Bali is known for its pristine beaches, rich cultural heritage and stunning landscape with the destination becoming the ultimate getaway for Aussies.
And while the island has become popular among groups of friends, it’s now cemented itself as the best place in the world for couples seeking a romantic getaway.
For the first time, Bali came out on top in the World Travel Awards’ Most Romantic Destination for 2024, beating destinations like the Maldives, Saint Lucia, The Bahamas, Mauritius, Oman and Turks & Caicos islands – all of which were nominated in the category.
Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy said in a statement it is incredibly proud of Bali’s achievements on the global stage.
“These awards truly motivate us to keep sharing Indonesia’s beauty with the world and make Bali and all our destinations shine even brighter,” it wrote on its official account, Wonderful Indonesia.
From 2020 to 2023, the top gong went to Seychelles in East Africa, while Mauritius held onto the title in 2018 and 2019, Jamaica in 2012 and the Maldives in the two years prior.
With Bali taking out the title for 2024, it marks the first time a location in Southeast Asia has won the prestigious award.
“From jaw-dropping landscapes to its rich and vibrant culture, Bali has a way of capturing hearts,” Wonderful Indonesia continued in its post.
“These accolades are proof that Bali’s magic continues to inspire travellers everywhere.”
The tourist hotspot was also ranked 38th in Time Out’s Coolest Neighbourhood’s in the World list, while on accommodation booking platform Agoda, it ranked first in Asia’s Top 10 Beach Destinations for 2024.
Meanwhile, through TripAdvisor’s Traveller’s Choice Awards 2024, Bali ranked as the number one best honeymoon destination in the world and the second-best destination in the world overall.
Bounce Surveys also found Bali will be the second most popular wedding destination in the world in 2024.
According to The Bali Sun, top wedding venues on the island in 2024 include Intercontinental Bali in Jimbaran Bay, the Hyatt Regency in Nusa Dua, Uluwatu’s utterly magical Alila Villas, and the world-class Hanging Gardens of Bali.
The national publication also noted the most romantic day trips are often found a little off the beaten track.
It advised to swap out busy Nusa Penida for a romantic and wistful stroll along the shore of Nusa Lembongan, take part in a traditional Melukat water purification ceremony to renew your commitment to love at Tirta Empul Temple, or explore the wild waterfalls and jungles of Munduk to reconnect with the real and boundless love of Mother Nature.
If you’re heading to the hotspot, be sure to add Desa Poto Head to your list – it ranked 21 in the World’s 50 Best Hotels for 2024.
Photo by Sebastian Pena Lambarri on Unsplash
