Is it a surprise to learn that Bali has been voted the best island in Asia by some of the most well-traveled explorers in the world?
The Island of the Gods has beaten destinations like Thailand’s Koh Samui and Palawan in the Philippines to be the rightful holder of the Best Island in Asia in 2023 award.
The annual Conde Nast Readers Choice Awards are one of the most prestigious travel awards in the world.
Voted for by real travelers, the awards give globetrotters a real insight into which destinations are leading the way for tourists.
For this year’s awards over 520,000 travelers cast their votes on everything from the best islands to the best hotels, the friendly countries, and more.
Bali has been featured in two categories, first in the best island in Asia, and in the best resorts in the world.
So, where in Bali is the best place to visit right now? It is easy to see that the busiest and most in-demand destinations for a vacation in Bali are Canggu, Uluwatu, Ubud, and Nusa Penida.
For those looking to enjoy the best island in Asia but without the crowds, where should we be looking?
Canggu < Seseh
Canggu is easily the hottest destination in Bali right now. Buzzing with beach clubs and vibrant nightlife, Canggu has fast become the destination of choice for younger travelers seeking surf, sand, and fun in the sun. But look a little further along the south coast and discover Seseh.
The small coastal village is undergoing a steady period of growth and feels like Canggu seven or so years ago.
Home to locally run homestays, newly built villas, cool surfy cafes, and a gorgeous stretch of beach, staying in Seseh gives tourists access to the best of both worlds.
Uluwatu < Kutuh
Uluwatu is undeniably beautiful and the secret about the surf retreat is well and truly out of the bag. The area is known for its luxurious villas and beach clubs, and of course incredible rugged coastline.
As Uluwatu gets busier neighboring Kutuh is eager to welcome a new wave of visitors. Nestled between Nusa Dua and Uluwatu, Kutuh Village is another best-of-both-worlds situation for tourists.
Ubud < Sidemen
Ubud is rightly the arts and cultural capital of Bali, but its traffic issues have been hitting headlines recently.
While certainly not enough of a reason to completely skip over the resort, there are other areas where tourists can explore rice terraces and jungle ridge lines and dive into Balinese culture.
Sidemen Village is around an hour’s drive from central Ubud and has plenty to explore, from silver-making workshops to white water rafting.
Nusa Penida < Nusa Lembongan
Nusa Penida is the most in-demand day trip experience in Bali for tourists right now. Over two million people have made the crossing from Sanur so far this year.
As Nusa Penida gets busier Bali lovers are quick to note that Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan offer everything Nusa Penida has to share, but at a slightly more laid-back pace.
Nusa Lembongan is a real underappreciated travel gem, ideal for tourists who want to soak in island vibes and plenty of sunshine.
Back to the 2023 readers’ choice awards, it will also come as no surprise to Bali lovers that the Alila Villa Uluwatu Resort came in top place in Asia.
The resort came out on top thanks to the wide range of activities on offer for guests and the world-class facilities too.
The 5-star resort is known as one of the great jewels of Indonesian hospitality, and even the national tourism board, Wonderful Indonesia, has passed on their congratulations to the team.
The Alila Villa Uluwatu is one of the most impressive resorts on the island in terms of location. Perched a whopping 100m above the Indian Ocean, the views from Alila Villas Uluwatu are unprecedented.
The luxury resort comes with a luxury price tag, with rooms this November starting at around USD 970.
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Mark
Tuesday 10th of October 2023
Yes it's a surprise.
Abdul
Tuesday 10th of October 2023
Conde nast something awards? Who or what is conde nast?
Also, who votes Bali as a top destination? Full of garbage, noise, pollution, traffic, scammers, thieves, corruption, horrible infrastructure, racism, list goes on and on.
Bali is not even in the top 10 of Asian destinations. It's a dump where only the lowest quality tourists go.
Tom
Monday 9th of October 2023
You must be Joking. Obviously those voting haven't been anywhere else. I first came to Bali in 1972. In those days it really was the Island of the Gods, but sadly, since then, the Gods have all moved on. The Bali Bombing was a key milestone, but actually Bali has been on a downward slide (in terms of quality), much earlier. Destroyed by greed, self delusion and neglect. I still go to Bali (of course) only because its a short flight and easy to get too. After a few beers on the beach, the garbage looks less obvious and I let my mind slip back into memories of the good old days when Bali really was a paradise.
C
Monday 9th of October 2023
#1 island in the world for food poisoning, rabies, theft, and racism.
Wayan Bo
Tuesday 10th of October 2023
@C, #1 island for masochist’s
Halloween is coming soon.
Wayan Bo
Monday 9th of October 2023
For somebody's it may be a great joke and for somebody’s corrupt decision. Anyway decide by yourself.