Bali's magic

Everyone around me, including myself, have always wondered why I keep going back to Bali.
It's no secret, I'm in love with Bali. An affair that has lasted for 10years now.
Like pretty much every other "paradise", tourism(over-tourism) seems to ruin the place.
8 out of 10 people who go to Bali comes back complaining about the traffic jams, the littered beaches, the crowd and whatever they somehow weirdly did not expect when choosing a popular tourist destination.

I have to admit, it's a far cry from what it used to be when I was there 10years ago. The raw, "untouched" beauty took my breath away. Beaches were cleaner, vendors harrassed less, and things(beers) were cheaper.
I read that property prices especially, have increased significantly in the recent years from the influx of nomads(and self-claimed nomads), which badly affected the locals because a lot of them can no longer afford.
But if you do a little research, there are many other less touristy parts of Bali with amazing beaches and rice fields right at your hotel/villa doorstep.

Sights aside, Balinese are honestly one of the warmest and kindest people I have met. I lost count of the number of wonderful locals that I crossed paths with. Given the huge dependency on tourism, I admire their ability to stay rooted to their traditions and cultures. The fact that they do not tolerate anyone who are disrespectful of what they value.
If you are up for it, I highly recommend a homestay with a local host for the experience. The community spirit, their hospitality, their customs and the friendships gained. Even when they do not have a lot to offer in material sense, they more than make up for it with their sincerity and authencity.
Bali is amazing and it will always be because of the Balinese.