Bali has been popular with tourists since the 1980’s.

The landscape is beautiful, the beaches are picture perfect, there is great hiking, friendly locals, world-class dining, and it’s inexpensive.

A beautiful arrival

Bali is a haven for surfers, honeymooners and families alike, with a profusion of artists, dancers, musicians, and temple-goers herding to its shores each year.

As we drove down, crossing the sea link ~ literally a 20-minute drive from the airport ~ I came upon what looked like a gated upmarket area of the island, Nusa Dua, which is home to a swarm of high-end hotels.

Arrival to The Westin Resort Nusa Dua felt pretty distinguished and peaceful. Tree lined walking paths, dapper beaches and trimmed gardens, leading up to our residence for the next few days gave us a sense of comfort and joy. After our check-in and my Chilean wine dinner at Velada Tapas bar and kitchen Biryani, I was all ready to explore Bali after a good night’s rest the next day! I had booked a few excursions from the ICS travel group in India itself and Palanisamy, the India representative, did a smart thing by connecting me to the Bali representation over WhatsApp ~ saved me a lot of money on unnecessary phone calls.

Eat, pray, love

The ambiance inclines to be that of seashore parties or Zenlike sanctuaries, contingent on which part of the island you go to. Ubud is rich in old-style Barong dance and local crafts markets. A stop at the Ibu Oka restaurant just opposite the Palace is an absolute must for some decadent local food. For dessert and coffee check out this place called There is Always Room for Dessert after you are done shopping in Ubud. And if you want a taste of incredible seafood, head to the coasts at Kuta.

There are so many unbelievable temples in Bali you may need to decide which you would prefer to see. I would definitely recommend Tanah Lot, which is also home to amazing scenery besides the temple. A good idea is to stop by at one of the restaurants overlooking the rice terraces over a lunch of Mee Goreng enroute Tanah lot.

Uluwatu is fantastic for a day trip to visit all those spectacular beaches, clifftop visions and the temple, of course. Do stay back here for the local Balinese Kecak dance performance at sunset ~ not only is it a terrific peek into the local culture but absolutely entertaining as well.

Seaside local dining

With an endless expanse of the Indian Ocean within sight, Ikan Restaurant and Bar, with its far-reaching beach views, is the perfect all day dining location and spreads its charm creating the perfect setting to relax and indulge in anything from a hearty lunch to a romantic dinner.

In fact, you may find yourself lazing around for lunch, cocktails and dinner as it isn’t very difficult to pass time here, enjoying the views and winds caressing you.

The local Indonesian food is to die for here, right from Satays to Mee and Nasi Goreng and other delicacies. On offer are also Dream Dinner Packages, which means dining in a cocoon by the sea side ~ you can choose your menu of course.

The perfect place for an alluring night of romance with attentive but not intrusive service… A place to impress your loved one!

Heavenly spa

The best part of staying at The Westin Resort Nua Dua was, of course the Spa, as well as the unique products that are used in the signature treatments. As the massage had a therapeutic effect, I was hypnotized with nature's sounds and soothing background music.

Truly, vital statistics are minor contributors to one's beauty. Much more important is the state of mind that sits in the hands of the dedicated therapist.

This is your time ~ the rest of the world can wait.

FACT FILE

Best way to reach: You could fly Thai Airways, it has the best connectivity.

Sightseeing: ICS Travel Group is a leading destination management company providing a wide range of travel services in Asia.

For more information log on to https://icstravelgroup.com/ Bestplacetostay:The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Kawasan Pariwisata Nusa Dua, BTDC Lot N-3, Nusa Dua 80363, Bali, Indonesia; Tel: +62 361 771 906.