I was very happy to find “home” in the island of Bali. I mean, who wouldn’t fall in love in that island–it has every tourist’s need. I was skeptic at first imagining that it would be just like Boracay–party island and filled with tourists trying to do their own stuff and select touristy activities available right before their hands. My trip proved me wrong. Bali is home to every traveler.
You’d be surprise to know that despite being an Islamic country, Indonesia provides a cultural experience and promotes diversity within its islands. Whilst the people of Indonesia are primarily Muslim, the archipelago has been home to many cultures and even religion which created a consciousness to people about diversity and openness to other culture. When you arrive in Bali, you shouldn’t be surprised that its primary religion is Hinduism (Balinese Hinduism to be exact).
Nasi Goreng and Bali Coffee available in every menu
The streets around the island will be filled with temples dedicated to ancestors and to every ritual. You will need not to go far to appreciate their culture, they live and breathe them every day and its worthwhile to note that they have preserved their traditional way of life despite the influx of outside tourist mostly Westerners.
Bali has connected people in many ways but my personal experience made me realize that it provides people a way of living a “life well-spent” as it creates an experience that will suit any traveler. It forces you to be open while staying in your comfort zone. You can experience the new but it allows you to pull back a little once it gets uncomfortable.
You will see an obvious example of these in their food. When you come to Bali, Im sure you won’t miss to try at least Nasi Goreng and Mie Goreng which are similar to many Asian fried rice and noodle soup–truly Asian but you will see similarities in the way it is served. I have also discovered food like Ayam Goreng Kremes which is actually an Indonesian fried chicken! All the similarities but with local hint of flavor.
If you are afraid to try local food, Bali will direct you to many comfort dishes with many of its local resto offering various cuisines. There is something for everyone.
Of course, an experience you wouldn’t miss in Bali is coffee. Although many people think of Starbucks or Western brands when you say coffee shops but you might not know that it’s an Indonesian cup you sipping right there. Indonesian coffee beans have been long part of Starbucks and many coffee brands ever since. Sumatra, Sulawesi and Java are known for their distinct coffee bean flavors that made its way to many mainstream brands.
Bali will make you rediscover things that only travel can make you feel. If you look a little closer, you will realize that Bali is connected to you and your culture more than you can imagine.
Indonesian local beer, Bintang
Chicken Satte with this breathtaking sight
Bali coffee, of course
