05 Irresistible Things about Bali – The island of thousand temples

Bali is not all about the beaches, it has also got several majestic waterfalls to take in as well. If you are keen to get away from the maddening crowds for the day and immerse yourself in nature, consider heading to Sekumpul Waterfalls. Those visiting will need to take on a 40-minute hike to get to the base of the waterfall, where one can cool off in the refreshing spring waters surrounded by lush tropical forests.

Balinese cuisine is diverse and varied and promises to offer even the most discerning of foodies an assortment of culinary indulgences. While it is definitely hard to single out one particular dish, there are several key signature dishes one must take the time to sample. Some top dishes to try include sate lilit, gado-gado, nasi goreng, daluman and kopi luwak just to name a few. In addition to local dishes, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants that offer fusion and vegan options.

At Diamond Beach, powdery soft white sands complement impossibly blue waters against a backdrop of gently swaying palm trees at the very base of an imposing limestone cliff. In short, Diamond Beach, located in the famed Nusa Penida Island, has snagged the coveted title of the most beautiful place, Bali, and therefore demands a visit. The beach is a lovely spot to simply lay back and enjoy the sun, sea and endless blue skies. This attraction is top-rated so do note that it can get extremely crowded at certain points of the day.

There is no doubt that gaining insight into the exotic Balinese culture will genuinely enhance your visit greatly. Simply because in the Balinese culture – expression is omnipresent – and familiarity will offer you the chance to put everything you experience into context. Consider taking in the many temples of the island, (Bali is known as the island of thousand temples) noting Balinese architecture, watching traditional dances and appreciating the many arts and handicrafts of the Balinese people – which span furniture making, painting, jewellery and wood and stone carving. The possibilities are truly endless.

Verdant and lush, Bali's signature valley of rice paddies has fast become synonymous with travel on this beautiful island, systematically capturing the heart of all those who visit. To take in this popular phenomena make your way to the Tegalalang Rice Terraces in the early morning as mid-morning and afternoons tend to get quite busy. Most Uluwatu resorts including the likes of Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort will be happy to oblige guests by arranging for a visit upon request.