karmachoden

A Journey of Joy and Discovery: Embracing Bali’s Beauty

On the eve of the New Year 2024, I found myself on a flight to Bali, eagerly anticipating the coming year. As the clock struck 12 am and people worldwide joyously welcomed the New Year, I silently whispered to myself, “Here’s to happier days ahead.” Touching down in Bali at 6 am on January 1st, 2024, I was greeted by a warm “welcome to Bali” sign at the Denpasar Airport. In that moment, I made a promise to myself, “2024, be kind to yourself and love yourself more.”

In the following narrative, I will share my adventures, encounters, and discoveries in Bali, including the places I visited, the activities I enjoyed, the delightful cuisine, the friendly faces I met, and so much more. During the initial ten days, I stayed in Canggu, a bustling tourist hotspot where I encountered travellers from across the globe. The locals, mainly service providers such as vendors, restaurant staff, taxi drivers, and activity organizers, added to the vibrant atmosphere. Transportation around Canggu mainly consisted of Grab and Gojek bikes, and I vividly remember meeting Sihin, a Grab Bike driver who became my kind-hearted and attentive guide for the duration of my stay. In Sihin, I witnessed the genuine kindness and hospitality of the people of Indonesia. Gandi, famously known as Mr. G was my second guide and friend in Bali. Both SIhin and Mr. G portrayed the goodness of the people of Indonesia.

Canggu boasted an array of local vendors offering a variety of goods and essentials. I will share an encounter I had with a local vendor who attempted to overcharge me for a plug point. Despite initially falling for the deception, I eventually stood my ground and reclaimed the overcharged amount, sending a message to fellow travellers to remain cautious of such occurrences.

Batu Bolong Beach, just a short walk from most guesthouses in Canggu, became a familiar spot where I would stroll, savor coconut water, and relish in the tranquil atmosphere. I also ventured to Padang Padang beach in Uluwatu, marvelling at the prominent Garuda Vishnu Cultural Park. Although my visit was brief, the experience left a lasting impression.

After my escapade in Canggu, I went on a Bali bonanza, hitting up Seminyak, Kuta, and Ubud like a travel ninja. Then, I went on a wild three-day adventure to mount Bromo and mount Ijen, catching epic sunrises and mind-blowing views of active volcanoes.

And guess what? I finally conquered my fear of snakes by casually holding a Python twice – take that, fear!

Oh, and as if that wasn’t enough, I took a stroll under the ocean and became a master fish feeder, all without knowing how to swim. I mean, who needs flippers, right?

But wait – there’s more! I dabbled in some underwater exploration with scuba diving, held on for dear life during a banana boat ride, and soared through the sky like a bird with some heart-pounding parasailing.

And let’s not forget the adrenaline rush of other water shenanigans! I made pals with some turtles at the turtle lake, swung so high my heart did a flip, and even pedaled a bicycle on a tightrope in mid-air – because why not?

As if my pulse didn’t race enough, I snagged a selfie with a monkey in the monkey forest, hopped on an elephant for a ride, and had a wild time at Bali Safari, hanging out with all sorts of fabulous beasts.

Oh! Wait! I almost forgot to mention the weird and awkward horse and camel riding by the beach especially when I had to ride on the horse through the street to the beach but yeah who cares? People were watching me and I was like most probably they would have wanted to experience the same.

Lastly my most painful and torturous yet the most fulfilling activities of all was getting tattoos on my hands and legs. If you ever go to Bali and want a tattoo then I advise you to visit The Last Ink in Seminayak. They have got some of the best tattoo artists at a very reasonable rate. And guess what I got there? It is the photocopy image of my Nuchu (my pug pet dog

Oh, and the entertainment? I caught a mesmerizing fire dance at the Tanah Lot temple, where they re-enacted the epic battle of Ram and Ravawa. Then, I found inner peace at the Saraswati temple in Ubud, feeding the fishes, meditating, and sending good vibes to all beings on this crazy planet, especially my fam. Yeah, Bali – you rocked my world!

Over the past three years, I had embarked on a journey to various destinations, seeking solace and a change of scenery. However, it wasn’t until my time in Bali that I truly found a sense of joy. From the day I arrived until the day I departed for Perth, Australia, I was filled with happiness, with the exception of a few challenging days due to food poisoning. Despite the setback, my overall experience in Bali was incredibly uplifting.

Overall, my journey in Bali was a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the unyielding beauty of the world around us. Lets keep our spirit soaring high!!!