13 Things to do in Ubud, Bali

|Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary|

This is a sanctuary reserve that strives to maintain the viability of these long-tailed Balinese monkeys. Along with a Hindu temple complex inside, there are various bridges and walkways covered with vines and moss leading you throughout the forest. You will see monkeys of all ages, in their natural environment. Be careful, as the monkeys will try to steal your things. They will even jump on you to unzip, or open your bag… Over 10,000 tourists visit here a month, so the monkeys are very comfortable with people…do not be afraid of them! The entrance fee is 40,000 IDR ($3 USD).

Monkey Forest Address: Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571

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|Campuhan Ridge Walk|

Campuhan Ridge is a walking trail on the top of a ridge – obviously. It consists of a stone path, surrounded by tall green grass with deep valleys on either side. The curvy trail continues for about 5 km, and is lined by palm trees here and there. It’s a perfect place to take a stroll at dawn or dusk, when it’s not so hot.

Campuhan Address: Jalan Raya Ubud No. 35, Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571

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|Bridges Bali|

Bridges Bali is a casual fine dining restaurant and wine bar that happens to have a pretty awesome set of bridges right next to it. I went for the bridges (the pictures), but you can go for the food too. The surrounding views are gorgeous, as the bridges go over a rushing stream, with moss walls.

Bridges Bali Address: Jl. Raya Campuhan, Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571

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|Littetalks Cafe|

Right across the street from Bridges Bali is a quaint restaurant called Littletalks. On the wall of the stairs in the entry you’ll find picturesque hand-painted wood signs filled with quotes. Their food is delicious and cheap, and there is an awesome view over looking the valley.

Littletalks Address: Jl. Raya Campuan, Sayan, Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571

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|The Yoga Barn| 

Yoga is practiced often by people throughout Southeast Asia. The Yoga Barn is the most famous Yoga studio in Bali and a great place to take a class while you’re there.  They have all different levels and styles of classes, and also offer meditation, healing, and retreats. The teachers are from all over the world and they won’t disappoint you! Eat a delicious meal in their cafe when you’re finished working out.

Image @karma_hart

The Yoga Barn Address: Jl. Raya Pengosekan, Ubud, Gianyar, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571

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|Goa Gajah|

Goa Gajah is a temple about 10 minutes from the center of Ubud. It’s famous for its Elephant Cave, which is shallow and has a small temple inside. You have to wear a sarong wrap around your waist to enter, which they will provide if you don’t have one. The rock-wall carvings are intricate and covered with moss, vines and flowers. There are bathing pools and fountains that are prominent to Bali traditions. The entrance cost is 15,000 IDR.

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|Ubud Palace Traditional Fire Dance|

The Ubud Palace is a temple (Puri Saren Agung) right in the center of Ubud. It’s the official residence of the royal family of Ubud, therefore you can explore most, but not all of it. It’s known for is intricate carvings and beautiful architecture. I think the best time to go is at night for one of the traditional Balinese Fire Dances. The performers tell a funny, fairy-tale story through dance. It’s a popular show and you’ll need to get your tickets ahead of time. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Ubud Palace Address: Jalan Raya Ubud, Ubud, Gianyar, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571

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|Tegalalang Rice Terrace|

Tegelalang Rice Terraces are absolutely epic, and a must see if you are in Ubud. They are gorgeous green rice fields located about 25 minutes north of Ubud, and I suggest you rent a motorbike to get there. There is technically no entrance fee, but you need to make a small donation to enter the trails to walk the terraces. I suggest you bring beers with you, to refresh you on your hike. You’ll see workers throughout the fields, but don’t pay them if they want to take a picture with you!

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|Coffee Plantations|

Bali is famous for its strong coffee. It’s home to some of the best coffee shops in the world, due to the homegrown product and it’s delicious taste. A great thing to do when in Ubud, is venture out to some the coffee plantations nearby. They offer a free tour, as well as a tasting of about 8-12 teas and flavored coffees. You can purchase any of their goods when you’re finished. I visited 2 while there, Bali Pulina and Satria Agrowisata. Bali Pulina had a very informative tour, where the guides spoke amazing English, and a gorgeous view overlooking rice terraces. Satria Agrowisata offered more samples, and they were better tasting, I purchased my coffee to take home from there.

