Bali has always been a popular ‘go to’ destination for antipodeans, and more recently the World.
Tourists are now travelling far and wide for some of that island magic.
The island is steeped in tradition with a large Hindu population, who are some of the kindest, most patient people on the planet-where nothing (like two-hour traffic jams) is too much trouble.
It is home to more than four million people, the main industry is tourism, followed closely by manufacturing and trade exporting.
Bali is also a popular destination for entrepreneurs and expats to call home- naturally beautiful with vibrant beach clubs and a burgeoning food scene that spans Uluwatu to Cangguu.
But with the tourist trade and population growing rapidly the need for a sustainable tourism model is imperative-for the local people and the natural environment.
Finns Beach Club-a mega beachfront club with pools, restaurants, dancefloors and roaming performers-is one business taking its responsibility for keeping the beaches clean, seriously.
From launching a solar powered rubbish collecting beach robot, to funding the first air and sea rescue helicopter to sponsoring Stella’s Child-an organisation that educates and integrates Balinese youth into businesses.
Just up the road Potato Head is following suit, with circular creations, turning rubbish into usable art.
Bali-owned and operated, Ini Vie Hospitality group employs local people, preserves the natural environment and upholds the islands cultural traditions. From the intimate garden villas at Monolocale to the luxurious, local design of Sini Vie Seminyak to the thriving gardens (and monkeys) of Kamala Ubud-with newly opened Habitat Bistro, a showcase of the surrounding food bowl.
Catch a ferry from Padang Bai on the mainland to Gili Air, for an authentic and serene island experience.
There’s an array of accommodation options from Captain Coconuts- traditional Javanese rooms and bamboo lodges-to Santorini a newly opened beachfront hotel and Greek restaurant. The remote island has grown in popularity, but no cars or motorbikes are allowed, and there’s a waste management program to deal with the Islands rubbish.
Back on the mainland visit the latest foodie destination, Uluwtatu- known for its epic surf, clifftop abodes and supersized beach clubs- there’s an expat scene driving a culinary change.
‘Artisan’ is a Bali born brunch café that has industrial styled venues with a touch of the tropics-serving quality local coffee, baked bread and fresh garden salads.
Up the street is Papi Sapi, all about fire and flavour, pairing high quality meats and seafood with bold sauces in a laid-back setting. Across the road is Kala, a stylish dining experience inspired by the Mediterranean- smells of sizzling haloumi and lamb kofta waft out of the open plan kitchen.
There’s a buzz about Uluwata, although it’s changing rapidly, there’s a sense of community where innovation and design are considered. Lyvin Melasti Villas, a sanctuary set high above Melasti Beach, is a property that flows seamlessly with nature. Stay tuned for the opening of their signature restaurant and spa later this year.
Head into the hills of Ubud, to Syrco Base by talented Chef Syrco Bakker. A culinary destination, with a regenerative garden, cooking workshop space, contemporary dining and artisan shop- showcasing local talent. Syrco Base is the future of food in Bali, nurturing young talent and community-a place that invites you to eat and live more consciously.
Local organisations such as Sungaiwatch are on a mission to stop plastic going into the ocean and river inlets. They actively remove rubbish built up on the land that ends up blocking the waterways, leaving lasting impacts on the environment particularly in the wet season.
A more sustainable Bali starts with the locals and ends with the tourists, it’s up to us to respect the deep history of the island and leave a light travel footprint. Bali is one of the world’s treasures, a wellness destination that’s blessed with kind people-treat her well.
EAT-
Syrco Base, Ubud
Kala, Uluwata
Santorini, Gili Air
Bar Vera, Canggu
PLAY-
Finns Beach Club
Tropical Tempataion Beach Club
Gili Air
STAY-
Santorini, Gili Air
Monolocale Resort, Seminyak
Lyvin Melasti Villas, Bukit
Kaamala Resort, Ubud
