I had the privilege of attending the excellent Travel Trade show FURTHER EAST in November In Bali and, on top of that, being able to explore this island (which for 15 years or more has been one of my favorite holiday destinations).
As we plan more and more trips for our guests East, ranging from Japan to all of South East Asia and beyond, we have the chance to explore and share the rich culture, heritage, and history of these destinations as well as stay in some of the most unique resorts, villas and hotels. Now back to Bali!
WHAT NOT TO MISS!
Take a surf lesson:
There are calmer beaches like Dreamland and Baby Padang over Seminyak, Canggu, and Uluwatu. If you are a family or a group of friends, this is one of the most hilarious and fun group activities to share the ups and downs of this fabulous sport!
Waterfall Seeking and swimming:
Bali has some of the longest and most jumpable/swimmable waterfalls! If you can’t leap off it you can get behind it or swim underneath it.. or simply look upon it in wonder! A firm best for us is Aling-Aling waterfall which has a natural rock slide you can enjoy.
Visit the Temples of the island:
Bali is mainly a Hindu island and boasts some of the most incredible temples in the world. One not to miss is Pura Tanah Lot, a sea temple looking onto the ocean (sunrise or sunset), and then we have the floating temple Ulun Danu Beratan and the Besakih Temple, soaring into the sky. Pura Lempuyang is considered one of the holiest places in Bali, and it’s over a thousand steps high. Known as the “Gateway to Heaven,” you can see Mount Agung’s peak framed perfectly by the temple gates on a clearer day.
LOCAL Dining – Warung me up, baby!
The local Balinese eat at the ower run, owner-managed, small and sweet little traditional restaurants scattered everywhere called WARUNGS. They typically serve local Indonesian food that is super cheap and super delicious. From USD3 to USD6 (sixpenny…), the food is authentic, tasty, and flavorsome, and you get to hang out with the ever-friendly, wonderful locals. Try Nasi Goreng, Beef Rendgang, Babi Guling. My favorite was in Canggu, and it’s called Varunga
Jewellery and Shopping
Hand-crafted, unique, authentic, one off pieces in fashion and jewelry.. Bali is where it’s at. Seminyak is a great place to find these treasures. One can also buy and export extraordinary furniture, homeware, bags, bikinis, and more. The place for retail therapy.
Mount Batur Sunrise
Here you hike up this UNESCO heritage site pre-sunrise at 3 am (it only takes a couple of hours) and then catch the glory of this sunrise on this active volcano. It;’s not super challenging, and there’s a yummy breakfast with a view and a stop at a coffee plantation where you can try out Luwak Coffee, the rarest and most expensive in the world!!
Hire a yacht, island hop
Indonesia has over 17,000 islands, lush jungles, volcanic peaks, jungles, wildlife and it’s one of the best places to explore super blue seas…Do all the snorkeling, sail, swim with mantas, and be in the bluest of blue seas and beaches. Of particular note is Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan…
Yoga Lovers and Balinese Massage
I love the yoga barn in Ubud; however, there are thousands of really boutique and interesting retreats and yoga centers around the island. all can be tailored to your needs; if you are a serious yogi or just wanting to get into the spirit of things and stretch, it’s all here for you!
RE MASSAGE is one of the most gentle but thorough massages one can have, unique to the island and offered almost at every street corner, boutique hotel, and super duper spa. Long strokes, natural oils, gorgeous settings, and the kindest therapists.. have one every day!
For any of these activities and more, we can put them together with your stay. Get in touch with danni@sikelelitravel.com for more info.
WHERE TO STAY!
We get exceptional rates and long-stay specials, and more at these beautiful places. I have stayed, experienced, and loved:
- Nihiraja – a true Jungle Resort with an infinity pool to die for! AMAZING food and service and close to a small surf beach
- The Legian – Arguably Bali’s best boutique hotel (and the VILLAS… AMAZING) my personal favorite
- The W Bali – Funky, Fun, vibrant, and with some of the BEST international DJ’s from around the world – a little beach bar to die for Capella Ubud – slick, modern, sophisticated, and with excellent food, you can’t lose out at a Capella!
- Bulgari hotel – sooo chic, villa style, on the edge of a cliff with sea views to die for. The most incredible rooms and service
- Alila Villas – Privacy, grandness, views and infinity pools beyond – next door to Savayah Club for those partygoers (but you can’t hear the music, its proximity is excellent though)
Ready for us to plan your next trip?
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