La Plancha.
Bali is one of the most popular tourist destinations for Kiwis and Australians, and you’re about to find out why.
If you’ve never been to Bali, let me break it down for you.
It’s an island in the country of Indonesia, it’s cheap and is the best place to relax or experience the Hindu and Buddhist culture.
With so much to do in Bali, I thought I’d let you know my favourite things about this paradise, so first-timers can get an idea of what this bustling island is all about.
Firstly, no matter what you’re going to Bali for, there’s always something to do. Whether you’re going to relax or learn more about Indonesian culture, it’s the perfect place to visit.
Now, Bali is an island- so you can expect hundreds of beach clubs everywhere. That’s one of the best things about this place!
Mrs Sippy Beach Club.
My go-to beach clubs are:
Although Bali is a very tropical destination, there is so much culture, it’s unbelievable. With so many temples and monuments to visit, the list is endless. Pro tip: because of their religion, the Balinese require wearing sarongs whenever you go to temples as a sign of respect.
I’ve been to Bali three times, and I can promise you that the Hindu Temple in Uluwatu is the best one to visit. It’s on a cliff overlooking the ocean! What’s cooler than that?
Speaking of water, you need to make La Plancha a priority. It’s a restaurant/bar that’s situated on Jalan Mesari Beach. You can expect to see hundreds of colourful beanbags and beautifully lit umbrellas. It’s a place to drink, relax, and watch the stunning sunset.
La Plancha sunset.
With great beach clubs that serve up some of the best food and drink, there’s also places you need to know where to get a delicious breakfast, lunch or dinner.
My go-to restaurants in Bali are:
- Motel Mexicola (great food and even better Margaritas)
- Sea Circus (fantastic breakfasts)
- Kafe Bunute, Ubud (delectable burgers and the best-frozen daiquiris you’ll ever taste)
- Ibu Rai, Ubud (scrumptious pizza and mouthwatering mojitos)
Although there is so much to do here, there’s also a lot of things to look out for.
In Bali, you’re able to barter, which essentially means you get to pick the price of the product you’re going to purchase and negotiate with the seller. Pro tip: start with the lowest price you’re willing to pay and work your way up to a price that suits both you and the seller.
The exchange rate in Bali is always great. You will never go there and lose money - unless you go to the side street currency exchanges. These are the makeshift stalls on the side of the roads, they’re found everywhere and always have people there - be aware, they aren’t legit.
The last time I went to Bali, I experienced what these men do - they steal from you. When you give them the money you want to exchange they count it for you, make you count it, and then they recount it - this time, a lot faster, so you don’t see them sliding money off the table onto the floor. If you want to be smart, go to the legit currency exchange places, such as the Western Union, which is inside a building and has proper workers there.
Even though one small thing like this happens in Bali, you can avoid it, and if you follow my advice, you will.
Canggu.
Bali really is a special place, the food and drinks are great, the people are friendly, and with an endless list of things to do, it’s one of the best places to travel to (in my opinion).
If you’re travelling to Bali for the first time, take my advice. Go to the places I’ve suggested. Explore the different things this stunning island has to offer, and you won’t be disappointed!
-Jas.
