Bali Archives - Wander-Lust

06 Mar 2019

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Visiting Bali for the first time? Here is all you need to know

Sticky Post By Wander-lust On March 6, 2019 With No Comments

Oh hello sunshine, nature, palmtrees and fresh coconuts! Are you planning (like most people we know) to visit the island of the gods, Bali? Here are some tips if you’re heading there for the first time.

Before you leave home

Visa and passport: in addition to a valid passport (which must be valid for at least 6 months) you also need a visa. You will receive this visa free of charge on arrival at the following international airports; Jakarta, Bali, Medan and Surabaya. You can stay in Bali for up to 30 days. Please note: arrival and departure days are counted and this free visa can not be extended. So if you want to stay longer than 30 days (and believe us, this happens), then you must arrange the visa before departure and make sure you have a return ticket, because that is mandatory.

Money: the currency on Bali is the Rupiah. Since banks are not everywhere and the exchange rate can fluctuate heavily, it is useful to exchange your money at the airport. Make sure you have enough money with you when traveling to a remote area.

Vaccinations: against Hepatitis A and DTP are recommended when you go to Indonesia on vacation. Fortunately, you do not have to take malaria pills in many areas; Bali and East and West Java are mostly malaria free. Check the map of malaria areas. And then you still have those annoying mosquitos. You do not hear them, but you do feel them! So it is handy to bring an anti-mosquito that contains DEET.

Kids
Bali is a great place for those traveling with kids. Find out what you can do and what kids activities there are with young children.

Suitcase or Backpack?
Do you travel around for a long time and do you travel from place to place? Then we advise you to bring a backpack. There is often heavy-handed handling of your stuff and we have already experienced a few cases that go wrong. The disadvantage is of course that you can take less, but on the other hand you often take too much clothing, which is not necessary on Bali. Will it be a beach holiday and will you stay in a resort? Then a backpack is not necessary and a suitcase is very nice.

Packing tips
In Bali you enjoy a tropical climate and the humidity can be high in some places. Some handy packing tips:
1. Pack as many light and cotton clothing as possible.
2. Bring along a long skirt and Sarong for when you visit one of the many temples.
3. Bring that hat! The sun is lovely, but nobody wants a sunstroke.
4. A one-suit is useful if you want to surf, it keeps your belly from getting scraped on the board.
5. If you are planning to go to Bali from December, then a thin rain jacket is useful.

Ready to surf?

Go check out
» Dreamland Beach – the name says it all
» Ubud – Rice Terraces, Healthy hotspots like Sari Organic and the Ubud Hanging Gardens resort (must see)
» Canggu – Crate Café, Canggu-Desa Seni Yoga, The Chillhouse
» Uluwatu – Rock Bar & Single Fin
» Tanah Lot (just to take that one beautiful picture)
» Nusa Lembongan, 30 min by boat – top for surfing

Dreamland Beach Source

Better to avoid
» Water from the tap. Buy your water in bottles and check if the cap is unopened. Drinking water safely? Then this thing is a godsend. Be careful with salads and peel the fruit well. Otherwise you might be more in the toilet than on the beach.
» Petting dogs, especially when Although they look cute, their have been reports of rabies and Sarah got bitten last year and needed several injections.
» Kuta. If you do not like mass tourism, avoid busy Kuta. Prices are higher, the food is not very tasty and the beach is a bit disappointing, mostly covered in plastic. However, everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but we know that there are better places on Bali than Kuta.

Make a good deal whilst shopping for goodies

In Bali it’s normal to..
» Have your own ‘driver‘. This is a tip that you can certainly save money if you want to see the whole island. Learn a few words Balinese and make a clear arrangement with your taxi driver. If you do it right, he will drive you around for a fixed price. Use your good old intuition, but pay attention that he does not take you to all kinds of shops or tourist places where they might receive commission from.
» Make some deals. It is a game between tourist and salesman, especially in the market you can play with the price.
» Give tips. The friendly people in Bali are not very broad. Do they wear your suitcase or are you well helped? Give a nice tip.
» Rent a scooter and explore the island. Make sure you always wear a helmet!

