Jatiluwih Rice Terrace. Credit: Christina Tan
Towering volcanoes, lush rice terraces and dreamy beaches give Bali an almost otherworldly setting that will have you snapping photos everywhere you look.
For our Bali Instagram guide, we turned to Christina Tan, also known as @Sassychris1, one of the top photographers in Indonesia. Born and raised in Jakarta, Tan is known for her mesmerizing shots of Bali, among other places.
She worked in the fashion industry before pursuing her photography hobby full time. “I would say my photography style is elegant and vibrant, a little glamorous,” Tan says.
While her Instagram feed features destinations ranging from the Northern Lights in Norway to temples in Thailand, Bali holds special meaning for Tan.
“Bali is the place for me to escape from the hustle and bustle of my city life in Jakarta,” she says. “I love its beautiful nature, laidback lifestyle, vibrant nightlife, super-trendy shops, the amazing culture, the beautiful art and architecture, the kindness of its people who always smile — the list goes on and on.”
Of course, her favorite Bali activity is shooting pictures. “The feeling is indescribable when I capture a beautiful sunrise or sunset photo, even though I had to wake up so early and got bitten by insects in the humid, tropical weather,” she says.
If you can brave the bugs and the humidity, grab your camera and follow Tan’s Instagram guide to beautiful Bali.
Ayana Resort and Spa, Bali’s Rock Bar. Credit: Christina Tan
“With its spectacular location and good vibes, Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star Ayana Resort and Spa, Bali’s Rock Bar is one of my favorite places to watch the sunset and chill.”
Kubu. Credit: Christina Tan
“A dinner at Kubu in Four-Star Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is unforgettable with a tropical Bali breeze and the soothing sound of the Ayung River.”
Pasih Uug. Credit: Christina Tan
“Pasih Uug, a virgin beach in Nusa Penida island, offers dramatic sunsets.”
Kanto Lampo Waterfalls. Credit: Christina Tan
“Bali has a lot of waterfalls, but this one is special. Kanto Lampo was my first waterfall visit in Bali. I stood in the water up to my thighs for almost two hours to get the perfect shot of my friend. She was brave to climb the slippery rocks! Kanto Lampo is located not far from Ubud.”
Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay. Credit: Christina Tan
“The legendary Five-Star Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay pioneered the villa-with-a-pool concept in Bali hotels, and it still is breathtaking. What could be more romantic than having a dinner at the gazebo facing the famous Jimbaran Bay sunset?”
Lake House. Credit: Christina Tan
“This abandoned house makes a great foreground at the beautiful, still Lake Batur.”
Tegalalang Rice Terrace. Credit: Christina Tan
“The lush, famous rice terrace in Tegalalang is near Ubud. Come early to avoid the throngs of tourists.”
Ulun Danu Temple. Credit: Christina Tan
“Another famous temple located in North Bali, Ulun Danu offers fresh mountain air. It’s perfect for watching the sunrise.”
Pandawa. Credit: Christina Tan
“Pandawa is a beautiful beach in South Bali that’s famous with locals. Go there to enjoy spectacular sunsets with a glass of Bintang, a local beer.”
Check out our other Instagram guides for New York City, Los Angeles, Miami and Vancouver.
