As a passionate traveler, nothing fills my heart with more joy than exploring the breathtaking creations of Allah. In 2019, I embarked on an unforgettable journey to Bali, Indonesia—a place that felt like heaven on Earth. The island’s vibrant culture, serene landscapes, and warm hospitality embraced me in a way that will forever remain etched in my memory.
One of the highlights of my trip was visiting a volcanic hill where I enjoyed lunch with a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. The sight of mist gently caressing the peaks, combined with the aroma of freshly cooked local delicacies, was nothing short of magical. Sitting there, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the beauty that Allah has scattered across this world.
Bali’s adventurous side also offered me a taste of thrill. From the adrenaline rush of paragliding, soaring high above the sparkling sea, to the enchanting underwater world I explored during scuba diving, each moment was exhilarating. The pristine beaches of Bali were a slice of paradise, where I watched the waves gently lap at the shore, leaving behind a sense of tranquility in my heart.
Another unforgettable experience was visiting a Luwak coffee plantation
where I witnessed the fascinating process of coffee bean fermentation. I also indulged in a delightful tea-tasting session, savoring 20 unique flavors that ranged from fruity to herbal. Each sip carried me deeper into Bali’s rich agricultural heritage.
Among my most cherished memories was swinging from a hilltop overlooking a lush tea garden. As I soared high, the gentle breeze brushed against my face, and the view beneath me felt like a painting brought to life. The endless rows of green tea leaves, interspersed with colorful flowers, created a mesmerizing scene. In that moment, I felt an unexplainable connection with nature—a sense of freedom and joy that words can hardly capture.
Bali gave me more than just beautiful memories; it gifted me a renewed appreciation for life’s simple pleasures and the divine artistry of nature. It’s a destination that captures your soul, leaving you yearning to return. This journey wasn’t just about discovering a place—it was about discovering peace, joy, and gratitude within myself.
Thrills of Bali: Paragliding, Scuba Diving, and the Hill Swing
Bali, Indonesia, isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience that captures your senses, challenges your boundaries, and fills your soul with awe. Among all the amazing things I did during my 2019 visit, three stood out as life-changing experiences: paragliding, scuba diving, and the breathtaking hill swing.
The Thrill of Paragliding: Flying Above Paradise
Paragliding over Bali was nothing short of extraordinary. The moment I was strapped into the harness and lifted off the ground, I felt a rush of exhilaration. Suspended high above the island, the world unfolded beneath me like a living canvas.
The blue ocean stretched endlessly, its waves shimmering in the sunlight, while the emerald-green rice terraces and scattered villages dotted the land below. The feeling of gliding through the air, weightless and free, is something words can barely describe. It was as though I had been given wings to soar above one of Allah’s most magnificent creations. The sound of the wind rushing past my ears was calming yet invigorating—a moment of pure connection with the universe.
Scuba Diving: A Journey Under the Waves
While paragliding took me high above the island, scuba diving immersed me in an entirely different world below the surface. Bali’s underwater landscape is a realm of wonder, teeming with vibrant marine life and coral reefs that look like underwater gardens.
As I descended into the clear, azure waters, I was surrounded by schools of colorful fish, their movements synchronized like a carefully choreographed dance. I spotted intricate coral formations in hues of pink, orange, and purple, each one a masterpiece of natural artistry. Swimming alongside graceful sea turtles and feeling the cool ocean currents, I felt like a guest in a magical underwater kingdom. It was a humbling reminder of the vastness and diversity of Allah’s creations, hidden beneath the waves.
The Magical Hill Swing: A Dance with the Sky
The hill swing in Bali was unlike anything I had ever experienced. Perched high above a lush tea garden, the swing offered not just an adventure, but an opportunity to soak in the breathtaking beauty of nature. As I sat on the swing and pushed off, I felt my feet leave the ground—and then came the incredible sensation of flying through the air.
