Rockstar : Mini Guide to Bali

Ah.. Bali!

When we think of Bali, we think of wooden beach shacks selling mysterious juices, local surf aficionados still channeling their best inner Bob Marleys, naughty Kuta Cowboys smirking with doe-eyed girls at the back of their motorbikes, and endless, endless stretches of padi fields. Perhaps it is this unique concoction of memories that keeps us coming back for more...

An island (more akin to paradise) just 2 and a half hours away by air, we thought it perfect to kick start our Month of Travel picking out highlights and our fondest memories of Bali. Whether on a budget or on a trip fit for kings, we've singularly picked out top spots all about this stretch of island - from swanky Seminyak, nearby and up-and-coming Canggu, scenic Uluwatu & Ubud, all the way up to the majestic peak of Mount Batur. We think we've got you covered.




♫ Sounds like Bali ♫ - Our good friends over at Bandwagon have created a 10-track "Dream Bali Playlist" on 8 Tracks that has perfectly captured the Bali essence, just for us. Click!



*Fun Fact* Three decades ago, the Balinese economy was largely agriculture based. Tourism is now the largest single industry in terms of income. As a result, Bali is one of Indonesia's wealthiest regions.



*Fun Fact* 90% of Balinese practise Hindusim. Balinese Hindusim has roots in Indian Hindusim and in Buddhism, and adopted the animistic traditions of the indigenous people. This influence strengthened the belief that the gods and goddesses are present in all things: A rock, tree or woven cloth is a potential home for spirits whose energy can be directed good or evil.



Others :

*Best for ribs & getting unknowingly drunk - Naughty Nuris. We prefer the one at Ubud, and don't forget to order their infamous killer martinis
*Best home away from home in Ubud - Villa Amala (we're not getting paid to say this)
*Worst time to visit Bali - Stay away in December and January when it won't stop raining

IN OUR NEXT POST, we sniff out Rockstar Selects for Bali - the best shoes (it's not a crime to not wear flip flops, and we should know) to strut the beach in, the best beach bags for wet swim-suits, and the best poolside companions - books!