Greetings from paradise,
In 2019, I embarked on a journey that led me to the enchanting island of Bali, Indonesia. Bali is where my love affair with coconuts truly blossomed. You might find it amusing, but I was utterly captivated by the refreshing, tropical flavor that left me “intoxicated.” Bali, often called the “Fruit Paradise,” lived up to its name with its incredible variety of exotic fruits that tantalized my taste buds.
Allow me to dive into the heart of the matter. My occupation blessed me with frequent travels, providing me with the opportunity to explore the far corners of the world and immerse myself in the diverse cultures and culinary traditions of many nations. I found myself visiting destinations I had never dreamed of exploring so intimately and frequently.
This post aims to capture the essence of my short but memorable sojourn in Bali. My colleagues and I stayed in Kuta, one of Bali’s most well-known tourist hubs. Kuta is renowned for its pristine beaches, attracting sun-worshipers and surf enthusiasts alike. Initially discovered as a surfing paradise, it has since become a vibrant hub of nightlife, with visitors flocking to its lively streets, lined with restaurants and nightclubs.
On our first day, we set out to explore Nusa Dua Beach, renowned for its powdery white sands. This idyllic location is a haven for honeymooners, and it offers the perfect setting to enjoy the sun, the sea, and, of course, more exotic fruits (including longan, mangosteen, pitaya, salak, and, of course, my beloved coconut). Among these delights, salak, or snake fruit, stood out with its scaly and hard exterior, resembling snake scales. It was a day of culinary exploration, a true feast for the taste buds. Our arrival in Bali was in June, which aligned beautifully with the dry season (from May to September).
Bali offers a wide array of activities for travelers seeking adventure. From cycling and elephant trekking to white-water rafting and chocolate tours, there’s something for every thrill-seeker. The adventurous “3 in 1” package or a unique “Safari go Topless” journey through rice paddies and charming Balinese villages are all captivating options. With just two days to explore, I decided to immerse myself in the local culture by strolling through the charming neighborhoods, experiencing the famous swing, savoring rich coffee, and indulging in a delightful dinner with friends, and surrendering to the exhilarating nightlife. I couldn’t resist indulging in a bit of shopping to bring home souvenirs with themes that held personal significance for my loved ones.
Upon our arrival, the entrance fee, at approximately $30 per person (inclusive of a meal), granted us access to a sprawling swing that offered an adrenaline-fueled adventure. The thrill of swinging through the jungle’s canopy, surrounded by lush greenery, wildlife, and breathtaking vistas of a pristine river below, left me in awe.
Upon our arrival, the entrance fee, at approximately $30 per person (inclusive of a meal), granted us access to a sprawling swing that offered an adrenaline-fueled adventure. The thrill of swinging through the jungle’s canopy, surrounded by lush greenery, wildlife, and breathtaking vistas of a pristine river below, left me in awe.
The Bali Swing experience was an unexpected delight. Intrigued by a friend’s recommendation, my colleagues and I set off with a driver to our destination, which was a half-hour drive from our hotel. Although, I must confess, the fatigue from our travels led to a nap-filled journey.
The journey began at Ngurah Rai International Airport, which is located in the Badung Regency, providing a convenient entry point to this enchanting region.
The Bali Swing is nestled also in Badung, the regency of Bali that encompasses the island’s key tourist areas, including Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, Jimbaran, Nusa Dua, Canggu, and Uluwatu.
Our adventure continued with a sumptuous traditional lunch amidst the verdant jungle, followed by an impromptu visit to a local coffee plantation, where we sampled a delightful array of coffees and teas. The unique atmosphere and aroma of this place were intoxicating. I was intrigued to discover that the prices here exceeded those of grocery stores and markets. In a quaint corner, an elderly woman meticulously prepared coffee beans, sifting and roasting them. The highlight of the visit was the opportunity to taste the famed Kopi Luwak coffee, considered one of the world’s most expensive brews, with prices soaring to €550 per kilogram. What makes this coffee so dear is the unique process of harvesting and preparation. It all begins with a civet cat, known as Luwak, which feeds on coffee cherries. The beans pass through the cat’s digestive system, and only the outer layer is digested, resulting in a remarkable and unique flavor. Local farmers collect these beans from the animal’s excrement, wash them, dry them, and then roast them. A visit to the coffee plantations offers the opportunity to sample Kopi Luwak coffee for just $3.80 a cup. My curiosity got the best of me, and I couldn’t resist the chance to taste this exclusive brew. To my surprise, it wasn’t radically different from the black coffee I brewed back home.
As you embark on your journey to Indonesia, perhaps to the enchanting island of Bali, I hope this account of my adventures piques your curiosity and provides a glimpse of the diverse experiences that await.
Our return to the hotel was marked by fatigue but also filled with contentment, followed by a delicious dinner and a memorable night in the vibrant streets of Bali.
Bali is a place of discovery and transformation, where each day unveils a new layer of its beauty. So, keep your spirit open to change, because you never know where your next adventure will lead.
S
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