the ultimate bali travel guide

THE ULTIMATE BALI TRAVEL GUIDE

Bali is absolute HEAVEN. We packed up the RV and put it in storage to start an EPIC new adventure in Paradise. We have a family travel vlog where we show you what it’s like to live around the world. A little while ago, we planned a trip to Bali. This was our biggest and most faraway travel destination. We love to travel, so when all goes well, it makes the whole experience more enjoyable for everyone. When we got to Canggu ( a resort village on the south coast of the Indonesian island of Bali) and finally got to see our villa, it was amazing! We cannot believe what we got for $1000 a month. We spent six months in Bali and learned many tips and tricks that we want to share with you. If you have not travelled to Bali before, then this vlog will help you out. We love documenting our adventures in our family travel vlogs and sharing them with you. We have got a bunch of tips to share with you so that you get the complete enjoyment of your trip.

According to me, Bali is a budget-friendly paradise that everyone should visit at once. It is one of the most popular destinations in Indonesia. This island offers plenty of options for adventure-loving people. You can define Bali in simple terms as “Eat, Pray, Love.” We spent six months exploring the island and would happily go back and explore it again. We had a unique experience while staying in Bali. You will discover so much about life, food, and culture in Bali.

Along with our three small kids, we completed our Bali trip and found it easier than you may think to travel to and get around.

Top Sights to See in Bali

• Canggu 

We have found Canggu a fun place to explore. This beach is about 20 minutes north of Seminyak. It has dark grey or black sand and is not prized by tourists for swimming and sunbathing. You will get the high-end shops and restaurants nearby this. We also went to a new place called @Titi Batu. They had a summer camp for the kids, which was awesome. There was a DJ that had the kids letting loose on the dance floor; even Jimi was out there busting a move. We finished up the day at our favorite restaurant called @Clear Cafe. Whenever we are in Bali, we have to go to this place. The original location is in Ubud, but they opened one in Canggu, so we had to check it out. The owner must be one pretty cool guy; he adds a fun level you don’t typically see in restaurants- a fireman pole and a slide. We found this place one of the coolest spots.

For more information, You may check this post – CANGGU BALI – Day In The Life- SUPER FUN

• Water Temple

We visited the Holy Water Temple, Tirta Gangga. This temple is located near the town of Tampaksiring, Bali, Indonesia. It has a petition or bathing structure and is famous for its holy spring water. This temple contains two pools with 30 showers. During our visit, one man asked us if we wanted a walking tour, so we decided to be a great way to get educated about what this place was all about. We had done some of our research, but it’s always fun to have a local explain history. Now the water temple is one of those Instagram hot spots; there are so many pics of girls in beautiful dresses standing on the steps in the water.

Our kids had a great time there and also jumped into the pool to cool off. There were fish in the water, so we think it kind of freaked them out. The street that led to the entrance had a few photo ops with Flying Fox bats- of course, the kids loved it. If you visit this temple during the spring season, then green algae and small fish swim among the reeds. You will find many people from different places at this tourist spot. Balinese perform here Melukat, a cleansing ritual. There are so many fountains, and you will find yourself cleaned mentally and physically by passing over them. We find this place really peaceful and quiet.

Read more – Water palace, bali

• Pedang Pedang Beach

We heard so much about Pedang Pedang beach that we had to go check it out. This is a famous surf spot. We are all about seeing every beach we possibly can. We found a number of awesome things at this place, such as unique rock caves, secluded beaches, sand, and turquoise water. If we had water shoes for the kids, it would have been even better. So if you are going to Bali, Indonesia, with kids, then you must consider this point. Another bonus for this beach was there was MONKEYS. Yes, there were so many of them; we were in love. While we were walking down the beach, we stumbled on a little tiff between a dog and a monkey- the monkey wasn’t happy, so he called in his posse, and before you knew it, there were about 30 new monkeys that came on the scene. We were so happy no animal got harmed that day; they all took a chill pill and enjoyed the beach. Padang Padang beach is up there on the list of gorgeous beaches in Bali. You don’t desire to miss this one.

