Hey everyone, Mark here! I'm a seasoned backpacker from the US, and recently, I had the incredible opportunity to explore the beauty of Bali. This isn't just another travelogue; it's a firsthand account of breathtaking landscapes, delicious food, and the unforgettable experiences that make Bali a must-visit destination for any traveler. Get ready to dive into my Balinese adventure!
Arrival and Nusa Dua Luxury
Stepping off the plane, I was immediately greeted by my pre-booked Klook driver. Transportation in Bali was a breeze – a mix of private car hire and the convenient Grab app. My first stop? Lunch! My driver recommended a local Balinese pork rib place – tasty, although reminiscent of a Hong Kong-style Western restaurant. The Indonesian prawn crackers and crispy spring rolls were a perfect complement.
After lunch, it was off to Nusa Dua, Bali's hub of luxurious resorts. The sheer scale of my resort was breathtaking. Ocean views stretched as far as the eye could see from the hotel lobby. My private pool villa, while not brand new, was impeccably maintained. The private pool was a dream, accessible from both the bedroom and a stunning outdoor shower area.
Later that day, I headed to Jimbaran Bay for sunset. It's famous for its stunning sunsets and seafood barbeques. I had a reservation at a friend-recommended restaurant. The mocktail was perfectly sunset-colored, and the grilled barramundi was exquisite. The whole experience, lasting 2-3 hours, was a true testament to slowing down and enjoying the relaxed Balinese rhythm of life. Live music during dessert was the perfect touch.
That night, back at the villa, a small cake awaited – a thoughtful touch from the hotel. The heated pool made for a perfect nightcap under the stars.
Day 2: Uluwatu Temple and Kecak Dance
The next morning started with a delicious buffet breakfast at Senses Restaurant. The spread was amazing, featuring Indonesian, Western, and even some Asian options. A tropical fruit paradise! After breakfast, I spent the morning exploring the resort's private beach and pool before heading to Uluwatu Temple for the sunset.
The Ritz-Carlton's private beach and white chapel provided ample photo opportunities. The afternoon heat was best combated with a refreshing swim in the pool.
Arriving at Uluwatu Temple (also known as the cliff of lovers), about a 30-minute drive from Nusa Dua, my driver, Adhi, warned me about the monkeys. They're notorious for snatching glasses and phones!
Before the Kecak Dance, I explored the temple itself. (Note: Women menstruating cannot enter the temple, but can still enjoy the fire dance). The Kecak Dance, a traditional Balinese performance, was set against the backdrop of the sunset and ocean – breathtaking! The one-hour performance, though initially concerningly long, unfolded seamlessly and kept me engaged with captivating storytelling and amusing anecdotes.
Dinner was at Bali Collection near the hotel – a delicious pizza hit the spot perfectly.
Day 3: Ubud's Rice Terraces and Cultural Immersion
Day three was dedicated to Ubud. The journey started with a visit to Tegenungan Waterfall, a captivating cascade resembling a small theme park. Following this was the awe-inspiring Tegalalang Rice Terraces. I selected a highly-rated cafe, Tis Cafe, offering stunning views of the rice paddies. While the rain initially threatened to disrupt my plans, it actually enhanced the beauty of the landscape.
Afterward, I ventured into Ubud's vibrant market, bustling with local crafts and traditional attire. A stop at a renowned cafe, formerly among Asia's top 50, was the perfect end to a fulfilling day. The evening was spent at Aloft Kuta at Beachwalk, conveniently located in the heart of Kuta – although getting there involved the usual Balinese traffic jams. Fat Chow, a nearby restaurant, served up delicious Indonesian fried rice and pork ribs.
Day 4: Modern Bali and Departure
My final day in Bali was spent at ICON Bali, a brand new shopping mall in Sanur, offering a fantastic view of the coastline. I picked up some kopi luwak (civet coffee) as a souvenir from the supermarket. A final stroll along the beach followed before some last-minute souvenir shopping at Beachwalk, where I found the delicious crispy duck I'd missed in Ubud.
My Bali Itinerary Summary
| Day | Location(s) | Activities | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Nusa Dua | Arrival, Lunch, Check-in, Jimbaran Bay Sunset Dinner | Luxurious resort stay, amazing sunset views |
| Day 2 | Uluwatu Temple | Kecak Dance, Temple Visit | Stunning views, be aware of monkeys |
| Day 3 | Ubud | Tegenungan Waterfall, Tegalalang Rice Terraces, Ubud Market, Ubud Palace, Coffee | Cultural immersion, rice paddy views, bustling market |
| Day 4 | Kuta, Sanur | ICON Bali Shopping Mall, Beachwalk Shopping Center, Dinner | Modern Bali, souvenir shopping, convenient location |
I hope this detailed account of my Balinese adventure inspires you to plan your own trip. Bali offers an incredible blend of luxury, culture, and natural beauty – a truly unforgettable experience! Don't hesitate to ask any questions in the comments below. Happy travels!
