With our time left in Bali waning, I was feeling optimistic and excited about the open possibilities of Thailand. Bali left me confused and a bit drained. The good times here were so incredible, but there were hard parts as well that left a dark smudge on my rice paddy memories.

Keep in mind this entry represents my own personal experiences and they most definitely will not apply to everyone’s opinion of Bali.

For the most part, I found traveling throughout the island somewhat inaccessible and had to dig deeper into my pockets than I would have liked. As a white girl tourist, I was expecting public transportation and easy access to nice inexpensive accommodation everywhere I went.

While the accommodation available was lovely, it was more expensive than I was prepared for (around $20 US/night). As for transport – renting a moped is by far the least expensive way to travel the island, yet is impractical and dangerous for anything extensive if you don’t know the roads. It seems most people get around by hiring a driver. We were heavily overcharged on our trip from Kintamani (northernmost) to Uluwatu (southwest). The experience brought to mind the unfairness traveling as a young woman can bring. As much as I hate to admit it, traveling with men is so much easier but that is a different topic entirely.

Anyway, it could just be that I was disappointed in my own expectations of a place I didn’t know.

The beaches were beautiful, the boutique shopping was awesome, and there was yoga around every corner.

It is important to remind myself while traveling but also in everyday life the importance of letting the good shine through. Always look for what good can come out of any given situation.

SO!! Arriving in Thailand lifted our spirits to the sky! This country is made for traveling! Even beyond the ease of getting around, the people are funny and friendly, the food is delicious and cheap, each beach is as beautiful as the last…

More to come on my adventures soon!
xox