Two Day Magazine

Fantasy Island

It is the largest tourist destination that Indonesia exudes, and one of the most breathtaking island affairs the world has to offer. From exotic pristine beaches of Kuta and Sanur to the provocative peaks of still active volcanoes, Bali provides the most fantastic of backdrops to deposit in your memory bank. 

Paving the way for a most enjoyable visit are the wonderful people of Bali. Integrating a form of Hinduism into every part of their lives through offerings and purification ceremonies, the Balinese emit their own magnetism. In everything that they do, a sense of perfection is meticulously created by Balinese hands, adding to the already flawless vista of this tiny island.

Your trip is not complete until you have visited Ubud, the cultural and artistic center of Bali. Ubud is a tiny paradise unto herself. Robust rice paddies, ancient water temples, and craft villages encompass the inspirational town of Ubud. Marvelous stories-high statues of gods like Brahma and Vishnu appear around almost every corner while Balinese men and women roam the sidewalks in their most vibrant attire, making offerings.

Posing as Bali’s traditional dance center, one can always catch a topeng dance (a masked dance to the sound of Bali’s distinct gamelan music), or the battle dance between Barong, the magical protector of Bali, and Rangda, the spirit of darkness. If you happen to be visiting Bali during the Galungan and Kuningan festivals, then you are in for a treat, as you will witness the island’s most significant annual events, with worshipers dressed in their finest garb, heavenly music emanating from every temple, and feast on the most delectable of dishes.

Not to worry if you miss the festivals, Ubud has a plethora of restaurants awaiting your patronage. The most picturesque of them all is Sari Organik. Erected in the middle of a flourishing rice field, Sari’s open-air restaurant serves a variety of chemical-free dishes, from mouth-watering spicy tofu platters to a variety of homemade soups and freshly squeezed juices. Sipping on your mango lassi as you float away in the serenity of Sari’s surroundings has no comparison.