I know it's obvious that everyone loves Bali, but I'm going to describe it not like the usual place to have fun with friends, because I didn't fall in love with it like a vacation place.

I went to Bali in December for Christmas and it was the best vacation ever in my life! I left my heart there, I didn't think I can feel at home in a place that I've never been. Indonesia is my country now, and Bali is my favourite place because I spent time there with people I love. The great thing was that my host family is originally from Bali, so it allows me to see the island with their perspective and not from a tourist point of view. I went to places that most tourists don't know, and they were amazing. I can't wait to go there again, and I wish to take my Italian family and friends, hoping that they can feel the same way I do.

Bali is more than an island with beautiful beaches, it is an exotic place, where I found beautiful culture, religion, people, climate and food. Everything is beautiful. With my family we had amazing activities like snorkelling, surfing, exploring places and joined a Hindù ceremony, which was so spiritual and touching. I enjoyed so much because their ceremonies are so fascinating. 

After that I've also decided to learn a Balinese dance and I love it. I've been to many beautiful places in Indonesia, but I'm still trying to understand why Bali's magic will  always be the best for me.

Laura S. is an AFS exchange student from Sardenia - Italy, who had studied at SMA John Paul in Bekasi.