We are thrilled to share with you a magical 10 days in Bali connecting with the Balinese culture through captivating excursions to temples and palaces, meaningful conversations with cultural leaders, and visits to organizations helping to address some of the island’s greatest challenges. You will experience many of the people, places, and activities that Bali Institute has come to treasure over our 15 years on the ground. Renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, from lush rice terraces in Ubud to pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters and iconic volcanoes, Bali is sure to inspire you in ways you never imagined.

Program Overview

Dig deep into Balinese culture during your first six days near Ubud, the cultural arts capital and hub of “global transformation.” Spend your nights at a stunning Balinese-owned hotel with full amenities and easy access to Ubud village. Witness this extraordinary culture and its honoring of ancient traditions at its best.  You’ll  visit temples with private guides, meet with visionary Balinese leaders, stroll through nature, and enjoy a private meeting with of one of the Royal Family princes and visit his palace.

Your journey continues to the northwest remote ocean village of Pemuteran where you will spend 3 nights staying in beautiful beach-side bungalows with a stunning mountain backdrop. Considered one of the best eco-tourist spots of Bali, experiences will include visiting one of the most unique temples of Bali for an evening visit and blessing ceremony, snorkeling in some of the best areas of Bali including the coral reef restoration area and Menjangan Island, optional divine spa treatments, dining on fresh organic tropical foods and more.

A final night of renewal brings you to Sanur, a seaside town in southeast Bali made up a long stretch of gorgeous beach with calm, shallow waters.  Colorful jukung fishing boats rest on the sand and a paved path snakes along the beach for several kilometers. Sanur is home to great restaurants, a wide variety of shops and a relaxed atmosphere, enjoying delicious meals and shopping for souvenirs as you reflect on the memories you have created!

About the Program Leader, Wade Watkins, Chief Exploration Officer for GlobalOkie Travel

Wade spent a decade in international business and development before enjoying a 20+ year stint in education. After graduate school in Belgium and working as Field Director for Semester at Sea, a floating university campus that circumnavigates the world, Wade served as a world cultures professor and Dean of Global Education for Northern Oklahoma College. While at NOC, Wade created and led their Global Education program, creating and leading more than 60 short-term education abroad programs for students and non-students, taking more than 1500 participants to more than 40 countries on all seven continents. He has lived, worked, or traveled in more than 140 countries.

In early 2023, Wade started GlobalOkie Travel with a mission to create and lead affordable, small-group trips for travelers who want to experience more than just the major tourist sites. He believes in working with well-respected and sustainable local partners that share his travel philosophies to give travelers the opportunity to be more involved with local people, communities, and organizations and give travelers a more in-depth perspective and experience. The result is a more memorable and fulfilling time abroad which creates amazing memories that last long after travelers return home.

About Bali Institute

Bali Institute is about shifting perspectives, one experience at a time. We believe that Bali is a living classroom with something special to share with the world beyond its shores. That’s why for more than 15 years, Bali Institute has been collaborating with extraordinary leaders, organizations, and communities in Bali to offer premier educational travel programs for all ages.

In the heart of our work is the belief that every unique experience we offer has the power for self-discovery. Bali, as a living classroom, invites you to tap into your deepest curiosities and engages you to explore the world in new ways. Bali reminds us what it means to be human and connects us to the beauty of the world.

At Bali Institute, we believe in the power of deep connections and meaningful experiences. We custom design programs to introduce you to the people, places and experiences in Bali that will excite, challenge and inspire — all while having the time of your life.

Our cross-cultural team has a genuine care for the well-being of the island’s people, culture, and environment. We are excited to share the magic of Bali by harnessing our deep roots in the community to create unique and transformative programs for learners of all ages.