Why Bali Should Be Your First International Trip?

Lights, Camera, Bali!

Let’s set the scene: You’re sitting in your living room, scrolling through Instagram, and every third reel is someone posing on a Bali swing, sipping coconut water, or meditating in a lush green rice field. You sigh, thinking, “When will my international travel dreams come true?” Well, my friend, if you’re an Indian armchair traveller plotting your first stamp outside the country, Bali is not just a destination—it’s the ultimate debut. Here’s why Bali should be your first international trip, and why it’s the Ranveer Singh of travel destinations—unbeatable, unforgettable, and oh-so-charming.

Let’s address the elephant in the room: visas. If you’ve ever tried applying for a Schengen or US visa, you know it’s more dramatic than a Karan Johar family reunion. Bali (Indonesia) has swooped in like a Bollywood hero to save the day with their free visa-on-arrival for Indian passport holders. There is no endless paperwork or waiting for that “approved” email with bated breath. Book your flight, land in Denpasar, and get your visa stamped in minutes. It’s almost as easy as ordering ‘pho’ on Swiggy.

If you thought international trips meant breaking the bank, Bali’s about to change your script. Flight tickets from India are surprisingly affordable, especially if you book in advance or catch a good deal. Instead of Tuesdays, put in a Google Alert or visit trusted portals like I trust Alike. Once you land, everything from accommodation to food to transport is wallet-friendly. You can splurge on a private pool villa in Seminyak, feast on nasi goreng(can’t get enough of it) and satay, and still have enough left for a spa day. Bali lets you live your ZNMD (Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara) fantasy without selling your kidney or photos on OF.

Let’s be honest—half the fun of travelling is the photos, right? Bali’s got you covered:

And if you’re a foodie like me, Bali is a treasure trove. From vegan cafes in Canggu to seafood feasts in Jimbaran, every meal is a new adventure. Don’t forget to try the local kopi luwak coffee—just don’t Google how it’s made until after you’ve tasted it because that will discourage you faster than anything! In another piece, I will talk about my inner debate of Seminyak vs Canggu and why I chose what I did in my itinerary.

Bali isn’t just about beaches and parties. It’s got a spiritual side that’ll have you channelling your inner Ranbir Kapoor from Tamasha and Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, soul-searching in Ubud’s temples, or meditating at a yoga retreat. And for the adrenaline junkies, there’s surfing in Kuta, white-water rafting in Ayung River, and volcano trekking at Mount Batur. Having chased sunrises my whole life from the Himalayan mountains of Uttarakhand, Himachal to the Nilgiris to beaches of Sri Lanka and Singapore, this sunrise chase will be in your top 10.

Bali loves Indian travellers. You’ll find Indian restaurants everywhere; the locals are warm and welcoming. There are direct flights from major Indian cities, so you don’t have to endure layovers longer than a Sooraj Barjatya movie. But if you are choosing a low-cost carrier like Vietjet, be prepared for chaos and long lines, and don’t blame your travel advisor or planner. Remember, I warned you!

If you’re looking for your first international adventure, Bali is the blockbuster you can’t miss. It’s got drama, romance, action, and a happy ending. Book that ticket, pack your bags, and let your main character energy shine. Bali is calling—are you ready for your close-up?