Festival Philosophy: How the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival Finds Its Voice Each Year
How the theme of the Ubud Writers and Readers Festival (UWRF) shapes the program, inspires the artwork, and sets the tone for dialogue.
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Editorial
Everything we are watching in editorial — reviewed and kept current.
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Are there ‘Lotus Fruits’ in Bali?
Drawing from Greek mythology and modern Bali, Alistair G Speirs reflects on the island’s allure through the lens of the lotus-eaters.
Food for Thought
Dive into the deeper meaning of Balinese cuisine. Explore the culture, history, and stories behind the island’s vibrant food scene in Bali.
How AI Can Serve Bali Development and Tourism
Discover how AI is shaping the future of Bali’s tourism and sustainable development. A deep dive into digital innovation. Read more.
How Important is Design in Our Lives?
Our Publisher, Alistair Speirs, notes that while Bali’s design heritage is extraordinary, its modern architecture often overlooks local traditions.
Bali's Tradition Transmission: The Task of Passing Culture Down the Generations
What social mechanisms are in place that ensure the constant regeneration of Balinese culture and tradition through the generations?
Rethinking Stewardship in Bali: Lessons from Other Islands
Traveller numbers will put undue strain on all developed and underdeveloped islands. We just need to look at Palawan’s in the Philippines to see signs of buckling.
The Cult of “Me”: Entitlement in the Age of Opinion
Our publisher, Alistair Speirs, offers his perspective on the growing culture of entitlement displayed by newcomers and outsiders in places like Bali.
Rethinking Bali's Future: Do We Really Have Such Short Memories?
Bali faces tourism challenges as unchecked growth strains traffic, waste, water, and land use. A call for sustainable change in 2025.
A Time for Reflection: Can We Find Peace This Christmas?
My message as we approach “The Festive Season” is to find peace and happiness that we all long for, then bring it to as many people as possible.
The History of Rafting in Bali
One of the must-do activities enjoyed by tourists coming to Bali is rafting in the rivers that run past Ubud, but it wasn’t always this way.
The 'Bali Promise': Should Visitors Pledge to Behave in Bali?
There are some destinations that actually demand a guarantee of good behaviour on arrival. Should Bali do the same?
Are the Changes We’re Seeing Positive for Bali?
Opinion piece by Alistair G. Speirs: I set out 8 years ago now to embrace the concept of sustainability and try to bring it to as many people as possibl...
The Delights of Driving in Bali
NOW! Publisher, Alistair G. Speirs, shares his story of the delight of driving in Bali 25 years ago - how things have changed...
Supply & Demand: The Future of Farming in Bali
Challenges arise for the future of farming in Bali, which if not addressed could lead to domino effects on the local dining scene.
Designed to Last: Lessons from Bali’s Tourism History
Exploring Bali’s tourism evolution, ‘Paras’ uncovers its balance between tradition, modernity, and identity in shaping the island’s future.
Our Publisher Looks Back at Fifteen Years of NOW! Bali
"I perhaps should not tell you this, but I didn’t really want to start NOW! Bali," Alistair Speirs, Founder of NOW! Magazines.
Lessons from Japan
Uncover the enduring efficiency and innovation of Japan, driven by hard work and dedication, even in the shadow of China's economy.
Bali’s Own Version of ESG
Sustainability is, thankfully, all the rage these days, as people finally get to grips with their personal and corporate responsibilities to the planet and to the communities in which they live.
Homogenisation, Dilution and Disorganisation
Ensuring that a destination has an identity and safeguards is the key to ensuring its longevity and sustainability.
Living and Learning in Bali: Personal Perspectives from the Bali Island School
In collaboration with Bali Island School, NOW! Bali engaged the school students in a writing competition to hear their personal opinions on what life is like on the island.
Branding the ‘Perfect Island’
Visitors to Bali see billboards, traffic and waste, contrasting private hospitality’s promises with public sector’s lack of vision for a perfect island.
Ramadan, and the Upholding of Tolerance in Bali
The main religions of Bali, Hinduism and Islam, do have their respective concept of tolerance - but it must be maintained.
Duality & the Commercialisation of the Spirit
Bali is now a renowned spiritual & wellness destination with foreigners seeking alternative lifestyle practices. What are the consequences?