1. CHECK OUT THE CHEEKY MONKEYS
I went to the monkey forest thinking it’s just another tourist trap where monkeys are unhappy and mistreated. But I was wrong! They were so free and very very entertaining. If a monkey tries to climb unto you, don’t panic and run! They’re just having some fun!
2. VISIT BESAKIH, THE MOTHER OF ALL BALI TEMPLES
When in Bali, you have to see the biggest and the most important sanctuary in the island! It is the holiest temple for our Hindu brothers and sisters in this side of the world. It has a very calm and religious atmosphere minus the hustlers who ask for hefty donations and compulsory guided tour. But please don’t let these stop you from visiting, this is one temple in Bali you should not miss!
3. TRY A “POOP” COFFEE! OOOOPS!
It’s interesting to learn that the one of the world’s most expensive coffee is made from animal poop called Luwak (Asian Palm Civet)! You can also sample on crazy amount of teas and coffees while overlooking the lush jungle plantation! By all means go for the experience, you just can’t experience Bali without a taste of poop, I meant Luwak! :p
4. BALINESE MASSAGE AT THE EDGE OF A CLIFF
Visit an eco-village resort overlooking the waters at La Joya. Get a massage to the sound of the ocean calming you throughout your treatment. Cap off your day with a cool dip at the cliffside jacuzzi or at the three-tier infinity edge pool while watching the sunset! They also have a secret beach just fifty steps down the resort if you want your own piece of paradise!
5. RICE PADDY TREKKING
Farming is a way of life in Indonesia and wandering around “Tegalalang Terraces” is one great way of experiencing the Balinese culture first hand! Though at one point I felt like the beauty of the terraces was overshadowed by beggars and commercialism, it is still a beautiful farmland! Hike a little way up and you’ll see a splendid landscape of the rice paddies!
6. HIKE A VOLCANO TO CATCH THE SUNRISE
Forget the comforts of your bed, wake up at 3 am and start your ascent to Mount Batur! Some people may have concerns about the walk, but I believe anyone with “reasonable” fitness could do it! It’s exhilarating to reach the top and definitely well worth the challenging climb up!
7. EXPERIENCE TRADITIONAL BALINESE HEALING
After watching the movie EAT.PRAY. LOVE, meeting a Balinese healer was added to my bucket list. Bali’s traditional medicine people are our ancient healers in the modern world. I am very lucky to have met “Made” my spiritual healer. He has definitely inspired me to live better. I walked away with positive energy and so much lightness! I highly recommend this activity while in Ubud!
8. SEAFOOD FEAST AT JIMBARAN
Jimbaran is your go-to place for sunset dinners! If you’re feeling a bit extra, you can even ride a horse that takes you along the shore before you dine! There are lots of live bands and Balinese dancers performing whilst you wait for your freshly cooked seafood by the beach! Don’t forget to top off your dindin with a Bintang beer! Cheers!
9. SUNSET VIEWS AT THE ROCK BAR
This super chic bar by the cliff in Ayana may be slightly overrated but is a must visit bar in Bali! It’s awesome when you get there early and find a good spot! The sheer thrill of watching the glory of nature while taking in the sound of strong waves and the cool breeze… ahhh, let’s chill! And yes, the sunset was breathtaking! It has definitely lived up to its reputation minus the crowd!
10. BATHE IN TROPICAL FLOWERS
Lush flowers are everywhere in Bali! They are used to decorate, to donate to the Gods and even to bathe with! So, after a long day of exploring the island, treat your mind and body to a relaxing tropical bath and feel like a Balinese princess!
Have you been to the island of the Gods before?
What was your favourite Balinese experience?
Let me know in the comments!
Love from Bali,
The Travel Belle <3
1 comment
I need to go back and try #10!