Shivani’s Review of her Bali Escape with Thrillophilia: A Journey to Remember
When Shivani Nigade and Gourav Patane decided to take a summer break, they both wanted more than just another beach holiday. Each of them longed for a balance of culture, adventure, and those postcard-perfect landscapes that linger in memory. Bali came up almost instantly in their conversations, and looking back now, it felt like the perfect choice. The island offered them everything they had imagined, and so much more.
From the moment they landed in Denpasar, the warmth of the Balinese people struck them. Smiles, easy conversations, and a genuine welcome set the tone. Their drive to Kuta became an initiation into island life: palm trees swaying, the scent of food spilling from little warungs, and the sea breeze carrying its calm. By the time they checked into their hotel, the fatigue of travel had lifted. That evening, they wandered through Kuta’s bustling lanes, surrounded by lively markets, street performers, and the sound of music drifting from bars. The energy of the place made them feel instantly alive.
One of their first big adventures was Nusa Penida. The speedboat ride across the water was rough, and Shivani briefly regretted having breakfast, but once the cliffs and turquoise bays came into view, all doubts vanished. Kelingking Beach was as dramatic as the photographs they had admired online, yet in person, it seemed almost unreal. Looking down at the famous T-Rex-shaped cliff, both of them fell silent. Angel’s Billabong and Broken Bay deepened that sense of wonder, as though nature had crafted a private gallery. By the time they returned to their hotel, sunburnt and exhausted, their faces still carried a glow that even sleep could not dim.
The next day was filled with adrenaline. Gourav had been eager for the quad bikes, his love for wheels and dirt tracks shining through. Shivani was hesitant, but once the engine roared to life, nerves turned into laughter. They rode past muddy trails, through streams and forests, the rhythm of the land pulling them in. Later, they braved the Ayung River for white water rafting. There were moments of suspense, when it seemed the raft might flip, but their guide kept them safe while still letting the river thrill them. They ended that day with a simple Balinese lunch, which tasted heavenly after hours of exertion.
Ubud brought a change of pace. The town felt meditative, wrapped in green and filled with quiet energy. The rice terraces spread like a canvas, waterfalls thundered with hypnotic force, and the aroma of coffee plantations lingered long after they had left. Shivani tried the jungle swing, her legs trembling as she was strapped in. Fear gave way to freedom as she swung out over the valley, with Gourav cheering from below. That fleeting weightlessness, the wind brushing her face, carved itself into memory.
There was a small hiccup at Tegenungan Waterfall. A heavy downpour began just as they descended the steps, turning them slippery. They clutched each other’s hands and carefully made their way, laughing through the mishap. By the time they reached the pool, both were drenched, but instead of irritation, joy took over. Dancing together in the rain with the roar of the waterfall behind them became one of the most romantic moments of their journey.
One of the highlights came with visits to Handara Gate, Ulun Danu Temple, and Tanah Lot. The Handara Gate looked exactly as iconic as it had in the countless photographs online, but standing there together made it feel deeply personal. Ulun Danu Temple, floating serenely on its lake, carried a stillness that bordered on spiritual. Tanah Lot, however, became the crown jewel. As the sun set, the sky turned orange and purple, waves crashed against the rock, and silhouettes of people etched themselves against the horizon. Shivani and Gourav sat silently, knowing they were witnessing something beyond words.
Throughout the journey, Thrillophilia’s presence was felt in the most seamless way. From airport transfers to activity bookings, everything was in place, allowing them to focus only on living the moments. The local team was always a call away, attentive to even the smallest requests. It gave them a safety net, one that freed them to fully embrace the island without worry.
On their last morning in Ubud, before heading to the airport, they walked together through quiet streets as the sun began to rise. The smell of incense lingered in the air, the roads were still sleepy, and a gentle sadness settled in. They exchanged a look, already reminiscing even before leaving, that bittersweet ache that comes only with the best journeys.
Bali gave Shivani and Gourav sunsets that felt painted by hand, adventures that quickened their heartbeat, and moments of stillness that grounded them. More than anything, it gave them memories they will carry and recount for years to come. For that, they remain deeply grateful.
Read More: Thrillophilia Bali Reviews