Island of the Gods: Why Bali should be on your travel to-do list this year

BALI, Indonesia, Feb. 28, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- With the rest of the newly begun 2018 ahead of us, now's the time to start thinking of your next weekend getaway -- the perfect chance to refresh and recharge for the months to come. If you haven't already considered a relaxing weekend trip to Bali -- Indonesia's idyllic tropical paradise, aptly referred to as 'Island of the Gods' -- here are five more reasons why you should pack your bags and escape the routine with a getaway to this spectacular destination:

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A captivating café culture

Coffee lovers, take note: What sets Bali's burgeoning coffee scene apart is the perfect blend of charming artfully designed settings, high quality brews and unbelievably affordable prices. With plenty of options to choose from, fuel up with a freshly brewed cup of locally grown and roasted beans. Stay at Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach to enjoy a breezy stroll to one of Bali's best cafes, less than 15 minutes away -- The Koop Roaster & Café, a quaint coffee shop that serves delicious homemade pastries and micro-lot coffee sourced from different farms across Bali.

An abundance of local treats to please your taste buds

Bali is a melting pot of cultures of which its culinary scene is a perfect reflection, boasting an assortment of authentic Indonesian cuisine, award-winning international fare and fusion creations in between. For an authentically local treat, Nasi Campur Bali is a beloved dish craved for its rich flavours; think a plate of bold ingredients, including shredded grilled chicken, fried tofu, beef, cucumber, tempeh, Sate Lilit (minced fish satay), vegetable curry, corn and chili sauce, served atop a bed of fragrant rice. Try the famous rendition by Made's Warung, a Seminyak local favourite since 1969. Those craving a sweet treat with a local twist will enjoy the freshly baked Cobana by the chefs at Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach, a creative take on the traditional croissant. Filled with a light coconut cream and melted chocolate, the flaky pastry is topped with honey-glazed banana and snow sugar, the true embodiment of laidback enjoyment.

Sweeping vistas that await you

The Island of the Gods lives up to its name with landscapes that are truly divine. For some of the best ocean views the legendary island has to offer, visit the exclusive Jimbaran Bay on the southern coast -- known as the 'Celebrity Hideaway' and famed for its tranquil setting. Treat yourself to a luxurious stay at the newly refurbished InterContinental Bali Resort, which blends modern comfort with traditional Balinese architecture, while offering sublime views of the turquoise bay. Visitors can appreciate the beautiful greenery of the rolling rice terraces in Ubud, central Bali, with a trek through unspoiled nature, or head up high to see spectacular sunset views at the majestic Uluwatu Temple, which is perched on a steep cliff 70 metres above the Indian Ocean -- the perfect spot for some envy-invoking holiday snapshots.

Outdoor adventures to soak up the rays

Bali is a haven of exciting activities for thrill-seekers and outdoor lovers alike, from paragliding and cliff-jumping, to white water rafting and wakeboarding. Thanks to the island's famous coastline and abundant waves, surfing tops the list as an all-time favourite activity here. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-time surfer, soak up the sun and waves with a hidden gem: Surf School Bali, led by seasoned and friendly local surfer, Dedik. Look forward to an exhilarating day with a course specially tailored to fit your skill level and personal goals, before unwinding with a relaxing evening at Tree Bar, located at Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach, just under 15 minutes from the surf school. The speakeasy venue features a distinctive cocktail concept, BALIXOLOGY, which infuses Bali's traditional arak liquor with locally sourced herbs and ingredients. Another great spot for surfing is the Kuta area south of Bali, known for its long, consistent waves that make it ideal for beginners. To maximise your time there, stay at a conveniently located hotel, such as Holiday Inn Express Bali Raya Kuta, to keep you right in the heart of all the action.

Great options for a family getaway

In addition to world-class luxury amenities, Bali is home to a plentitude of wallet-friendly options that help you maximise your travel budget while creating lasting memories with the family. Bring your loved ones to the sparkling waterfront of Tanjung Benoa Beach, where you'll find activities suited for everyone -- from recreational water sports and golf courses to cultural excursions and local cooking classes. For a fuss-free stay, Holiday Inn Resort® Bali Benoa offers comfortable, contemporary accommodation with family-friendly offerings, including the Kids Eat and Stay Free programme and a host of kids' activities to keep the little ones engaged -- promising an unforgettable holiday for everyone. Another great option for the family is the famous Segara beach, which stretches all along the front of Holiday Inn Resort® Baruna Bali, offering a safe haven for the kids while staying close to the action of South Kuta. Those seeking fuss-free value and convenience can check into the Holiday Inn Express Baruni Bali, which features an excellent location just a stroll away from the Waterbom Bali, the colorful Kuta Art Market, as well as local restaurants and malls.

Book now and get up to 35%: www.ihg.com/baligetaway

Notes to Editors:

About IHG® (InterContinental Hotels Group): IHG^® (InterContinental Hotels Group) [LON:IHG, NYSE:IHG (ADRs)] is a global organisation with a broad portfolio of hotel brands, including InterContinental^® Hotels & Resorts, Kimpton^® Hotels & Restaurants, Hotel Indigo^®, EVEN^® Hotels, HUALUXE^® Hotels and Resorts, Crowne Plaza^® Hotels & Resorts, Holiday Inn^®, Holiday Inn Express^®, Holiday Inn Club Vacations^®, Holiday Inn Resort^®, avid™ hotels, Staybridge Suites^® and Candlewood Suites^®.

IHG franchises, leases, manages or owns more than 5,300 hotels and nearly 800,000 guest rooms in almost 100 countries, with nearly 1,700 hotels in its development pipeline. IHG also manages IHG^® Rewards Club, our global loyalty programme, which has more than 100 million enrolled members.  

InterContinental Hotels Group PLC is the Group's holding company and is incorporated in Great Britain and registered in England and Wales. More than 375,000 people work across IHG's hotels and corporate offices globally.

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SOURCE InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG)

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