A Few Days In

Bali: The Water! The Nature! The People!

by Kevin Mak
The picture of happiness in Bali. All photos by Kevin Mak.

Planning a romantic getaway for two? Follow 24 Best Instagrammer Kevin Mak's lead and head to the cultural heart of Bali.

UBUD, Bali – I was tasked with planning the honeymoon, and it was without much hesitation that I picked the island of Bali. Considered one of the most romantic spots in Southeast Asia, the island is home to several amazing hotels and a variety of cultural and natural heritage sites. The close connection between the natural environment and Balinese culture is deeply embedded in everything on the island. The destination did not dissapoint. The trip was truly inspiring.

Alila Ubud Hotel Pool

The pool at Alila Ubud Hotel comes with a stunning view of the nearby rain forest.

A waterfall

If you're looking to spend time in nature, Ubud is a great base in the middle of the island.

Food at Warung Babi Guling Ibu Oka

Warung Babi Guling Ibu Oka is renowned for delicious dishes like the suckling pig.

A drink from restaurant Locavore

The restaurant-bar Locavore serves cocktails that are even better than those I've tried in the world's biggest cities.

Pura Tirta Empul

In Bali, water is life's most important element. Pura Tirta Empul is dedicated to ritual purification through its holy spring water.

A waterfall in a cave

My favorite waterfall of them all.

Buro Concert Store and Coffee

We spent one of our favorite afternoons at Buro Concept Store & Coffe, where a live band played music.

Akademi

We had the best cocktails at Akademi, at the entrance of Katamama Hotel.

Cave

It may take a while to get there, but the natural cave at Blue Point Beach is worth the long walk.

Katamama Hotel

The building materials, furniture, and fabrics at Katamama Hotel are all sourced from Bali or made by local artisans.

Kaum

For authentic textures and a taste of Indonesia's culinary origins, head to Kaum at Potato Head.

Alila Ubud Hotel

Incredible stone and brick masonry at Alila Ubud Hotel.

Bali

Local Balinese in their element.

BUT WAIT, THERE'S MORE

Escape to Bukit Peninsula, Bali’s Surfing Paradise
Bali and Beyond: Exploring Nusa Lembongan
Adventures in Ubud, Bali

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