Over a decade ago, I traveled to Indonesia—a land of stunning beauty, unforgettable experiences, and stark realities. Bali’s landscapes captivated me, and its people were kind and full of life. But there were moments that left a deeper mark.

I’ll never forget one evening on a quiet beach. The sun had just dipped below the horizon, leaving streaks of orange and pink in the sky. A group of locals invited me to join their soccer game. It started with a bit of hesitation—me trying to keep up—but quickly turned into one of the most joyful nights of my life. We played until it was too dark to see, laughing and shouting like we’d known each other for years. That moment felt pure, a reminder of the shared humanity that transcends borders.

But not everything was so easy to embrace. The beaches were littered with plastic, the result of a growing population and limited infrastructure to manage waste. And then there were the interactions I witnessed—tourists treating locals with disregard. Some Aussies at a nearby bar spoke to their servers like they were less than human, snapping fingers, barking orders. It was infuriating and disheartening, a sharp contrast to the warmth and generosity the locals had shown me.

My visit to Komodo Island remains one of the most awe-inspiring experiences of my life. Seeing those massive dragons, creatures that seemed untouched by time, reminded me of the delicate balance of nature. Yet Bali itself felt fragile—buildings poorly constructed, falling apart with time, and an island strained by the weight of unchecked development.

Would I return? Absolutely—to dive into the vibrant underwater world and reconnect with the people who made my time there so memorable. But retire there? No. Bali is a place that requires care, respect, and mindful travel. It’s a destination that leaves you thinking—not just about its beauty but also about our responsibility as visitors to honor and protect the places we touch.

That night on the beach still stays with me, a memory of connection, joy, and what truly matters when we strip away all the noise.