Bali Bliss

When people ask me where my favorite place was during my travels it can be hard to find an answer because all of the places I went were truly remarkable, but Bali, Indonesia was without a doubt one of the most amazing.  There is definitely a reason this magical island is nicknamed the “Island of the Gods”.  I’ve promised this blog to people for a long time so here it finally is…your guide to all things Bali Bliss!

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This was taken my first day in Bali at my hotel, Uma Karan in Seminyak. Can you see the bliss written all over my face? 🙂

Travel Tips:

  • The main airport to fly into is in Denpasar, Indonesia (DPS)
  • You can get a driver for around $30-40 to take you around for the entire day, sometimes even less. If you’d like some recommendations for great drivers, reach out and I’d be happy to pass along a few great ones!
  • Be careful when exchanging your money. ATMs, as well as money exchange centers, can rip you off and steal your money.  When using an ATM, be wary of anything that is standing alone and not connected to an actual bank.  If you decide to bring cash and use a money exchange center don’t just go to the random stands that have the best exchange rate. Many times they will let you count the money thinking you are getting a great rate, and then they will slip some of it behind the table when performing the actual exchange. So always double check and count it twice.
  • When shopping in the markets, be sure to arrive early to get the best deals.  They consider it good luck if you are their first customer so they will give you the best bargain.

Best Spots to Visit:

1. Ubud

If you are looking for the soulful and relaxing part of Bali, then Ubud is your spot.  This charming place is known for yoga, spas, terraced rice fields, lush rainforests, nearby waterfalls, temples, the monkey forest, great restaurants, coffee shops, endless shopping, and markets.  I’d suggest spending at least a few days here to be able to experience it all without feeling too rushed.  Some of my fave restaurant suggestions would be Atman cafe, Clear cafe, and Cafe du Monyet.

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Tegallalang Rice Terrace, Ubud
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Tegenungen Waterfall
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Tirta Empul Water Temple
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The Monkey Forest
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Bali Swing
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Nesting at the Bali Swing

2. Canggu

One of my all-time favorite places in Bali is the bohemian beach paradise of Canggu.  If you love a good sunset, chill vibes and great surf, then this will be your place.  This little beach town is full of super cute and trendy spots to hang out, shop, eat and socialize.  The Lawn and Shady Shack are two of my faves just to name a few!

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The Lawn in Canggu- Great for dinner & drinks and the best spot ever to watch the sunset!

3. Seminyak

Seminyak is one of the largest and busiest beach towns of Bali.  Known for its nightlife, fancy hotels and amazing beach clubs, there are tons of cool spots to check out here.  A bit more upscale and safe than the neighboring city of Kuta, I would suggest staying here if you are deciding between the two.  Potato Head Beach Club, Finns Beach Club, Woobar and Mrs. Sippy are all great daytime pool spots.  The Nook, Kynd Cafe, The Loft, Nalu Bowls and Cafe Organic are all great cafe coffee spots.  La Favela and Motel Mexicola are great evening spots.

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Sunset views at Potato Head Beach Club

4. Uluwatu

Stunning cliffside views and beautiful beaches make this location another spot not to be missed!  Dreamland beach, Balangan beach, Padang Padang beach are all stunning and worth visiting.  Some great restaurants in the area are Suka, Bukit Cafe and ULU Cafe.  Singlefin is a great sunset spot with huge parties Sunday and Wednesday nights.  A visit to Uluwatu temple is another must do for more scenic views and monkeys galore!

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Cliff views in Uluwatu, Indonesia
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Uluwatu Temple
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Padang Padang beach- Monkeys and surfer paradise!
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The Sun Surf & Stay, Bingin Beach
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Bingin Beach- a great surf spot with stunning views

5. Nusa Lembongan

Nusa Lembongan is a beautiful and peaceful little island that you can get to by ferry from the mainland that I absolutely recommend if you want to just chill somewhere beautiful.  Also, if you like snorkeling and diving then this spot is an absolute must!

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The Blue Lagoon
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Devil’s Tears- Excellent spot to watch the sunset!
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Snorkeling with Giant Manta Rays
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Snorkeling Tours Underwater Buddha

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6. Nusa Penida

If you are looking for the most epic views in Bali, then you absolutely must go to Nusa Penida.  This stunning and untouched island has so many amazing spots that will most definitely take your breath away.  Located right next to Nusa Lembongan, a day trip to explore the island is a great way to see all of the beauty that is Nusa Penida!  It is truly one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever encountered!

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Kelingking Beach

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Angel Billabong

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Broken Beach

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7. The Gilis

Located two hours by ferry off the coast of the mainland of Bali near Lombok are the infamous Gili islands.  Made up of 3 different islands, this is a must do for anyone looking for the ultimate relaxation and the best beach swings and hammocks to watch the sunset.  There are three islands that make up The Gilis- Gili Trawangan- aka the “party” island, Gili Air- a chill yoga and diving spot and Gili Meno- the smallest and quietest of the three.
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No cars or scooters are allowed on the Gilis so the best form of transportation is by bike!
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Infamous sunset views on Gili T
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Ultimate beach swing paradise all over the islands!
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Bali sunset bliss

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