Secret Travelers Guide: Bali
Being a good friend with one of the founders of Secret Travel, I’ve been very lucky to get a sneak trial of the service. I travel to Bali a lot for work and pleasure. So it was pretty epic when I started using Secret Travel!
I’ve put a lot of time and research into my favourite things about Bali. I decided to put it all in writing for you guys and share the knowledge. Going to a new destination can be a little bit daunting if you don’t know all the local hot tips, so I’ve done the hard bit for you.
The most common places to say would be Seminyak and Canggu. Personally, I prefer Canggu. It’s the new trendy spot, has less traffic and a whole bunch of trendy new cafes. If you’re looking for somewhere a little more relaxing, try the beautiful mountains of Ubud or the tranquil beaches around Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Dua or Uluwatu. For a bit more of an adventure try one of the stunning islands like Lombok or the Gili.
Where to eat?
The options are endless, and Bali has a rapidly growing foodie culture, with a big influence from Australian culture as so many of us are moving over there and taking with us our love for coffee and eating!
My top favourites for breakfast and lunch, in Seminyak and Canggu, would be Sea Circus, Milk & Madou, Peloton Super Shop, Shady Shack, Crate Cafe, and Betelnut.
For something a little more adventurous, or if you’re on a budget try eating at a Warung (where the locals eat.) You’ll see this word everywhere. Basically, it means small family owned shop, mostly restaurant or cafe. The best part is… dinner can be under $5! Be careful though because these are the kinds of places you’d be more likely to get sick. I can recommend Warung Dua Umalas, Warung Murah on Jalan Petitenget or Made’s Warung.
Where to stay?
Ultimately AirBnb is your best bet. The options are endless, and what you can get for a low price is pretty incredible.
Getting around?
Move over taxi’s, move over Uber… There’s new transport in town. Download the GoJek app now. It’s the easiest way to get around when you’re in the hustle and bustle of Canggu & Seminyak. You can jump on the back of a bike, instead of getting stuck in all the traffic. It’s so fast, and cost no more than a couple dollars. It’s very safe too.
If you are getting in a taxi, make sure it’s a bluebird as they’re the most trustworthy. Always ask the driver to start the meter before you being the journey, as it is common for Balinese drivers to try bumping up the price. Otherwise, you can also negotiate a flat rate before driving off. For a 10 minute ride, you shouldn’t be paying more than a few dollars.
For longer journeys always try to organise a driver for the day. Your AirBnb host or hotel reception should be able to help you out here.
Other places to see
If you’re in Uluwatu make sure you head to Single Fin, best nights are Wednesday & Sunday. You can even get a healthy breakfast there from Coco & Poke. There’s also Bukit Cafe.
Head to Sunday’s Beach Club or Karmas Beach Club.
Echo Beach – try the fresh fish grills at the various restaurants!
Jimbaran (head down there for sunset & check out the amazing seafood restaurants on the sand Some other good spots are Sundara, Opia or Balique)
Other things to do
Check out these waterfalls, Nung Nung & Carat (super high waterfall), Juwuk Manis (for swimming), GitGit (easy to get to), Aling-Aling.
Hike Mount Batur for sunrise, you can get a driver to come and get you from wherever you are staying in Bali or you can stay up in Kintamani for a little bit of cold weather. BUT the Balinese believe that if you climb the mountain with your boyfriend/girlfriend, you WILL break up – so couples beware.
A little bit of action, try out Waterbom Park Kuta, but from what I’ve some of those waterslides are pretty hectic… let’s say, completely vertical! Voted the best waterpark in Asia for 5 years in a row!
You’re on your way to Bali.
For some more great venue recommendations, check out my guide to Bali on my website below.
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