Known as the “Island of the Gods,” Bali is famous for its shimmering beauty and fascinating culture. Hundreds of Hindu temples, towering mountains and verdant rice terraces form a spectacular backdrop to the charm of the Balinese people. Here are mysterious volcanic lakes and jungle-shrouded volcanoes, wondrous ancient temples, fabulously creative painters and wood-carvers, and the legendary dancers who re-enact the stories of their Hindu deities.
How long does it take to fly to paradise? Well if you are flying out of Los Angeles, you can get to Bali in about 22 hours (ouch!) Out of JFK you are looking at 1 day + 2 hour and out of Miami 1 day + 6 hours.
When is the best time to go? The weather stays around 85 degrees year round. Rainy season is from October through March. March however is when many of the annual festivals are held. June and September seem to be the peak travel months of tourists, as well as major U.S. holidays so you will find the hotels and airfare more expensive during this time. May and October are better options to save some money.
One of our favorite properties is the COMO Shambhala Estate (pictured above,) which is north of Ubud nestled in the lush Forest above the sacred Ayung River. There are 5 separate areas themed after nature’s 5 elements. Enjoy activities such as hiking, rowing, climbing, white water rafting, yoga, Pilates or Tai chi.
For a beach front property, consider the St. Regis Bali Resort located in the exclusive locale of Nusa Dua. It is about a 20 minute ride from the Bali International Airport. There are 81 suites and 41 villas available. Each villa comes with Butler service.
Ubud Hanging Gardens is set among smoky volcanoes and emerald rice terraces in the heart of Bali. It is an ideal place for a honeymoon or romantic getaway. The hotel is on a gorge with an exquisite temple on the opposite cliff. Each villas has its own heated infinity pool. In addition to offering incredible scenery, the resort has many activities including wellness classes, cooking and painting classes, botanical and volcano tours and even a Balinese blessing that is said to cleanse the soul and purify the body. There is a daily shuttle into Ubud’s town center so no need to rent a car. Rates in October start at $360 USD per night.
