21 Day Birthday Adventure (part 5)

My final stop on this whirlwind adventure was the enchanting island of Bali. Acting on my driver’s suggestion, I decided to split my time between two cities: Ubud and Kuta. As luck would have it, entering the country was a breeze thanks to the online visa paperwork I’d completed beforehand. Waiting for me at the airport was my dependable driver and tour guide, Jony, ready to usher me into this new chapter of exploration.

Our first detour en route to the hotel was a delightful visit to a small, family-run coffee plantation. Amidst the lush greenery, I embarked on a tour, tried my hand at some coffee and tea tasting. I didn’t dare to sample the famed Kopi Luwak. Kori Luwak is said to be the most expensive coffee in the world. The lemongrass tea won me over with its refreshing taste.

Upon checking into the Westin Resort & Spa Ubud, Jony and I huddled together to plan out our escapades for the upcoming days. Understanding the importance of beating the crowds, we agreed to set out early each morning. With plans in place, I took advantage of some well-deserved pool time before indulging in a complimentary cocktail hour as a cherished Marriott Bonvoy member.

The following day kicked off with a thrilling visit to the original Bali Swing. Decked out in a vibrant yellow dress, I opted for the photo package and gleefully posed at each of the picturesque stations. Our adventures continued with stops at the Art Village and the stunning Kanto Lampo Waterfall, where a talented local photographer captured the essence of my journey with breathtaking photos and videos.

As hunger pangs set in, Jony and I sought refuge in a nearby local restaurant, where we shared stories and delved deeper into Balinese culture over a hearty meal. Following a brief siesta back at the hotel, I rejoined the festivities at cocktail hour before retiring for the night, eagerly anticipating the adventures that lay ahead.

Our early morning excursions became a familiar routine as we explored iconic landmarks like Heaven Gate, Tirta Gangga, and a black sand beach. Despite the long drives and occasional waits, each experience left an indelible mark, particularly the unforgettable Heaven’s Gate photoshoot.

Before transitioning to Kuta, we ventured to the terraced rice paddies of Tegallalang and the sacred waters of Tirta Empul. Amidst the lush greenery of Tegallalang, I marveled at the intricate beauty of the terraced fields, capturing the essence of Bali’s agricultural heritage. At Tirta Empul, I participated in a purification ritual, immersing myself in the sacred waters—a truly transformative experience.

Transitioning to Kuta brought its own set of challenges, notably the infamous traffic congestion. Yet, nestled across the street from the beach, the Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort offered a haven of tranquility amidst the chaos. In my remaining days, I savored moments of relaxation at the spa, leisurely strolls along the beach, and culinary adventures that tantalized my taste buds. Of course, no trip to Bali would be complete without a visit to the Pandora store, conveniently located within the resort’s attached mall.

Reflecting on my time in Bali, I’m struck by the sheer breadth of experiences this magical island has to offer. A heartfelt thank you to Jony Bali Transports for guiding me through this unforgettable journey.

Until next time.. See you around the playground.