Satria Agrowisata’s Tasting Samples

Satria Agrowisata Address: Jl. Raya Tampaksiring – Kintamani, Br. Basangambu, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali

Bali Pulina’s View

Bali Pulina Address: Banjar Pujung Kelod, Tegallalang, Gianyar, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia

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|Sunrise Hike at Mt. Batur|

Mt. Batur is a volcano in north Bali that is a popular hiking spot. It is an active volcano, but hasn’t been for quite sometime. The best time to hike it is at sunrise, not only for the gorgeous views, but because it is way too hot during the day. There are tour shops all over Ubud that you can hire to take you there. Don’t pay more than 250,000 IDR, for the guide, trip there and back, and your breakfast. The hike is challenging towards the top, but you won’t be disappointed with these panoramic views.

View of Mt.Agung

Black ash from 1962 Eruption

You’ll see monkeys on your way down 🙂

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|Waterfalls|

There are tons of waterfalls all throughout Bali, but most commonly in the east and north. Therefore, with Ubud’s central location, it’s a perfect hub to visit as many waterfalls as possible. There are a lot of tours you can book in Ubud that will take you to waterfalls all over Bali. The closest waterfalls to Ubud are Kanto Lampo, Goa Rang Reng, Tibumana, Dunsun Kuning, and Tegenungan. Read my blog about Bali’s waterfalls for all the information you’ll need.

Tegenungan Waterfall

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|Day Trip to Butan Temple|

There are various day tours you can take from Ubud because of its central location in Bali. One of the many is a trip to Pura Ulun Danu Beratan, a temple situated on a lake on Lake Beratan in north  Bali (see below). It’s one of the most popular temples to see based off it’s uniqueness and beauty. The tour will also take you to a beach on the north coast of Bali, hot springs, and stop along the way for gorgeous views. You can personalize any tour you take from Ubud, deciding which landmarks you’d like to see (rice fields, waterfalls, temples, etc). There are so many tour shops along the main strip in Ubud, so price shop between the stands instead of hopping on board with the first people you talk to.

View of the Twin Lakes

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|Taman Festival Park|

About a 45 minute drive south of Ubud, is Taman Festival Park. It is an abandoned amusement park, and easily the coolest abandoned place I’ve ever been to. It’s massive, with multiple buildings covered with street art, vines and moss. You could spend hours exploring there. I suggest you rent a motorbike and drive yourself here…as it’s not a spot most tourists go. There are locals sitting in the front trying to charge you 10,000 IDR to get in, but if you walk around the back you can find your way in for free. Read my blog that is all about Taman Festival for more amazing pictures.

Taman Festival GPS Coordinates   (-8.6567023,115.2658194)

 

The Coolest Abandoned Place in Bali

There are a few abandoned treasures in Bali, but the largest, and best in my book, is Taman Festival Park – and abandoned amusement park overlooking the ocean.

I suggest you rent motorbikes for the day and make one of your stops this badass place. There are locals sitting out front that will try to make you pay 10,000 IDR, but they’re just trying to make a quick buck. It’s free to get in – ignore them, and walk around back to let yourself in.

There is some of the most amazing street art I’ve ever seen in this complex, and the open roof is undeniably awesome.

Pay close attention to all of the detailed carvings throughout the park as well.

You will see old ticket booths, signs, animal shaped boulders and more. There used to be a crocodile pool within the park, and there are rumors that some of the crocodiles still live in the river next to it.

There is so much to explore here…don’t stop after the entrance! You’ll want to catch this gorgeous painting below that leads to a building.

Where inside you’ll find mostly rubble…

Take at least an hour to see it all… and don’t miss the gorgeous flowers hanging from vines all throughout.

Nature has clearly taken over here.

 

TAMAN FESTIVAL PARK GPS COORDINATES  (-8.6567023,115.2658194)

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18 Unbelievable Waterfalls In Bali That Most Tourists Don’t Visit

The island of Bali is filled with incredible landscape including various waterfalls for you to explore. If you’re going to Bali for the beauty, you have to visit at least a few of these falls to make your stay complete.

A few things to know about trekking waterfalls in Bali…(1) It’s really hot outside..dress appropriately and bring lots of water. You can also swim in them! (2) It’s usually quite a hike to get to them, down stairs, through the jungle. (3) You usually need to pay a very small entrance fee…$1 USD or so. (4) Not all are seen regularly by tourists so ask locals if you need help. (5) Some are only present during rainy season so do your research. (6) Rent a motorbike and go find them yourself!

