The Traveling Witch

Considering a vacation in Bali? Renowned for its breathtaking beaches, lively culture, and verdant landscapes, Bali is an exceptional destination that promises an ideal getaway. Whether it’s a brief trip or an extended stay, selecting the right accommodation is key. Here are some vital tips on choosing the finest rental properties in Bali to ensure your visit is thoroughly enjoyable. Choose Your Ideal Location Bali's diverse regions offer distinct atmospheres and attractions. For those who love the coast, areas like Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu are perfect, with their exciting nightlife and beautiful beaches. If you're more inclined towards tranquility and cultural pursuits, Ubud or the northern areas like Lovina might suit you better. Think about what lifestyle and environment you prefer when renting a property in Bali . Select the Right Type of Property From luxurious villas to more modest lodgings, Bali has a variety of rental options. Villas offer privacy and space, often wit...

In an impressive stride towards environmental stewardship, Waterbom, the iconic waterpark located in Kuta, Bali, has publicly committed to reaching net zero emissions by 2033. This bold initiative not only highlights the park's dedication to sustainable practices but also sets a precedent for other organizations worldwide. Waterbom is beloved by locals and tourists alike, attracting a diverse crowd with its thrilling attractions and commitment to safety and sustainability. Under the leadership of CEO Sayan Gulino, Waterbom has embraced innovative sustainable technologies and design upgrades to ensure it remains an eco-friendly destination. During the park’s 30th anniversary celebrations, Gulino shared their enhanced sustainability targets, stating, "We're pushing the boundaries as we plan to be the first Asian tourism enterprise and the first global waterpark to achieve net zero by 2033." He emphasized the transition to 100% renewable energy and adopting methods to si...

Recent discussions among officials in Badung Regency, Bali, have focused on developing tourism villages in Canggu to manage the surge in visitors while preserving the area's cultural traditions and natural beauty. This initiative has received strong backing from former Governor Made Mangku Pastika, who advocates for formal recognition of Canggu’s Traditional Village to ensure better resource management and increased funding for conservation. The dialogues featured insights from I Wayan Suarsana, Head of Canggu Traditional Village, and Ni Kadek Dwi Indah Paramita, Director of Baga Utsaha Padruwen Traditional Village. They addressed the need for sustainable growth and improved living conditions for residents amidst the tourism influx. Emphasizing the importance of maintaining agricultural zones like rice fields, they highlighted these areas' role in food sustainability and their aesthetic value against the expanding tourist facilities. Ni Kadek Dwi Indah Paramita also shared posi...

Bali is celebrated not only for its breathtaking scenery and profound cultural history but also for its distinctive traditional tattoo artistry. This Indonesian island attracts numerous tourists, many of whom are drawn to the elaborate and symbolic designs characteristic of Balinese tattoo culture. However, this fascination often ignites a critical debate about the delicate line between cultural appreciation and cultural appropriation, especially among foreign visitors. Understanding the Significance of Balinese Tattoos Balinese tattoos extend beyond mere decoration; they are deeply embedded with cultural and spiritual significance. Originating from ancient religious practices and ceremonies, these tattoos form an essential part of Bali's historical tapestry. They typically depict elements of Balinese Hinduism, local folklore, and the island's natural beauty. In Bali, the act of receiving a tattoo usually involves spiritual rituals, emphasizing the sacred aspect of this art for...

Bali has recently encountered issues with a minority of tourists displaying disrespectful or even illegal behavior. This longstanding issue has prompted considerations of adopting strategies from other nations such as Japan. In the wake of the pandemic, Japan has attracted numerous Australian visitors, possibly outshining Bali. Known for its diverse attractions such as cultural sites, ski resorts, and bustling urban areas, Japan offers something for everyone. One notable example comes from Kyoto’s Gion district, home to the geisha community. The district has faced challenges with tourists intruding into private spaces, taking unauthorized photographs, and generally disrupting the local ambiance. To manage this, the Kyoto government implemented restrictions on access to private areas and introduced fines for those caught photographing geishas without permission.  Informational signs in both Japanese and English were erected to help maintain privacy while still welcoming visitors to ...

Living abroad in Bali brings with it a complex set of experiences. Each expatriate has a different story, prompting the question, "What does it really mean to be an expat?" The term 'expatriate' is derived from the Latin word 'ex', meaning 'out of', and the Greek 'patria', meaning 'fatherland'. It refers to someone who lives outside their home country. I moved to Bali with my family in March 2023, and this move has deepened my understanding of the expatriate way of life in Bali. In Bali, expats are often called 'bulé', a term used for non-Indonesians, usually those of Caucasian or European descent. While the term can have negative undertones, it generally identifies someone as foreign. Living as an expat in Bali is a deeply personal experience that defies a simple description. Everyone comes with their own unique backgrounds and aspirations, influencing how they perceive their new environment. As noted anthropologist Margaret Me...

Bali is often seen as an idyllic location, but its laid-back atmosphere is evolving. In February, authorities in Bali created a special tourism police force to address issues with disruptive tourists. This new team has tackled problems such as drunkenness and even instances of tourists begging for money. Dewa Nyoman Rai Dharmadi, head of Bali's Civil Service Police Unit, mentioned, "We have seen tourists who have run out of funds and have started begging. Occasionally, there are disruptions at local tourist spots, and our mission is to keep the environment friendly for everyone." The island now has more than 70 officers stationed in popular areas like Canggu, Seminyak, and Kuta. These officers also work to ensure visitors dress appropriately at the Hindu temples in Bali, Indonesia’s predominant Hindu area, by encouraging the wearing of traditional sashes. Dharmadi added, "Tourists often unknowingly violate sacred customs due to unawareness." Although there are o...

In Bali's Badung Regency, officials are currently considering designating Canggu as a tourism village. This initiative aims to safeguard the area's cultural and scenic qualities in light of significant tourism growth over the past seven years. The former governor of Bali, Made Mangku Pastika, supports this initiative to formally recognize Canggu's Traditional Village as a tourism village, which would improve its management. This designation would allow local authorities to access more resources to protect the area’s cultural and natural landscapes. Pastika, along with I Wayan Suarsana, leader of the Canggu Traditional Village, and Ni Kadek Dwi Indah Paramita, Director of the Baga Utsaha Padruwen Traditional Village, have noted the positive impact of tourism on Canggu. They emphasize the need for sustainable practices and enhanced living conditions for locals. Pastika highlighted the importance of managing the region’s resources effectively to potentially generate substantia...