Ready? So pack your bags and fly to paradise!

Wander-Lust

05 Jun 2018

Sticky Post By Wander-lust Posted in Asia, Bali, Traveling with Kids With No Comments Permalink

Bali With Kids » 5 Activities to do with your Family

Sticky Post By Wander-lust On June 5, 2018 With No Comments

Last month our guest editor Cheryl flew to Bali with her family & friends. Two years ago, her group of 38 friends (that also have kids) decided to get together at a destination outside Europe. The destination was quickly picked decision: Bali. Back in Holland, with a bag full of tips Cheryl will share her best tips on what to do in Bali with kids.

Go Surfing
If you’re kids are older and love the ocean: go surfing. Ok, I must admit, this was actually a dream come true for myself (and I persuaded my daughter of twelve, to come along). I always wanted to learn how to ride the waves. In the South of Bali there are many surf schools to choose from. I found my surf teacher, as cheeky as it sounds, on TripAdvisor. For a two-hour private lesson, you’ll pay around 450K IRP(which is about €27,-) per person. In these two hours, I’ve learned to stand on the board while surfing. (worth a shoulder brush right?)

Chasing Waterfalls
Kids love visiting waterfalls during holiday’s. I’ve did some research before we left and decided to go for 2 waterfalls:

The Sekumpul waterfall is the most breathtaking waterfall I’ve ever seen. Mind you, this waterfall is not suitable for little children (babies or toddlers) because of the difficult hike to get there. But my O my, what a view! Be prepared for this trail. Make sure you have good shoes and enough water for the kids! Costs: 20.000 IRP p/p.
At the Aling-Aling waterfalls are some thrilling activities for adults and older children (+8). Cliff jumping (5 and 10 meters) and there are also natural water slides. After I tried the 12-meter-high waterslide, my little daredevil also took her chance for this once in a life time experience! For this waterfall we had to pay 125K IRP p/p because there are many guides who help with the activities and watch the children.

The impressive Sekumpul waterfall with the kids

Waterbom Park
Personally, I’m not a waterpark kind of girl. But this one you have to try if you go to Bali with kids. This Waterbom Park happens to be number one in Asia and number three in the world! It had 22 rides and attractions and you can even relax, eat or just go crazy on all the rides. For the adrenaline junkies; go to the Climax. Stand in a small chamber before the trap door opens, and you plummet 16 meters down a near vertical drop. Fly through the rest of the ride at 70kph, and don’t forget to breathe again when you get to the end. For more info and video’s check www.facebook.com/Waterbom

WaterBom park (source)

Visit Menjangan Island
Even though you have some coral bleaching here too, it is still a fantastic place to dive or snorkel! The ridges and slopes are super dramatic, and the fish are beautiful! You can also spot the occasional reef shark or sea turtle if you’re lucky, so all in one: a great and exiting place for kids. Also, you can actually find Nemo. Snorkling here will cost around 15,- per person.

Hey there little buddy!

Spot Some MANTA’s (or not)
We traveled to Nusa Lembongan to spot some manta’s. Most of time they are easy to spot (they said). Unfortunately, not always. It’s difficult to predict their presence but in July, August and September is the best time to spot some manta’s. If you book a day-boat and can’t spot the manta’s: don’t be sad: there are also lots of nice snorkling places with nice coral around the area. Don’t miss out the spot where the Giant Trevally Fish swim. It might be bit scary at first, because these fish can become 1.7 meters long! I was assured that they are not dangerous so took a dive with my little daredevils! 200K IRP (per person).

Bali with kids and friends? A vacation not to forget!

Don’t forget to love, enjoy and treasure every moment with your loved ones. After all, LIFE IS A PARTY, also when you have kids!
Are you visiting Bali for the first time? Find out what to expect and what you should know before heading to the island of gods.