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Gitgit

This waterfall is not just one fall, but a series of many gorgeous falls.  Most people park at the top, and start from the top. There are trails that will take you all the way down…The falls continue past what we hiked. You don’t need a guide to find these, but will pay 20,000 IDR ($1.50 USD) to get in. Expect to spend a lot of time here, there is so much to see…keep your eyes peeled, there are little waterfalls everywhere! The water is chilly but I highly recommend you take a dip at the top. In the photos below you can see people propelling down the waterfall, which as an option for you too! (You’d need to book a tour to do this in Ubud) The surrounding greenery and flowers make Gitgit extra special.

Stairs leading to upper falls

Me in Gitgit’s upper falls

Hidden waterfalls all around!

GPS Coordinates      (-8.1855614,115.1341257)

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Banyumala

Only if you’re feeling really adventurous will you make it to this waterfall…As the road down to it is hardly big enough for a car, and extremely rough. The hike down is also steep and muddy. On the way down however, you’ll notice that there are waterfalls coming from every which direction through the lush green vines – so gorgeous! The waterfall itself is huge, has a chilly pool of water for you to swim in, and there’s even a little changing room for you to put your suit on. You’ll pay a 15,000 IDR entrance fee (just over $1 USD).

GPS Coordinates     (-8.2171309,115.1019039)

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Sekumpul

You’ll see signs for Sekumpul waterfall on your drive to Gitgit Waterfall. The signs lead you to the hike-in spot. This is one of the largest in Bali, just over 100 meters! There is a small staircase that will take you to the bottom of the fall where you can swim and relax. Not many tourists make it to the crystal clear waters of this fall.

Image via ubudadventures.com

Image @irfanpermana15

GPS Coordinates      (8.1780078,115.1828473)

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Lemukih

These falls are located very close to Sekumpul, which was mentioned above. A trickier hike in, and you can only swim during rainy season when the bottom pools are full. As you can see the 3 separate falls make it massive – a great place to relax for awhile!

Image @bali.on.me

GPS Coordinates      (-8.1918669,115.1848146)

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Pucak Manik

This waterfall is located just west of Tamblingan Lake in north Bali. The concrete trails will lead you in as you’ll be surrounded by the lush vegetation. There are small bridges to cross, but it’s not a long hike until you reach this beauty.

Image @nie.marcello

GPS Coordinates     (8.2121888,115.1102865)

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Munduk

This waterfall is a popular stop amongst tours departing from Ubud to the north of Bali. It’s located right next to the twin lakes (Tamblingan & Buyan) which are also a must visit. You’ll take a lot of steps down (and up) to get to this fall, but the gorgeousness of it will surely be worth it! It’s surrounded by lush green vines and very picturesque.

GPS Coordinates     (-8.257199,115.0705559)

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Blahmantung

Blahmantung is a gorgeous waterfall in Tabanan region of Bali. It’s quite hidden, and located close to a small farming village of Pujungan. It’s surrounded by high cliffs which consist of coffee and clove plantations – some say you can even smell the coffee. It’s about an 800 meter hike in, but you won’t be disappointed by this 100 meter fall!

Image @gglandys

Image @audreysinggih

GPS Coordinates     (-8.3079719,115.0102835)

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Singsing

Singsing Waterfall is located 15 minutes by car or motorbike from Kalibukbuk in Lovina, Bali. There are signs pointing you in the right direction in the area, and it’s not hard to find. It is a series of 2 waterfalls, the smallest being the first you’ll approach. I’ve heard the second one is hard to find…People suggest you pay a “guide” (someone who will show you how to get there) a small fee for taking you up the correct trail to the bigger falls. A great place to swim as well!

Image @hanncheninoz

GPS Coordinates      (-8.184824, 115.000821)

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 Tibumana

Tibumana waterfall is a stunning hidden fall just up the river from the much more visited Rang Reng falls.  Tibumana is a 30 minute drive from Ubud and usually only toured by locals of the Bangunlemah Kawan Village. It’s only a 5-10 minute walk in from where you can park, and you’ll mostly likely be the only one there!

Image via Ryan Mazure

GPS Coordinates     (-8.5026038,115.3306548)

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Yeh Empel

This waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and extremely close to Tibumana waterfall, just outside of Ubud. It’s so close to the previous waterfall that you can walk between them. Try and find a local to show you the way…it’s not usually seen by tourists!

