional Balinese village with artful design, lush surroundings, and luxurious amenities. The five atmospheric restaurants cater to various cuisines, from Indonesian delights to Mediterranean flavors. But what truly sets this peaceful seaside retreat apart is its impeccable service, always delivered with a smile. It is no wonder that this destination claims the top spot on our shortlist.
Special thanks and appreciation to the following Renaissance Bali Nusa Dua Resort/Vacation Club associates who made our stay enjoyable, memorable, and exemplified the Marriott Way: Novi, Ayu, BayuDwi, Hendriani, Winda, Widi, Arya, Ywnita, Selah, Adi, Nita, Intan, Prima, and Putu, our driver for Bali Tirta Tour and Travel, who provided professional and informative tour guide services.
