I don’t think I’ve had a more diverse vacation than the one I had on the magical island of Bali. From the end of August to early September, my boyfriend and I traversed 3 locations on the popular destination and fit numerous activities into a week and a half that we were told should be reserved for 3 weeks. It was 9 days of discovering rich Balinese culture, delicious food, lively markets, and dreamlike beaches. I was hoping to fit our experience into one blog post, but have so much to say that I’ve written separate posts on food and shopping. Here is a summary of our wonderful stay that will hopefully help future Bali travelers in their vacation planning…

• Balangan Beach! This secret beach is so secluded that it feels like you have your own private oasis. Sit on the patio of one of the raised beach cafes and watch the surfers do their thing.
• Have a drink at the famous Rock Bar overlooking the Indian Ocean at Ayana Resort (walking down vs waiting for the tram will save you a lot of time!).
• Check out the giant statues at GWK Cultural Park.

Tip: If you have enough money, hire a driver to take you everywhere. We rented a motorbike for 2 days and while it was a great, new experience, I worried for our lives every time we crossed an intersection. Risky business!

The relatively new Pandawa Beach

Sarong twins at Uluwatu Temple (Pura Luhur Uluwatu)

The cutest and roundest monkey at Uluwatu Temple

Uluwatu Temple (this part only accessible for people who are going to pray)

Massive Vishnu statue at GWK Cultural Park

Balinese performance at GWK Cultural Park

The most relaxing spot at Balangan Beach

The scenic walk down to Rock Bar

Drinks at Rock Bar

Stone statue factory on our drive to Ubud

Batuan Temple

• The Sacred Fountains (Pura Tirta Empul) outside Ubud was an uplifting – and almost out of body – experience I’ll never forget. Surrounded by fish and ancient ruins, the site really gave me some perspective.
• Sacred Monkey Forest – it’s true what people tell you: those monkeys are naughty! Keep you bags closed, ladies!
• Get a massage or mani/pedi at Pertenin Spa – great customer service and atmosphere and excellent bang for your buck.

Tips: Take advantage of all of the restaurants’ 2 for 1 Happy Hour drink deals and be sure to bargain at all the local markets! I got dresses and tops for $2 each.

The paradise of rice terraces

Rice terrace photo op

Massive tree house at the Bali Pulina coffee plantation

Pura Tirta Empul – the sacred fountains

Pura Gunung Kawi (temple ruins)

We almost missed this in the depths of Pura Gunung Kawi

The Elephant Cave (Goa Gajah)

Sacred Monkey Forest!

Mom and her kin

Straight out of an Indiana Jones film (Sacred Monkey Forest)

Ubud Palace

View from our Airbnb patio in Ubud

• Grab some cheap Bintang beers and watch the sunset and surfers on the beach.
• Eat at one of the outdoor BBQ places at Echo Beach.
• Surf at Berawa Beach.

Tip: Looking for a relaxing experience? Learn from us and stay more than 2 nights!

Roof deck for yoga, games, and leisure at Sedasa Lodge

Berawa Beach just a 10min walk from our lodge

Anniversary dinner on the beach at Echo Beach Club

Surfing on our last day at Berawa Beach

Last night in Bali: beers and the sunset at Berawa

Thanks for stopping by! Check out my reviews on food and shopping in Bali 🙂

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