TripAdvisor’s ‘Best of the Best’ Travellers’ Choice award has named Bali the world’s top travel destination.
The popular hotspot, located roughly 4,600 km from Sydney, is a go-to for budget-friendly island escapes, offering sweeping views of mountainous terrain and deep blue ocean coastlines.
Just a short three to seven-hour flight from Australia, depending on where you are departing from, Bali caters to wave-chasing surfers, nightlife enthusiasts, spiritual refuges, and luxury travellers alike.
Known as “The Island of a Thousand Temples”, Bali boasts an endless array of beaches to hop to and from, with Kelingking Beach receiving a special mention from TripAdvisor.
Authentic Indonesian street food lines the streets, while those preferring a restaurant experience have plenty to choose from.
TripAdvisor has labelled the acclaimed destination a “living postcard” where travellers can “soak up the sun” or “head underwater to dive along coral ridges”.
In its list of ‘Essential Bali Things To Do’, the travel website recommends attending a traditional Balinese theatre performance, taking a private sunset tour with a Kecak fire dance and dinner, or exploring the top island attractions on a Nusa Penida day trip.
TripAdvisor also features Bali’s onshore activities, showcasing its “lush jungle” that shelters stone temples and offers a glimpse of the infamous monkey, with a special nod to Ubud, where visitors can partake in additional onshore activities.
“Base yourself in Ubud—it’s the perfect place to see a cultural dance performance, take a batik or silver-smithing workshop, or invigorate your mind and body in a yoga class,” TripAdvisor wrote.
Bali was in good company on TripAdvisor’s ‘Best of the Best’ list, with a popular Aussie home-away-from-home, London, taking an obvious second place, and Dubai ranking third.
Vietnam’s Hanoi was praised for its “charm” in fourth spot, while Paris and Rome placed fifth and sixth, respectively.
