Bali: In a Nutshell

Bali was beautiful. Not in your stereotypical bright, white sandy beaches kind of way, but beautiful in a rice fields, temples, my first time in Southeast Asia kind of way. I preferred Ubud and the Gili Islands over the Seminyak/Kuta beaches, mainly because the latter are sooo congested and the others are truly places you can get away from it all.

Phrases: Terima kasih – Thank You; Sama sama – You’re Welcome; Selamat Pagi – Good morning

Fun Facts:

The Balinese have four names for their children: Wayan (first born); Made (second born); Nyoman/Komang (third born); Ketut (forth born).

In Bali, there aren’t really in traffic rules and the street lines are a mere suggestion, as seen by my cab driver below:

 

Top Five: a look at our top things to do in Bali

#1: Ubud – Before arriving in Bali, I asked a friend what he recommended doing to which he replied, “Go to Ubud, rent mopeds and never leave.” So true! I loved Ubud. I was SO OVER the traffic in Seminyak and it was a welcomed relief.

Ubud, which is surrounded by rice paddies, is so peaceful and relaxing. I spent a full week in Ubud and probably could’ve stayed longer. A few things to do in Ubud:

• Stay: Delicious Onion – a four room bed and breakfast, with an adorable restaurant at the front. The owner, Mark, and his amazing staff that make you feel like part of the family.
• Visit: Cokorda Rai – visiting a healer is fascinating. Something you have to try for yourself. I’m not sure my words can quite describe the experience.
• Yoga/Spa: Taksu – yoga, massage, repeat.
• Visit: Sacred Monkey Forest – be careful though, you never know what to expect from those cheeky monkeys!
• Eat: Naughty Nuri’s – order the ribs and dirty martini. You’re welcome.

#2: Gili Trawangan – Give me a small island that I can walk or rent bikes, surrounded by turquoise waters and I’m in heaven. I loved Gili T! It’s a great place that people come to relax and scuba dive (there’s a reason there’s around 20 dive shops on a tiny island).

• Stay at The Beach House or Tir Na Nog.
• Visit the Blue Marlin Dive Shop and get PADI Certified, if you aren’t already.

#3: W Seminyak – If you can swing it, it was an amazing W property. I was hoping to have the time to enjoy the property longer, but my stay ranks at the top of my Bali experiences.

#4: Kuta Beach Surfing – Visit Andy located across the street from the Hard Rock Hotel and take a lesson. Fun waves, a great instructor – all for $15!

#5: Sunset at Tanah Lot – Watching the sunset from a temple on the ocean is prettyyy spectacular. Enjoy the sunset and then head over to Melasti Tanah Lot Seafood Restaurant on The Cliff for a delicious dinner!