A little update from the beautiful Bali: I think I might have found my happy place, aside from being at home with my family. I can say without a doubt that Bali has a good effect on me. Let me walk you through my thoughts from the last couple of days.
Life on Bali
Currently I am residing in Canggu. I’ve heard from a lot of the people that Canggu is one of the least beautiful places in Bali. It might be true, but I absolutely love the fact that there is such a big fitness and health community, a huge variety of cafés, restaurants and shops. All of them have their own unique character and every time you turn the corner, there is another beautiful establishment.
Terror or terrific traffic?
Besides Bali’s beauty - which I'm sure I'll explore more with my Bali babe and brother - the stories are true: traffic is crazy.
But I’ve noticed something that really amazes me: all drivers seem to rely on other drivers watching out for them.
In the Netherlands, you always have to triple check whether you’re good to go. You have to anticipate people who aren’t the best drivers. Making sure that you and everyone else on the road is safe.
But here?
Once you’ve overtaken the person behind you, there is a silent agreement, that they'll ease off and give you enough space to merge. Everybody drives with a degree of trust and tranquility that the people beside and behind them, will quite literally, watch their backs. Which probably makes it easier for them to navigate the wild traffic.
I truly find it fascinating and in my opinion, it speaks volumes about the character of the local people and how they treat the rest of their community.
Wide smiles community
In my opinion, there is also an unprecedented level of positivity here. People are kind and uplifting to one another. Speaking from personal experience, I’ve received some compliments here and there, but what amazes me, is that it didn’t only come from the local people. I actually received compliments from other tourists and expats.
Could it be that the positive energy clings to everyone who stays here in Bali?
I couldn’t tell you, but I feel the positive vibe effecting me, as well. I am not shy to compliment people as they walk past and I continuously smile as I walk down the streets.
The contrast is real
It’s a stark contrast with the way that is common to me, in the Netherlands. I feel that people complain more, smile less and live in a more individualistic manner. When the sun is out, I do feel like people are overall much happier - so maybe that is the reason. And as amazing as the Netherlands is, wouldn’t it be unmatchable if we could stay positive, also during the rainy and grey days?
Why not invest in our level of connection?
Why not uplift one another?
Why not be positive?
Wouldn’t life be so much more beautiful?
