Bali

Bali: A Dream Getaway for Adventure Seekers and Relaxation Lovers

Bali is one of the most sought-after travel destinations, known for its rich culture, stunning beaches, and affordable luxury. My trip to Bali, which I planned for a group of 21 people, was one of the most memorable experiences of my life. Even though it's the farthest I've traveled from San Diego, it ranks in my top five destinations due to the perfect blend of adventure, luxury, and natural beauty.

Where We Stayed: Villa Wiljoba in Canggu

We booked the amazing Villa Wiljoba in Canggu, a massive villa with a full staff that included cooks, drivers, and maids. Their attention to detail and hospitality made our stay incredibly comfortable. Canggu was an ideal location—central to all the activities we wanted to do and within walking distance to Finns Beach Club, one of the best beach clubs in the world. This area is also packed with excellent restaurants, bars, and nightlife. You can check out Villa Wiljoba here.

If you're looking for something a bit more secluded and scenic, I recommend staying in Uluwatu, famous for its cliffs and quieter, more laid-back atmosphere.

Unforgettable Day Trip: Komodo Island

One of the highlights of the trip was a one-day excursion to the Komodo National Park, home to the world-famous Komodo dragons. We took a 45-minute flight from Bali to Labuan Bajo (Komodo Airport), where our guide from Dragon Island Tours picked us up for a speedboat tour to explore the surrounding islands. The four stops on our itinerary were:

1. Padar Island – A photographer’s paradise with its panoramic viewpoints over turquoise waters and white-sand beaches.
2. Pink Beach – A stunning shoreline with naturally pink sand due to a mixture of coral fragments and sand.
3. Manta Point – A top snorkeling and diving spot where you can swim with the majestic manta rays.
4. Komodo Island – The only place in the world where you can see Komodo dragons in their natural habitat.

This full-day adventure was absolutely breathtaking, from hiking Padar Island’s steep trails to watching the giant dragons roam free on Komodo Island. After the tour, we returned to the airport and flew back to Bali by evening. If you're planning a similar trip, I highly recommend Dragon Island Tours for their exceptional service. Their Whatsapp is +62 859-5525-5401, tell them Connors big group referred you!

Top Activities in Bali

Beyond the island-hopping adventure, Bali offers a wide range of activities for all kinds of travelers. Here are some of the must-do experiences:

1. Mason Elephant Sanctuary: Located in Ubud, this sanctuary lets you interact with and even ride elephants in the water. The sanctuary is committed to ethical animal tourism, focusing on the care and preservation of these incredible creatures. I suggest combining this with a visit to the nearby Monkey Forest. Check out the sanctuary’s website here.
2. Dirt Biking: For adrenaline seekers, Bali offers thrilling dirt biking experiences through volcanic landscapes, forests, beaches, and jungles. Bali Dirt Bikes organizes tours that cater to all levels, whether you're an experienced rider or a beginner. More info here.
3. Scuba Diving: Bali is a world-class scuba diving destination, and I was able to get 17 of my friends PADI-certified through Bali Fun Diving. Their team was incredibly accommodating, especially for such a large group. We dived at the USS Liberty shipwreck, a fascinating dive site featuring a sunken WWII American ship. You can learn more about diving options here.

Culinary and Nightlife Highlights: Cretya in Ubud

When it comes to nightlife and unique experiences, Cretya Ubud is a must-visit. Situated in the heart of the lush jungle, Cretya offers a one-of-a-kind experience combining a tropical infinity pool, jungle views, and fine dining. During the day, it’s a stunning place to relax, and by night, it transforms into a lively hotspot with vibrant music, making it a perfect spot to end a day of adventures.