Image @brianpramudya

GPS Coordinates     (-8.5026893,115.3301698)

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Goa Rang Reng

Goa Rang Reng is down the river from the previous two falls and on the smaller side. It’s more visited as it is easier to get to, but doesn’t have the same ‘wow factor’ that a lot of Bali’s other waterfalls do. Don’t get me wrong, you can cool off and take a swim and enjoy the surrounding wildlife and jungle as well!

GPS Coordinates     (-8.5158394,115.3316546,20.84)

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Kanto Lampo

Even farther yet down the river from the above waterfalls is Kanto Lampo. It’s located in the Banjar Kelod Kangin, Beng village just 10 kilometers outside of Ubud. The falls are usually only strong after a heavy rain, so go here at your own risk. The moss covered boulders and little caves are an attraction all in themselves. The name Kanto Lampo is taken from the local name of the trees that grow a round orange fruit in the area. You will pay 5,000 IDR to enter (about $.50 USD).

Image @jacobwester

Image @shaka_lady

GPS Coordinates     (-8.5321073,115.3321951)

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Dusun Kuning

Just northeast of Tibumana Waterfall lies Dusun Kuning Waterfall, in the village of Dusun Kuning. It’s a 300 meter walk in from the parking area, and RARELY visited by anyone. It stands about 25 meters tall and is surrounded by tropical plantations. If you stay for awhile, you’ll likely catching the monkeys jumping from tree to tree near the falls.

Image @thelucidlife

GPS Coordinates     (-8.4897751,115.3549747)

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Tegenungan 

This is a very touristy spot and is just east of Ubud. You can find shops and restaurants surrounding it, which are great for a cold beer after your hike down and up the many stairs. It’s very easy to find and get to, and I believe the entrance fee is 15,000 IDR. The water is very muddy (brown) during rainy season, but don’t let that stop you from taking a swim.

GPS Coordinates     (-8.5754234,115.2883021)

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Nungnung

Nungnung Waterfall is located in the Badung District of Bali and lies about 5 miles before the tallest bridge in Asia called Tukad Bangkung. It’s a long hike through hilly rice fields and down a large set of stairs to get to these falls, but the cool steam reflecting off the water helps you simmer down. You’ll pay 3,000 IDR to enter the falls.

Image via Jordan Crookes

GPS Coordinates     (-8.3297758,115.229405)

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Aling-Aling

Aling-Aling waterfall is divided by two side-by-side falls giving it the double name. The water falls for about 35 meters from the high cliffs cover in lush green vegetation. It’s located in Sambangan village, Sukasada district, Bulelang regency and again will be quite a long hike through rice fields and down stairs to reach it. You can definitely swim in the pools at the bottom of the falls to cool down!

Image @kerenesia

GPS Coordinates      (-8.174084,115.104321)

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Jembong 

To find the tranquility in the middle of chocolate plantation and surround by tropical trees, there is waterfall called Jembong Warerfall. There is a small bridge crossing the falls which make for amazing pictures!

Image @mybalidaily

GPS Coordinates      (-8.1880912,115.1172413)

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Yeh Mampeh

This waterfall is located in the northern part of Bali, Buleleng Regency, at Les Village, Tejakula District. It stands about 30 meters high and is very clean and clear. Be prepared to see locals bathing here…nude males mostly. It’s surrounded by green hills and the air can be cool, since it’s in the north. There are actually 3 different falls in the area, but the other 2 are very hard to get to. Hire a local guide to help you find them. Otherwise enjoy the beautiful, secluded, Yeh Mampeh.

Image via flickr flankers3740

GPS Coordinates      (-8.149409,115.3643409)

 

 

The Dreamiest Place in Bali

You will not want to miss a visit to La Laguna, a beach club style restaurant on the west coast, when in Bali. This place is a dreamy wonderland with a bohemian setting. When you first arrive, you’ll walk down a path and see little houses, painted vibrantly. La Laguna is full of perfect picture opportunities…it’s a village within itself.

When you get to the host, you’ll realize how huge this place truly is. There are all sorts of private nooks for you to cozy away in. Not to mention, this place is right on the ocean, making it a great destination for sunset meals.

You’ll also want to check out the bathroom…

Sit as close to the ocean as possible for the best views. They have a boardwalk that you can also sit on, connecting to the beach.

There is a 150,000 IDR or $11.50 USD minimum per person. You won’t have a hard time reaching this amount with all the delicious options on their menu.

We ordered the Mediterranean Dip Platter, the Casablanca sandwich, and the Chicken Tagine, which were all excellent!

