With books like ‘Eat, Pray, Love’ , which talk about the spirituality and beauty of this Indonesian province, Bali is becoming more and more known as a tourist destination. Explore Bali in one day, or spend weeks on motorbikes driving through the mountains and off to the neighboring islands. With beautiful forests, tiered rice fields, picturesque beaches and wonderfully happy people, Bali should definitely be on your must-see list.
GUEST POST BY OLIVIA BOURKE
BLOG: Great Lost
What’s the best time to visit Bali?
The best time to visit is between April and June because room prices will be cut by up to 50%, and the climate is dry and less humid. The worst time to visit is during July, August and any holiday period. Avoid the holiday season as the weather is monsoonal. November has also recently become a high season, with Australian teenagers spending their schoolies here. If you are looking to party, this time is great, though if you want a more relaxing holiday avoid November.
A few facts about Bali
The Balinese are primarily Hindu, but are a part of a nation which is mainly Muslim.
The most expensive coffee in the world, Kopi Luwak comes from Bali.
Children have very similar names, as Wayan, Made, Nyoman and Ketut all translate to first born, second born and so on.
One Day in Bali itinerary (Kuta + Surrounds)
Follow this guide and make the most of your trip even if you’re short on time. These are the top sights and things to do during your one day in Bali.
Start the day with an amazing breakfast
Breakfast is a feast at the Shelter, in the backstreets of Seminyak. Gorge on acai bowls, poached eggs and the best coffee in Indonesia. Although this little place definitely caters to the health conscious traveller, there are a few menu options if you are looking for something little more naughty. Grab any one of their delicious burgers, or amp up your breakfast with crispy bacon and hashbrowns.
See what Seminyak has to offer
Staying in Seminyak means being awoken by crashing waves, idyllic beaches and delicious food. Seminyak is awfully close to Kuta without being in it – this means you can enjoy the benefits of tourism in the area but avoid the overcrowding. Seminyak is a great place for families and travellers. Stay at a cheap but beautiful villa, or camp on the beach – this little town is for everyone. If you have time in the evening. pop into one of the many clubs and sip on all of the fruity cocktails Bali has to offer.
Go Explore Ubud
Ubud is a great mid day activity, hidden among the mountains. This little treasure is home to numerous Hindu temples, monkey temples, cheap massages and beautiful markets.
Head to the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, a natural habitat of Balinese long tailed monkeys. Bring some bananas and make sure to keep them close to you – the monkeys know how to steal things! Feed a few monkeys and explore this deep green temple in all its glory. The monkeys do fight over food and could be carrying diseases, so be careful when feeding them!
If you’re into buying some souvenirs, venture out into the Ubud Traditional Art Market and check out some local pieces produced in the neighboring villages. Ubud is known for its ceramics, wooden sculptures and colourful materials. When bartering, generally cut any number in half. But remember that you could be arguing over a dollar.
Wander around the local spas and drop in for a quick massage. It shouldn’t ever cost more than ten dollars. If you’re looking for another cheap and tasty place to eat, either head to one of the local cafes (folk), or ask a local to direct you to their restaurant. Try to eat local food in the mountains, as you have a lower chance of getting sick.
Relax in Uluwatu
If you arrive at Uluwatu well before sunset, head down to the beach for a swim and relax in the white sand under the sun. Only experienced surfers should attempt paddling out into Uluwatu’s waves. This is due to the fact that waves on this beach crash into jagged rocks, as well the best waves barrel above a reef. If you are looking to learn to surf, try Seminyak which doesn’t have this problem.
Head up to Single Fin for sunset. This is a great spot, but be aware that it fills up very quickly, so arrive early if you want a seat. Grab a marg, listen to some cruisy coastal tunes and watch the sky melt into a yellow mess. This is a great way to finish your day, and the pizzas are to die for!
WHERE TO STAY IN BALI
The Stones – Legian Bali, Marriott’s Autograph Collection Hotel
Jl. Raya Pantai Kuta, Banjar Legian Kelod, Legian Bali
To add a splash of luxury and opulence to your Bali trip, book a room at The Stones – Legian Bali, Marriott’s Autograph Collection Hotel. This hotel is located on Legian Beach and has a huge pool, so you can choose where you want to take a dip. It also features a gym, a spa and its own Kids Club. Beautiful bathrooms in each room come with toiletries you needn’t pay for, and huge windows provide a great view, no matter where you are.
Yan’s House Hotel
Jalan Kartika Plaza, 80361 Kuta
If you want some great value for your money, choose Yan’s House Hotel! This very neat little hotel is located almost right next to the main square in Kuta, has an outdoor pool and can even arrange a shuttle for you to pick you up at the airport. The rooms are nice and cozy, plus you’ll be very close to Kuta Art Market.
Lokal Bali Hostel
Jalan Kediri, No. 93, Tuban, Tuban, 80361 Kuta
Staying in a hostel on Bali doesn’t mean you have to give up on experiencing the atmosphere of this magical place. Lokal Bali Hostel is the best example of that! It has an outdoor pool and all rooms come with a TV and air conditioning. Furthermore, the whole place is beautifully designed, so staying here will indeed be a treat.
Sulis Beach Hotel & Spa
Jalan Wana Segara, 80361 Kuta
Sulis Beach Hotel & Spa is located right next to the beach and has a rooftop pool, so you can enjoy a beautiful view when chilling out there. The area is very popular among surfers, so if you want to give that activity a go, this is where you need to book. Apart from the spa centre, babysitting and hairdressing services are also available.
Extra Tips for Visiting Bali
– Choose to either hire scooters and explore Bali at your own pace, or source other transport. You can hire a driver for about $30US a day, or you can catch taxis in between locations. Make sure to only get in metered taxis -at night time and in peak areas, taxis may charge extra fees. Just like purchasing goods, you can barter with taxi drivers, but agree on a price before you hop in the car, otherwise you forfeit bargaining rights.
– With the abundance of tourists flocking to Bali every year. it can be hard to find a quiet spot to catch up on some reading. If you’re looking for this kind of break, jump on the first boat to the Gilli Islands and soak up some sun on one of the more peaceful islands in Indonesia.
7 Best Value Hotels to Relax in Bali
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If you have any other propositions for this One Day in Bali Itinerary feel free to share it in the comments below!
Olivia Bourke
Olivia is a young adventurer. Having been to Indonesia twice in the last five years she is well versed in the madness of Bali. Olivia is currently planning her next overseas adventure to Hawaii, as she is in need of some sunshine and R & R.
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