Lets go to Bali

Published in the Saturday Navbharat Times on 02 March, 2024

Drenched to the core yet brimming with an unmatched sense of joy, I glanced around and saw the same radiant smiles mirrored on the faces of my loved ones. We were on our family holiday and our destination? The enchanting island of Bali! Our journey kicked off in Ubud, where we eagerly embarked on an exhilarating rafting adventure along the Ayung River.

Planning a family holiday can be quite the challenge, with everyone's schedules and preferences needing to align perfectly. Entrusting this task to our Veena World team, we were thrilled with their expertise in curating a plan that catered to each family member's desires, ensuring a perfect blend of excitement and relaxation for all.

The moment we touched down in Bali, we were greeted with beaming smiles and a traditional welcome. The infectious happiness of the locals immediately captivated us, leaving me wondering why we hadn't visited this paradise sooner. If Bali's still on your list, make it a priority this year—I guarantee you'll feel the same! Not far from India, Bali's culture bears a striking resemblance to our own, offering a fascinating glimpse into the Hindu traditions that journeyed from India to this picturesque island. Hinduism arrived in Indonesia in the first century, brought by traders, sailors, scholars, and priests. But a Bali holiday isn't just a cultural discovery; it's an adventure in every aspect.

And what better way to kickstart your adventurous holiday in Bali than with an Ayung River rafting expedition? As we embarked on the raft, the river, akin to a pulsating artery coursing through the island, promised an adventure like no other. Guided expertly by our instructor, we navigated the rapids with a mix of laughter and teamwork, with each bend revealing a new surprise. It was more than just a physical thrill; it was a bonding experience that brought us closer together. Amidst the rushing torrents, we spotted intricate carvings adorning the riverbank, each narrating tales as ancient as Bali itself—and upon closer inspection, we realized these carvings depicted the epic saga of Ramayana! We learned that Ramayana is such an ingrained aspect of Indonesian culture that it serves as a source of moral and spiritual guidance, as well as an aesthetic expression. And Bali is the perfect embodiment of this living legend. Sculptors have immortalized the story of Ramayana in stone along the banks of the Ayung River in Ubud, vividly portraying Lord Vishnu’s incarnation as human (Ram), his marriage, 14 years of exile, Sita’s kidnapping by Demon King Ravana, and the epic battle between Ram and Ravana to rescue Sita. The rafting experience was something we'll never forget and a perfect start to our holiday—I couldn't help but think to myself, "Well begun is half done!"

Ubud, often hailed as Bali's cultural nucleus, captivated us with its vibrant art scene and spiritual ambiance. From the majestic Puri Saren Royal Palace to the serene Ubud Monkey Forest, every corner exuded a sense of mystique and wonder. Simply wandering through the market area immersed us in Balinese culture, with every temple gate and courtyard offering glimpses into the island's spiritual heritage. And when I was planning our holiday, one image that always beckoned was the rice terraces of Bali. The lush greenery and neatly arranged rice terraces are not just pleasing to the eye but also soothe the soul. So, our next stop was to venture beyond Ubud, as we explored the verdant Tegallalang Rice Terraces, where we became part of Bali's agricultural legacy—a symbol of Bali’s agricultural heritage and a postcard-perfect vista of tranquility.

And what's a trip to Ubud without the obligatory Balinese Swing experience? More than just a thrill ride, the Bali Swing offers an aerial perspective of the island's verdant landscape that is as breathtaking as it is disarming. Hugely popular with honeymooners and holidaymakers alike, many enterprising Balinese people now even offer a long dress to wear on the swing for that perfect Instagram photo!

I've always believed that walking introduces you to the true beauty and culture of a destination. And so, we set off on a leisurely stroll with a local guide to get a glimpse into true Balinese culture. Bali's landscape is dotted with temples, from grand public structures to humble village shrines, each offering a portal connecting the physical world with the spiritual realm, as well as the living with the dead (ancestors). These sacred gates, adorned with statues of Hindu deities like Ganesha, not only protect against evil spirits but also symbolize the family's status and wealth. Furthermore, the gates serve as a status symbol, indicating the economic status or social rank of the family living on the compound. The gates, which serve as entrances to a family compound, are called Padurasksa, and you can see them all over the island.

Once we reached our hotel by the shores of Bali, the powdery soft sands beckoned us, and we set off to capture the perfect sunset. Our journey continued to Tanah Lot Temple, where we witnessed the ethereal beauty of a Balinese sunset. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting golden hues over the temple, we were ready to call it a day.

Our first trip to Bali was filled with unforgettable firsts, and the most memorable moments were the special experiences we enjoyed together. Whether it was a cooking class or sailing on the private yacht we had rented, every moment was magical. A private yacht rental is a perfect celebration of special moments like milestone birthdays, anniversaries, or even just like that. Recently, we have booked a yacht for a 50th birthday celebration in Dubai and in Greece for a girlfriends getaway, and sunset is often one of the best times to cruise on the ocean. A private cruise gives you the option to cruise at your own pace and stop wherever you like. We decided to take the cruise out for an entire day to visit the islands of Gili and on the way back stopped the boat to dive into the azure waters in the middle of the ocean.

Bali is, of course, famous for its beautiful beaches, and on Veena World’s tours, you can indulge in a plethora of water sports at Tangoing Genoa beach. You will also take a day trip to the island of Nusa Penida. Setting off on the speedboat, your first stop is Kelingking Beach, a breathtaking stretch of coastline adorned with coral rocks, pristine sands, and crystal blue waters. Here, you're treated to the awe-inspiring T-Rex cliff viewpoint, where a uniquely shaped cliff resembles a giant rock dinosaur with its jaws wide open. Next, venture to Angel’s Billabong, where unique limestone formations create a natural rock lagoon against a backdrop of stunning seascape. The scenery here is simply mesmerizing, offering a glimpse of nature's artistic prowess.

As our days in Bali drew to a close, we indulged in tranquil moments of relaxation, savoring the Balinese massages that rejuvenated our bodies and souls. In Bali, every holiday tells its own tale, and ours is a story of adventure, discovery, and togetherness. Today, as we reminisce about our time spent amidst the roaring Ayung River and ancient temple gates, we carry with us the timeless essence of Bali—an island that will forever hold a special place in our hearts. Bali is a perfect holiday destination any time of the year, for anyone and everyone!