We finished our meal just in time for an absolutely epic sunset!

Service fees are included in your bill, so you don’t need to tip unless you’re feeling extra nice.

This is an amazing place to check out anytime of the day, just be prepared to stay for awhile – I never wanted to leave!

La Laguna Address

Jalan Pantai Kayu Putih, Berawa beachfront, Berawa, Canggu, Indonesia 80361, Canggu, Bali 80361

 

 

Ultimate Guide to Budget Living in Bali

If you’re looking to live somewhere on the cheap, Bali is a perfect destination.

The things that break in the bank in our every day lives are housing, transportation, food and fun.

Where to Stay

There are multiple inexpensive options to live in Bali for longer periods of time. AirBnb is probably the most economical option, as most hosts give discounts the longer you stay. You can rent a private room for $15 USD or less, or an entire house for $40 USD or less per day. If you’re traveling with someone, it can get super cheap. There are also lots of villas and homestays that may be even less.

If you’re only staying for a week or two, I’d suggest you look into a villa or hotel. Depending on your location, you can find amazing luxurious places for as low as $11 USD per night. Hostels are also available, and recommended for solo travelers.

How to Get Around

The thing to do in Bali is rent a motorbike. Be careful, as people are quite confident drivers. You’ll find it’s much easier to get around on these than in a car. You can rent a motorbike for 650,000 IDR or $50 USD per month. Stay away from tourist areas when you’re looking to rent, as they will try to charge you $3-5 USD per day.

Depending on how much you’re driving, a full tank of gas should last you 2-5 days. You will see locals selling petrol (gasoline) along the side of the roads. Look for the absolute vodka bottles filled with gas. It will cost you 8,000-10,000 IDR per liter or $0.60-0.70 cents. If you’re totally empty, the tank will hold 2 liters.

If motorbikes aren’t your thing, you can use apps such as GO-JEK , Grab or Uber. With GO-JEK, you can have someone pick you up on a motorbike, which will be the cheapest option. Otherwise, prepare to pay about $1-3 dollars to take a ride with Grab or Uber. Stay away from the local taxi service, they are ridiculously expensive. Keep in mind the local taxis have a transportation monopoly around the beach front areas, so walk a bit inland before ordering your car.

Eating on a Budget

If you’re staying for more than a few weeks, I highly suggest you buy yourself some groceries. You can only buy a little at a time, as you’ll be driving your motorbike, but it’ll be so much cheaper than eating out every meal. Look up the closest supermarket to you online…$25 USD of groceries should last you at least one week.

Breakfast – Yogurt, Granola, Pear

Lunch/Dinner – Veggie Soup

Eating out is still much cheaper than western restaurants, if you know where to go. Warungs are the ‘homemade street food’ places you’ll see along the sides of the roads. The food is always fresh and very delicious. Rice, noodles, vegetables, chicken, and fish are what you’ll usually find there. Pay $1 USD or less for a fulfilling meal!

Rice, Noodles, Veggies, & Optional Spicy Sauce – $0.85 USD

Lazy? Order takeout with GO-JEK. You can get food from any restaurant in your area.

You can also find great western style restaurants where you can get a meal and a drink for less than $10 USD.

Susheria in Kerobokan – Amazing

Stay tuned for my favorite restaurants and cafes in Bali. 

What to do for Fun

Since drinking alcohol is far from cheap in Bali, you’ll have to find something else to do when living on a tight budget. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

1. Go to the beach – it’s free! Great way to spend anytime of your day.
2. Be a tourist – Go see the many waterfalls, hike Mt. Batur, visit the various temples, etc. None of this costs a lot, and will surely keep you busy for awhile.
3. Learn how to surf – Right off the bat it’ll cost you about $20 USD to take a lesson, but after that it’s only a few dollars to rent a board for an hour or two.
4. Volunteer – There are tons of nonprofit organizations in Bali where you can help local kids, or animals.
5. Visit the local art galleries – There are art galleries and furniture stores every where, you won’t need to look hard.

Okay, if you really want to drink though, it’ll cost you about $2-3 USD for a beer, and up to $7 USD for a cocktail. Buying from a store and drinking at home will save you a bit, but not much.

Staying near Seminyak? Read about the best way to spend a day there.

