When it comes to island destinations Bali, Indonesia is right up there with Aruba, Bora Bora, Jamaica, Turks & Caicos, and the Dominican Republic. Known for its forested volcanic mountains, rice paddies, coral reefs, and beaches, Bali has it all. It’s also known for its religious sites and yoga and meditation retreats. Regardless of the reason you choose to visit the island, you won’t be disappointed. Here’s everything you need to know for your next Bali vacation.
Best Time to Visit
Between April and October are the best times to visit since it’s during the island’s dry season. The island only experiences the rainy season and the dry season. The temperatures remain between the mid-80s and low 90s throughout the year.
How to Get Around
To have freedom to explore the country and not the stress of driving in a foreign country, we suggest hiring a car and driver. You can also bike, but you’ll have to navigate around the heavy traffic. To get around neighboring islands, you’re best bet is by boat.
Where to Stay
Capella Ubud- Bali
Located in the lush forests, this 5-star hotel features a tented camp surrounded by nature. Capella Ubud- Bali is much more than a hotel, it’s hidden and it’s perfect for those who want to be in nature, but still want lavish amenities. There are only twenty-four rooms and they all have private saltwater pools. Even the on-site restaurant is influenced by its jungle surroundings.
Kayumanis Jimbaran Private Estate & Spa
This 5-star hotel is an exclusive sanctuary that’s spread across a coconut grove surrounded by palm trees. The design of the 20 villas is inspired by the island’s tropical environment and it features indigenous materials like local stone and hardwoods. The hotel is just minutes from a beach and within walking distance of seafood cafes and there’s an onsite restaurant.
Kelapa Retreat & Spa
Kelapa Retreat & Spa, a 5-star boutique hotel, has villas within the tropical ground and they have beach, garden, or ocean views with each one has its own private swimming pool. There’s a spa, yoga and meditation instructors, and a restaurant a few meters from the beach.
What to Do
Uluwatu Temple
This isolated sanctuary is situated on a cliff and the architecture is to die for. Look out for the waves, just 200-some feet below. Not only is the sanctuary popular with tourists and locals, monkeys love it as well and they may even steal some of your possessions!
Kuta
Bali’s most popular beach town is full of bars, stores, restaurants, spas, and a water park. The biggest attraction is the beach which has sandy shores, perfect for surfers, sunbathers, kite-flyers, and swimmers.
Kintamani
If you’re looking for something besides the beach, Kintamani has a towering and active volcano and a large lake. Don’t miss one of Bali’s most important temples, Pura Ulun Danu Batur.
What to Eat
Babi Guling
One of Bali’s most famous dishes is Babi guling, or turning pig. It’s pig that’s been hand turned on an open fire and it’s really tender and crispy.
Bebek Betutu
This smoked duck dish is rubbed and stuffed with a mix of spices and then cooked in banana leaves. Many restaurants require a day’s notice for this dish because cooking takes around 12 hours.
Sate
Sate is a popular street food in Bali and it’s strips of chicken, pork, beef, goat, rabbit, or tofu placed on skewers and grilled over a hot flame. It’s served with many sauces on the side, with peanut and shrimp paste-based sauces being the most common.
