Philosophy of life in Bali: Smiling is the best make-up. An article I read said, “God lives in the Himalayas but comes to Bali for holidays.” In my opinion, the most popular island in the world is Bali. I once asked an island resident, “How can you always smile?” He replied, “Smiling is the most beautiful make-up.” Add Bali to your travel route, even if you are not on your honeymoon, to wander around the peaks of happiness and understand what pampering is.
Indonesia, the world’s largest Muslim country, has almost 18,000 islands. When you go to one of these, Bali, the first thing that catches your attention is that everyone is happy. Its people, dances, culture, beach, sea, sun and luxury hotels are magnificent. Thanks to all these features, it has become famous as an ideal honeymoon route.
The first inhabitants of Bali Island were the Taiwanese who settled in the region about 4 thousand years ago. However, even today you breathe the Indian culture that they have influenced over time. The reason for the artistic details that permeate every corner while wandering around is that there was an intense migration of artists to the island in the 15th century.
The end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century were very bloody for the Balinese. They resisted but could not avoid being a Dutch colony. They also lived through World War II under Japanese occupation.
You reach Bali from Europe with a 15-hour flight. The botanical garden-like environment of Changi Airport heralds what kind of paradise you have reached. The journey is tiring, but Bali immediately brings you back to life.
The island where the heart of art beats
Ubud was one of the cities that impressed me the most. Jalan Raya, the main street of the city, which is a cultural oasis right in the middle of the island, is full of shops that will please shopaholics and art galleries that reflect the spirit of the city. The best way to discover the beauties that the city generously offers is by bicycle. One of the most interesting stops is Monkey Forest (Mandala Wisata Wenara Wana), where monkeys declared their kingdom. In the forest where there are three temples, you will encounter hundreds of monkeys who are famous for their thieves, so be prepared.
You can’t go to Ubud and leave without seeing Petulu. This is a paradise created by nature with its own efforts. Dancers and artists can add color to your day, but in Petulu, the leading role is the birds. Goa Gajah, also known as the Elephant Cave, is a famous temple but some feel disappointed when they see this small cave. I recommend you to see Puri Saren Ubud (Ubud Palace), built in the 19th century, to see its traditional architectural elements. Puri Lukisan Museum also hosts a collection that easily impresses those who enjoy modern art.
There are thousands of temples around, of extraordinary beauty and many different architectural styles. Tanah Lot Temple (Pura Tanah Lot) is one of the most popular places on the island and one of the seven prominent sea temples of Balinese mythology. It is believed that poisonous sea snakes here protect the temple against enemies.
Besakih Temple (Pura Besakih), called the ‘main temple’ in Bali, should definitely be on your list. Agung Volcano (Gunung Agung), which is very important in Balinese mythology and belief, is the highest point of the island. Enjoy the view while you’re there. Tampaksiring is a sacred water source and is about two hours away from the Kuta region of Bali. You can see Hindus worshiping and bathing there.
Another temple that will fascinate you with its view is in Uluwatu. The temple has the same name as the city and its meaning is ‘the rock at the end’. You can watch the turquoise waters of the ocean from almost 100 meters. Pura Ulun Danu Bratan Temple, rising from the middle of Lake Bratan, will fascinate you with its elegance. It was built in the 17th century for Dewi Danu, Bali’s goddess of seas, rivers and lakes.
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