The last and final stop, Jimbaran (Bali Part 7)

Our last and final stop on Bali was The Leaf Jimbaran private resort on the ridges of high ground above Jimbaran Bay. After driving through the highly populated city ended in arid surroundings of southern peninsula, known as Bukit (meaning “hill” in Mahasa Indonesia). Our “nest” for the end of our trip was the open-space Spearmint villa with glass walls offering the most amazing view and a true connection to the surrounding nature and garden. Even the bathroom had a direct passage to the swimming pool, which divided the kitchen-dining area apart from the sleeping-living area. The villa offered us a true sense of privacy, allowing us to relax while exploring the Bukit peninsula. The first thing on our »to see list« was the Pura Luhur Uluwatu, a Balinese sea temple located at the edge of a 70m cliff above the sea. Jan had a close encounter with a monkey, which wanted to get into the camera bag by any means, which was a rather fun experience given the outcome that could have resulted in having a camera lens stolen. We watched the sunset as well, which was, like many before on Bali, stunning. The second day, after a vitalizing breakfast we hopped on a motorbike we rented and explored a few of the many »hidden beaches« nearby – like Bingin, Suluban and Padang Padang. Many of these are true hidden gems, some of them more touristy than others, but they all have one thing in common – being one of the best surfing spots in the world. We ended our day visiting the Jimbaran beach and the famous Ayana Rock Bar, and relaxing in our villa. In the morning I had a reflexology massage in The Leaf Jimbaran’s Thyme Spa, which prepared me for the upcoming long flight home. Bali definitely won my heart with its rich culture, delicious food, kind and welcoming people, vivid landscape and exhilarating adventures. I am sure I will be coming back one day for more (and maybe I’ll take you with me once again).

»Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.«