Listly by Brad Smith
Even if it hasn't been your day, your week, your month or even your year, these five things to do in Bali when hanging out with your friends is sure to turn things around.
It is not for no reason that the beaches are scattered with many a Bali surf resort. Sit on the beach, grab a beer or a cocktail, and feast your eyes on the dance of man/woman with waves. As each wave rises, your heart will rise with it, and cheer for the courageous soul who is out there head butting nature. You can even pick favourites among the surfers, and have a fun and well-meaning discussion with your friends on the pros and cons of each. There is nothing like a friendly ear to complain/praise to and nothing like a friend's hand to clutch as your favourite surfer goes up against the waves.
Dancing and music is one thing you will encounter wherever you go in Bali. From beaches to streets to temples, dancing is an integral part of the Balinese culture. Join a class or take a short course on traditional Balinese dance with your friends so you can all learn some new moves. Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort offers such classes for their guests. You might end up falling in love with the fluid motions of the Balinese culture. Besides, it would always look good back at home, when you and the squad bust out synchronized exotic dance moves at a random party.
Put your newly acquired moves (see above) to good use at one of the many beach parties that are always happening at Bali. Padang Padang beach is well-known for their Saturday night beach parties, where the turnout is great, music is amazing and the atmosphere is electric. What better way to make memories with your buds than to dance the night away at an exotic location!
A simple and fun way to travel in Bali is to rent a moto. Spend a few days of your vacation on motos, riding around the island, visiting its many glorious beaches. The ride will give you much-needed bonding time, and of course be the best way to create memories. Being on your own, there is better chance of sticking to your own itinerary and an even better chance of generating stories of an unforgettable vacation. Some of the beaches that deserve honorary mention, therefore must-visit, are Uluwatu Beach, Padang Padang Beach, Bingin Beach and Dreamland Beach.
Why visit a beach if you are not going to watch every sunset. The glorious display of colours as the Sun bids adieu for the day is unique from day to day, from beach to beach. The atmosphere that this moment of ending creates is of such intimacy that you must bask in its glory, in companionable silence. The sunsets in Bali will make you feel grateful for the company around you – for it is not every day that a group of friends get the chance to raise a glass to the giver of life.