Bali Indonesia

Embarking on our Bali adventure today. The journey followed the familiar ritual of airports: standing in endless queues, navigating immigration, and dutifully completing forms that seemingly vanish into administrative oblivion. Despite the travel fatigue, the promise of Bali’s lush landscapes and vibrant culture made every tedious moment worthwhile.

However, after traveling via Singapore, when I landed in Denpasar airport in Bali, I was immediately struck by the contrast. Instead of the sterile international airport experience, Denpasar welcomed me with stunning traditional artwork adorning the walls, an absence of the usual luxury retail bombardment, and the gentle, mesmerizing sounds of live Balinese gamelan music floating through the terminal. This authentic cultural immersion began right at the airport gates, signalling that perhaps Bali would be a journey unlike any other.

Then I visited the toilet and a different kind of surprise awaited me – no attendant, moderately dirty and a paucity of stalls, something that I am not accustomed to anymore because the toilets at Bangalore, India airport are all exceptionally well maintained

Then came another unwelcome surprise: the luggage wait. For nearly an hour, we stood watching the empty carousel slowly rotate, each minute dragging by with agonizing slowness. As bags trickled out at an almost imperceptible pace, what should have been a simple process transformed into a test of patience that stretched nerves to their breaking point. I had to remind myself to be patient as everyone else around me seemed perfectly fine with the delay, or may be they were not, but I did not want to stand out like a sore thumb in front of the happy holidayers!!

The hotel driver stood waiting with a warm, genuine smile that immediately melted away my weariness. His calm, welcoming demeanor washed over me like a wave of relief, instantly dissolving the accumulated tension and restoring my depleted patience.

We started the ninety-minute journey toward the hotel, winding our way from the airport. While the airport surroundings showcased the island’s picturesque charm, the deeper we ventured into Ubud, my first destination, the more familiar the landscape became. The narrow, bustling streets with their uneven surfaces and eclectic mix of vehicles reminded me of the small towns of India. Perhaps there’s a universal language to rural roadways—regardless of continent or culture, they speak of unhurried lives, practical necessities, and the humdrum rhythm of local existence

The hotel where we are staying is beautiful and is very eco friendly. It seamlessly integrates eco-friendly practices throughout its beautiful design, creating a serene retreat that honors Bali’s lush landscape while treading lightly upon

Here are some pics of the hotel.

Tomorrow, we will begin our exploration of Ubud, Bali. Till then have a good night!!