5 reasons Bali is on my Bucket List

To Americans, Bali is an exotic locale, with its white, sandy beaches, volcanic mountains, and pristine reefs. Down Under, Bali is a getaway spot for a cheeky long weekend, with frequent, affordable flights ready to whisk Australians to a relaxing resort or a happening party scene. And to backpackers, Bali promises a cheap place to stay and eat with a rich yoga culture and over 10,000 temples.

Now that I fit into all three of those categories, Bali has moved close to the top of my bucket list. Here’s why:

Scuba Diving

I’ve been a scuba diver since I was 12 years old, and it’s my dream to cover as much of the ocean as humanly possible.

I want to come face-to-fin with the Mola Mola, or Ocean Sunfish, in Crystal Bay.  Weighing between 540 and 2,200 pounds, these guys are the world’s largest bony fish. And since I’ve never seen a manta ray in over 18 years of diving… I’ll definitely stop by Manta Point.

I couldn’t visit Bali without seeing its most famous dive site- the USS Liberty shipwreck. Hit by a Japanese torpedo, the ship came to rest on the north-east coast of Bali until a volcano eruption sent it back into the sea. The ship now rests on the ocean floor with dive depths from 16 to 98 feet– a great spot for divers of all skill levels.

Last but not least, the Underwater Temple Garden. Created just over 10 years ago, this dive site attracts devoted Buddhists and curious divers from around the world who come to visit the underwater temples and statues.

Beaches

I truly believe that I should have grown up on the beach, instead of land-locked in the suburbs of Dallas, Texas. I’m making up for lost time, though. I seize every opportunity to take a walk on the beach, and the ever-present sand in my Converses proves it.

With names like Blue Lagoon, Green Bowl, and Pink Beach, I’m sure the beaches in Bali will be a colorful experience!

Photo Courtesy of Sarah at fittravels.com

Hotels

Bali has some uber affordable hostel-style digs, and even some of the cheapest backpackers are equipped with pools and ocean views.

When I go to Bali, though, I want the full luxury experience. Fluffy towels, award-winning spa, and delicious food without having the leave the property. You’ll find me at a beach resort like Alila Seminyak, which has not one, not two… but FIVE infinity pools. Check them out here. 

Photo courtesy of Alila Seminyak Bali via Traveloka

Food

Have you ever tried Balinese food? Me neither!

Photo courtesy of Sarah at fittravels.com

This island has plenty of traditional dishes from the simple sate (meat on a stick) to the intriguing lawar, made with chopped coconut, garlic, and chili, mixed with pork or chicken meat and blood. One of the most famous dishes is babi guling, suckling pig (think Hawaiian luau).

Recently, though, the island is making a name for itself in the foodie culture. The creative desserts and high-end restaurants are calling my name!

Cheap Flights from Australia

Now that I’m in Australia, Bali is going to be an easy spot to cross off the bucket list. Seminyak, Bali is a favorite holiday destination for many Australians because it’s cheaper to fly to Bali than it is to fly some places inside Australia! In fact, I had a friend who lives on Magnetic Island who went out for the night in Townsville. After doing the math, he and his friends jumped on a $99 flight to Bali for the night, and spent less on a night out in Bali (flights included) than he would have by staying in Australia!

It’s also becoming more popular for bachelor and bachelorette parties for brides and grooms with out-of-town bridesmaids and groomsmen. It’s more affordable to meet in Bali than it is to find a central location to meet in Australia.

Photo courtesy of Sarah at fittravels.com

Well… I’m convinced and will be booking my flight soon. Who’s with me?

Pin it!

This is a sponsored post. As always, all research and opinions are my own.