I grew up reading the novels of James A. Michener, so I’d spent my life wanting to see an island paradise.

That wish finally came true when some friends asked if I wanted to share the cost of a trip to Bali.

After a little online research, we found that in Bali private villas are surprisingly affordable, even if we each rented our own.

We booked the trip and spent two weeks enjoying the glorious weather, first class accommodations, and wonderful food.

But for me, the best part was finally seeing firsthand some of the places which had inspired the books I loved.