
Slow travel is gaining popularity in Bali as an alternative to fast-paced itineraries, encouraging visitors to savor moments and engage more deeply with the destination. This approach aligns with Bali's focus on wellness travel experiences, especially away from busy resorts. Slow travel is also considered a more sustainable and regenerative form of tourism, benefiting local economies, cultures, and environments. Organizations like Astungkara Trails Bali are pioneering regenerative travel by guiding tourists to off-path destinations and supporting local communities and agriculture. Key principles of slow travel include prioritizing quality over quantity, seeking local knowledge, supporting local communities, and valuing the journey itself. In Bali, slow travel often means longer stays in each location, supporting local taxi drivers and guides, and traveling during off-peak times. Popular areas for slow travelers include Penestanan outside Ubud. Cultural experiences like Ubud Story Walks and visits to the Samsara Living Museum in Karangasem Regency offer immersive insights into the island's heritage. The main benefit of slow travel in Bali is fostering genuine connections and discovering hidden gems.
This summary was generated from a story originally published by Bali news.
Two men were wounded in a shooting incident at the Shady Pig Bar on Jalan Pantai Berawa in Canggu, North Kuta, in the early hours of Friday, July 17, 2026. The shooting occurred at 2:50 am after a fight broke out between an unknown gunman, identified as Ahmad, and a 25-year-old Chinese national, EA. A 32-year-old security guard, IMYN, was shot through the thigh while attempting to intervene, and EA suffered a gunshot wound above his left knee, possibly from the same bullet. Badung police precinct chief, AKBP Joseph Edward Purba, stated that an extensive manhunt is underway for Ahmad, who is believed to have fled Bali, possibly to Jakarta. Police are reviewing CCTV footage and medical reports, and have collected evidence including blood-stained clothing and a spent bullet. Both victims received medical treatment at Lira Medika Hospital Bali in Kerobokan, North Kuta.

Kelly Benthall, an early retiree, shares her experiences with slow travel, highlighting a shift in perspective during her two years of global travel with her husband, Nigel. While renting a villa in Sanur, Bali, she initially approached slow travel by staying in locations for extended periods, expecting connections to form naturally. However, a turning point occurred when she and Nigel were invited to a coming-of-age celebration by their Balinese neighbor, Kadek. Participating in the local festivities, including karaoke and sharing a meal, helped Benthall realize that active involvement in the community, rather than just extended stays, fosters a sense of belonging. She reflects on previous slow travel experiences in Australia and New Zealand, where she felt more like a spectator, and notes that volunteering in Christchurch offered a similar, albeit smaller, sense of connection. This realization has changed how she and Nigel plan future trips, now prioritizing opportunities for community engagement and participation over simply finding comfortable accommodations.

Crete provides an authentic Greek island experience, distinct from more crowded destinations like Santorini. The island boasts 650 miles of coastline, offering numerous natural wonders such as 36 gorges, including the impressive Samaria Gorge in White Mountains National Park, Europe's longest gorge. Visitors can explore Preveli Beach with its unique palm forest and the Kourtaliotiko Gorge Waterfall, featuring a hidden waterfall and the Church of Saint Nicholas built into the cliffside. Secluded beaches like Domata, Agia Roumeli, and Marmara Beach are accessible by boat from Sfakia. The Cretan Dream Resort & Spa, founded by a Cretan family, offers luxurious accommodations, an infinity pool, wellness center, and dining focused on local ingredients, including olive oil from its 3,000-year-old olive grove. The resort also arranges activities like stargazing and olive grove visits with wine and cheese tastings. Chania, a vibrant coastal town, features a charming old city with artisan shops, medieval alleyways, and landmarks like the Church of Saint Nicholas and the Chania Lighthouse. Crete is also rich in archaeological sites, with Knossos being a highlight. This 3,600-year-old site was the center of the Minoan civilization and home to the Palace of Minos, offering insights into ancient Greek history. Other notable ancient ruins include Phaistos, Gortyna, and Zakros.