Has anyone had the opportunity to visit Bali? We’re keen to hear about your favourite aspects of the trip, the places you found most captivating, and any recommendations you might have for must-visit locations.
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been there a couple of years ago (5 or 6) when the volcano was active. it was lovely. how much in-depth info do you need? I can recommend ubud for yoga, food classes and anything artistic. the gili islands are perfect when you want to take it slow or honeymoon-ish, nusa penida and nusa ceningan were a perfect mix of vibrant and relaxation. anything close to the airport, so around kuta, is touristy and overpriced + full of “digital nomads” even back then. been to a couple of temples, hidden beaches and traditional gatherings which were def a highlight. lowlight is the Kopi Luwak from the “cats”. none of these is even close to sustainable and cruelty-free even if they try hard to hide it. oh and no visit to bali is complete unless you climb mount batur for sunrise
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I went there last year, honestly didn’t think I would like it that much as I’ve heard how touristy it is (and used this as a base to go to Flores and Sumatra). But I was really surprised how much I loved it.
My favourite spot was Ubud, it had an inviting ancient charm that just made you feel relaxed, and some amazing food spots as well (although I was there in off season so it might be hectic in peak season). I was on a private/independent tour, which definitely helped on the relaxation side as everything was organised for us, but with independent time to wander around and immerse ourselves.
Highlights:
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The monkey forest is beautiful to walk around, like a place lost in time full of mossy statues and the monkeys everywhere you look!
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One trip was to Mt Batur at sunrise too, although it was in a jeep. It was nice, but I think a trek would have been better, we stopped at Batur Hotsprings on the way back which overlooked a lake and was really beautiful.
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A day trip to Tegalalang Rice Terraces which I definitely recommend, really beautiful place to walk around, as well as Tegenungan Waterfall, where you can swim at the base.
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There are also a lot of amazing temples with stunning gardens, I can’t remember the names but saw a few, and definitely worth seeing a variety
What I liked less
I wasn’t such a fan of the coffee plantations, they had those jungle swings with a staged photo session which I wasn’t interested in - but hey, if I ever need a hundred photos of me on a swing I’m covered
Independently, after returning from Sumatra we stayed in Canggu, the beach was not the best (coming from Australia), so would take it or leave it. But the food there was really good, it was pretty touristy and overpriced compared to some places, but still felt relaxing and I enjoyed it for a few days.
I didn’t get to any other parts of Bali, I was tempted to visit Menjangan Island (deer island) but maybe have to do that another time!
The impression I got was, Bali has a bit of something for everyone, while it was touristy it had it’s unique vibe and something for everyone. It looks like the further from the airport you go, the less touristy it gets (from what I researched), with nature, wildlife, and beaches - you can’t go wrong if you figure out what you are looking for!
If you have time, I recommend going to Flores Island, gateway to Komodo Island to see the dragons. You can snorkel with Manta rays near there too (one of the best experiences of my life!). You can also do this from Bali near Nusa Penida, but saw mixed reviews about water quality there (and also the busiest spot), so did this near Flores (also part of a tour), and my partner and I were the only 2 people in the ocean snorkelling with a whole group of Mantas - amazing!
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