The idea behind this post is actually came from the people, friends that I met on the road. You know, many backpackers doing South East Asia trip, including Indonesia. When I asked them where they wanna go in Indonesia, 90% answered Bali. Although I got mix reactions of how some people against Bali merely because it's too "touristy", they said, I personally think it is a right decision for them to visit Bali, even though there are a lot more to see in Indonesia. However, as a first comer in Indonesia, Bali is the right choice for you because:
- It is super easy to travel in Bali. Guidebooks, websites, blogs, you can easily get all the information about Bali. It's been opened for tourist ages ago so Bali is ready to accommodate travelers, which is hardly found in different parts of Indonesia. People can speak average English, they'll be able to help you anytime.
- It is a complete package. Here in Bali, you can find anything, from endearingly nature to the complexity of the culture. You can do activities such as trekking, diving, surfing, what else? Shopping, party, yoga, spa..everything!
- The unique culture. Balinese adapted Hindu into the way of life. You will find rituals or ceremonies happening anywhere, at the beach, at the middle of town, even when you ride your scooter. I don't actually agree when some people say Bali is not authentic anymore just because there are many international hotel chains or KFCs. Balinese actually amazes me, how strong they hold their culture, their identity in the vast tourism, I'd say western environment like this. On the street you'll see canang sari, an offering made of flowers, rice, cookies, piled in a leaf tray with burning incense stick. It is actually interesting to examine how they cope with modernity,
- It is cheap! No longer a secret. You can rent a scooter less than $5 a day! Cheap street foods, like less than $2 for a whole meal. Hotels are very cheap as well due to the competition. The only thing that will break your pocket is drinking! I have to agree Indonesia is not the cheapest country for alcohols.
- You will love Bali!
I'm writing this article as a simple guide to Bali based on my experience itself with some additional information from other sources. Again, each individual has different preference, depends on what you seek, is it surfing or spiritual? I'll try to list down the highlights.
Bali looks small on the map, well, compared to other islands in Indonesia but the truth is, it takes time to move from one area to another. Bali is divided into 6 regions with its own point of interest. You'll see how fascinating Bali is. How many beaches it has, how many temples they have? It's just never enough! Even for me to be honest, I keep coming back to Bali cause something new will always pop up.
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Ubud: It's good that Ubud keeps its spiritual vibe, no tall buildings however main road, Jl. Monkey Forest and Jl. Raya Ubud is honestly too packed. But if you go out from these two main road, then you'll see the charm of Ubud. Go to Tegalalang Rice Terraces, on the way you'll see many sculptures and workshops. Do Campuhan Ridge Walk in the morning, visit monkey forest, Goa Gajah, Gunung Kawi, museums, or watch cultural show. Don't forget to take some yoga class if you're into it.
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Gianyar: Challenge yourself by doing white water rafting.
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Bedugul: Beautifully surrounded by the mountain area and lake, visit the famous Pura Ulun Danu Beratan.
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Mengwi: See Taman Ayun Temple
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Tabanan: A peaceful village with extensive rice field. Visit Jatiluwih and do rice field trekking.
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| Kecak Dance Performance |
East Bali - Diving mecca! also my favorite part in Bali. The beach is black-sanded as the result of volcanic activity in the area, however it's very quiet and relaxing.
-Amed and Tulamben: Dive and discover some shipwrecks such as USAT Liberty Shipwreck and see underwater temple garden. You can learn freediving as well.
(Read more: Amed and Tulamben)
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Sidemen: Another option besides Ubud if you wanna feel the spiritual while enjoying the mother nature.
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Batur and Agung: Two highest volcano in Bali. Immerse yourself in the wonderful view of Lake Kintamani and while in Mt. Agung, you can also make a visit to Besakih Temple.
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Candidasa: An idyllic getaway in East Coast. Visit Tirta Gangga, Lotus Lagoon, and Goa Lawah Temple.
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| Japanese Ship Wreck in Amed |
North Bali - Home to stunning waterfalls such as Sekumpul Waterfall and Gitgit Waterfall
West Bali - Menjangan and Pemuturan, coral reef dive.
Nusa Islands - The islands on south east of Bali.
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Nusa Lembongan: Good for chilling, island vibe. See Devil Tears.
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Nusa Ceningan: Can be reached by scooter from Nusa Lembongan. Cool jumping point, seaweed farm.
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Nusa Penida: The largest island that is still unspoiled but has a big potential. I'm pretty sure it'll get busier soon. Highlights: Klingking Beach, Angels Billabong, and Broken Bay. You can also take snorkeling or dive trip to see Manta Rays and Mola-mola
(Read more: Nusa Lembongan and Ceningan)
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| Klingking Point |
CULINARY IN BALI
Balinese food is very distinctive from the food in other parts of Indonesia, in fact, you cannot find food that is similar to Balinese food anywhere else in Indonesia. Don't worry, you won't suffer in Bali cause western food are everywhere. In Bali, you will also find local warung offering many type of dishes that you can choose. It is cheap, yummy, and filling your tummy! You have to try:
Babi Guling or Suckling Pig: Roasted pig where they most of the edible part of the pork such as meat, minced, skin, etc.
Ayam Betutu: Roasted or steamed chicken or duck nourished with special spices.
Sate Lilit: Minced pork, chicken, or fish mixed with grated coconut then spiraled to a satay.
Lawar: Combination of minced meat and vegetables sprinkled with herbs and spices.
OTHER USEFUL INFORMATION
- Best time to visit Bali is during dry season April-October
- Getting a simcard is cheap, some good providers: Telkomsel, XL, or 3
- Download Gojek or Uber to avoid scam from taxi driver!
- Please be careful when you drive scooter, driving there is hectic!
- You have to pay entrance fee to most of the temples, respect the temples by wearing polite clothes.
If you have some recommendations, favorite place, or useful tips about Bali, let me know in the comments below, I will put add it in this article, thanks! Enjoy Bali!
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I'm writing this article as a simple guide to Bali based on my experience itself with some additional information from other sources. Again, each individual has different preference, depends on what you seek, is it surfing or spiritual? I'll try to list down the highlights.
