Bali is a popular tourist destination in Indonesia. The abundance of natural wonders to see makes it almost insufficient to explore all of it in just a week. Dubbed as the ‘island of the gods,’ the 5,780 km2 land is surrounded by lush mountains, majestic active volcanoes, as well as a wide stretch of rice crops, coral reefs, and beaches.
Since it has become a favourite vacation spot by tourists, several Bali villas were created to accommodate new and returning visitors to the island. After all, what would a Southeast Asian adventure in the Indonesian archipelago be without a nice, relaxing, and exquisite lodging to stay in?
Here are five amazing facts about the place that you need to know:
- It has black sand beaches
Although white sand beaches surround Bali, there is a specific area on the island—along the northern and western regions with seashores with black sand. The presence of black sand beaches is the result of the lava that flowed out of Mt. Batur and Mt. Agung. In total, there are over seven beaches in Bali with black sand. The locals consider the sand to bear healing properties.
- You can visit chocolate factories
Indonesia is also one of the top producers of cacao in the world. In Bali, some of the chocolate factories you can visit include Big Tree Farms’ the Bamboo Chocolate Factory, Uforia Chocolate, and Pod Chocolate Factory and Café. The Bamboo Chocolate Factory is by far the largest and most famous among the three.
Aside from delectable chocolate, the factory also produces refined sugar and organic coconut palm sugar. Uforia’s chocolates are said to help boost mood levels of people who try it. Their products are crafted with a touch of cellular and molecular science. Pod offers tasting sessions for guests. The chocolates they produce are health-friendly and made of natural lontar nectar.
- It compels you to unleash your spiritual side
The people of Bali are very spiritual. Once the Balinese calendar marks the New Year or Isakawarsa, they celebrate and observe Nyepi. Nyepi is also otherwise called the “Day of Silence,” and it is a day where people focus on fasting and self-reflection. All establishments and businesses are closed to commemorate for an entire day and make way for a complete and uninterrupted day of deep contemplation.
- It is a place for relaxation
You can choose to explore Bali’s eye-catching natural beauties or spend an entire day in one of the many spas in the area. Whichever you choose, you are guaranteed to replenish your senses and relieve your spirit of all the stresses you endure. You can pay your respects to the many temples in Bali or learn more about Hinduism.
- The food and local markets are to die for
An international trip to a dream-like escapade such as Bali would not be complete without delving into a food adventure that features their local delicacies. After you bask yourself in the warm and friendly reception provided by your Bali villas of choice, you should head on out to their local restaurants (or warung).
Better yet, free up some time on your itinerary for the weekend markets in the area. They have bazaars and markets like the Old Man’s Market and Love Anchor Market Bazaar, where you can buy souvenirs and a broad selection of fruits and greens.
What are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Bali with your loved ones now and bask in the unique experience that the exquisite Indonesian paradise has to bring.