Bali
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I had the opportunity to visit Bali, Indonesia for a few days while studying abroad in Singapore, which is when I discovered the island is truly a beautiful paradise filled with the kindest people and some of the richest culture. Balinese culture is heavily rooted in Agama Hindu Dharma religious beliefs, which lends to the overall understanding that nature is “power.” This can be felt in many of the interactions with locals, as well as amongst the various temples sprinkled throughout the island. I recommend doing further research about Balinese culture and the other predominant religions practiced in the region, as Indonesia is an incredibly diverse country.
Travel tip #1: Bargaining is a way of life in Bali, so be prepared to haggle! Of course, haggle with respect to the shopkeepers.
Places of Interest
Tanah Lot: This sacred Hindu temple lies in the ocean, making it a beautiful destination and special place to experience while in Bali. During high tide, it is nearly impossible to cross to the rock base and the waves can be quite hazardous, so plan accordingly.
Goa Gajah: Commonly referred to as Elephant Cave, Goa Gajah is a large temple ground that includes rice fields, lush vegetation, statues, shops, and fountains. This was one of my favorite places in Bali because of its fantastic energy and stunning greenery.
Kuta Beach: One of the most well known Balinese beaches, Kuta is a major tourist destination. Over the past several years, it has become quite developed. Although a nice place to relax, it does lack the more authentic Balinese charm.
Mount Batur: Mount Batur is an active volcano in Bali that many trek to the top for the sunrise. In order to witness the sunrise, you will have to start hiking around 3:30 am. Although I didn’t opt for the sunrise hike, I was still able to view Mount Batur from across the way as I enjoyed a delicious Balinese buffet.
Tegallalang Rice Terraces: One of Ubud’s most famous sites is the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, which involve the traditional Balinese irrigation system cultivation method, “subak.” This area is about thirty minutes by car from the center of Ubud.
Jimbaran: A fishing village and resort that is known for offering seafood dinners on the beach. The dinners are quite delicious, and you literally eat at tables out on the beach while being serenaded with music. During the day, you can wander around Kedonganan Fish Market or wade in the tide pools.
Ubud: Located about an hour inland from the coastal area, Ubud is the cultural heart of Bali. Many of the villages in the Ubud region specialize in woodcarving, which can be appreciated throughout. There are tons of textiles, crafts, paintings, and more lining the streets, too. If you’re in Ubud, you can also pay a visit to the Monkey Forest.
Pasar Seni Ubud: Also known as the Ubud Art Market, this is a wonderful place to find gorgeous silks, shirts, bags, and other handcrafted goods. I recommend stopping here if you’re looking for unique Balinese souvenirs.
Sari Dewi: Each village in Bali traditionally specializes in a certain type of craftsmanship. Within Celuk Village, the silversmith village, lies Sari Dewi—a jewelry shop featuring handmade bracelets, rings, and more.
Luwak Coffee Bali Plantation: Located in the Denpasar area, this coffee and tea plantation is known for its Luwak Coffee. If you take a tour, you will have the chance to wander throughout the lush plantation gardens while learning about traditional coffee production processes. Additionally, you will get to sample a variety of their teas alongside the coveted Luwak Coffee.
Travel tip #2: As with all temples in Bali, women who are menstruating are forbidden to enter temple grounds. Moreover, proper covering and clothing is a must for all temples visitors. It’s best to travel with a light scarf to cover bare shoulders and a sarang for leg coverage. Some temples have these items available to borrow while others will deny entrance if you’re not properly clothed.
Food
Luwak Coffee: This coffee is made with digested coffee cherries that are eaten and then pooped out by the Asian palm civet. The coffee is priced quite high and is considered a delicacy.
Tropical fruit
- Rambutan: Derived from the Malay word for “hairy,” rambutan is a sweet fruit with a hairy exterior and is very similar to lychee.
- Purple mangosteen: Also known as “mangosteen,” this fruit is comparable in taste and texture to lychee. It’s known to have numerous health benefits, too.
- Salak: Referred to as “snake/ snake skin fruit,” it’s not as sweet as rambutan or mangosteen with it’s mix of sweet and sour, but is quite juicy.
Satay: A combination of minced meats that are usually combined with different flavorful ingredients and grilled.
Mie and Nasi Goreng: Mie Goreng is a fried noodle dish is popular throughout Southeast Asian countries, but originates from Indonesia. Nasi Goreng is fried rice similar in style to Mie Goreng. Both are must-try dishes while in Indonesia, especially with a fried egg on top!
Waroeng Soerbi Bandoeng: This little restaurant is off a main street in the Kuta area. It’s only open at night for dinner and late dinner, specializing in a certain dish. The dish’s base is similar to a pounded rice cake which is then grilled and topped with different foods: cheese, chicken, chocolate, and more. There are many options to choose from for a very low price. I really enjoyed eating here and would recommend trying this specific shop or a similar one while in Bali, as many locals frequent places such as this.
Travel tip #3: To avoid getting a case of “Bali Belly,” try to avoid any foods that are uncooked, undercooked, or have been sitting out. It is also best to avoid drinks with ice. Drink bottled water and stay hydrated throughout the day by replacing lost salts, electrolytes, and minerals with drinks such as Pocari Sweat or Gatorade.
Transportation & Accommodation
Taxis and motorbikes are the best forms of transportation in Bali. If you opt for a guided tour, your tour guide will more than likely pick you and your small group up in a mini-van.
There are a variety of options on the island. While some prefer to book stays at luxury resorts and hotels, there are also a plethora of inexpensive options for those on tighter budgets. Make sure wherever you are staying has air conditioning and possibly mosquito nets, as they omnipresent humidity keeps the bugs biting.
While in Bali, I stayed at The Sunset Hotel, which is about three kilometers from Kuta Beach and very inexpensive, averaging ~$20 USD per night. The staff was amazing and the rooms were impeccably clean. There is also a nice pool in the center courtyard.
Click the following links for booking.com listings in: Ubud, Kuta, Jimbaran, Uluwatu, and Denpasar.
Climate
Indonesia’s tropical climate makes for two distinct seasons: wet and dry. Wet monsoon season is between October and April while dry season runs from around May to September. During wet season there are still plenty of sunny days and periods of amiable weather, so don’t worry too much.
High season in Bali is June through August as well as the holiday months of December and January. Expect accommodation prices to be much higher during these peak times.
