As I enter the final year of my 30s, I thought I s As I enter the final year of my 30s, I thought I share with you some pictures of mine at 9 months, 9 years, 19 years, 29 years  to today 39 years old of age. Looking back at each decade, I feel both ‘older’ and ‘younger’, I see the change in my features, the change in my way of life, the change in my personality and the experience itched on my face. I am grateful for the life I have lived thus far and excited for the life I am yet to live. 
••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

2026 - 39, (Home, England), I am ready for this final year before my 40s but also ready for this next decade. 
2016 - 29, (Oslo, Norway), this decade was about self discovery and building the life I dreamt about. The life that I am super proud of and truly grateful to be living. This decade, I built my financial life and in later years choose to heal from the trauma gained in the last decade and now I feel well equipped for the future. 
2006 - 19, (Glasgow, Scotland), I thought I was grown (look at the cheekbones 🤣🤣) and ready for the world, chiiiild was I wrong, let’s just say, I am still resolving the trauma the decade brought me but I am grateful because I met my best friends and made decisions for the future I wanted to have. (Spoiler alert - I did better than I dreamed). 
1996 - 9, (Home, Zambia) this was my birthday but my little sister insisted she had to be the one in the middle. The only way we knew whose birthday it was, was by standing in the middle but this year I remember baby sister crying her eyes out and refusing 🤨
1988 - 9 months, (Chililabombwe, Zambia) although my mother looks tired and traumatised😟, I know I was loved and happy. 
#happybirthday #happybirthday❤️ #newera #39
Attended #ascotraces for the second year running a Attended #ascotraces for the second year running and I am glad to have experienced the ‘Village enclosure’ this year, whilst I loved ‘Windsor enclosure’ last year, it’s not for me. Next year, I want Queen Anne’s enclosure. 💕 #girlsdayout #girlslikeus #ascotfashion
How I missed you my love 🥰🥰🥰 #hertripsabroad #bla How I missed you my love 🥰🥰🥰

#hertripsabroad #blackgirlstraveltoo #maldives #neverstopexploring #welltravelled
Tried being a #touristforaday and we chose #london Tried being a #touristforaday and we chose #london because why not. My feet still hurt from the thought of how much walking we did, the fact that we walked from #bigben to #buckinghampalace is still fresh on my mind. 

#neverstopexploring
🖤🖤MARCH PHOTO/VIDEO DUMP🖤🖤 So much happened and 🖤🖤MARCH PHOTO/VIDEO DUMP🖤🖤 

So much happened and yet I can’t find the words.
It has been an amazing week here, definitely recom It has been an amazing week here, definitely recommend @iberostar in Agadir. 
#neverstopexploring #wanderlust #welltravelled #lifeofadventure #hertripsabroad
I spent a week in #dohaqatar and had the most rela I spent a week in #dohaqatar and had the most relaxing and fulfilling time of my life. Sometimes taking it slow and living in the moment is what the soul needs. 🥰🥰🥰
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 #hertripsabroad #solotravel #solotravelingisfun 
#blackgirlstraveltoo
I had such an amazing week in Doha, Qatar after no I had such an amazing week in Doha, Qatar after not visiting for almost 8years. 📍

#qatar #doha #qatarphotoinstagram  #solo travel #travelbug bestvacations igtravel travelpic travelblog beautifuldestinations tlpicks instatravel roamtheplanet traveldeeper travelgram travelinspo wanderlust instapassport exploretheworld travelpics travelmore passionpassport travelawesome lonelyplanet travelblogger travelphotography traveltheworld worldtraveler
Happy New Year, happy 2026 #firstpicture of the ye Happy New Year, happy 2026 #firstpicture of the year.
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A July Dreamer

A Travel & Lifestyle Blog

Asia · March 27, 2018

BALI TRAVEL GUIDE: THINGS THAT WILL SURPRISE FIRST-TIME VISITORS

Bali is known for its tropical beauty and exotic culture. It is one of the most popular island destinations in Indonesia and there are various reasons why. To simplify, it’s amazing. From its pristine beaches, great hiking trail, friendly locals, world-class cuisines and rich culture, Bali is the total package. If you’re considering going here, you can check out these Bali villas for rent where you can spend the rest of your vacation and experience an ultimate relaxation while enjoying what Bali has to offer. It is located in some of the islands’ most sought after locations.

Are ready to discover the myriad charms of this island paradise? This guide will show you how to make the most out of your visit to the magical paradise of Bali.

Bali Travel Guide

You’ll sweat like there’s no tomorrow

Bali’s average temperature is 32 degrees, with that, the weather here is hot year-round. Forget about your jeans or heavy jackets. Pack comfortable clothing like those which are made of cotton fabrics and even open-toe shoes. Here, you’ll probably live in your swimmers. The best time for you to visit Bali is from May until July.

Bali’s beaches are spectacular

Stunning beaches in Bali range from palm-fringed white sand coasts that can be found in the southern part, around Jimbaran, Kuta, and the Bukit Peninsula to the cliff guarded shores like in Uluwatu, Padang Padang, and Bingin. These beaches offer exceptional views and solitude, definitely a good spot for snorkeling and offer a sense of adventure. And nonetheless, these are the best place to chill. These beaches are known for its glistening clear blue waters paired with white sand which is an ideal backdrop for a remarkable getaway.

Culture is everywhere

Bali’s culture is indeed rich, with its rituals and festivals to the presence of thousands of temple, everywhere you look, and you will see a glimpse of Bali’s culture. Here, be sure to witness the ceremony and sacred offerings. Balinese has this religious obligation that is being carried out with pride and they see to it that from the youngest child to the grandparents, they all dress appropriately for the temple. Some of the most popular temples are the following:

Bali Travel Guide

  • Tanah Lot Temple

It the most photographed and visited attractions in Bali that can also be seen in postcards. This site is the best spot to witness the sunset.

