Fourteen years ago, my then-girlfriend (now wife) and I took a spontaneous trip to Bali. One of my best friends was staying there for a month, and thanks to a stash of Skymiles, we made it happen. We were young, broke, and absolutely in awe of the island’s beauty and culture. It was the kind of trip that leaves an indelible mark on your heart.

Fast forward to this past summer, that same best friend had been talking about going back to Bali. While catching up in NYC, I gave him the nudge he needed to plan the trip—with the promise that my family would join him for a week. Once again, Skymiles came to the rescue, and the adventure was on.

This time around, we stayed in a quaint estate in central Bali, far from the infamous traffic of the island’s southern hotspots. Every day brought a new adventure—visiting volcanoes, soaking in hot springs, wandering through lush rice terraces, chasing waterfalls, and visiting what might be the best zoo I’ve ever experienced.

And then there was the food. Bali’s culinary scene is extraordinary, but one dish stands out: babi guling. It’s a sensory masterpiece that I can confidently say is one of the most incredible dishes I’ve ever had. And the coffee? Let’s just say it was so good that it got me out of bed earlier than I should have—along with the kids begging to jump into the fantastic pool first thing every morning.

Looking back, this trip might be the best family vacation we’ve ever had. Bali’s magic hasn’t faded in the 14 years since I first visited, and it was amazing to share that magic with my family and three best friends this time.

I hope it won’t take another 14 years (and a stash of Skymiles) to make my way back.