Travel around Bali with Bobby
I chose to visit Bali because it’s a destination that perfectly blends natural beauty, rich culture, and a sense of tranquility. The island’s unique landscapes, from lush rice terraces to beautiful beaches, were calling me. I was also eager to experience the Balinese temples like Tanah Lot and Uluwatu, which offer not just incredible views but a sense of spiritual depth. Bali’s vibrant art scene, especially in Ubud, appealed to me as a chance to connect with local creativity. Plus, the warmth of the Balinese people and the diverse local cuisine made it feel like the ideal place for both adventure and relaxation. Bali truly felt like a paradise waiting to be explored.
Day 1Arrival and Sunset at Tanah Lot
After arriving in Bali and checking into my cozy beachfront hotel in Seminyak, I set out to make the most of my first evening by visiting Tanah Lot Temple, one of Bali’s most iconic spots. Perched on a rock formation in the sea, Tanah Lot offers an absolutely breathtaking view, especially as the sun begins to set. Watching the golden light cast over the waves and the temple’s silhouette was the perfect start to my Bali adventure. For dinner, I headed to a local warung (small family-owned restaurant) where I tried my first plate of nasi goreng, a flavorful Indonesian fried rice, paired with spicy sambal.
Don’t miss Tanah Lot at sunset; it’s an unforgettable sight. And trying local warung food is a must – it’s both delicious and affordable!
Day 2Discovering Ubud’s Artistic Soul
Today, I headed to Ubud, Bali’s cultural heart, where I spent the morning wandering through the Sacred Monkey Forest. The jungle setting, combined with the playful monkeys and ancient statues, made for a surreal experience. Later, I visited the Ubud Art Market, filled with handmade crafts, jewelry, and vibrant fabrics. For lunch, I found a small café overlooking rice paddies and indulged in a delicious bowl of gado-gado, a traditional vegetable salad with peanut sauce. I ended my day with a traditional Balinese dance performance at Ubud Palace, immersing myself in the island’s artistic traditions.
I had lunch at a charming café overlooking rice paddies in Ubud, trying a delicious bowl of gado-gado. The peanut sauce was rich and flavorful, and the view added a unique touch to the meal.
Food
My stay in Ubud was in a cozy guesthouse surrounded by lush greenery, making it a peaceful retreat. The staff were incredibly friendly and provided helpful tips about local spots to visit.
Accomodation
Exploring the Sacred Monkey Forest and watching a traditional dance at Ubud Palace made for a culturally enriching day. Both experiences offered an authentic glimpse into Balinese culture and heritage.
Activity
Ubud is a must-visit for anyone who loves art and culture. Make time for the Sacred Monkey Forest – it’s a unique blend of nature and spirituality.
Day 3Tegalalang Rice Terraces and Local Cooking Class
My morning started with a scenic drive to the Tegalalang Rice Terraces, one of the most stunning landscapes I’ve ever seen. The terraced paddies stretch as far as the eye can see, with vibrant greenery and local farmers tending to their crops. After enjoying the views, I joined a cooking class nearby, where I learned to make traditional Balinese dishes like ayam betutu (spiced chicken) and sambal matah (raw chili relish). Cooking with local ingredients and spices was a hands-on way to experience Balinese culture, and I left with a full stomach and some new culinary skills!
The cooking class included a meal made from the dishes we prepared, like ayam betutu and sambal matah. Cooking and eating these traditional dishes was a highlight, as the flavors were authentic and satisfying.
Food
My guesthouse continued to impress with its serene setting and easy access to nearby Ubud attractions. Each evening felt relaxing and quiet, perfect for unwinding after a full day of activities.
Accomodation
The Tegalalang Rice Terraces were a sight to behold, and the cooking class added a hands-on cultural experience to my day. Both activities offered unique ways to connect with Bali’s beauty and traditions.
Activity
The Tegalalang Rice Terraces are a photographer’s dream, so bring your camera. A cooking class is also a fun way to dive into local flavors and learn more about Balinese culture.
Day 4Adventure at Mount Batur and Relaxation at Hot Springs
I started today with an early morning trek up Mount Batur to catch the sunrise. The climb was challenging but absolutely worth it as the sun rose over the misty lake and surrounding mountains. After descending, I treated myself to a relaxing soak in the natural hot springs at the base of the mountain – a perfect way to soothe tired muscles. Back in Ubud, I enjoyed a hearty brunch and spent the afternoon at leisure, exploring local boutiques and sipping coffee at a charming café.
After the sunrise trek, I had a hearty breakfast at a café near Mount Batur, enjoying fresh fruit and a traditional Balinese breakfast. The meal was simple but satisfying, a perfect reward after the hike.
Food
Back at my Ubud guesthouse, I appreciated the comfort and quiet after a physically challenging day. The location’s peaceful atmosphere made it an ideal place to relax.
Accomodation
The Mount Batur trek was a challenging but rewarding experience, with stunning sunrise views, followed by a soothing soak in the hot springs. Both activities offered a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.
Activity
If you’re up for a bit of a challenge, the Mount Batur sunrise trek is unforgettable. The hot springs afterward are a must – there’s nothing like unwinding with mountain views.
