This September 2013, Bali will be the site of the 63rd edition of the famous international Miss World pageant. Nearly 150 beauties from all around the world will be descending upon the glorious island of Bali to vie for the title of Miss World 2013.
Ahead of the competition, Miss World CEO Julia Morley has paid a visit to Bali to check out the iconic spots that will be featured during the contestants’ stay in Bali. If you would like to retrace the steps of beauty queens, these are the key spots that they will be visiting!
1. Pura Besakih 
Pura Besakih is the largest and holiest temple complex in all of Bali. Pura Besakih is also known as the “Mother Temple”, and is made up of 22 individual temples. It boasts panoramic views all around, as it is located on the volcanic slopes of Gunung Agung. In 1963, Gunung Agung erupted, killing nearly 2000 people. Miraculously, lava flows narrowly missed Pura Besakih by just a few metres! Locals believe that this was no coincidence, but a demonstration of power by the gods. Thanks to this miracle, visitors can still witness the beauty of Pura Besakih. Visitors also have a good chance of observing festivals and rituals being carried out, as up to 70 festivals are held here yearly.
2. Tanah Lot
No surprise that Tanah Lot made the list. How could anyone visit Bali and not visit Tanah Lot? This iconic coastal temple is perched delicately on a rock outcrop, and is spectacular when viewed against the sunset. It is also the stuff of myths and legends, including one that goes to say that a giant guardian snake lies beneath the temple. We’re not quite sure if the Miss World contestants would feel squeamish if they knew that!
3. Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park
Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park is the home of the magnificent Garuda statue, the national symbol of Indonesia. The initial plan was to build the world’s largest statue, featuring Lord Vishnu sitting on the mythical bird Garuda. The statue was meant to be 150m tall and 64m wide, however it has sadly not been completed. Nevertheless, the splendid surroundings has made it an international events center boasting beautiful scenery and the best performances of traditional dancing.
Now you know where the Miss World contestants will be headed to this September! Fortunately, we do not have to be beauty queens to visit these charming spots. The wonders of Bali can be shared by all, even by us mere mortals.
Finally, let’s take the opportunity to wish Miss Indonesia 2013, Vania Larissa, all the best in the upcoming Miss World 2013 competition. May she do Bali and the rest of Indonesia proud!
