A serene and gentle island tinged with mysticism, there is something truly captivating about Bali.

Known as the ‘Island of the Gods’, a compassionate Hindu spirituality prevails in almost every aspect of life here, so much so that it's said there are more temples than there are homes! Happily, many temples welcome visitors, and a gentle hike through the incense-laden air to marvel at the iconic Meru towers with their pagoda-like roofs is a must. So too, is a trip to the UNESCO water temple of Ulun Danu Bratan, where the surrounding glassy lakes are enough to calm the most hectic of souls.

For an off-the-beaten-track experience, rural Bali will not leave you short of treasures. Here, feathery palms line the lush rice terraces and villages are home to local artists and sculptors, many of whom are keen to share their trade with passing travellers. Bali’s largest artistic hub, Ubud, is well worth a stop. Here, you can book on to a yoga retreat or discover your inner artist in a wood-carving class. When you’re ready for that touch of paradise, the golden beaches of Jimbaran and Seminyak are simply world-class, and the coral infused waters will not disappoint. A supremely romantic destination, Bali is the perfect retreat for newlyweds or honeymooners and will delight even the most discerning of travellers.