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On the Way to Tulamben
"Any trip is a holiday that will forever remain in your memory" — someone
Saying goodbye to new friends is never easy. Reo and David, with their easy laughter and endless travel stories, stayed behind in Pemuteran. We shared quick hugs, promises to keep in touch, and then it was time to go. Our little Suzuki, packed with bags and snacks, felt a bit quieter as we pulled onto the road.
The drive along Bali’s northern coast was stunning in its simplicity. On one side, the ocean stretched out endlessly, shimmering under the sun. Fishing boats dotted the water, their brightly painted hulls adding splashes of color to the deep blue. On the other, hills rose gently, covered in dense greenery that seemed to pulse with life. The air smelled of salt and tropical blooms, and the hum of the engine mixed with the distant calls of birds. Even though it was just a car ride, it felt like part of the adventure.
The northern coast is quieter than Bali’s more tourist-heavy areas. Villages appeared along the way, each with its own charm. Kids played near the road, waving as we passed, their laughter echoing in the warm air. Farmers worked in rice fields, their straw hats bobbing in unison as they moved. The rhythm of life here felt slower, more connected to the land and sea.
Driving along the northern coast towards Pemuteran, we stumbled upon a small roadside stall that caught our eye. A woman, her smile as warm as the Bali sun, was selling bunches of freshly harvested grapes. It felt unusual—grapes weren’t something we associated with this tropical island. Curiosity got the better of us, and we pulled over. The grapes were tiny, deep purple, and slightly dusty from the coastal breeze. After a quick taste, we were hooked. They were sweet, with a tangy bite that felt refreshing in the midday heat. We ended up buying more than we needed, munching on them as we continued our journey. Each burst of flavor felt like a little celebration of the unexpected treasures Bali always seems to offer.
Not far into our journey, we saw a sign that caught our attention: Banjar Hot Springs. Neither of us had planned to stop, but in a moment, the decision was made. Why not? The idea of soaking in hot springs sounded perfect. What we didn’t anticipate was the road to get there.
It started easy enough, with gentle curves and lush scenery, but quickly turned into a maze of steep inclines, sharp turns, and uneven patches. Our little Suzuki handled it bravely, but there were moments when we both held our breath, hoping the tires wouldn’t slip. By the time we parked, we felt like we’d earned whatever awaited us.
The springs themselves were like stepping into a dream. Hidden in a grove of tropical plants, the pools were surrounded by stone carvings, some of them spouting warm water into the basins below. There was something deeply romantic about the place—soft light filtering through the leaves, the gentle murmur of water, and the laughter of people enjoying themselves.
Most of the visitors were French tourists. Their conversations, carried by the humid air, mixed with the sound of the bubbling springs. It added an air of sophistication to the laid-back charm of the place. We slid into the water, letting the warmth wash over us. It was like the springs carried away the fatigue of the road, leaving us refreshed and deeply relaxed.
Back on the road, the scenery seemed to open up even more. Coconut groves swayed in the breeze, their shadows playing on the asphalt. Small warungs lined parts of the road, offering fresh coconuts and nasi campur to travelers. Occasionally, we’d pass a temple, its gates adorned with intricate carvings, a reminder of Bali’s deep spiritual roots.
The drive felt different after the springs. The air seemed cooler, the coastline even more beautiful. The road stretched out ahead of us, leading to Tulamben. We talked less and smiled more, carrying with us the calm of the springs and the excitement of what was still to come.
This journey wasn’t just about reaching a destination. It was about the pauses, the detours, and the unexpected moments that made it truly memorable.
That,s all for today.
Stand by
Sincerely yours
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