Bali is an amazing place and we were lucky enough to spend 10 nights on this tropical island paradise in 2007. This is one destination that we definitely plan on returning to on our round-the-world trip for many reasons, particularly because of its relaxed atmosphere and the lovely nature of the locals.
Based on our past experience, here are 7 of the best things to experience whilst in Bali. There are plenty more, but if you plan on visiting Bali soon this list will get you started.
1. Hire a driver
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces - best accessed with your own personal driver.
Some of the places we recommend you check out with a driver include:
- Art in Ubud.
- Mount Batur.
- Mother Temple of Besakih.
- Jatiluwih Rice Terrace.
- Tanah Lot Temple.
2. Elephant Safari Park
Elephant Ride in Bali
The park is a fantastic day trip away from the hustle and bustle of Kuta where you can get up close with these majestic creatures. Not only can you ride the elephants through the cool jungles of Taro (an experience that you’ll never forget!), you can also hand feed the elephants, touch them, take photos with them and enjoy the educational elephant shows.
There is also a fantastic museum at the park, a buffet restaurant overlooking the lake and a luxury safari style lodge if you want to extend your time there.
Our recommendation: Book online and save up to 15% off. For $73 per person, you can get the full day Elephant Safari Park/Ride Tour, lunch and hotel transfers.
3. Waterbom Park
Waterslides at Waterbom Park
For the adults, Waterbom offers massages, spa treatments and a swim-up bar, which many people seem to just sit by all day. But the real fun of Waterbom Park is in the many adventure slides they have on offer as well as the tranquil Lazy River.
Our recommendation: Get there early if you want to rent a private Gazebo, and spend plenty of time on the Lazy River.
4. Bali shopping
Shopping in Bali
From the designer brand names to art and local handicrafts, no matter what you’re looking for you will be able to find it in this shopper’s paradise.
Our recommendation: If bargaining is not your thing, visit Jenny Shop opposite Waterbom Park. She is one of the friendliest people we’ve met on our travels and the slogan of her shop is simple – “No bullshit and set price”.
5. Experience the nightlife
Drag Queen Show at QBar
Our recommendation: Beware of people offering you illegal drugs outside popular nightspots. We were offered both ecstasy and marijuana near the beaches of Kuta – apparently these people are often police informants trying to catch out naïve tourists. Unless you want to try to make the international news, ignore their offers!
6. Spend time on the beaches
Picturesque Bali Beach
For the adventurers who aren’t content on relaxing on the white sandy beaches, the Bali Water Sport Center in Tanjung Benoa (near Nusa Dua) is a fantastic place to visit. They offer a variety of activities including parasailing, snorkeling, jet skiing, water skiing, banana boat rides and more.
Our recommendation: If you want to relax, stick to the hotel pool. It is very easy to get overwhelmed by the beach hawkers in Bali.
7. Enjoy the food
The Flaming Kintamani Volcano Pizza at Papa's Cafe
Sumber : http://www.donteverlookback.com/2010/12/7-things-to-do-in-bali-indonesia/