Bali is an island of extremes. Whether heat drenched beaches or cool lush mountains, I loved the island’s diversity.

There is no mass transportation in Bali, so a car, motorbike or guided tour is the only way to discover the island’s beauty.  Just 95 miles wide – it is worth venturing off the pristine beaches to take in the island’s culture and deep rooted traditions.

Here is a small glimpse of some of the sites I was very lucky to see.

Lush rice paddy terraces offer some of the most spectacular scenery I’ve ever seen.

The congested city of Kuta brings together locals and visitors as tourist central. Servicing visitors with hotels, guided tours, restaurants, shopping, motorbike rentals and famed beaches.  I was overwhelmed by all the scooters that function as cheap transportation for both visitors and locals.

Volcanic Mount Batur, Abane and Agung, and the northern lakes are a paradise for hikers or visitors seeking spectacular views.

Fashionable venues as the Klapa Beach Center offer pristine pools, romantic views and a cool reprieve from the heat.

Balinese temples as the royal Taman Ayun temple in Mengwi and traditional dance performances are fascinating as Balinese Hindu traditions remain an integral part of the culture.

Our guide from Bali Kontak was great.  French and English speaking Bali Kontak provides customized tours for small groups.  Their services are personalized so whether you are a student on a budget, importing local goods, or relocating to Bali, Bali Kontak can help.

For French speakers the company uses the name Bali Contact.

The long trip to Bali isn’t for everyone but for those of you up for the adventure enjoy!  And for those of you traveling via computer screen, I hope these images transport you away, even for just a few minutes of your busy day.

Enjoy!

Leslie

CATEGORIES: Escapes, Travel

TAGS: Bali