Nusa Penida: A Journey To Bali's Newly Discovered Gem

I woke up from my phone's blaring alarm. With only four hours of sleep, I forced myself to wake up and take a cold shower. Traffic was already building up as we left Seminyak to Sanur Beach. Upon arrival, we were still early for the first boat trip to Nusa Penida. The sun was up, casting an orange-yellow hue from the horizon. Despite being a frequent visitor to Bali, I still feel this sense of adventure overtaking me as we wait for the speedboat to Nusa Penida.

PHOTO DIARY: Bali in Technicolor

I spent my 26th birthday in Bali, and it's one of the best birthdays I have ever had. This revered Island of Gods has so much to offer, and I wouldn't mind visiting this place again in the near future.

This year, I am going to create a new photo series: In Technicolor. It was only late last year when I went back to Lightroom to post process my photos. My laptop can now handle the heavy workload and multitasking (Photoshop + Lightroom + Final Cut Pro).

These are some of my favorite shots I took during my first trip to Bali, Indonesia. I only used Canon EOS 1100D with a 50mm f/1.8 prime lens. I downloaded a few presets online, and played with it on Lightroom. Hope you guys like it, and expect more In Technicolor posts on my blog.

Trip of Wonders: Ain't No Bali Low Enough!

Tucked away in the cerulean waters of the Bali Sea and the towering Mount Agung is an island blessed with fertile lands and rich biodiversity. Bali, with its varied terrain, numerous white sand beaches, picturesque temples, and standout local cuisines, has always been a favorite holiday destination for both local and international tourists.

When I found out I won a free trip to Bali, I got overwhelmed. I never thought I'd be back here so soon! For three days, we went to rediscover Bali, and to understand more about its culture.

Photo Diary: Bali, Indonesia

Bali is an island province of Indonesia. Unlike its neighboring provinces, this region is predominantly Hindu, which is why this region stands out from the rest. After exploring the cities and towns of West and Central Java last year, I finally know why people keep on coming back to Bali. I love the diversity of Balinese culture. Not to mention, there are so many activities to do on this island alone!

I spent my 26th birthday here, and damn, I regret nothing! For four days, we went temple hopping, visited the sacred monkey forest of Ubud, and ate different Balinese dishes. That's why I got so thrilled after receiving an email from Wonderful Indonesia. I just won a trip for two to Bali, Indonesia! Christmas came early! I remember making a promise that I'll return to Bali, but I didn't expect I'll be back so soon. Mom and I will be there in the third week of November, just a few days after our Bangkok trip. Hahaha!

Here are some of my favorite photos on my first visit to Bali. I do hope I'd add more as I explore more of this famed island. Weapon of choice: Canon EOS 1100D, 50mm f/1.8 prime lens.

The Temples of Bali

The last day of our Balinese adventure was dedicated to the temples of the island. Coined as ‘Island of the Gods’, the revered island province of Bali is known for its verdant forested mountains, iconic rice paddies, and beaches and coral reefs. Unlike most of Muslim-majority cities of Indonesia, about 85% of the total population of Bali adheres to Balinese Hinduism - a combination of local beliefs and the Hindu influences from mainland Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent.

This is just one of the reasons why Bali stands out.

The Monkeys of Ubud

The Bali adventure wouldn't be complete without visiting The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. I never had close encounters with numerous troops (group of monkeys) until recently in Batu Caves and Uluwatu Temple. Despite their obnoxious behavior, these animals are considered sacred in the island's religion. The Monkey Forest of Ubud has numerous temples and pillars dedicated to them.

Out of curiosity, I channeled my inner monkeyness (Merriam-Webster's furious right now because lately, I've been inventing words) and mustered enough courage to interview some of the inhabitants of the sacred forest.

Exploring Kuta Beach and Uluwatu Temple

Our plane took-off at exactly four in the morning and I fell asleep ten minutes after. The next thing I knew, the sun was already up and we were already banking to the right, preparing to land in Bali, Indonesia. Honestly, I kept my expectations low as I didn't know what was in store for us in the next three days!

The Bali Adventure: Overview

Exploring Bali, Indonesia

It's been a week since my Balinese adventure and yes, I still can't get over with it. If only I had all the time in the world, I'd spend at least two to three weeks just to explore the entire province and its neighboring islands! I celebrated my 26th birthday here and I really had a great time in Bali. For four days, we went temple hopping, shopped at several local handicraft stores, and immersed in Hindu culture and traditions of the island.