Cheers

Tanah Lot & Its Secret Beach

One of the most popular tourist destinations near Seminyak, Bali is Tanah Lot. It’s a gorgeous temple situated on the west coast. Not only are there magnificent rock formations and unbelievable views, but just a short walk away you can find one of Bali’s hidden secrets. 

How to get there? If you rented a motorbike for your stay, it’s about a 30-40 minute ride away from Seminyak. Otherwise, there are tons of tours that will take you there for fairly cheap. The grounds are open from 7am – 7pm.

Entrance Fee: If you’re a foreigner, it’ll cost you 60,000 IDR or $4.60 USD to get in. It’ll also cost you a few extra cents if you bring a motorbike.

Dress code: In my prior Bali visits it was always required to cover your shoulders and knees. This isn’t enforced here at all. 

After you enter, there are shops and restaurants as well as restrooms you’ll pay a few cents to use.

Once you head up to the coast, this will be your first impression…

Pura Batu Bolong

I suggest you walk to the left first, where the Tanah Lot Temple is.

Tanah Lot from a distance

You can walk up to the temple, but the only people you’ll see entering is the locals.

Tanah Lot

The moss filled rocks surrounding the temple add so much extra vibrancy.

If you come for sunset, enjoy dinner on sunset terrace (seen below). The open grassy space on the right is very popular for events and weddings.

Now that you’ve seen Tanah Lot, you can walk to the right and see a smaller temple, Pura Batu Bolong, and find the secret beach. 

View from Pura Batu Bolong

Pura Batu Bolong

Keep walking to the right and you’ll come across another restaurant.

Warung Mandala

Warung Mandala

Pass through the restaurant, and you’ll start getting views of the secret beach. Notice you don’t see tourists anymore…

You’ll find a small path leading you down onto these rocks.

Hop across the rocks and continue on to the gorgeous, secluded, black-sanded secret beach.

 

The BEST thing about this hidden treasure is the breathtaking waterfall that’s present in Bali’s rainy season.

We even stumbled across a local checking his fishing nets. He didn’t seem to mind that we were there…

There are caves and nooks you can explore, but watch out for the little crabs.

If you keep traveling even farther to the right, your adventure can continue on forever.

We’re planning to go back to this spot for sunset, and I cannot wait!

Epic places like this are truly the reason I travel. Get out there and see the world!

Check out my website for more beautiful destinations. Cheers

 

The Perfect Day in Seminyak, Bali

How to spend the perfect day in Seminyak, Bali? On the beach of course. Near the beach, there are some amazing cafes and restaurants that I’ll describe in more detail in posts to come.

Start the day at Revolver Espresso Cafe for breakfast. This place is legit…it’s tucked away in an alley, Australian owned, and has a super hipster decor/vibe. The food is delicious, and you can grab a meal and coffee for less than 8 USD.

Sign on the street

Front Door

Front Room

Back Room

Cafe Latte & Long Black Coffee

Egg’s Benedict – YUM

 

After breakfast, head to the beach. It’s only a short walk away. There are chairs with umbrellas you can pay anywhere from $4-$10 dollars to use, or find your spot on the sand. The ocean is warm, but the air is even warmer so it’s extremely refreshing.  If it’s your cup of tea, take some surf lessons. There are places that provide these all over the beach, and it shouldn’t cost you more than $10-20 USD for an hour. Don’t forget the sunscreen! The sun is so intense.

Surf’s Up

Seminyak Beach

For lunch you can settle for one of the overpriced and not so great restaurants on the beach, but I suggest you save that for night time (apps & drinks) when it comes alive. So take a walk to Warung Bali Jambul. If you walk out of the main entrance of the Beach, and head straight down that road, you’ll eventually run into it on the right side. For 11,000 IDR or about $0.84 USD you can get what you see below…SO CHEAP, SO DELICIOUS, and sure to keep you full for awhile.

Rice, Noodles, Veggies, & Optional Spicy Sauce

After lunch you can head back to the beach or explore the shops surrounding it. You will find higher-end shops/boutiques, and little “touristy” shops & markets filled with bracelets, shirts, sandals, etc. where you’ll bargain with the store owners. You shouldn’t pay any more than a few dollars for a T-Shirt. Always start low when bargaining and hold your ground! If you start walking away, they’ll usually take the price you offered.

Seminyak Fleamarket

Seminyak Fleamarket

Seminyak Fleamarket

Seminyak Streets

Make sure you don’t miss sunset at the beach. Get a beer for 25,000 IDR (2 USD), sit down and relax. I’d get there by 5, and watch the sun set until about 6.

