Photo credit: DrewScott
As temperatures start to drop and snow falls, it's easy to find reasons to hop aboard a plane and head to the "Island of the Gods," also known as Bali. Bali's rich culture, show-stopping beauty, friendly locals, and dirt cheap prices (once you arrive) are reasons visitors head back to the island paradise year after year. As you start to consider warm-weather destinations for your winter getaway in early 2016, these 10 reasons to visit Bali are guaranteed to swing your decision toward this small island in Indonesia.
1. It's Always Summer
If you're truly searching for the "endless summer," Bali is the place to be. The island, situated 8-degrees south of the equator, boasts an average temperature of 28-degrees Celsius with roughly 12 to 13 hours of daylight every day of the year.
2. It's the Island of the Gods
Photo credit: Joan Campderros-i-Canas
Bali's nickname "Island of the Gods" is more than fitting. The island is littered with some of the world's most picturesque temples, situated on the highest mountain peaks, on top of jagged cliffs, and just steps from the sea. Roughly 90-percent of Balinese people are Hindu, and your visit is guaranteed to coincide with one of the island's countless colorful ceremonies.
3. Balinese Food
Few destinations in the world will make you miss their food quite like Bali. The meal prices, typically ranging from $1 to $3 for a delicious Balinese meal of fried rice or noodles with fresh fish, shrimp or chicken, are guaranteed to make you like the food a little more. However, the island specializes in it's own unique cuisine, which ranges from spicy minced meat skewers (sates) to stuffed duck and fresh fish or prawns pulled out of the sea and grilled to perfection.
4. The Prices
Photo credit: Sarah_Ackerman
Bali's low prices span far beyond the island's foods. Once you arrive, you'll find accommodation prices that are a fraction of those in other popular tourist destinations. Souvenirs, tours, motorbike rentals, surfboards, clothing and countless other items are known for being extremely affordable in Bali. However, you shouldn't forget to brush up on your bargaining skills before you go.
5. The Adventure
Whether you're interested in surfing some of the world's best waves, trekking the active Mount Batur volcano or mastering your yoga skills in Ubud, there's an adventure waiting around every corner on Bali.
6. You Can Make Last-Minute Plans
Photo credit: Graeme Churchard
You don't have to visit the island of Bali with a set itinerary of what you want to see and do. The island is littered with accommodation options ranging from $10-per-night backpacker hostels to five-star luxury resorts. The overabundance of places to stay on the island means you can change plans at a moment's notice and not have to worry about finding a hotel that suits your budget and needs.
7. The People
It's impossible not to catch the infectious Balinese smile during your stay. The people of Bali, even those who are trying their hardest to convince you to buy souvenirs, are always friendly with a contagious sense of humor. You'll find that some of your best moments on the island are those spent with a jovial tour guide, hotel staff member or a shop owner that makes you feel at home in their piece of paradise.
8. The Unbelievable Beaches
Photo credit: Sarah_Ackerman
Bali is an island surrounded by beaches, ranging from huge expanses of golden sand to shady caves surrounded by cliffs. The province of Bali also includes a number of small outer lying islands, many of which are famous for their postcard beaches, like Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Penida and Nusa Ceningan.
9. The Rice Terraces
Bali's natural beauty comes in countless forms, but the rice terraces create some of the island's most awe-inspiring backdrops. The Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Ubud are a famous place for snapping photos of what feels like the brightest greens you'll ever see, and those in Jatiluwih offer less-crowded places to hike and small villages to explore. It doesn't matter where you spend most of your time on your visit to Bali, a day-trip to the rice paddies is always essential.
10. You're Destined to Relax
Photo credit: Matthias Ripp
When the hustle and bustle of the holidays passes, a relaxing getaway should be the next item on your agenda. Bali is an island that encourages you to sit under a palm tree and shed the weight on your shoulders. Whether you're interested in the island's ultra affordable spas, a budget-friendly all-inclusive getaway or days spent exploring without a worry in sight, Bali, and its smiling people, encourage you to experience a more laid-back lifestyle.
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