The Bali detour that led to an unexpected surprise

The Star

11-07-2025

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I had never really considered visiting Indonesia until my son suggested taking a short detour in Bali while on our way to Darwin in Australia.
Little did I know that this suggestion would lead to a delightful and eye-opening experience.
From the moment my family and I landed at Ngurah Rai International Airport, I felt an uncanny sense of familiarity, as if I were in my own homeland. Perhaps it was the shared linguistic roots and cultural similarities with Malaysia, or maybe it was the warm hospitality and genuine smiles that greeted us at every corner.
The airport itself was unexpectedly spacious and beautifully designed, a reflection of Bali's global appeal as an international tourist destination. As we exited the place, we found ourselves amid a sea of travellers from around the world.
The writer (left) at one of the temples she and her family visited.
On our way to the hotel, we passed rows of rustic, centuries-old buildings that echoed the island's deep-rooted Hindu culture. Many of these structures were adorned with intricate carvings and statues, embodying the spiritual essence of Balinese tradition.
We kicked off our trip with the help of a friendly local driver-cum-tour guide, who took us to explore Bali's iconic and Instagram-worthy attractions.
Our first stop was the Art Village, where we witnessed the meticulous process of creating traditional Bali batik. From wax-resist dyeing techniques to the final hand-painted masterpieces, the artistry was fascinating. I couldn't resist buying a few beautifully designed batik scarves and skirts as souvenirs.
The village also showcased stunning paintings and artworks reflecting Balinese life, mythology, and nature.
At the Art Village, visitors can see the process of creating traditional Indonesian batik.
Next, we visited the Batuan Temple, a must-see historical landmark dating back to the 11th century. This sacred Hindu temple is renowned for its elaborate stone carvings, guardian statues, and time-worn architecture.
Visitors are encouraged to don traditional sarongs before entering, which adds to the immersive cultural experience. The temple exudes a spiritual tranquillity, and every detail, from the ornate gates to the symbolic offering tells a story of devotion and heritage.
Our guide then brought us to the Jambe Asli Agrotourism for a unique tea and coffee tasting session, including the famed luwak coffee. Here, we saw civet cats, known locally as luwaks that are part of the unique coffee-making process.
We were treated to various coffee and tea flavours, and we watched an elderly lady expertly grinding coffee beans with a traditional stone grinder. It was a charming glimpse into local life, and we left with some aromatic purchases and happy memories.
The Batuan Temple is a must-see historical landmark in Bali that dates back to the 11th century.
After a delicious lunch at a restaurant serving local fare, we took a scenic two-hour drive to the Tegalalang Rice Terrace in Ubud.
This stunning site is one of Bali's natural gems. The cascading padi fields, set in lush green valleys, were absolutely breathtaking. The steep terraces, especially after the morning rain, added a sense of adventure to our walk.
Many visitors, particularly young couples and families, were enjoying the famous jungle swing photo services. While we didn't try it due to time constraints, we were amazed at how the locals have transformed traditional farming land into a tourism enterprise.
The highlight of our trip was the surprise birthday dinner arranged for me at the beachfront of The Samaya Seminyak Bali Hotel. Dining under the stars, with the waves gently lapping nearby and the soft glow of candlelight around us, was an unforgettable moment; it was an exquisite end to our Bali escape.
Although it was a short and whirlwind trip, Bali left a lasting impression on me. It was my first visit to Indonesia, a country so near yet once felt so far to me. The holiday turned out to be one filled with warmth, culture, creativity, and natural beauty.
I now understand why Bali holds a special place in the hearts of so many travellers around the world.
The views expressed are entirely the writer's own.