Love,

Cheryl

*Cheryl is a mother of 2, with a love for travel. Having 2 kids didn’t stop her from traveling the world and she has become somewhat of an expert when it comes to traveling with children. She will write for Wander-Lust once a month where she will provide you with the best traveling tips for and with children! Find out more on her blog: travellingwithkids.nl

01 Nov 2017

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Cheating on Bali with the Nusa’s

Sticky Post By Wander-lust On November 1, 2017 With No Comments

Dear Bali,

I love you, and I always will. But… you’ve changed. Just a bit. You grew up and saw more and more people liking you, wanting to see you. Who can blame them, you are amazing. But, it felt as if we had too little ‘just you and me time’. So, I cheated on you with the Nusa’s. Sorry, not sorry.

So what are the Nusa’s?
The Nusa’s are 3 islands just south of Bali. Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan have been on the tourist roadmap for quite some time, but still feel like tropical bounty islands with not too much western interference. Nusa Penida is the biggest island and was only opened up to tourists two years ago. All of them are pure heaven and have their own personalities. All worth exploring for some days, some weeks or forever (I can dream, right?).

Getting there
Most boats sail from Sanur, Bali to Jungut Batu on Nusa Lembongan. But it is also possible to grab a boat to Mushroom Bay (where all the fancier hotels are) or directly to Nusa Penida. Going to Nusa Penida is also possible from Padangbai. The cheapest option is going to the harbour in Sanur and negotiate about the price. If you like to book in advance, don’t worry, there are lots of little tour agencies on Bali that sell tickets as well. We paid 500.000 IDR for a return ticket with the fast boat, including pick up in Canggu and drop off in Ubud. A pretty comfortable deal! Going to Nusa Penida from Lembongan is easy to arrange. Head over to the iconic yellow bridge. Here are a ton of people wanting to bring you. Around 50.000 IDR is a normal price, be sure to haggle if they are aiming high.

surfers won’t be disappointed here

Lembongan and Ceningan chillings
Two small beauties, connected by a picture perfect yellow hanging bridge, dotted with bumpy roads, deep blue waters and sky-high waves. With surfbreaks named ‘playgrounds’ and ‘shipwreck’ surfers won’t be disappointed here. Happier under the surface? Gear up in your wetsuit to spend some time with the massive manta-rays that cruise the shores of nearby Nusa Penida. Sounds scary, swimming with creatures that are much bigger than you? It’s not! They are so gracious and elegant. Oh and they only eat plankton. Don’t underestimate the currents here though. Dive trips are easily arranged with one of the many dive shops on Lembongan. French Kiss Divers recently opened a shop here and is full of brand new gear and offers very reasonable prices. As they say ‘the more depth, the more pleasure’. 😉

Diving with rays is a highlight!

If all of the above sounds like too much work, don’t worry for a second. Lounging on a massive Fatboy while sipping a healthy smoothie, gazing at the ocean, is just as easy. The best place to do so is definitely Ginger & Jamu on Jungut Batu beach. Caring about the environment, they don’t do plastic. Paper straws, cotton napkins and glass water bottles. Oh right and amazing smoothies, sandwiches, smoothie-bowls and salads. Combined with the yoga school above the cafe this place oozes the ultimate zen and friendly vibe. I admit, I’ve spend days full of relaxing, drinking, eating and plunging in to the sea for some refreshment at Ginger & Jamu.

Another amazing spot is Sea breeze Ceningan. Their catchy latino tunes, hammocks and perfect vanilla ice coffees cannot do anything else but make you happy. Overlooking the azure seaweed-farms with your toes in the sand, beach life as it should be. Also, their wifi is really good, thus digital nomad proof!

For dinner the choices are endless.

Sea breeze Ceningan

For dinner the choices are endless. There are a ton of nice warungs for local dishes. Not so local are the nanchos and burritos at Ginger Moon (whats in a name), but they cannot be missed! Getting around Lembongan and Ceningan is best done by motorbike. The roads are generally okay and even the bumpy ones are do-able. Nice places to scooter to include dream beach, devil’s tears, mahana point and the blue lagoon.

Island friendly prices
Now, are these two islands going to break your wallet? Hell no! There are tons of affordable homestays. Your own little bungalow -some even with a swimming pool and breakfast- usually comes with a price tag of between 13 and 20 euro a night. Although more luxurious places are also widely available. I highly recommend Jiva Bungalows: basic but clean bungalows, super sweet people and a nice breakfast included!