Check Out Our Vlogs – Bali Beaches- Padang Padang

• Monkey Forest

We were very excited to meet the monkeys at Monkey Forest. It is a famous tourist spot in Ubud, Bali. It is also named as Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. After reaching there, we were more obsessed than the kids. There are over 900 monkeys in this forest and they just roam freely and do whatever they want.  They jump on you, steal your stuff, follow you around, and give you one good laugh.  You definitely don’t want to push it and do the things you know you are not supposed to do. But you should not look in the eyes of the monkeys. Doing this means that you are asking for some monkey teeth in your skin. You can enjoy drinks and food when you get tired as there are lots of bars and restaurants. You should go to the forest in the morning so that you can explore easily in the cool environment. Try to wear comfortable footwear so that you can roam easily. You will also see religious and spiritual complexes inside this forest.

**CHECK THIS OUT** MONKEY FOREST – Fun in Ubud, Bali (Family Travel Vlog) 2021

Devil’s Tears on Nusa Lembongan (Secret Beach) and Swimming with Manta Rays

Nusa Lembongan is positioned right off the coast of Bali. We found this little island a good alternative to the craziness. The beaches aren’t great here, but surfing is really good. The diving is also great here, and it’s cheaper than the mainland. We spent a week in Nusa Lembongan to have a few adventures and met up with another family that we met through Instagram. We heard a cliff jump spot with two jumps, one high and one not so high. Also saw Devil’s Tear, which was pretty cool at a GORGEOUS beach named Secret Beach.

When you are in Bali, make sure you check out the surrounding islands. They are all so beautiful, and all have their adventures. Swimming with Manta Rays was a highlight of our trip. These beauties will take your breath away. They seriously play with you in the water. We spotted so many Mantas, and it was amazing. Nusa Lembongan is definitely a place to go when you go to Bali.

The Market of Bali- A True Heaven for Vegetarian 

We find the market of Bali, Indonesia, with tons of fruit and veggies. Along with this, you will also find the meat side of the market. By seeing the market, the reactions of our kids were priceless. We met an amazing woman that invited us to stay with her in her village, so kind. When traveling to other countries, we love supporting the locals and helping whenever we can.

You will get traditional homemade souvenirs and high-quality designer clothes in Bali. You should bring the extra suitcase with you otherwise you can buy the suit along the way. We can suggest to you some ‘things to buy’ list that includes Kopi Luwak coffee and chocolates, Batik fabric and clothing, Bali ceramics, Balinese silver jewelry, and Handmade Dupa.

You may also check this – The Market of Bali- A True Heaven for Vegetarian

Bali on Budget

• Accommodation

The natural wonders of Bali provide tourists with awesome accommodation. You will get the option of the lavish resorts to affordable hostels that are well-equipped and enjoyable places to stay. We are a family of 5 exploring Bali. For accommodation, we get the villa in Canggu Bali and an amazing deal. Here you will get 2500 sf, three bedrooms, two full bathrooms, a gorgeous stone pool, and so much more!!! We are so happy we found this site.

When we were searching for rentals in the Canggu area, we had a few specifications that were very important to us. We needed it to feel homey and lots of room for the kids to play with, having three kids. So if you have kids with you, then this villa will be perfect for you. It is really nice not being in the hustle and bustle by the beach (6 minutes away)-it is awesome to have some peace.

• Food

Clear Cafe adds a level of fun you don’t typically see in restaurants- a fireman pole and a slide! It’s a fave for tons of kids. If you plan your trip in the upcoming time to Bali, you must taste the traditional meal there. You can also enjoy the international menus — American, Mexican, Greek, Chinese, French in Bali. Babi Guling, Betutu, Nasi Jinggo, Sambal Matah are some of Bali’s traditional dishes you should give a try.

