The results are in: TripAdvisor’s 2025 Travelers’ Choice Awards just named Bali the #2 top destination in the world in its Best of the Best category.
For those of us who know and love the island, it’s not exactly shocking. Still, it’s always nice when the rest of the world catches up.
So what makes Bali that place—the kind of destination travelers return to, time and time again? The answer isn’t just in the beaches (though yes, they’re stunning), or the villas (yes, some of them come with jungle-edge bathtubs and infinity pools). It’s something deeper.
Let’s explore why Bali is having a moment—again—in 2025, and why Ubud, in particular, is quietly stealing the show.
What Makes Bali a Top Travel Destination in 2025?
Variety in Every Direction
Whether you’re planning a romantic honeymoon, a wellness escape, or just trying to remember what silence sounds like, Bali offers a bit of everything.
You can wake up surrounded by the rice fields of Ubud, spend a leisurely afternoon dipping your toes in the surf of the Bukit Peninsula, and wrap up your day with a sunset dinner tucked into a jungle treehouse.
Sure, Bali makes it possible to do all of that in a single day—but we wouldn’t recommend it. This isn’t a race. It’s an island that rewards you for slowing down, staying present, and letting the days unfold one layer at a time.
Wellness Without the Woo-Woo
Bali’s not new to the wellness world—but in 2025, it continues to refine it. We’re talking about real, grounding experiences—sound healing, forest walks, massages with actual views, and food that’s both nourishing and genuinely delicious (yes, you can still find a good croissant here in Ubud too).
Gone are the days when Bali was just backpacker beach bars. Today, it’s also home to some of the world’s most beautiful private villas—offering boutique luxury, personalized service, and the space to truly unwind.
Why Ubud Should Be on Your 2025 Bali Itinerary
If Bali is the soul of Indonesia, Ubud is its heartbeat. And it’s not all temples and rice terraces (though there are plenty of those).
Ubud is a charming, slightly chaotic, deeply lovable little town with world-class restaurants, galleries, wellness studios, and more indie cafés than you can shake a coconut at.
Looking for the best way to experience Ubud without the hassle? Stay nearby—but just enough outside the buzz to truly relax.
Where to Stay: Your Private Villa in Ubud
Tucked just outside Ubud’s center in a tranquil rice field village, this architect-designed villa is ideal for couples, honeymooners, or anyone seeking that balance of culture, calm, and a little quiet luxury.
Here’s what makes Haigha House special:
- Infinity pool with views of jungle treetops
- Spacious open-air living + designer interiors
- Complimentary daily return shuttle to Ubud town
- Dedicated concierge to help you book everything from massages to day trips
- Surrounded by real rice fields—ducks, farmers, kids flying kites included
And yes, there’s the fast Wi-Fi. But we won’t judge you if you forget to check your email.
Bali in 2025: Still Worth the Hype
From honeymooners and creatives to wellness-seekers and slow travelers, Bali continues to deliver what people are craving most in 2025: space, beauty, and meaningful experiences.
Bali didn’t just earn its spot as one of the top destinations in the world this year—it lived it
Ready to Make the Trip?
Because there’s luxury—and then there’s waking up to birdsong, a rice field breeze, and fresh coffee waiting for you on the veranda.