Adventurous Penida
Now if you are up for a little less relaxing and a bit more adventure, Nusa Penida is the perfect pick. It’s possible to do day trips from Lembongan, but staying on the island for a few days is definitely better. Penida is much more quiet, less developed and wilder then little sisters Lembongan and Ceningan. That’s great for adventure, but also a bit more dangerous. They are working on the roads, but a lot of them are still treacherous. Going for a daytrip? Then seriously consider hiring a car with a driver as the highlights are further apart and driving hastily really isn’t a good idea. Still rather have a scooter to drive around yourself? Then make sure to check it before renting. Good brakes are a must on the steep and rocky roads that are home to Penida! As this island isn’t open to tourists for that long, it’s not filled with restaurants and bars yet. But every village has a couple of gems. Whatever you do, don’t miss breakfast/brunch/lunch at Penida Espresso. The smells from their kitchen are heaven and the rock butter smoothie bowl is to die for.

Penida Espresso

Broken Beach, Penida

Penida beauties
The island has an amazing coastline, high cliffs, hidden beaches and views that go on forever. Take a day to drive the beautiful road to Atuh beach, take the steep stairs down and chill on one of the loungers to watch the change of the tide.

Another great place is broken beach. The name is a bit confusing as there is absolutely no beach but it’s a sight to behold. Next to broken beach is Angels Billabong. It seems as if the pictures you find online are massively photoshopped and don’t depict the real thing. I dare to say Angels Billabong was the disappointment of my trip through Asia so far. But hey, go see for yourself! The ultimate highlight of Nusa Penida has got to be Kelingking beach. A massive cliff looking down onto the purest of beaches with the bluest of waters. It’s impossible to describe this beauty in words. There is a way down to that perfect beach, but it is quite dangerous so be careful!

Crystal clear
Of course you can also relax at Nusa Penida. Crystal Bay is your bae! Although it has some real steep hills, the road to Crystal is perfect and very Instagram worthy, lined with picture perfect palm trees. You can rent two sun-beds and an umbrella to protect you from the sun for just 50.000 IDR a day. The little warung at the western end of the beach makes you a great mie goreng! Don’t forget your snorkeling gear, the underwater life really is crystal clear and includes many curious, colorful fishes and even the occasional turtle. Do check the current as it can be strong here! End your day with a cocktail or a beer at Penida Colada while looking at the Agung volcano, just across the sea on Bali. Life is pretty damn perfect here.

The tropical Cystel Bay Beach

Now, don’t skip Bali just yet. But consider spending some time with the Nusa’s to fill up one some peace, quiet and happiness. Maybe I see you there as I might never leave again.

Life is better at the beach,

Jill

*Our guest editor Jill is currently traveling through Asia and will monthly update us about her Asian adventures.

07 Apr 2017

Sticky Post By Wander-lust Posted in Bali, Obsessions, T R E A S U R E S With 2 Comments Permalink

Desa Seni, total bliss at this healthy yoga retreat in Bali

Sticky Post By Wander-lust On April 7, 2017 With 2 Comments

Yoga, meditations, massages, healthy food, a beautiful swimming pool, private sleeping cabins, an overwhelming tropical garden and super friendly staff. I haven’t even mentioned the comfortable big beds, the outside bathroom, and this all located close to the beach: Yoga retreat Desa Seni in Canggu is the perfect retreat to recharge.

After a super busy year and some private circumstances, I needed some time to relax. Bali is the perfect place for that since there are a lot of healthy spots and yoga retreats on the island. I was already in Canggu and I heard that Desa Seni is one of the best yoga retreats of Bali: they have the most experienced teachers, delicious fresh and healthy food, luxurious surroundings and a great service! That’s exactly what I needed.

I wasn’t a big yoga fan, but ever since I took some classes at Desa Seni I decided to continue to practice yoga in Amsterdam.