The view was nothing short of spectacular. The rolling tea gardens stretched out in every direction, their vibrant green hues blending harmoniously with the distant mountains and open sky. The cool breeze kissed my skin as I swung higher and higher, and for a moment, time seemed to stand still. It was as though I was dancing with the sky, suspended between the earth and the heavens. The serenity of the tea gardens below and the thrill of the swing combined to create a moment of pure joy and freedom.
A Collection of Unforgettable Moments
Each of these experiences—paragliding, scuba diving, and the hill swing—brought its own kind of magic. They pushed me beyond my comfort zone and rewarded me with memories that will last a lifetime. In those moments, I felt fully alive, surrounded by the beauty and magnificence of Allah’s creations.
Bali is more than just a place to visit—it’s a destination that challenges you to see the world from new perspectives, whether from the skies, the sea, or a swing high above a verdant hill. It’s a journey that stays with you, long after you’ve left its shores.
Bali is not just a feast for the eyes but also for the taste buds and soul. During my journey to this enchanting island, I indulged in its diverse street foods and traditional delicacies, explored the intricate artistry of a Batik factory, and ended a day with a mesmerizing night cruise around the island’s serene waters.
Bali’s streets are alive with the aroma of sizzling woks and the chatter of food vendors. Trying Balinese street food was an adventure in itself—each bite a burst of flavors, spices, and culture. Here are some of the unforgettable dishes I tried:
Nasi Goreng
This classic Indonesian fried rice dish was served with a sunny-side-up egg, crispy shrimp crackers, and a side of spicy sambal chili. Its smoky, savory flavor paired with the slight heat from the sambal was simply irresistible.
Sate Lilit
This unique version of satay features minced fish or chicken wrapped around lemongrass stalks. Grilled to perfection, it had a smoky, slightly sweet taste that was wonderfully balanced by the freshness of the lemongrass.
Klepon
For dessert, I savored Klepon, delightful green rice balls filled with liquid palm sugar and coated in grated coconut. The explosion of sweetness as the sugar oozed out was a joyful surprise with every bite.
Exploring a Batik Factory: Art in Every Thread
One afternoon, I visited a traditional Batik factory, where I witnessed the intricate process of creating these iconic textiles. The air was filled with the scent of wax and dyes as skilled artisans worked tirelessly on their designs.
I watched as they dipped brushes into molten wax and meticulously painted delicate patterns onto the fabric. Once the wax designs were complete, the fabric was dyed in vibrant colors. The process was repeated with different layers of wax and dye until the final masterpiece emerged.
The Batik patterns told stories—of Bali’s lush landscapes, mythological creatures, and cultural symbols. It was fascinating to see how this age-old art form combined creativity and precision. I couldn’t resist bringing home a beautifully handcrafted Batik scarf as a keepsake of this inspiring experience.
A Magical Night Cruise: The Ocean Under the Stars
As night fell, I embarked on an unforgettable ocean cruise around Bali. The cruise, known as the Bali Hai Dinner Cruise, was a serene and luxurious way to experience the island from the water.
The evening began with soft traditional music playing as we set sail, the boat’s gentle rocking a soothing backdrop to the vibrant city lights that twinkled along the coastline. The sky turned deep indigo as stars began to appear, reflecting on the calm ocean waters.
Dinner was a delectable spread of Indonesian and international cuisine, including fresh seafood, grilled chicken, and tropical fruits. Each dish was bursting with flavor, enhanced by the salty ocean breeze.
The highlight of the night was stepping onto the deck after dinner to enjoy the cool sea air. The ocean shimmered under the moonlight, creating an almost surreal ambiance. The peacefulness of the water combined with the distant hum of the island nightlife was a moment of pure magic and reflection.
A Journey of the Senses
From savoring the bold and exotic flavors of Balinese street food to marveling at the artistry of Batik-making and the tranquil beauty of an ocean cruise, Bali offered me an experience that touched all my senses. It’s a destination where every moment is a discovery, every corner a story, and every memory a treasure.
