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Beneath the Balinese Sun: Part 3

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 The Last Day in Uluwatu, Bali: A Perfect Blend of Relaxation and Adventure October 7, 2025: It was our final morning in Bali, and after several days of exploration, we woke up quite late, feeling the blissful exhaustion that only a fulfilling trip can bring. Our hotel room was basic, nothing fancy, and notably, it lacked a kettle and hence the morning tea! A quick freshen-up was the best way to start the day before heading out for breakfast. The hotel receptionist recommended a nearby spot called Bukit Cafe, and it turned out to be an excellent suggestion. We enjoyed a hearty, delicious meal that perfectly fueled us for the day ahead. Feeling content, we decided to stroll through the nearby market area. The streets were charmingly lined with upscale shops and quaint eateries, making the walk a delightful sensory experience, blending local culture with a touch of modern vibe. Both Suluban beach and Uluwatu beach can be accessed from here during low tide Our plan for the day was cl...

Beneath the Balinese Sun: Part 2

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Nusa Penida: A Canvas of Blues and Greens October 5, 2025: We woke up early today, preparing for a long day ahead as we checked out from our hotel in Ubud. The hotel kindly packed breakfast for us, which we savored on the way to Sanur harbour. Sanur harbour was chaotic, bustling with ferries and fast boats ferrying tourists to various destinations. After checking in with Maruti for our fast boat, we faced a long wait before boarding. Contrary to the website photos, the boat was cramped and uncomfortable, but at least the journey to Nusa Penida took only 45 minutes. Upon arrival, we paid a small entry fee, and our driver-guide was ready to begin our east Penida trip. Thousand Island viewpoint The morning melted into a long, winding ride along narrow roads that took us to our first stop for the day, the Thousand Island Viewpoint. To reach the prime vista, we had to descend down a rugged, steep stairway cut down the face of the cliff. At the bottom, a small platform jutted out, ...

Beneath the Balinese Sun: Part 1

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Immersed in Ubud's Heritage and Temples with Deeper History October 1, 2025: Our arrival in Bali marked the beginning of an exciting journey, with Ubud as our first destination. Landing in the afternoon, we took a cab to Ubud, navigating the famously chaotic traffic of Bali—a challenge that took more time than expected.  As we drove from Denpasar to Ubud , we were struck by the unifying architectural style ; it wasn't just the ancient structures, but even modern offices, government buildings, and private homes all echoed a similar, distinct aesthetic. Our driver explained that this stems from Bali's strong community living , noting that every house features a temple oriented to the north and east, with daily life beginning with religious rituals and offerings . Everywhere we looked, the pervasive beauty of the frangipani trees only enhanced the island's unique charm.    The signature Balinese aesthetic flows through every house We checked into Ashoka Tree Resort, whe...