Desa Seni
The retreat is located amid ancient rice terraces. You get a warm welcome when you arrive by the lovely women at the entrance desk of Desa Seni. Then a guided tour is waiting for you first before drinking a welcomes cocktail at the pool. The first thing you will notice is the relaxed and beautiful vibe of this retreat: The beautiful garden with colorful flowers, the big and comfortable sun bets and the stunning swimming pool was exactly what I was looking for. They seriously have thought about everything: mosquito spray, candles, incense, holiday cards to send out and a lot more.
You get to chill in a zen location for a few days where everything is included and that is what you want when you go to a retreat.
This Village Resort serves an eclectic Asian-Western cuisine with a focus on organic, healthy and fresh food. It has a vegetarian menu where delicious fish and veggie dishes from the resort’s own organic gardens are waiting for you. The restaurant is open to the public for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The traditional wooden farmhouse

The outside bathroom

Yoga
Desa Seni’s daily Yoga program caters to all levels and offers a variety of yoga styles, open to the community and led by a qualified, dedicated, and passionate team of teachers. Apparently Desa Seni has the best yoga teachers on the island. A lot of people come here to take part of the 5 yoga classes they offer each day: From Kundalini Yoga and Hatha (the most reckon one) to Sunset Flow and Fly High Yoga. They might be a but heavier than in your own country, but it has also to do with the weather (you sweat a lot). The classes are super divers and you feel great when your done.

So what does it cost?
Desa Seni offers a variety of accommodations, all of which are antique wooden houses with beautiful terraces, sitting areas and private modern outside bathrooms. The interior of each unique house has been re-furbished to provide all the modern comforts, while the exteriors have retained the integrity of rural village life. Check the prices here. Room Rates include: Gourmet Breakfast – Daily Yoga & Meditation Classes – Unlimited Drinking Water – Complimentary Wireless Internet – Daily Ceremonial Offering – DVD & Book Library.

Desa Seni
Jl. Subak Sari No.13, Canggu, Bali
Website

Love,

Sarah

05 Mar 2017

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Bali must do’s for first timers

Sticky Post By Wander-lust On March 5, 2017 With No Comments

In my previous blog, I highlighted some sights you should visit in Java. Even though Java is beautiful, I think an even more special place in Indonesia is Bali. Bali is quite a popular destination and once you visited this island you’ll understand why. While in most of Indonesia, Islam is the main religion, in Bali most people are Hinduists. You’ll see Hindu temples everywhere. But these are not the only interesting sights. Here’s are some Bali must do’s if you’re visiting the island for the first time.

Ubud
Ubud is the cultural hart of Bali. It has a lovely center with nice bars and restaurants. It has quite a spiritual vibe with all its great temples. The most impressive one is Gunung Kawi, an 11th-century temple complex spread across both sides of the Pakerisan river. It comprises 10 shrines that are carved into seven (!) metre high sheltered niches on each side. Once you move away from the center, Ubud also has beautiful surroundings, you can walk for example to Campuang Ridge and see beautiful rice fields.

Bike downhill from Mount Batur
This is a spectacular tour which starts in Ubud, from where you’ll drive to Penelokan, which is right next to Mount Batur. You’ll have breakfast overlooking this impressive, active, volcano and its crater lake. After this great start, you will bike downhill back to Ubud. Along the way, you’ll see little villages and visit a coffee plantation, typical Balinese houses and the well-known rice fields.

Breakfast with a view

Dive in Amed
If you like diving, Amed is the place to be in Bali. There are lots of different dive schools that all offer PADI or SSI courses, or just regular dive trips in case you are already certified. One of the most memorable dive spots is Manta Point, close to Nuusa Lembongan. It takes some time to get there and it’s therefore also quite a pricy dive, but it will be well worth once you see massive – up to 6 metres wide – Manta’s under water.

It is called Manta Point for a reason!

Relax at the Gili’s
The Gili’s do not really belong to Bali, but they are the perfect getaway with their white beaches, clear blue water and amazing sunsets. You can easily get there by boat from Padang Bay. Gili Trawangan is the biggest island and mostly known for its parties. Gili Air is a bit smaller but it has a great atmosphere and is very vibrant with all the restaurants along the beach where you can eat sea food that just came out of the ocean. And if you really want some relax time the smallest Gili Meno is the place to be. All islands are home to an impressive underwater world and snorkeling or diving are great activities here. Find more info about the Gili islands here.

