Pack your swimsuit, your GoPro and a sense of adventure…you’re off to Bali! With so much to see and do, make sure you plan your journey – ensuring every bucket list item is crossed off your list. Here’s a list of 10 must-dos in Bali to keep you entertained.
1. Go temple hopping.
Ancient architecture in exotic landscapes –Bali’s iconic temples will take your breath away. Don’t forget your sarong, many Balinese temples require both men and women to cover their knees and shoulders as a sign of respect.
2. Go green and marvel at Bali’s spectacular rice terraces.
Rice, rice, baby…whether you’re stopping via the vast green sea that is the Tegallalang Rice Terraces or if you happen to spot one on the side of the road – rice paddies are everywhere. Up for an adventure? Walk the Campuhan Ridge path in Ubud for some unbelievable views of lush green rice fields and jungles so green your photos will need #nofilter.
3. Feast on authentic Balinese food at Gili Trawangan’s night market.
You MUST eat at the night markets on Gili T at least once! Located right on the main strip where the ferry boat will drop you off, the Gili T night markets comes to life after sunset. The food is fresh, cheap and tasty. What more could you want? Look for traditional Indonesian Nasi Goring – a delicious fried rice with sautéed veggies and a fried egg on top. Another dish to try is Gado Gado; a steamed veggie salad with hard-boiled eggs, fried tofu and tempeh served with a peanut sauce dressing. Oh, and heaps of fresh fruit!
4. Capture the early morning action of a local market.
A trip to a Balinese market is a little different from a trip to your local mall. You’ve gotta learn how to bargain. Browse colorful ‘temple pants,’ sarongs in every pattern imaginable, colourfully embroidered beach bags, the classic Bintang vest tops and so much more. Before you enter the market, try to have an idea of how much you want to pay for an item beforehand and negotiate with the vendor until you’re both happy. Top tip: shop the markets early in the morning. The Balinese consider their first sale of the day to be lucky and will usually drop prices in order to secure their good luck for the day.
5. Cruise through the Gili islands.
Palm trees swaying in the island breeze, the fresh taste of chilled coconut water, and salty clean vibes = Gili paradise! Take your pick between snorkelling with tropical fish across untouched coral reefs or try your hand at relaxing on a beach chair with view of Lombok’s coastline and Mt. Rinjani. The islands of Bali are postcard perfect. Guaranteed, your friends back home are going to have major #FOMO.
6. Get in touch with your spiritual side.
Discover your very own ‘Eat, Pray, Love’ moment in Bali. Whether you’re chilling in child’s pose or just in it for the savasana – yoga is a must while on the island. The peaceful vibe of the Balinese will have you saying “Ommmm” in no time.
7. Chase a waterfall.
Hidden within a jungle of lush palms lies one of Bali’s most iconic waterfalls: Tegenungan. Charge up your GoPro and take on a new meaning to dancing in the rain as you marvel in the sheer natural beauty of these falls. Rise and shine! It’s best to visit this landmark bright and early so you feel like you have this oasis all to yourself.
8. Embrace local culture – ask questions!
The culture in Bali is all encompassing. Take time to speak to a local while in Bali. Travelling is about expanding your horizons and getting to know new cultures and there is SO much to learn about in Bali. Did you know that these small square leaves filled with colorful flowers are offerings to the gods called Canang Sari? The Balinese believe that by making an offering of the evil spirits will be appeased and not bother their shops and the good spirits will bless them. Ask loads of questions— knowledge is power!
9. Watch a spectacular sunset.
The sunsets in Bali are EPIC. On Gili Trawangan locals and visitors will flock to the west side of the island dubbed “the sunset side” for a display of pinks, reds, oranges and purples like you’ve never seen before.
10. Indulge in a spa treatment.
When in paradise! Hot stone, Balinese, deep tissue… the massage options are endless. Pedicures, facials the list goes on! There’s no place to pamper yourself than in Bali. You’re probably a little stiff from all that traveling so go ahead, treat yo’self.
Feeling inspired? Check out our Bali trips here.
