16 hours on the plane via Singapore, we arrived late in the evening at Bali airport. Driving through the moonlit roads, we could feel the air from the Indian ocean and feel that tropical heat on our skin. I loved it! I find it fascinating that the sun rises and sets the same time all year round as it's so close to the equator, such a change from the seasons here in the UK.
Sanur
We were truly spoilt with our hotel in Sanur, a quiet coastal town Southeast of Bali. The hotel grounds were so vast and lush with beautiful trees and flowers, we often got lost trying to find our room! It was pretty dark at night except for the lights on the ground and trees but it was incredibly peaceful and exotic. There was 3 pools, seafront restaurant and spa. It was the kind of place where you could relax all day and just switch off.
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We've read and heard about the beautiful Gili Islands, which was about 2 hours by boat from one of the harbours in Bali. I won't go into the long winded story but taking that boat to the Islands was one of the worse experience of my life! I suffered with horrible motion sickness on the way there and honestly couldn't wait to get off the boat! When we docked I literally jumped off the boat and my jaw dropped at the view - it felt like we stepped on a piece of paradise (worth that horrific boat journey!)
Gili Trawangan, the biggest of the 3 islands was jammed packed with sun seekers, travellers and backpackers but amongst the hustle and bustle we escaped and took in the breath taking views. I mean seriously, does this view get any better?!
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SEMINYAK
For the 2nd part of our Bali trip we stayed in the lively town of Seminyak and we so spoilt for choice for shops and restaurants. I'm planning to do a separate post on great places to eat, as it was that good so stay tuned! I think we were expecting a similar feel to Thailand but was really impressed with the high level of eateries. There was less market stalls and more up market and chic restaurants and boutiques. Honestly I could imagine some of the restaurants and shops in London, the food was also varied and tasty.
If you want a bit of luxury you have to visit the amazing beach clubs in Seminyak. We were really lucky to be in walking distance of 2 of the best ones. Potato Head Beach club and the W Retreat and Spa. Both right on the beach front and oozing with style and beach chic! Each club has their own restaurants and the food and cocktails were divine. In the evenings they hold parties with DJ's and it's also the perfect place to watch the sunset - definitely one of the highlights of our trip.
The Balinese people are so kind and respectful and wherever you are in Bali, you can see their cultural influences in their architecture. Some are centuries old whilst some are more contemporary but all reflecting their spirituality and Hindu influences. It's very common to see shrines, temples, guardian statues and open places of worship. Even in the chaotic and busy towns, there was always a sense of calm and respect amongst the Balinese people.
I was swept away by the kindness of the Balinese people, the tranquillity as well as the vibrancy of the towns we stayed in. I enjoyed their simple way of life, switching off from the non stop chaos of London life and spending time with Hang of course :) I left with a sense of wonderment and serious case of wanderlust! I'm planning to put a vlog together as well but in the meantime I hope you enjoyed the photos!
Where would you go for your honeymoon?
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