If you have never been to Bali, let me tell you one important fact – this island is amazing. I have been to plenty of places, but nothing quite captured my heart like Bali did. I actually didn’t want to leave. This island is one of the must-visit places in Southeast Asia and you should know that there is more to do than just lounging around by the fancy resorts.
I went there for a mini-getaway and decided to spend four days and three nights but as soon as I arrived in Bali, I realised that it wasn’t going to be enough time. So a word of advice, you should probably stay in Bali for a week or so if you’re heading there. This will give you plenty of time to do just about everything that Bali has to offer, including some major shopping, which is dirt cheap! So, unlike the usual listicle on what you should know or do in Bali, here are some of my tips:
1) The Rupiah currency is confusing.
It’s not very often that you can say, “I’ve only got 1 million on me.” It took me about three days before I could get used to the currency. It seems a little shocking that a can of fruit juice can cost you 20 000 rupiah, but you will eventually be able to grasp the currency.
2) The people of Bali are wonderful
Sometimes in life, you can’t help but meet really sh-tty people, but then I went to Bali and found out that you can love everybody. There wasn’t a single soul that was unfriendly. It really doesn’t matter if you’re white or brown or whatever colour, they will all treat you the same, which unfortunately was not the case when I went to Phuket, Thailand.
3) Ossotel Legian is fabulous
Recently, one of our writers had the privilege to review a hotel in Bali called Ossotel, which is located in Legian. I decided to check the place out for myself and couldn’t have been happier with my stay there. From the moment we arrived at the hotel until the day we left, the staff were very accommodating. You got the sense that it was not because they had to be, but genuinely wanted to be.
4) Motorbike taxis is the way to go
If you have been to Bali, you’ll probably know that the traffic is horrendous, if you haven’t then you’re most likely to have heard about it. The roads are small and you should always plan way in advance to get to your destination. I was late for a massage that I had booked for myself, so I thought, why not try the motorbike taxis? It was a fun experience and you can trust these guys to get you to your destination on time! Not for the faint-hearted though!
5) Potato Head Beach Club is a must!
If you’re in Bali and want to escape for a while, make your way to Potato Head. Whoever came up with the concept, really got it right because it allows you a taste of upscale living. Be sure to make reservations in advance because you will find yourself standing in line for hours if you don’t. Once you’re in there, enjoy the delectable menu and a glass of champagne in the infinity pool.
6) Eat at Warung Made
While in Bali, we decided to take the hotel staff’s directions and have dinner at Warung Made, which was located in Seminyak. The food was incredible and make sure you try their Nasi Campur Special. You will find that it comes with just about everything, from beef to prawns! They also have another one located in Kuta. Both are equally awesome but I preferred the one located in Seminyak.
7) Have fun at Waterbom
We were walking around Kuta when we noticed the entrance to Waterbom and decided to spend our last day at the water park. For those who love spending time by the pool and going on crazy slides, Waterbom will be your paradise. I was a bit hesitant to go on some rides because they were rather extreme but if you love thrilling stuff, then go for it. Guaranteed fun can be found here!
8) Seawalking is worth a try
There were plenty of activity packages you can buy when you’re roaming around the streets of Bali and we decided to give the Seawalker a try. It was quite an experience and keep in mind that you should pick the right season if you want to try this particular experience. I was unlucky as the tides were very strong due to the wind, but it was still a fun thing that I can say I’ve done.
9) Visit the Bali Safari & Marine Park
If you love animals, this is a must. The entire place is very well kept and its clear to see that the animals are being taken good care of. Depending on the package that you choose, you may even have the chance to take pictures with baby orangutan and cubs!
10) Shop to your heart’s desire!
I absolutely loved shopping in Bali because you can get just about everything and they were all so cheap. Remember to barter because the opening price that the shopkeeper gives you might be a bit more than the actual cost.
