Discovering the Truth About Bali: Is it Really the Paradise You’ve Imagined?

So, I just spent ten days exploring the southern part of Bali and I’m feeling a little conflicted. I can’t decide if I’d ever want to go back. Don’t get me wrong, it’s definitely a beautiful place like most tropical islands. But is it worth enduring a 24-hour journey just to get there? That’s for you to decide. Let me break down the good and the bad of Bali for you.

Let’s start with the good stuff:

1. Warm water:

Living in Cape Town, I can tell you that Bali is an absolute dream for us locals, especially for surfers. They say that Bali is the ultimate destination for catching the perfect waves. The breaks are easily accessible, the lines are long and clean, and the sets are predictably amazing. Whether you have your own board or need to rent one, Bali has got you covered. They even have scooters available with surfboard attachments! When it comes to finding the perfect spot, Padang Padang in Uluwatu is an absolute gem. It’s a cozy cove that’s loved by both wave riders and beach bums. Plus, the best part is that the beers are cheap and you can enjoy them right on the beach.

2. Ideal weather conditions

One of the things that makes Bali so special is its incredible weather. It’s constantly warm and humid, which is a true blessing for those of us escaping the winter cold. Sure, it can get sticky, but it’s a small price to pay for the paradise-like climate. If you’re planning a trip to Bali, I suggest aiming for the dry season from May to October. While the rainy season from November to April is still warm, it can put a bit of a damper on your fun.

3. Bali has an exotic allure

When I first visited Bali, I was immediately captivated by its unique charm. The blend of intricately carved temples and humble homes, the beautiful Hindu tradition of offering baskets of flowers and rice to the deities, and the sight of elderly men in conical hats tending to rice paddies all created a mesmerizing tapestry. Everywhere I turned, my senses were greeted with captivating sights, sounds, and smells.

4. Amazing Cuisine

The food in Bali is absolutely fantastic! I made the mistake of trying Italian food at one of the many Italian restaurants on the island, and it just didn’t compare to the incredible flavors of Balinese cuisine. One of my favorite dishes was fish baked in banana leaves, infused with a blend of aromatic spices that I couldn’t even begin to name. The island also offers an array of spicy soups, rice dishes, and plenty of dishes that incorporate chili for those who enjoy a little extra kick. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

5. Warm and Welcoming Locals

When I visited Bali, I was pleasantly surprised by the genuine and kind-hearted people I encountered. They treated me with respect and warmth, making me feel welcomed and appreciated. It was a refreshing experience, especially because I often feel like an ignorant tourist in new places.

The affordability of transportation in Bali was another highlight. Once I arrived, getting around was incredibly cheap. We hired a driver who only charged the equivalent of R25 per hour, which is much less expensive than what I’m used to. Additionally, the cost of fuel was significantly lower than in South Africa, making it even more affordable. Scooters were also readily available for hire, making it easy to explore the entire island, including the airport.

But there are a few downsides:

1. The beaches in Bali may not meet all aesthetic expectations. They are more suitable for surfing and swimming rather than simply admiring their beauty. The sand varies in color, ranging from yellow to black, and the water may not have that picturesque turquoise hue that many people associate with tropical destinations like the Maldives. While the beaches are still enjoyable, they may not match the postcard-perfection one might envision.

2. The clothes aren’t cheap

So, I heard about this place called Seminyak, where they say you can find some really cool clothes at a great price. I gotta say, I wasn’t quite convinced. Sure, the streets were lined with all sorts of fashionable boutiques, shoe stores, and silver shops. But when I looked at the price tags, they were almost the same as what I’d pay back home in South Africa. If you’re really out to snag a good deal, my advice would be to stick to sarongs.

3. It takes 24 hours to get there

Let me tell you, heading to Bali from South Africa is no picnic. It’s a long haul, 24 hours of travel to be exact. And boy, does it come with a jetlag. Trust me, the flights aren’t cheap either. I shelled out a sweet R12,000 just for my return trip on Singapore Airlines. And let’s not forget about the struggle to sleep those first few nights. That’s why I swear by sleeping tablets, my secret weapon for overcoming the time difference and getting some decent shut-eye!

4. Drinks that cost a pretty penny

Luckily, Bali’s local and much-loved beer, Bintang, is absolutely delicious. And trust me, unless you’re loaded with cash, that’s pretty much all you’re going to be drinking. Spirits here cost a fortune, averaging around R140 per shot. And don’t even get me started on the overpriced, watered-down bottles of wine, which will leave you with a wallet that’s about R350 lighter. But here’s a little tip: each visitor is allowed to bring in a liter of liquor duty-free. So, grab yourself a bottle at the airport and choose wisely.

5. You’re not alone

If you’re looking for a genuine Balinese experience, away from the hustle and bustle of Australian tourists, then I suggest steering clear of popular tourist towns like Kuta and Seminyak. Instead, head inland or opt for a rural self-catering villa or a cozy backpacker’s hostel tucked away in the heart of the island. Trust me, it’s a much better way to soak up the local culture than staying at an overcrowded beachfront hotel.

6. Traffic troubles

If you’re not a confident driver, I wouldn’t recommend renting a scooter in Bali. The roads are always crowded, and Balinese drivers don’t give you much breathing room. However, the upside is that people don’t drive too fast, and since there are more scooters than cars, the overall driving style, although it may seem erratic, is somewhat accommodating.

So, is Bali worth the visit? If you have money to spare and you’re looking for a relaxing holiday rather than an adventurous trip, then Bali is a great choice. It’s laid-back, warm, and easygoing, with a wide range of accommodations that offer good value for your money. During my stay, I enjoyed Villa the Shore in Seseh and Villa Sunset in Nusa Dua.

However, if you’re looking for a travel experience that’s more affordable and offers more opportunities for exploration, I would suggest considering destinations like Malaysia, which are easier to reach and have a lot to offer. Alternatively, you could also explore options closer to South Africa, such as Mauritius, Reunion, and Mozambique, which provide similar experiences to Bali at a fraction of the cost.