Bali Culture

Bali is a culture-rich place that is most known for its dance, drama, and sculpture. You will see a mix of Balinese Hindu-Buddhist religion and Balinese customs. We loved the culture of Bali. The people of Bali are very friendly. You can easily get yourself engaged in a conversation with the locals. The friendliness and genuine warmth of the locals make the tourists feel at home for decades. We lived like the locals, and we seriously loved it. Our friend Rai invited us to one home. There we experienced a Barong Ceremony.

That day was the Galungan holiday- they celebrate the victory of good over evil. Our friend Rai shows us around her home and explains the different elements of a local’s house. We are loving being here in this spiritual land and all of the amazing people. You should also enjoy the Legong dance of Bali.

Read More – BALI CULTURE- LIVING LIKE A LOCAL AND LOVING IT! (2020) FAMILY TRAVEL VLOG

How to Get Around Bali

• By Air

If you are planning to visit Bali by air, then the nearest airport is Denpasar International Airport. This airport serves many international and domestic airlines. You can easily get a flight from there that will connect you with Bali. There are some major metro airports in India to get to Bali, including Etihad Airways, Malaysia Airlines, Qantas Airways, Thai Airways, and Singapore Air. You will get flights at very affordable prices if booked earlier.

• By Sea

A significant number of luxury ships crossing through South-East Asia have a stop at Bali. On the off chance that you wish to make a trip to Bali through the ocean, at that point, take a departure from Singapore, Sumatra, or Java. From all of these spots, you can book your boat and take a forward excursion to Bali. Notwithstanding, it isn’t fitting and functional to venture out to Bali by transport as the oceans can turn harsh, prompting a terrible and avoidable experience.

• By Road

It is not convenient to complete the trip to Bali by transport or train. You need to land in one of the residential communities nearer to Bali and take a ship ride between the towns. The most famous ship ride is from Jakarta to Bali, a tiring 23 hour-long excursion. If you wish to take a train, you can get one to Banyuwangi and change to a ship from there to Bali. From Yogyakarta, Jakarta, or Bandung, there are trains to Surabaya’s Gubeng Station. Flights are the ideal approach to arrive in Bali, and it is smarter to stay away from the streets.

During this time with Covid, there are different guidelines with visas, so we decided to recommend that you use this website https://id.usembassy.gov/visas/ to stay up to date with the latest guidelines and restrictions. Before scheduling your Bali trip, we advise you that you should check your country norms and conditions for getting the Visa and plan according to that.

When to Go to Bali

Bali experiences a year-round warm, tropical climate and two seasons: wet and dry. The rainy season is from October to the end of March and the dry season lasts from April to September. The daily temperature of Bali remains 80°F (28°C). Bali’s rugged territories are a lot cooler, and there is more precipitation than along the coast. If you have to spend time in the mountains, then you will need to pack proper garments.

Generally speaking, the best season to visit Bali is between April to October. It’s as yet charming to visit during the stormy season. Rain generally comes as quick and serious deluges that are solitary last a couple of hours. In Bali, the limits between seasons aren’t extraordinary. The dry season is the best ideal opportunity to climb the volcanoes and partake in water sports exercises, and the best ideal opportunity to dive is from April to September.

General Information About Bali

• Bali is full of natural beauty. It is also known as the Land of the Gods.
• The local currency of Bali is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) or also shown as Rp. Most of the shopkeepers prefer cash, thus you should keep a handful with 10,000 to 100,000 IDR notes.
• Avoid drinking tap water in Bali because most tourists have experienced stomach issues and indigestion problems.
•  You should wear a helmet and never drive after a big night out.
• The traditional music of Bali is Gamelan.
• You will get the C and F type charging pugs in Bali. For your convenience, you can carry a universal adapter with you.
• Bali does not have a tipping culture, but you can give some small tips, which will be appreciated.
• In case of emergency, or you need any information then you can contact on 112.