Anticipating Bali: A Mix of Excitement, Adventure, and Flight-Induced Butt Cramps

It’s official! I’m heading to Bali, and I can hardly contain my excitement—or my anxiety, if we’re being completely honest. I’ll be staying at the Aksari Resort, a stone’s throw from Ubud, which is known for its lush, tropical scenery, peaceful vibes, and, of course, the famous Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. Yes, you heard me right: monkeys. I will be voluntarily surrounding myself with furry little primates who may or may not decide my sunglasses are their new favorite toy. What could go wrong? But hey, it’s part of the adventure!

The Excitement: Aksari Resort and Ubud Dreams

First things first, let’s talk about this incredible place I’ll be staying at—Aksari Resort. Just the name makes it sound like paradise, right? I’m picturing myself lounging in an infinity pool, surrounded by jungle, maybe sipping a cocktail with a little umbrella. I’ll soak in the views of Ubud’s famous rice terraces, bask in the tranquility of nature, and probably overindulge in spa treatments. Because let’s be real, I didn’t come all this way to skimp on the luxury!

Ubud itself is this gorgeous little hub of culture, yoga, and creativity. I can already feel my stress melting away just thinking about it. I’ve got plans to explore the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary (fingers crossed I don’t have a monkey jumping on my head), and I’m renting a driver to take me on some sightseeing adventures. If anyone has been to Bali before and has some “must-see” places I should add to my list, hit me up in the comments!

The Not-So-Glamorous Part: The Flight

Now, here’s where the anticipation takes a sharp left turn into panic mode. Have you ever sat in one of those tiny airplane seats for hours on end, only to find yourself battling leg cramps and wondering why seats aren’t designed for actual humans? Yep, that’ll be me—times ten.

I’ve got a long flight ahead of me, and here’s the thing: I’m not exactly the size of your average travel blogger. I’m carrying a bit of extra weight (let’s call it a few extra pounds of fabulousness), which tends to make long flights more… interesting. By interesting, I mean uncomfortable in every possible way. I’m already bracing myself for leg cramps, butt cramps, and the classic “trying not to elbow the person next to me” dance. Fun, right?

So, if anyone has magical tips for surviving long flights when you’re not the size of a runway model, I am all ears. I’ve already got my compression socks packed, but I feel like I need more than that. Yoga poses in the aisle? Strategic snack breaks? A personal masseuse hiding in my carry-on?

Let’s Keep It Real: The Journey, Not Just the Destination

In all seriousness, though, the journey to Bali is more than worth the minor (okay, major) discomfort of a long flight. I’m beyond ready to experience the culture, the food, the serenity, and the beauty of the island. Plus, I know the minute I step foot in Bali, the cramped flight will be a distant memory—probably erased by my first spa treatment or a big plate of Balinese cuisine.

But before I get there, I want to hear from YOU! If you’ve been to Bali, what should I absolutely not miss? And seriously, any tips for surviving a long-haul flight when you’re not exactly feeling slim and trim? I’ll be taking all the suggestions I can get—because this is going to be one heck of a journey, and I’m determined to enjoy every minute (even if my butt doesn’t agree).

Drop Your Thoughts in the Comments!

So, are you a Bali pro? A long-flight veteran? Or maybe you just have some encouragement for a gal embarking on a big adventure? Let me know in the comments, because this is going to be an unforgettable trip, and I want to share every bit of it—cramps and all!