To be completely honest, I had no desire to travel to Bali before I started flying there for work. I’d always thought of Bali as highly commercialised and over-populated with Australian tourists. But, Bali truly is a beautiful place! Especially when you get away from the westernised hub of the central area of Kuta and Legian.
From things to do to places to stay, here is my guide to help you to get out of Kuta and see the BEST OF BALI!
SEMINYAK and CANGUU
Seminyak offers beach clubs, cafes, restaurants and a shopping strip which is the best in Bali. Whilst the up and coming area of Canguu is a personal favourite of mine! Many expatriate Australians call Canguu home, as it offers a unique lifestyle centred on the strong surf culture. The shopping is savvy, with emerging designers opening concept stores in this area of Bali. It’s also a hotspot for food! The café culture in Canguu is very edgy, with innovative dining spaces and creative menus, offering lots of healthy options.
ULUWATU
In the south-west of the island, Uluwatu boats the best vantage points for Bali’s iconic, idyllic sunsets. The Sunday Sessions at Single Fin are a Balinese institution. They are the best in Bali and the perfect spot to watch the sun go down. Surfers frequent the venue, as the surf culture in this region is very strong, with many hidden beaches for board riders to explore. The surrounding areas are also home to luxury cliff top villas and resorts that offer sunset dining with stunning views.
NUSA DUA
The luxury also extends across to the south-east of the island of Bali. Nusa Dua is home to an array of prestigious world-class five-star resorts, which are among the best in Bali! Nusa Dua is known for its all-inclusive holiday packages targeted at honeymooners and families.The slower pace appeals to those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of the busier central areas of Bali.
UBUD
However, those truly wanting to unwind, head to the north to Ubud. Ubud offers in resort spas with infinity pools, set upon hanging cliffs in the mountains of the surrounding area. The mood here is very zen. The region is known for yoga retreats, The Monkey Forest and market shopping. Visitors flock to see the famous Tegalalang Rice Terraces and visit the nearby waterfalls. And, adventure thrill seekers love this area too! It offers an array of options, which are the best in Bali, from the Bali Canyon to White Water Rafting. Further north, the famous Mt Batur Volcano Trek is a must-do for the breathing sunrise view. And a refreshing dip in the nearby Hot Springs feels therapeutic after the climb!
So, next time you are planning a trip to Bali, look beyond Kuta to discover the local culture and the truly idyllic regions of this popular island in Indonesia!
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