The most popular Indonesian island, Bali offers adventures for all travellers. From energetic early morning hikes up volcanoes to relaxing in luxury jungle hideaways, and surfing meccas to high end dining there’s plenty to explore on this little island.
How to get to Bali
By ferry– If travelling to Bali from nearby Indonesian islands, you can consider taking the public ferry instead of flying as a cheaper option, however be warned that this is not a luxury option. From Lombok there are over 15 ferry crossings a day serving various ports on both islands, journey times are 2-3 hours; and from Java (Gilimanuk) there are ferries every half an hour departing for Bali taking around an hour. They tend to be crowded and often do not run to schedule.
Where to stay in Bali
Bali is teeming with luxury hotels and villas across the Island, with each area retaining a unique atmosphere to suit all travellers. Around the coast head to Seminyak for high end hotels and boutique shopping, Kuta for top notch surfing and Lovina for a slower pace of life. Inland seek out Ubud, home of Bali’s famous rice terraces and yoga hotspot.
Bisma Eight, Ubud – Situated in the heart of Ubud, Bisma Eight is the ultimate luxury jungle retreat set within the rainforest, offering the perfect place to unwind. Grab a fresh coconut and relax in the stunning infinity pool and you’ll never want to leave, and with the delicious Copper kitchen and bar within the hotel you won’t have to!
Alila Villas, Uluwatu – Perched on top of Southern Bali’s limestone cliffs each of these luxury villas offers incredible views of the Indian Ocean as far as the eye can see. Splurge on a treatment at the onsite spa and sip cocktails beside the shimmering infinity pool. Finish every day watching the sun go down from the sunset cabana that extends out over the edge of the cliff.
One Eleven Bali, Seminyak – Tucked away in central Seminyak nine sleek and minimalistic villas await you in this adults only sanctuary. These large beautifully designed villas offer everything you’ll need including a private pool, spa gazebo and your very own butler -heaven!
The Balé, Nusa Dua – Another gorgeous tropical retreat located on Bali’s South East coastline. Each of the 20 modern and spacious pavilions house a private pool complete with luxury daybed. There are two additional stunning pools for you to explore in the resort, alongside two great restaurants and a beach club.
Bamboo House, Ubud – The most unusual and eco-friendly accomodation you’ll find in Bali! Stay in these amazing lodges of various sizes made entirely of bamboo with views of the Ayung River.
Where & What to eat in Bali
What?
Satay – Often sold by street vendors these popular skewers of meat (usually chicken or pork) are served with a rich peanut dipping sauce. Sometimes the skewer is made of lemongrass creating a more fragrant dish, the best street food!
Bebek betutu – Tender slow cooked duck stuffed with spices (garlic, shallots, ginger, chili etc.) and wrapped in banana leaves – yum!
Nasi Goreng – Commonly found at night markets this simple dish of stir fried rice with a careful balance of flavours is a favourite across Indonesia. Egg, meat, vegetables and fish may all be added dependent on the variety – if you’re sensitive to spice be clear to tell the vendor this.
Bubur Injun – Balinese cuisine isn’t renowned for sweet dishes, this black rice pudding is however worth a try. Made with coconut milk and cane sugar this can be served for breakfast or as a sweet treat.
Where?
La Lucciola, Seminyak – A fabulous beach side lunch spot serving delicious Italian cuisine alongside a lengthy wine list and frozen cocktails, perfect for the midday heat. Look out past the palm trees as you indulge in some fresh burrata and a glass of prosecco!
Mozaic, Ubud – The ultimate dining experience in Ubud! Book in advance and request a table outside amidst the jungle. A Bali-inspired and more European style menu are offered showcasing a delicious blend of Balinese ingredients and French gastronomy.
Bambu, Seminyak – Escape bustling Seminyak for the calming oasis of Bambu where you can dine on a floating platform. You can experience more traditional Indonesian cuisine including famous sate skewers and beef rendang along with some lesser Indonesian known dishes.
Room 4 Dessert, Ubud – Specialising in dessert this unique restaurants offers a signature tasting of 9 varying desserts paired perfectly with cocktails. There are a few savoury dishes but save yourself for dessert(s)!
Cuca, Jimbaran – Away from the main restaurant scene lies this gem in the South of Bali. Watch the magic happen at the tapas bar overlooking the open kitchen as gastronomic small plates are served up. Try the Chef’s tasting menu for a journey through Balinese flavours all for an incredibly reasonable price at Cuca.
Barbacoa, Seminyak – One for the meat lovers! Barbacoa serves up Latin American style dishes with a heavy emphasis on charcoaled goodies. Suckling pigs can often be seen roasting over the fire near the entrance as a teaser of what’s to come.
Where & What to drink in Bali
What?
Luwak Coffee – The most expensive coffee in the world, this coffee is made from partly digested coffee cherries eaten by civets, doesn’t sound appealing but a delicacy nonetheless.
Arak – This rum-like spirit is traditionally made from fermented rice however in Bali sugarcane tends to be used as a substitute creating a strong local shot.
Bintang – Bali’s most popular beer produced by a subsidiary of Heineken is the perfect refreshing drink as the sun goes down.
Fresh Coconut – To rehydrate following a few hours in the strong Indonesian sun, sip on delicious coconut water from a freshly opened coconut.
Where?
El Kabron, Uluwatu – This beach club is actually a cliff club, set high above the Indian Ocean. Relax with a drink in hand in the stunning infinity pool as live music plays and the sun dips into the water. They also serve delicious Spanish tapas if you get peckish.
Vin +, Seminyak – The perfect place for wine lovers to hang out, the wine list here spans over 300 different wines. There are also wine events included paired dinners, book in advance to take advantage of one of these.
Double-Six Rooftop, Seminyak – With amazing views across Bali’s coastline this luxury rooftop bar gets very busy at sunset so its advisable to pre-book an area. For a special occasion the floating pods are amazing.
Copper, Ubud – Part of Bisma Eight this cocktail bar whips up some great creations (including a Balinese pina colada!) to sip by the pool. They also offer fabulous earth-to-table dining.
Rock Bar, Jimbaran – Descend the cliff via funicular to one of the best spots to watch the sunset. Dress to impress at this high end bar where international DJs often play sets to accompany carefully crafted cocktails.
What to see & do in Bali
Relax and enjoy the sunshine – With miles of sandy coastlines and stunning infinity pools being the centrepiece of most hotels there’s plenty of places to relax and top up your suntan whilst reading a good book.
Explore Northern Bali – Most of the popular hotels and villas are located in South Bali. Explore the sights of Northern Bali with a private tour to see dolphins frolicking at sunrise, waterfalls and a beautiful lake temple. 
Explore some of Bali’s temples – There are many temples spread across Bali, some of the most impressive and popular include Tanah Lot, a famous sunset spot, and Besakih temple, the largest temple in Bali.
Wander along Ubud’s famous rice terraces – The picture perfect rice terraces of Tegallalang and Jatiluwih are a must visit when in Ubud. Make sure you get there nice and early to avoid the crowds and look out for the adorable swing over the terraces.
