Bali: playas paradisiacas, Estela

About the destination: Known as the Island of the Gods, Bali has seduced sun worshipers, divers, surfers and travelers for spirituality for decades. The landscape is exuberant and overwhelming, a whole set of volcanic mountains, lush jungle, white sand beaches and emerald green rice fields that are there for you to discover. Spend your days doing sports and visiting places, or surrender to the leisurely pace and exceptional beauty of this island of the Indian Ocean. Sprawling, hectic and ever-growing, Bali's capital has been the focus of a lot of the island's growth and wealth over the last five decades. It can seem a daunting and chaotic place, but spend a little time on its tree-lined streets in the relatively affluent government and business district of Renon and you'll discover a more genteel side. Denpasar might not be a tropical paradise, but it's as much a part of 'the real Bali' as the rice paddies and clifftop temples. This is the hub of the island for more than one million locals and here you will find their shopping malls and parks. Most enticing, however, are the authentic restaurants and cafes aimed at the burgeoning middle class.

About the destination: Ubud is a town on the Indonesian island of Bali in Ubud District, located amongst rice paddies and steep ravines in the central foothills of the Gianyar regency. Promoted as an arts and culture centre, it has developed a large tourism industry. Ubud has a population of about 30,000 people. It can be difficult for visitors to distinguish the town itself from the 13 villages that surround it. The area surrounding the town is made up of small farms, rice paddies, and dense forest.

About the destination: Canggu is a coastal village and 10 km beach on the south coast of Bali, Indonesia. It lies approximately 10 kilometers north of Kuta, and presents a much more relaxing atmosphere of dining, cultural and beach activities. The main Canggu streets are Jalan Batu Bolong, Jalan Padang Linjong, Jalan Batu Mejan and Jalan Tanah Barak. Along Jalan Batu Bolong you find the temple of the dead, Pura Merajapati, and the Pipitan Cemetery. Along the beach there are two main temples, Pura Batu Bolong and Pura Batu Mejan, which are both hundreds of years old and were initiated for building by Dang Hyang Nirartha. The Canggu area used to have scenic views of paddy fields and coconut groves but current rapid developments are quickly replacing these traditional views with private villas. Canggu has gained popularity among surfers as a longboard-friendly surf spot, one of the few on the island. Three main strips have developed for tourists - surfers and non-surfers alike. The spotlight on the area as a surf destination has been helped along by the presence of Deus Ex Machina's Bali outpost, the Deus Temple of Enthusiasm, and its annual contest that focuses on classic single fin longboarding.

About the destination: Welcome to Uluwatu, Bali's Cliffside Sanctuary Perched on the edge of towering limestone cliffs on the Bukit Peninsula of Bali, Indonesia, Uluwatu is a destination that offers travelers an enchanting blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and surf-infused excitement. As you arrive, the salty breeze and the rhythmic sound of the Indian Ocean waves set the tone for a serene yet adventurous getaway. Breathtaking Beaches and Legendary Surf Breaks Uluwatu is synonymous with its world-renowned surf spots. Surfers from across the globe make the pilgrimage to ride the perfect waves at beaches like Padang Padang, Bingin, and the iconic Uluwatu Beach itself. Even if you're not a surfer, these pristine stretches of sand, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and accessed by descending steep steps, offer a peaceful escape and some of the clearest aquamarine waters you'll ever see. Time your visit with the tide, as the beaches can disappear under the waves at high tide, adding to the area's mysterious allure. Cultural Experiences and Spiritual Sites Beyond the surf, Uluwatu is steeped in Balinese culture. The star attraction is the Pura Luhur Uluwatu Temple, one of Bali's six key spiritual pillars and renowned for its magnificent location, 70 meters above the crashing ocean. Be sure to stick around for the captivating Kecak fire dance performed at sunset, where the chanting of local performers and the dramatic backdrop of the setting sun create a truly mesmerizing experience. Remember to respect the sacred nature of the site by dressing modestly and following local customs. Chic Stays and Gastronomic Delights Accommodations in Uluwatu range from luxury clifftop resorts to intimate boutique hotels, catering to all preferences and providing stunning ocean vistas. Many of these establishments feature infinity pools that seem to blend into the horizon, offering the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploration. Culinary experiences in Uluwatu are just as diverse, with a variety of dining options from traditional Indonesian warungs serving up local dishes to upscale restaurants offering international cuisine. As the sun dips below the horizon, Uluwatu's laid-back yet sophisticated nightlife comes alive, with cliffside bars and beach clubs providing the ideal setting for a tropical evening. Conclusion Uluwatu, with its raw natural beauty, cultural spectacles, and surf culture, is more than just a destination; it's a vibrant escape that promises a sense of adventure and tranquility. Whether you're catching the surf, exploring ancient temples, or simply soaking up the sun on a secluded beach, Uluwatu is sure to leave an indelible mark on your heart.

About the destination: Known as the Island of the Gods, Bali has seduced sun worshipers, divers, surfers and travelers for spirituality for decades. The landscape is exuberant and overwhelming, a whole set of volcanic mountains, lush jungle, white sand beaches and emerald green rice fields that are there for you to discover. Spend your days doing sports and visiting places, or surrender to the leisurely pace and exceptional beauty of this island of the Indian Ocean. Sprawling, hectic and ever-growing, Bali's capital has been the focus of a lot of the island's growth and wealth over the last five decades. It can seem a daunting and chaotic place, but spend a little time on its tree-lined streets in the relatively affluent government and business district of Renon and you'll discover a more genteel side. Denpasar might not be a tropical paradise, but it's as much a part of 'the real Bali' as the rice paddies and clifftop temples. This is the hub of the island for more than one million locals and here you will find their shopping malls and parks. Most enticing, however, are the authentic restaurants and cafes aimed at the burgeoning middle class.