From rice fields to paradise: A journey through Bali and Gili Trawangan

About the destination: Ubud is a town on the Indonesian island of Bali in Ubud District, located amongst rice paddies and steep ravines in the central foothills of the Gianyar regency. Promoted as an arts and culture centre, it has developed a large tourism industry. Ubud has a population of about 30,000 people. It can be difficult for visitors to distinguish the town itself from the 13 villages that surround it. The area surrounding the town is made up of small farms, rice paddies, and dense forest.

About the destination: Nestled on the northern coast of Bali, Lovina offers a serene and tranquil escape from the bustling tourist hubs of the island. This charming destination is renowned for its unique black sand beaches, which are a result of volcanic activity. Unlike the crowded beaches of Kuta and Seminyak, Lovina provides a peaceful setting ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation. The gentle waves and calm waters make it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities. One of the highlights of a visit to Lovina is the opportunity to witness its famous dolphin tours. At the break of dawn, local fishermen take visitors out to sea to observe playful dolphins frolicking in their natural habitat. This magical experience is often accompanied by a stunning sunrise, casting a golden hue over the tranquil waters. For those interested in marine life, Lovina also boasts excellent snorkeling and diving spots, teeming with vibrant coral reefs and diverse underwater creatures. The cultural richness of Lovina is equally captivating. The area is dotted with traditional Balinese villages where you can immerse yourself in the local way of life. Explore the lush rice paddies, visit ancient temples, and enjoy traditional Balinese dance performances. The nearby Banjar Hot Springs and Brahma Vihara Arama Buddhist Monastery are also worth a visit, offering a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into Bali's spiritual heritage. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Lovina has something for everyone. Its laid-back atmosphere, combined with the natural beauty and cultural experiences, makes it an ideal destination for travelers looking to explore the quieter side of Bali. Don't forget to indulge in the local cuisine at one of the many beachfront restaurants, where you can savor fresh seafood while watching the sun set over the horizon. Lovina is a hidden gem that promises a memorable and enriching travel experience.

About the destination: Candi Dasa is a seaside town in eastern Bali that rests on the edge of a fresh water lagoon. It is popular tourist stop and is often described as a more sedate and laid back beach alternative to the teeming, nightclub filled Kuta area or the large, manicured resorts at Nusa Dua. Most sources say a fishing village was founded on the site by the 12th century and before the modern name of Candi Dasa was adopted it was known as both Teluk Kehen ("Bay of Fire") and Cilidasa. There is a temple near the lagoon, with a statue of the fertility goddess Hariti surrounded by a group of children, and cilidasa translates from Balinese as "ten children", so many Balinese who want to have children go on pilgrimage to this place. The modern name is thought to be a corruption of this older name. The town began to catch on as a tourist destination in the 1970s, since there is good snorkelling and diving in the area and the town provides easy access to other destinations in eastern Bali.

About the destination: The 3 Gili Islands Air, Meno and Trawangan (west of Lombok) lure with white sand beaches, turquoise waters and diving and snorkeling grounds. In particular, Gili Trawangan is well-developed for tourism, divers, day trips, backpackers and "co-workers" share the beaches, resorts, restaurants, bars and chill-out spots. Arriving from Lombok airport: transfer to Gili Trawangan takes about 20 minutes (transfer is possible). The months of April to November are the best time to travel. In the off-season it is quieter, the sea can be disturbed and possibly not swimming.

About the destination: Sanur (Indonesian:Pantai Sanur, pronounced sah-noor) is a coastal stretch of beach of Denpasar city of southeast Bali, about 30 minutes drive from Ngurah Rai International Airport, which has grown into a little town in its own right. A 5.1 kilometer area of Sanur's coastline, from Matahari Terbit Beach to Mertasari Beach, was reclaimed in 2008.