There you have it, just a little guide into Bali must do’s for first timers. And I’m sure there will be a second time very soon after!

Love,

Dionne

*Dionne is one of our guest bloggers from the Netherlands, currently living in Den Bosch. In everyday life she works as a marketing-communications professional. She loves to travel to distant destinations, but she also enjoys a city trip closer to home.

16 Feb 2017

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This is why we are in love with the Indonesian island Bali

Sticky Post By Wander-lust On February 16, 2017 With No Comments

There’s no place like Bali! Bali is an exotic Indonesian paradise where you will get the experience you will never forget. The first time when I fell in love of this wonderful island was 6 years ago. I completed my communication studies, saved enough money and decided to pack my bags for a 4 month backpacking trip in Southeast Asia. My dear friend Marlieke joined me for the first 3 weeks in Bali.

bali
Me and Marlieke in Seminyak 7 years ago. Too cute:)

I remember driving the motorbike for the first time, watching the magical sun rise on the Gili islands, the super nice local food corners where I tasted spices I have never had tasted before, my first surfing experience, the wonderful rice fields … and a lot more. Who wouldn’t wanna go back?

Sunset at the Gili Islands

Those 3 weeks in 2011 were definitely not enough, so it was time to go back together to Bali! The month December is maybe not the best month due to rain season, but we were super lucky. Sunny Days and blue Skies every day!

I started on my own and Marlieke flew in at New Year’s Eve. We fell in love all over again!

Marlieke and me in 2017 in Canggu

Bali is known for it’s healthy foodspots, surfing, yoga, picturesque beaches, friendly locals, party’s and of course cheap and nice massages. Bali has you covered! Apparently Bali sometimes has a bad reputation, especially Kuta where many tourists come to party. But trust me, there are plenty of areas where you can chill and enjoy your holiday big time and avoid the crowd.

I travelled from Uluwatu, Canggu, Ubud, Seminyak Nusa Lembognon and Nusa Ceningan back to Uluwatu and ended in Seminyak. I forced myself to relax and chill and my goal was to find the best places to do so and share these with you! So in the upcoming weeks you will find the best tips and my favorite hotspots!

Get inspired!

Le Pirat beachclub in Nusa Ceningan

We stayed in this instagramable hotel Sal Secret Spot in Uluwatu

Beautiful view at Rob Peetoom in Seminyak

Healthy lunch at Milk & Madu in Canggu

Love,

Sarah

13 Feb 2017

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4 Recommendations On Beautiful Java

Sticky Post By Wander-lust On February 13, 2017 With No Comments

Java is the most populated island of Indonesia and it has a great deal of sights which are worth a visit. You can easily travel the whole island by train, if you have the time off course, because the length of the island is about 1000 km so it does take you quite a few hours to get across. These are some of the sights I would recommend visiting:

The Dutch Jakarta
Jakarta is the capital of Indonesia with about 9,6 million citizens. A lot of people say Jakarta is too crowded, dirty (because of the smog), hot and therefore not necessarily worth a visit. But I like to think otherwise. Yes, it’s crowded and chaotic, but once you get used to that you will see this city has some great things to offer. Especially when you are interested in some (Dutch) history, Jakarta is an interesting metropolis. You can still see the Dutch influence for example in the buildings on Taman Fatahilla square. In the Jakarta History Museum you can get a glance of live in the earlier Dutch East Indies.

Inpressive Prambanan

When you are interested in some (Dutch) history, Jakarta is an interesting metropolis.

Borobudur
Borobudur is one of the most famous sights of Indonesia. Yes, it’s full of tourists, but since it’s the largest Buddhist temple in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you cannot skip a visit. The temple is designed as a mandala and has nine platforms in total, six square and three circular, topped by a central dome. The temple represents the Buddhist cosmos. Next to a lot of tourists, the temple is also visited by many pilgrims. A pilgrim must walk every platform 7 times, clockwise and from bottom to top. This way, he or she will reach Nirvana; an ultimate state of soteriological release and liberation from rebirths.