Day 5Beach Day and Nightlife in Seminyak
Today was all about enjoying Bali’s famous beaches! I spent the morning lounging at Seminyak Beach, soaking in the sun and dipping my toes in the crystal-clear water. For lunch, I grabbed fresh seafood at a beachside café, savoring the catch of the day with a cool coconut drink. As the evening rolled in, I checked out some of Seminyak’s vibrant nightlife spots, hopping between beach clubs and rooftop bars. Ku De Ta was a highlight, with its lively ambiance, ocean views, and fantastic cocktails.
Fresh seafood at a beachside café in Seminyak was a highlight, with grilled fish and a refreshing coconut drink. The flavors were fresh and delightful, perfectly fitting the beach vibe.
Food
I returned to my hotel in Seminyak, where the proximity to the beach and nightlife was a major plus. The rooms were spacious, and the amenities added to the comfort of my stay.
Accomodation
A relaxing day at Seminyak Beach followed by a night out at Ku De Ta made for a balanced and fun-filled day. The vibrant nightlife here added a lively element to my Bali experience.
Activity
Seminyak Beach is great for relaxation, and the nightlife here is perfect for those looking to unwind with a view. Ku De Ta is a must-visit for a lively evening with an ocean vibe.
Day 6Snorkeling Adventure at Nusa Penida
I couldn’t leave Bali without experiencing its underwater beauty, so today I took a boat to Nusa Penida, an island known for its crystal-clear waters and snorkeling spots. Swimming among colorful coral reefs and tropical fish was like stepping into an underwater paradise. After snorkeling, I explored the island a bit, admiring its dramatic cliffs and pristine beaches. Back on the mainland, I ended the day with a satisfying dinner at a beachfront restaurant, savoring the last bites of seafood under the stars.
I had a delicious seafood lunch at a beachfront restaurant on Nusa Penida, with dishes like grilled prawns and fresh salads. The ocean view and tropical setting made the meal even more enjoyable.
Food
My Seminyak hotel was convenient for a quick return after the day trip, offering the same comfort and relaxation I’d enjoyed all week. The central location remained a big advantage.
Accomodation
Snorkeling in the clear waters of Nusa Penida was like stepping into an underwater paradise, with vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish. It was an unforgettable highlight of my Bali trip.
Activity
Nusa Penida is a dream for snorkelers and beach lovers. The clear water and marine life are stunning, so make sure to add this island to your Bali itinerary.
Day 7Farewell to Bali with Temple Blessings and Shopping
On my final day, I wanted to embrace Bali’s spiritual side, so I visited Tirta Empul, a holy spring temple known for its cleansing rituals. Watching locals and tourists alike take part in the purification ceremony was a meaningful experience, reminding me of Bali’s deep-rooted spirituality. Afterward, I spent some time shopping for souvenirs in Ubud, picking up handmade crafts, Balinese coffee, and spices to bring a bit of Bali home with me. I finished my trip with a leisurely lunch at a hillside restaurant, reflecting on the incredible journey.
I enjoyed a farewell lunch at a hillside restaurant in Ubud, savoring my last taste of Balinese flavors with a view of the lush landscape. The setting made it a peaceful way to end my journey.
Food
My final night at the guesthouse in Ubud was filled with a sense of calm and reflection. The warm hospitality and serene surroundings left a lasting impression.
Accomodation
Visiting Tirta Empul Temple for a purification ritual and shopping for souvenirs in Ubud gave me a meaningful and memorable end to my Bali trip. Both experiences allowed me to embrace the island’s spirituality and culture one last time.
Activity
Tirta Empul is a special place to connect with Bali’s spiritual traditions. Make time for some last-minute shopping in Ubud – the crafts are beautiful and unique.
Summary of My Trip
Bali was everything I hoped for and more – a perfect blend of breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. From the serene beaches in Seminyak to the lush landscapes of Ubud, each place offered its own charm and unforgettable experiences. The island’s temples, especially Tanah Lot and Tirta Empul, gave me a deep sense of Bali’s spirituality, and watching the sunrise over Mount Batur was truly magical. The locals were welcoming and eager to share their culture, whether through food, traditional dances, or warm conversations. Food was a highlight in itself; each meal was packed with rich flavors, from street food at warungs to fresh seafood by the beach. Snorkeling in Nusa Penida’s clear waters was like entering another world, with colorful reefs and exotic fish all around me. My accommodations were comfortable, ideally located, and offered a restful escape after busy days. Bali has an energy that’s both lively and peaceful, and I loved how it allowed me to experience adventure, relaxation, and culture all in one trip. For anyone looking to explore a place that has a bit of everything, Bali should be at the top of the list.
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Bali is a destination that offers a wonderfully balanced mix of nature, culture, and relaxation, making it an unforgettable experience. From iconic temples and lush landscapes to warm, welcoming locals and rich culinary flavors, the island truly has something for every traveler. Here are my ratings across 10 categories that capture my overall experience in Bali.
I enjoyed my first meal in Bali at a local warung in Seminyak, trying nasi goreng paired with spicy sambal. The fried rice was full of flavor, with just the right amount of spice, and the relaxed ambiance added to the experience.
Food
My beachfront hotel in Seminyak was comfortable and had easy access to nearby attractions. The staff were welcoming, and the ocean view from my balcony made it the perfect place to unwind.
Accomodation
Visiting Tanah Lot at sunset was absolutely breathtaking, as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting beautiful colors over the temple and sea. The peaceful vibe and iconic view made it a great start to my Bali trip.
Activity