These 10 Indonesian Destinations Have Been Dubbed The ‘New Balis’
When we need a really quick, affordable island getaway, Bali is the first destination to come to mind. With a hugely beautiful country to show off, it’s silly for all visitors to stay in the one place in Indonesia, right?
Now, the Indonesian government is asking that we look beyond Bali and see all the other great parts of the country, which are being dubbed the “new Balis”.
[related_articles]54482,54298[/related_articles]#1 Lake Toba, North Sumatra
With all the same reclusiveness, tranquility and island vibes of the Bali district of Ubud, Lake Tola is a great stop for a relaxing holiday away from civilisation.
#2 Tanjung Kelayang, Bangka Belitung
Calm blue waters framed all round with swaying coconut trees, Tanjung Kelayang is the luxurious beach escape without the price tag.
#3 Tanjung Lesung, Banten
The great thing about the beaches of Tanjung Lesung is that they seem far away from everything, but it’s only a three-hour car ride from the hub of Jakarta. Easy to get to, easy to stay for a long, long time.
#4 Thousand Islands, Jakarta
Thousand Islands refers to the collection of 128 islands located to the north of Jakarta’s coast. Small islands, big ones and everything in between, you’re guaranteed to find a spot you’ll like.
#5 Borobudur, Central Java
Borobudur is a 9th century Buddhist temple – the world’s largest, in fact. You can find Borobudur just outside of Central Java nestled in a serene valley filled with rice fields and swaying palms.
#6 Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park, East Java
The landscape of the Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park feels notably dystopian. Home to five volcanoes and a “sand sea”, you’ve never seen a national park like this before.
#7 Mandalika, West Nusa Tengerra
Mandalika is currently undergoing a lot of change and expansion to host a new generation of tourists. With new hotels, theme parks and restaurants slated to open up in the coming years, and only a 20-minute drive from Lombok airport, we won’t be surprised to see this seaside town bustling in the near future.
#8 Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tengara
Dramatic, mountainous valleys weaving through the sea and almost surreal sunsets, we think the shanty town of Labuan Bajo is Indonesia’s best-kept secret.
#9 Wakatobi, Southeast Sulawesi
The name Wakatobi is used to describe its four main islands of Wangi-Wangi, Kaledupa, Tomia and Binongko. Each as picturesque as the next, and not too hard to get to from Jakarta, this cluster of islands is the perfect place to hide.
#10 Morotai, North Maluku
Morotai is one of Indonesia’s northernmost islands, with a small population and rugged, road less traveled feel. This is truly the adventurer’s island.
If you’re after a beach holiday, read more with this piece about the cheapest beach getaways.
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