Bali’s Finest

If you want a break, head back to your hotel to shower and recollect. Get yourself ready for a beautiful lively night on Seminyak Beach. There are tons of restaurants on the beach who set out bean bags and little tables for you to eat or drink at. At some places, you can even smoke hookah. Its very busy around 6-7 pm so go a little earlier or later. These places are more pricey due to tourism, so if you’re looking for cheap, go inland.

Nighttime Beach Vibes

If you want more of a party after your first couple of drinks, walk up-beach to Potato Head Beach Club. This is the most popular night club in the Seminyak area.

Image via Mixmag Asia

Image via fatboo.com

Are you walking home? Wonderful. If not, you can use apps like Grab, Uber, or GO-JEK to get a ride (or take your rented motorbike if you’re sober). Although, the local transport/taxi service has the control of transport near the beach resorts – see below. You’ll need to walk a bit inland in order for Grab, etc. to pick you up. Why not just use a taxi? It’s about 5 times as expensive as the apps I mentioned.

There you have it friends, the best way to spend a day in Seminyak, Bali!

Check out my website to keep up with my day-to-day! Cheers

5 Apps You Need In Asia

WhatsApp

Text (video & audio too), call and video message for free when connected to Wifi. This is the main source of international communication. You can also use it to communicate off Wifi, but data charges may apply when roaming.

Grab

This is the cheapest and easiest way to ‘grab’ a taxi or car in Asia. You will be charged a flat rate, and know exactly how much before you book. I recommend using GrabCar instead of GrabTaxi – it’s cheaper. You’ll find Uber in Asia, but it’s not as low-priced.

GO-JEK

You can use this app to score yourself just about anything. From a ride, to food, to a massage, to tickets, they are at your service.

I most commonly use this app to get food, alcohol, or groceries delivered, but their taxi service is also pretty popular. Although, I’ve found that Grab is cheaper to get a ride.

TripAdvisor

You’ve probably heard of TripAdvisor before. It’s a wonderful source of reviews, and place to find restaurants, hotels, attractions, etc. near you.

Venmo

Use this app to send money for free. It’s very helpful if you’re traveling in groups, and splitting the costs of things like taxis or dinner. It’s totally safe and secure, and easy to use.

 

Thanks for reading & remember to stay safe!

Follow my Bali, Indonesia travels on my website.

 

 

Arriving in Bali, Indonesia

In early March 2016 my boyfriend and I decided to spontaneously book a month+ long stay in Bali, Indonesia. I’ve been before, and fell in love, and was dying to go back. We made it happen – and so can you. We booked our AirBnb, paid for our $600 one-way flight, saved our money, and 6 months later we were on our way. Our 5 week adventure in Bali, Indonesia has finally begun!

Shop my Antler & Woods T-shirt

Here are some tips on how to make your arrival hassle free:

1. When you get off the plane, quickly make your way to the immigration line (follow the crowd). There will be a line, so the sooner you get there the better.
2. Have your passport out and ready. A 30 day visa is FREE.
3. After you make it through the initial check, you will grab your bags and go through another customs area, where you will hand them the customs form you were given on the plane.
4. If your hotel or host planned a for a driver to pick you up, you will be greeted with a sign with your name on it. If not, you will see taxi companies all around (you will most likely be approached). They will take your information, you will pay, and they will walk you to your driver. Ask your host how much you should expect to pay, so you’re not over-paying. I paid 200,000 IDR ($15 USD) to get to Kerobokan (outer Seminyak).

I’m staying in a beautiful AirBnb in a gated community, Nata-T House.

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Use this link to get $23 of your next AirBnb booking!

The pool is a 30 second walk away and is the best part about our temporary home!

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We are occupying the second floor of the house, (bedroom, bathroom, balcony) and it costs only $400 per month. So cheap, which makes traveling here so manageable.

We are about a 10 minute drive from Seminyak Beach (great for surfing), which is surrounded by shops and restaurants. From the little exploring we’ve done so far, I think we are going to love everything about our stay.

The 13 hour time change from my hometown, as well as the 30 hours of traveling to get here caused me to have some fatigue. So, I’ve just been settling in. Stay tuned for the adventures ahead!

How to pack for such a trip?! I can tell you…

• 15 Backpacker Essentials
• Packing for Tropical Travel

Keep up with more of my Bali expeditions and travel tips on my website. Cheers!