  • Uluwatu Temple

This temple is situated at the top of a steep cliff. It is believed to be one of the six key temples of the island’s spiritual pillars.

  • Besakih Temple

It is located at Mount Agung’s south-western slopes and is popularly known as the mother temple. It is considered as the holiest and even the largest temple that can be found on the island.

  • Goa Gajah

Goa Gajah means Elephant Cave when translated into English. Like any other temples, this site was built for prayers and meditation. Apart from that, you will see here numerous old stone carvings, rice fields, small streams and a pool with five statues of Hindu angles.

Don’t forget to pack a sarong

Since there are numerous must-visit temples in Bali, you are required to wear a sarong and a sash upon entry. If you forgot, don’t worry, you can also rent one or buy one. For men and women, it needs to cover their legs below the knee with the use of sarong while the sash is being worn around the waist.

Shop all you want

As you visited the markets, haggling is expected. It will be a fun experience for first-time visitors. Some of the best places to go shopping are in Seminyak, Legian, Canggu, and Ubud. You can find here numerous locally made goods that are hand-crafted like hats, baskets, woven bags, statues, silk scarves, shirts and more. Visitor of these markets will surely admire the artistry of the Balinese. Amazing and high-end boutiques can also be found in the area.

Don’t forget to wear a helmet

Tourists in Bali can hire motorbikes that enable them to drive and explore around Bali at their own pace. Just be sure to wear protective gears for your own safety and to further enjoy your vacation without any hassle and unwanted experiences.

There are a lot of Ketuts

In Bali, all of the people share the same four names – Wayan, Made, Nyoman or Ketut regardless of their gender and they are named by order of birth. For example, if a family has a fifth child, it will start over again and he will be called Wayan.

Bali Travel Guide

Dishes every visitor in Bali needs to taste

Balinese cuisines are indeed tasty. Some of the must-try cuisines are babi guling or suckling pig, nasi goring, an Indonesian fried rice, and sate which is a popular street food dish in Bali. Nasi goring is Bali’s fragrant rice dish inclusive with chicken, shredded omelette, and prawns. It is said to be the ultimate comfort food for spice lovers. On the other hand, the babi guling are being served with sliced meat, pieces of satay and even caramelized crackling plus some obscure parts like the crispy intestines.

There’s truly gob-smacking scenery

Don’t forget to see Bali’s World Heritage Sites like those listed under rice terraces. It is good to witness a farmer herding his flock of ducks, or even see a woman riding a motorbike on her way to the temple. Roam around the area. Don’t be afraid to meet locals and interact with them.

You will be back

Don’t be surprised if you find yourself returning again and again in Bali. There’s something in Bali that is magical and there are more things to discover in this island.

Ready for your ultimate Bali vacation?

In: Asia

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Comments

  1. Stephanie says

    April 2, 2018 at 8:59 pm

    I’ve heard lots about Bali and it sounds amazing. It’s got so much to see there and variety too

    Reply
  2. Deborah Nicholas says

    March 31, 2018 at 3:21 pm

    Oh i would love to visit Bali – it always looks so beautiful!

    Reply
  3. Emma - Our Fairytale Adventure says

    March 31, 2018 at 12:12 pm

    We are actually setting off for Bali for a month and are so excited. I don’t actually have a sarong, but have some leggings for temple visits. We’ve been travelling South East Asia for a few months now and have got used to the temperature. This has made me so excited for the next part of our adventure.

    Reply
  4. Zena's Suitcase says

    March 30, 2018 at 8:37 pm

    I’m definitely attracted to the idea of visiting Bali, the mix of culture, beauty and beaches really appeals to me

    Reply
  5. Kara says

    March 30, 2018 at 7:42 pm

    I have never been to Bali but my mum has and loved every minute. Would love to visit one day

    Reply
  6. Katie Saville says

    March 30, 2018 at 3:53 pm

    Bali is pretty high on our list of places to visit when we finally make it to Asia! The beaches look amazing, but I think I’m most excited for the culture and learning so much. These pictures have me super excited to go!

    Reply
  7. Clairejustineo says

    March 30, 2018 at 7:27 am

    Beautiful photos. It sounds amazing. I wish we could travel more 🙂

    Reply
  8. Stella Kashmoney says

    March 29, 2018 at 9:02 pm

    Bali sounds so amazing. I would love to visit one day. Heard a lot about the place.

    Reply
    • Anosa says

      March 30, 2018 at 6:31 am

      It is an incredible place, I was glad to have visited and can not wait to visit again.

  9. Kira says

    March 29, 2018 at 3:44 pm

    What a beautiful place .We would love a get away like this

    Reply
  10. Baby Isabella says

    March 28, 2018 at 8:06 pm

    We’d love to head to Bali and my folks would definitely try and interact with the locals and see how they live. It looks like such a beautiful place to visit x

    Reply
  11. mammasschool says

    March 28, 2018 at 6:16 pm

    This has just gone onto my list of places I need to visit. I had never really considered it before, but your overview has made it sound a wonderful place to explore

    Reply
  12. Laura Dove says

    March 28, 2018 at 6:08 pm

    I would love to got to Bali, I don’t know anyone who hasn’t come back saying how much they love it!

    Reply
  13. Talya Stone says

    March 28, 2018 at 2:20 pm

    We have been to Bali before and it is one my most favourite places on the earth! Ubud is so atmospheric and Seminyak is a lovely place to chill out by the sea.

    Reply

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