Regina King Reflects on a Transformative Trip to Bali at World’s Best Summit
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Renowned actress and director Regina King recently shared her profound experiences from a memorable journey to Bali in 2002 during the Travel + Leisure’s annual World’s Best Summit. The event, held on 15 July 2026, provided King with the platform to discuss how this specific trip not only broadened her horizons but also left a lasting impression on her and her family.
During a conversation with Travel + Leisure’s Editor-in-Chief, Jacqueline Gifford, King was asked to reflect on a journey that significantly changed her life. Taking a moment to reminisce, she announced that her trip to Bali was an experience like no other, especially for a mother responsible for curating a family holiday. “It was the first trip that, you know, just as a mum, that was a huge trip that I planned everything,” she explained, highlighting the importance of the journey for her family dynamics.
King passionately recounted how the island’s unique culture and the warmth of its inhabitants opened their eyes to a different way of living. “We got a chance to be opened up to a way of thinking. The people in Bali were very happy but primarily worked for what they needed,” she stated. This simplicity resonated deeply with her family, prompting them to adopt small rituals and collective prayers during their stay.
An appreciation for the extraordinary talent found among the local Balinese artists further enriched her experience. King expressed her admiration, saying, “So many people, they were all artists. Someone either could sing, dance, draw, or make something out of something.” Her reflections shed light on a community profoundly rich in creativity, inspiring her during and after the trip.
The sensory pleasures of Bali were also pivotal to King’s fond recollections. She described the tropical aromas that permeated the air, cementing the memory of the destination in her mind. “I still can smell Bali. I still have a distinct smell of going out on the beach,” she shared, conveying how certain scents can evoke emotions and connection to place.
Cuisine played an essential role in her overall experience, with King expressing nostalgia for the extraordinary seafood served in Bali. “I still haven’t had fish that good,” she stated, reminiscing about the joy of choosing fresh fish with her family. The emphasis on communal experiences during meals marked a significant departure from her usual dining habits, making it even more special.
As the conversation drew to a close, King remarked that despite her extensive travels since then, none have surpassed the impact of that particular trip. “There hasn’t been a trip to beat it,” she concluded, underscoring how meaningful experiences can shape perspectives and strengthen familial bonds.
King’s reflection on Bali not only highlights her personal journey but also illustrates the powerful connections formed between travel and understanding diverse cultures. Such experiences tend to transcend mere vacations, transforming into profound moments that can influence one’s outlook on life.
As she prepares for her upcoming role in the film adaptation of “Children of Blood and Bone,” scheduled for release in January 2027, it is clear that King carries with her the insights and memories from travels that shape both her career and personal life. Her journey to Bali remains a testament to the power of exploration and the impact it can have on ordinary lives.