A COMPLETE TRAVEL GUIDE TO BALI: PART 1
Bali, it’s known as the Land of the Gods for a reason: looming volcanic landscapes, lush terraced rice paddies, leafy rainforests and secret surf spots. You’re enamoured from the moment you step foot on this small island, but don’t underestimate its size. With endless things to do, it’s challenging to make an itinerary which covers all the areas for a two week trip! I’ve shared the areas of the island we stayed in and my favourite eats and activities from each of these.
Canggu
Best for: Beach parties and brunches
One of Bali’s busiest corners, Canggu is a honeypot for surfboard and laptop bearing expats from all over the world. With some of the islands best beach clubs and restaurants, it’s an idyllic spot for any island newbie to settle.
To Eat
While Indonesian food is not ubiquitous in the Western world, this is a great place to shun any fears of upsetting your stomach and get a taste of traditional dishes. I was wow’ed by the Wood-Roasted Clams; cooked over coconut coals with crispy fried garlic and lime zest!
Breakfast is a serious event at this hip neighbourhood hangout; think sweet decadence with pancake stacks and super smoothies, while Anglo-inspired eggs take a firm position on the menu.
An industrial, rice-field fringed brunch destination. They’re not shy on portions here!
This really took me back to my time in Melbourne thanks to its refined coffee and eclectic open-air design; a prime location for any freelancer to set up for the day.
To Do
Beach club chills at La Brisa
A vibrant yet laid-back venue with everything you need to hang out all day; breathtaking views, reliable food and chic driftwood decor to sit amongst.
Night out at Old Mans
Perhaps a little bit scruffy for day time drinks, but it’s brilliantly situated for you to coast over to and continue the night. There’s always a schedule of live music and DJ’s for you to dance your way into the early hours.
Sunset Yoga class at Radiantly Alive
The most beautiful rooftop Shala to bring focus and presence in your yoga practice.
Shop the Boutiques
There’s an influence of minimalist glamour in stores such as Cove Island Essentials, Amulets Jewellery and Free The Label.
Market strolls and haggling at Love Anchor Bazaar
Lap up one-of-a-kind artisan wares at this hip emporium.
Tips
If you want to learn to surf this is where to try it. Don’t do what I did and assume you can learn elsewhere!
Ubud
Best for: Discovering the cultural heart of Bali
Capturing sound healers and zen guru’s alike, Ubud is the spiritual epicentre of Bali and where you may well wish to cleanse yourself of any demons. Dripping in jungle vines and and sacred valleys, Ubud is the antithesis to the hedonistic rush of Canggu.
To Eat
Bite on Balinese ‘tapas’ while overlooking the enchanting Campuhan vistas.
Proof that you’re never far from an Aussie when in Bali! With locally roasted coffee and well-sourced ingredients, Suka do simple things and do them well.
Learn about the foundations of Indonesian cooking and use these to make Nasi Campur; a delicious rice dish with small portions of flavourful dishes such as crispy tempeh and roasted coconut salad. Warning - save yourself for the heavenly pandan crepes you’ll make for dessert!
To Do
Mount Batur Sunrise Volcano Hike
There are plenty of trekking guides who organise sunrise walks but we just booked ours through our hostel. An absolute must while you’re only an hours drive from the volcano! Everyone talks about the 2am start but no-one talks about how the hike can be physically challenging at times. Come prepared with sturdy trainers or hiking boots and a backpack with drinks, a snack, and a warm layer for when you get the top (it really does get chilly especially while you cool down from the walk).
Walk the Rice Paddies
We actually visited Alas Harum, a one-stop-shop resort surrounded by Ubud’s famous Tegallalang rice terraces. With a multi-tiered infinity pool with a built in bar, it offers stunning 360 degree views of the jungle - however, I found it was a bit too influencer’y for me.
Next Time:
We were limited on time and given the endless things to do in Ubud, we sadly had to miss out some of the activities it has to offer. Next time I’d love to get to the original wellness haven that is The Yoga Barn, the Pyramids of Chi, and take a day trip to some of the stunning surrounding waterfalls.
Tips
Have a rough idea of which activities you want to get done as some require driving out of Ubud - this way you don’t waste any time. Secondly, if you’re less bothered about the Monkey Forest, you can actually walk through part of it without needing a ticket. There’s a little lane that runs alongside the forest fence and this was part of our daily commute to Ubud’s centre!
