S E M I N Y A K

Our final stop on Bali was the hip, popular beach area of S E M I N Y A K. Resisting the temptation to splurge on a luxury hotel we booked an inexpensive room at Pelangi Bali Hotel. With a gorgeous infinity pool stretching across the property Pelangi (which means Rainbow) was an excellent choice and the location could not have been more fun and convenient on Double Six Beach. 

Because of Seminyak's popularity I had my reservations when deciding where to stay for our last four days. (Would it feel too busy? Too touristy? Dirty? No, not really, and definitely not.) I wasn't against it but in weighing locations Bob was the one who pushed for it more. Turns out I am a Seminyak enthusiast. I immediately fell for the laid back vibe here on these colorful golden shores; host to a learn-to-surf crowd, a parade of eternal beach vendors, insanely beautiful sunsets and a fantastic restaurant scene. It would have been an absolute shame to miss it. 

The sand is darker here - ranging in colors from golden brown to dark gray, but not as dark as a pure black sand beach. The waves are intense and you do need to be mindful of a strong undercurrent. We rented a boogie board the first day and took surf lessons the next. This was our first time ever surfing and we loved it! Our instructors were expertly skilled at teaching newbies. We also made sure to treat ourselves to massages and in my case a mani-pedi right on the beach. Absolutely no need to book at the spa when you can get your nails done from your lounge chair while listening to the waves crash ashore. 

Double Six Beach is home to a vibrant scene all day and into the night. Around 4pm the popular row of beach bungalow bars set out their infamous rainbow bean bags and everyone gathers for sunset cocktails, shisha and live music. Seminyak's west facing shores showcase a tremendous sunset. This became our cherished routine every evening. Then we'd freshen up and grab a taxi into Seminyak Square. Late dinners are no issue in this town - we usually ate around 9 and most restaurants serve until 11 or 12. And Seminyak has plenty of nightlife! A nice change of pace from all our downtime in Pandawa.

B A L I - you were the best decision to date. Thank you for being everything we dreamed of and more.