Akhil Varma’s Bali Review with Thrillophilia: A First Trip Abroad Filled With New Sights and Memorable Moments
When Akhil Varma boarded his flight to Bali on the first day of November, he carried the kind of excitement that only comes with a first international journey. He had never travelled outside India before, and everything ahead felt new. What mattered most to him was feeling supported through the process, and that reassurance came early through the guidance of his travel advisor, Aman Sharma. Every conversation with Aman made things easier to understand, and Akhil felt more confident about what to expect once the trip began.
Arriving in Bali and Settling In
The moment he stepped out of the airport, he was welcomed by the warm Balinese air and the sight of his driver holding a placard with his name. That small detail instantly made him feel at ease. After a comfortable drive, he reached the villa where his stay was arranged. The property had the quiet charm that Bali is known for — greenery around, open spaces, and a cosy room waiting after the long flight.
The first evening passed calmly. Akhil and his partner walked around the area near the villa, took in the unfamiliar surroundings and slowly eased into the fact that they were finally in Bali. There was no rush to begin exploring; the day was simply about adjusting to a new country and enjoying the change of atmosphere.
A Day of Natural Wonders and Beautiful Landscapes
The second morning began early with the driver arriving on time, ready to take them through a full-day exploration of Bali’s landscapes. The first major stop was Kintamani, where Akhil saw Mount Batur for the very first time. The view stretched across the horizon, with the lake sitting calmly beside the volcano. The weather was cool, and the sight created a sense of awe without needing any explanation.
From there, they visited a coffee plantation. Akhil walked between the plants, tasted different varieties and learnt how Balinese coffee was traditionally prepared. This was a simple experience, but it gave him an interesting glimpse into local flavours.
Tegenungan Waterfall was a change of pace. The sound of the water, the mist in the air and the natural setting made it a refreshing stop. The Tegalalang Rice Terrace added another highlight to the day. The structured layers of green fields were unlike anything he had seen before. Standing there, he understood why this place appears so often in pictures and postcards.
The Bali Jungle Swing brought in some fun. With the Active Package included, he got the chance to swing over the valley, creating one of the most striking memories of the trip. The local lunch provided at the site completed the afternoon on a satisfying note.
Exploring Temples, Forests and the Famous Sunset
The third day gave Akhil a closer look at Bali’s spiritual side. Ulun Danu Temple, floating gently beside Beratan Lake, had a peaceful ambience that set a calm start to the day. The stillness of the water, the mountain backdrop and the intricately built shrine created a place where visitors naturally slowed down.
The Kedaton Monkey Forest added a playful contrast. Akhil enjoyed watching the monkeys move freely, interact with visitors and wander around the forest without hesitation. It was lively and amusing — a completely different side of Bali’s culture.
The highlight of the day, however, was the sunset visit at Tanah Lot. The temple, standing strong on a rocky outcrop with waves hitting its base, appeared almost magical during sunset. The sky shifted shades of gold and orange, and Akhil found himself simply standing there, watching the colours change. It was a moment that needed no explanation and one that he knew he would remember long after the trip ended.
Adventure at Nusa Penida and an Evening of Unwinding
The fourth day required an early departure, but Akhil was ready. The fast boat ride to Nusa Penida took him to a place that felt completely different from mainland Bali. Rugged cliffs, vivid blue water and dramatic scenery greeted him.
Kelingking Beach was the most famous stop of the day. Seeing the cliff shaped like a dinosaur’s back from above was surreal. Angel’s Billabong and Broken Beach added more of the same dramatic beauty, with water carving its way into natural pools and arches. Each stop offered new angles and new landscapes.
Akhil got a chance to relax a little at Crystal Bay. The water was clear, the beach had a clean, open stretch, and if time allowed, snorkelling was included as well.
After returning to Bali, he was taken directly to a massage centre. The two-hour Balinese massage helped his tired muscles recover from the long day. Later that evening, the candlelight dinner with wine arranged for them created a thoughtful, intimate end to the night. It became one of the most cherished memories of the entire trip.
Saying Goodbye to Bali
On the final day, Akhil checked out of the hotel and was driven to the airport without any complications. As he sat in the car, he realised how quickly the five days had passed. Each day brought something new — landscapes, temples, people, flavours and small moments that stayed with him.
He also recognised the role of the team that made this trip possible. Aman’s support never faded, even once plans were finalised. The drivers were kind, patient and knowledgeable. The staff at each stop treated them well. For a first international trip, Akhil felt he could not have asked for a better beginning.
Final Reflection
What Akhil appreciated most was not just the places he visited, but the comfort of knowing he had someone to rely on the entire time. The structured itinerary helped him explore widely, but the human touch from the Thrillophilia team made it meaningful.
He returned home with the hope that this would be the first of many international journeys — and he was sure that Thrillophilia would be a part of those future plans.
Read More: Thrillophilia Bali Reviews