It is also the largest tourist destination of the country. It's no wonder with the many beaches of pure white sand and exotic black sand, coral reefs surrounding the entire island. Indian Ocean in the expanse view.
Post 9/11, the 2002 Bali bombings was one of the worst in our modern history. It's the worst act of terrorism in Indonesian history. But don't let this deter you from the island's beauty.
6 years later, M and I set foot on the island.
And it immediately hits you. The people. Their pride and resilience. With the many beach front hotel properties dotting the coastline of Bali (read: massive tourist crowd), I opted to put us up for the next few days, in a boutique villa hotel in the sleepy fishing town of Sanur.
We got the best of the worlds staying in The Gangsa by the unmistable Kayumanis group. With less than 20 villas, staying at The Gangsa exceeded our expectations. For someone who is working in the hospitality industry, M was thoroughly impressed.
Upon arrival, we were received by the airport's representatives and given priority clearance at the immigration upon arrival (and again at departure). Airport transfer to and from the hotel. Every imaginable hospitable gestures you could think of. I opted for a "Romance package" which includes a picnic in a higher altitude "surprise" spot on the island and a candle lit dinner in the privacy of our villa.
But really, it's about the island, and its people. The Balinese will go out of their way to make your stay more comfortable and pleasurable. Sure, like in all cultures and developing cities, there will be oppotunistic people but put that aside.
My word of advice when in Bali, go with the flow and enjoy what the island and its people have to offer.
You'll be dreaming of returning to the island as soon as you give that credit card to the front desk upon check-out.
