Southeast Asia is forever in my heart - Bali - 2019/2020
Before COVID hit I was making my way through the travel industry like a giddy child. Spending day after day talking about these incredible adventures with travelers such as yourself- what a dream! Then, I had the opportunity to not only make my own adventure abroad but actually live in it! During the 11-months leading up to COVID I lived and breathed Bali, Indonesia. Having been to Indonesia several times before, but never Bali, this was my first extended experience on such an alive and hip island. Though I made trips to neighboring islands and countries to find a bit of calm in all the mix, I must say, Bali is a very special place.
The people of Bali are exactly what you expect from Indonesia. Kind, loving, good character, strong nature, and very family-oriented. There’s not much they won't do for you and there isn't anything they won't do for their neighbor. Excited to share their culture and their history, the Balinese have a unique perspective of Indonesian history and colonization. Though mostly removed from Dutch colonization, Bali was able to preserve and maintain much of its original culture. This you can see left and right, covering every inch of the island.
Rich in history and color, Bali offers those beaches you want to find, think you’ll find, and will find. White sand, tasty seafood, and warm breezes keep you wrapped up in Bali’s love. Volcanoes, jungles, and the biggest moon you’ll ever see keep watch over the Balinese. Nature is prized by the locals and though it requires a bit of a drive to the North and is well worth the time visiting.
I would be remiss to not give a shout-out to Lombok as well, Bali's neighboring island. This less-visited island is a bit more primitive and far less westernized. You are far more likely to experience rooted culture, nature, and scenery not often seen by the traveler's eye. The people of Lombok are warm and inviting, and just as curious as you.
Hotel options are abundant. Everything from simple mom-and-pop-owned hostels and rooms to 6+ star private luxury resorts. But don’t think you’ll be missing out on Balinese culture by staying at one or the other. Even the biggest hotels in Bali take pride in what their local culture offers. Decor, spas, and eateries, right down to your private pool villas will nurture Balinese local goods, customs, and flare.
Indonesia and the island of Bali are magical. With that magic comes a bit of everything from exquisite culinary delights to the most incredible underwater marine life (ask me about Sabang, Aceh!) you’ll ever experience. If you seek a true cultural experience, opening your eyes to the wonders of the world, Indonesia is just for you.
Adventure Life is always an excellent choice when planning complicated, extreme, or exotic vacations or expeditions. They provide friendly professional services and advice and are enthusiastic and encouraging in helping us to prepare and thoroughly enjoy our trip. They handle all the details which greatly reduces the stress of planning a difficult trip. I'm very impressed with Adventure Life and definitely recommend them to friends and family.
Scott Trochim
2 days ago
The response from Adventure Life to my first inquiry was prompt and promising. I worked with Jamie Broeckel, Trip Planner, via text, email, and phone calls- always extremely responsive and thorough with information and explaining the process to arrange a private tour for me to Malaysia Borneo. Within about week, the booking was complete and I made decisions because of Jamie's great customer service , friendly manner, and overall competence on behalf of the company's travel expertise. Now I have an itinerary, additional Trip Planner Assistants, several links for vital information for traveling to Maylasia, etc. Still many details for Sept. trip, but now the heavy lifting is done and I can enjoy the rest of the anticipation and research!! Thanks Jamie- you are amazing!!!!
Susan Campo
4 days ago
The trip was not only memorable for the amount of animals we saw but also for the people and accommodations at the two camps where we stayed. Our first guide, BK, was a wealth of information about the animals, landscape and down to the plants and what they were used for. Everyday out was a learning experience with him. All the people at the camps were gracious and the food was excellent.
Our second camp in the Okavanga was just as good as the first as far as the staff, accommodations, food and animals. After our experience at the first camp we amazed that the high quality remained the same. Our guide, G, made sure we were able to enjoy every experience including a rush through the bush to witness a cheetah and an ensuing hunt that he heard over his radio.
In both camps there were enough guides out that if they saw something the other guides were informed which helped in seeing as much as possible. It was also nice that the concessions were large enough that we did not have vehicles following each other throughout the day.
Normally there is always something in a trip of this length that we think could be improved upon but this is the rare case where we cannot think of anything. From the time we left the States to when we returned it was one of the most hassle free vacations we took.
Perhaps emphasizing the use of the laundry facilities at the camps would be useful because of the luggage restrictions would be the only thing I can think of as an improvement to future clients.
Kenneth Dropek
5 days ago
Mary was so pleasant and professional. She made sure all of our questions were answered.