More Than Just Sand: What to Look Forward to in Bali Indonesia

When one thinks of Bali, the first idea that comes to mind is the tropical paradise known for its glorious beaches and year-round great weather. Thousands of tourists gather to this Indonesian escape yearly to experience its refreshing waters and the exhilarating landscape often seen in its rich tropical mountains, island hotels, and Nusa Dua resorts. But there is more to this interesting island than just water fun.

Aside from having some of the world's finest beaches, the island of Bali is also known for its great spirituality. Many temples are constructed all over the island as an essential part of Balinese culture, with nine temples being the most prominent. Set to protect the island from dark forces, the nine temples stand in strategic forces around Bali. One worth a visit is the Lake Bratan Temple on the western shore of Lake Bratan. The temple is a stunning structure surrounded by water and considered one of Bali's iconic locations. Another is the Mother Temple of Bali, Besakih, in Mount Agung, one of the most visited grounds in the island.

Another experience that one should not miss out on is the island's traditional Balinese massage. Countless salons, hotels, and resorts offer a variety of relaxing treatments involving body scrubs, oil, herbs and spices, and yogurt body mask. Balinese massage is also relatively cheaper than western massages and is definitely worth the value for one in need of a good pampering.

Sporting activities are also popular among tourists and locals alike. In addition to typical water sports such as scuba diving, surfing, and white-water rafting, land sports are also a common scene. Golf courses are also an attraction, where games could be arranged with most hotels like Ayodya Resort Bali. The resort in Bali often offers promos like its recent Stay and Play Golf and Stay and Play Tennis packages, where accommodations come with arrangements for sports activities.

With wellness being a common theme on the island, there are also several centers and hotels in Bali where one can practice and learn yoga, another Bali staple. From beginners to regulars, Bali is filled with wellness centers and retreat houses for a relaxing session of meditation, holistic healing, chakra and aura cleansing, and more.

There is certainly more to experience in Bali than just frolicking about on the beach. For most who have already been and continue to come back to the island, it's also about understanding its history, meeting its warm and hospitable people, and taking in its rich and unique culture that makes a visit to Bali an unforgettable treat.