Bali
I spent a week of relaxing, sunshine and shopping in September last year in Bali. Bali is somewhere which to be honest was never on my bucket list. However, I was pleasantly surprised. Bali is much cleaner than I had expected, especially in the main tourist areas and the locals are friendly.
Stayed for 7 nights at the Bali Mandira Resort and Spa in Legian, just to the north of Kuta. The Bali Mandira is a beachfront resort, but unlike many beachfront resorts in this region remains quite private from the beach. A modern resort in classic Balinese style. Room rates include daily buffet breakfast and free Wifi. A family friendly resort offering a variety of room types with all the modern conveniences, 2 restaurants, a large family friendly pool as well as an adults only pool, located above the health club and with full service spa.
Bali is renowned for bargain shopping of excellent fake copies and the fun is in the bartering. Bartering takes some getting used to, but once you’ve got the hang of it you can have a lot of fun. The secret is whatever the starting price is you half it and then barter up from there, but always remain respectful as this is their lively hood. There is also the usual style store shopping, but prices tended to be similar to home and are fixed.
Bali has much to offer in the way of sightseeing it is not all about the sun, sand and shopping. We spent some time at Tanah Lot, a temple built on a rocky outcrop with stunning views along the Indonesian coastline, about a 45 minute drive from Legian depending on traffic of course. Recommend a morning arrival to enjoy before the crowds arrive.
A trip to Ubud, at least for the day or time allowing a couple nights, is a must. We took a day trip by private car which included our English speaking guide. Just to the north of Ubud is where you will find rice paddy’s are layered in the sides of hills of the Sepat River Valley. We included a visit to the Goa Gajah or The Elephant Cave, with its many rock carvings. Although, there are no elephants found here the main attraction is the three statues wrapped in red, yellow and black cloths where meditation monks once sat.
Ubud also has its market type barter shopping, but it is along the roads into Ubud that you will find the Balinese furniture makers. If you have a love of Balinese furniture then definitely visit Ubud, and the store owners are able to assist you with shipment back to Australia
On our last evening in Bali we made the 45 minute car trip to The Rock Bar at Jimbaran bay to watch the sunset. An early arrival (3.30-4pm) is a must here to gain a front row seat and a tidy casual dress code is recommended. The Rock Bar is located in the very opulent Ayana Resort and Spa, Bali. It was a beautiful evening sipping cocktails watching the sun go down across the ocean. A stunning end to a wonderfully relaxing holiday in Bali.