Bali had been on my list forever, and it exceeded every expectation. This island has a way of slowing you down and making you appreciate the simple things.
Ubud, the heart of it
We based ourselves in Ubud, surrounded by rice terraces and jungle. Every morning started with yoga overlooking the valley, followed by a smoothie bowl at one of the cutest cafés I have ever seen. The Tegallalang terraces are even more stunning in person — layer upon layer of vivid green cascading down the hillside.
The water temple
Tirta Empul was a deeply moving experience. Standing in the sacred springs during the purification ritual felt like washing away all the stress of ordinary life. The Balinese have such a beautiful relationship with their spirituality.
“The best luxury is stillness. I came home feeling like a completely new person.”
On the last evening, the Kecak fire dance at Uluwatu as the sun set behind the cliff temple — pure magic, and the right way to say goodbye.