I went on a sacred journey across Asia and visited some of the its oldest temples. Beyond bricks and mortar, what I experienced when I entered these incredible shrines was special. Let me explain why.
Bali
Beginning in Indonesia, my sacred journey led me first to the island province of Bali. World renowned for its beaches, Bali crackles with an energy reflective of its people. Its cuisine is no different. I took a cooking class and learned how to make traditional Indonesian curries, sambals, and other traditional dishes. Afterward, I set out to see some Bali’s fantastic sights. I explored Nusa Penida, an island community known for its world class diving locations and panoramas of the Badung Strait. Finally, I saw the spectacular Tanah Lot Temple. One of seven sea temples set off the Balinese coast, Tanah Lot is a breathtaking representation of historic Balinese culture.
Komodo Island
Named for its most famous inhabitants, Komodo Island is home to the Komodo Dragon. Weighing up to 200 pounds and measuring out at nearly eight and half feet in length, these lizards are modern day dinosaurs. Yet, the natural landscape of Komodo Island is just as striking as its residents. The island is 240 miles of lush greenery, rugged terrain, and picturesque beaches. Komodo Island also features a pink sand beach, one of only seven that exist in the entire world. After snapping some pictures with some new friends, I ate lunch on the pink beach and listened to the sea.
Yogyakarta and Borobudur
After my adventure in Komodo Island, the sacred journey took me next to the Indonesian city of Yogyakarta. I visited the UNESCO World Heritage-listed site Prambanan Temple, the largest Hindu temple in all of Indonesia. Next was the Taman Sari, a renowned water castle that was built in the mid-18th century. The next morning, I left the hotel at 4:30am to watch the sunrise at the Borobudur. Another UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, the Borobudur is a ninth-century Buddhist Temple that is also the world’s largest. Watching the sun rise over the spires and arches was magical and a sight that I will never forget.
Singapore
The last stop of my sacred journey brought me to the beautiful country of Singapore. I went on the Heritage Foodalicious Tour, tasted some samples, and learned about a family-run soy sauce business. After, I visited the Gardens by the Bay, a stunning nature park that runs adjacent to the marina resevoir. I ended my trip and my night with a laser light show under the “trees” in the park. Colorful, electric, and beautiful, it was a fitting end to the trip.
Southeast Asia evokes wonder because it is a world unto itself. From the sea temples of Bali to the Komodo Dragons of Komodo Island, Southeast Asia is a wonder land worth visiting more than once.
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