Last Updated on: 4th September 2023, 07:52 am

Those who have been following my blog for a while may know how much I like hot springs and thermal waters. I’ve been fascinated by the Szechenyi Baths in Budapest, I fell in love with Lake Ursu in Sovata, and I’ve been happy to find out that I can relax in the warm waters on Therme, a spa resort nearby Bucharest. For Turkey fans, I can recommend a visit to Pamukkale, where there are also some natural springs and a stunningly white landscape. Davutlar, just up from Kusadasi, is another great choice for those who enjoy wellness retreats but want to stay connected to the vibrant nightlife of places they visit. I’m going to write about all these wonderful destinations, so make sure you like my Facebook page to receive the latest updates as I publish them.

Hot and Remote

Europe is cool, but Asia is always on my mind. Since my first visit there, I’ve dreamed about returning to see more countries, to meet more people and to enjoy more of the Asian cuisine. Both Vietnam and Bali are high on my priorities list. I might do them both in one go, should the planets align to fulfill my wishes. Anyway, here are a few interesting places I’ve found so far, to help you put together your own bucket list, should you be thinking about such a trip yourself.

Hot spring water at Tirta Empul, Bali

Hot spring water at Tirta Empul, Bali – not our European bathing suits

While doing some research work for my trip to Bali, I came across Toya Devasya. This is a natural hot spring resort that appears to offer everything I could possibly ask from a holiday. There are thermal baths and natural hot spring pools rich in minerals and other goodies. There’s also adventure such as kayaking, hiking or cycling. For now, I’ve only looked at some prices and accommodation conditions, and they seem to be reasonable. If you want, you can go to site to do some simulations yourself for your desired period of staying in the Toya Devasya camping resort. I’ll surely do more research as I come closer to the departure date, as I intend to do most of my bookings in advance.

Toya Devasya appears to suit my intention of taking a hiking trip on the Batur mountain, an active volcano which has last erupted in 2000. I hope to take some great photos, as the landscape seems to be impressive, according to the author of this article. Apparently, the hike takes about five hours, so it would be easier than what I’m used to. I’m not sure yet if I should book a tour with a local agency or take my hiking gear and just go. The dried lava should be amazing, so I expect to return with some cool photos to show you. I’ve seen only one volcano from close, the Racos volcano, which is in Romania, about 30 minutes’ drive up from Brasov.

Mount Batur in Bali

Gunung Batur in Bali – from that peak I shall take a photo

The Best Time of Year to Go to Bali

My initial plan was to go somewhere between October and January. However, it appears that it’s best to avoid high season, when everything is crowded and expensive. Perhaps I should try to do it in April-May or in September, just before the high season periods. Seeing that I also wish to try scuba diving, I should check out if that is possible all year round.

Chromodoris leopardus

Who could resist Chromodoris leopardus? I do want to see one of these!

For mid-March and beginning of April, I’ve found some flights that cost under $900 (return). There’s more research to be done, but this trip seems already promising. Denpasar with its Pura Blanjong temple is already on the list, as well as the Sanur Beach. Here I expect to get some well-deserved rest after hiking the Batur volcano and camping in Toya Devasya.

Life’s good when you’re making travel plans! Where do you want to go next?

Violeta Matei
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