At the end of our gap year adventure around Southeast Asia, we decided to treat ourselves to a bit of R&R in Bali after high-tailing it around Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos for almost 3 months.
We spent 10 days in Bali and didn’t manage to squeeze in everything we wanted, so I’m planning to go back (hopefully sooner rather than later) to explore more of the beautiful Indonesian island, and maybe even set myself up as a digital nomad there.
Here’s 8 things I believe you can’t go to Bali without doing, including a couple of things we didn’t do ourselves but wish we had!
Explore the palace and temples in Ubud
Ubud was easily my favourite place in Bali with its lush jungle surroundings and tropical vibes. Though small and rural, there are loads of beautiful temples to explore in Ubud.
Visit Padang Padang Beach
Having watched (and since read countless times) Eat Pray Love before this trip to Bali, I was dying to visit the location of the iconic beach scene, and it didn’t disappoint.
Walk among the rice terraces
During our stay in Ubud we walked among the rice terraces every night we were there and it was absolute bliss. Rent a bicycle to explore a bit further, and don’t forget to protect yourself from all the mosquitoes around here!
Catch a boat to the Gili Islands
One thing I regret is not spending an extra few nights over on the Gili Islands! Ferries are regular and not too expensive, and the opportunities for diving and snorkelling are what draw me to these idyllic islands.
Eat local Balinese food in a warung
A warung is a small, family-owned business serving local Balinese food. They are super cheap, delicious, and make you feel so at home!
Climb Mount Batur at sunrise
Another experience I missed out on was an excursion to the north of the islands, where it’s possible to summit Mount Batur, an active volcano. I love a good hike and the views from here at sunrise look unreal, so it’s definitely on my list for my next visit.
Visit Tanah Lot at sunset
Tanah Lot is an unusual rock formation jutting out into the sea, with a temple perched on top of it. It is one of seven sea temples around the Balinese coast and is a really interesting (and beautiful) spot to watch the sunset.
Visit Waterbom Park in Kuta
I couldn’t not include Waterbom Park on this list! We indulged in a visit to the world’s second biggest water park on our final day in Bali and it was so much fun. A day ticket is around £25 and you can top up a wrist band to buy cocktails and churros in between insane rides and coasting down the lazy river.
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