Highest platform of the famous Borobudur

Prambanan
Prambanan is probably just as famous as Borobudur, but this sight belongs to a completely different religion. It’s the largest Hindu temple of Indonesia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The compound consists of more than 200 temples, but the three main ones are the Trimurti temples; the largest one (47 metres) is dedicated to Shiva, God of Destruction. The two temples next to this one are dedicated to Brahma, God of Creation and Vishnu, God of Preservation. Like Borobudur, visitors should officially enter each temple from the east side and circumambulate clockwise.

The Ijen Volcano
While a lot of people visit Mount Bromo, the most famous volcano of Java, I decided to visit another volcano during our holiday in Indonesia; Ijen. Ijen is one of the few volcano’s with a crater lake. This lake contains a huge amount of sulfur, which supports a mining operation. Miners walk down the crater about twice a day to load the sulfur in baskets and carry it up to the crater rim and down the mountain by hand. This is a very labour-intensive operation, not to mention a very smelly one. When visiting the Ijen volcano, you should wear old, very old clothes. Even after washing them for about 10 times, I could still smell the sulfur! But you will see this is all worth it when you climbed Ijen and are standing at the crater rim and see the sunrise or sunset. The view is just indescribably amazing. And if you have the guts, you can even walk down the crater when it’s dark and see the so-called blue fire, which actually is ignited sulfuric gas.

Sunset at the top of Ijen, Java

In my next blog, I will continue my trip through Indonesia and give some insights in the interesting culture of Bali.

Love,

Dionne

*Dionne is one of our guest bloggers from the Netherlands, currently living in Den Bosch. In everyday life she works as a marketing-communications professional. She loves to travel to distant destinations, but she also enjoys a city trip closer to home.

15 Jun 2016

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Bali’s Best Hangouts of 2019!

Sticky Post By Wander-lust On June 15, 2016 With No Comments

The first time I fell in love with the island of Bali must have been in 2013 when I lived here for my studies. Ever since, this magical place has found a little spot in my heart and will never leave! I found so many new hotspots! Unfortunately they didn’t all fit in one blogpost since the list is long! But these are (just) a few of my favorites listed per area. These are Bali’s best hangouts of 2019!

CANGGU

Crate Café
Crate Coffee, Crate brekkie, Crate smoothies….Life’s crate! And it actually is when you fancy your brekkie right here. Crate is an absolute “hipster happening”. With an Australian owner it’s hard to go wrong with coffee and classic breakfast so hands up for Maree Suteja! Detail: I love how you guys put that cover on my scooter seat against the hot sun to protect me from burning my ass after! Your best bet after a surf? Calrrito brekkie burrito, no doubt!
64 Jalan Batu Bolong, Canggu 80361, Indonesië
insta: @cratecafe

Crate cafe Bali

Pretty Poison
Same owner as Crate..must be just as good, right?! You cannot miss out on this one during your Bali stay, trust me. After a day of surf, skate takes over. Secure a spot around the skate bowl to watch one of the skate competitions, get inked by the “in club” tattoo artist or dance the night away! Favo drink: Kombucha with Tequila. What I love: the equal mix of locals and foreigners, music & vibes…
Shortcut Canggu
Insta: @prettypoison___
www.prettypoisonbar.com

Source: Pretty Poison Bar

Little Flinders
Lovely hangout, the sweetest staff and a healthy cuisine. The chef cooks with what’s in season and with local produce which is not only good for you but also for the environment! This is actually the case in most hotspots by the way… Go for the “Canggu Love” brekkie bowl!
Jl. Pantai Batu Bolong No.78
insta: @littleflinders

Source: thetwentysomethingjournal

Milk & Madu
Another great joint in town! Milk & Madu is a must on your Bali To Do list. Healthy & delicious foodies plus the best coffee (Revolver) on the island (okay Crate’s blend comes pretty close) is served here in an amazing atmosphere. My all time favorite: smashed avocado on toast!
Jalan Pantai Berawa 52
insta: @milkandmadu
www.milkandmadu.com

Source @bali_cafes

Avocado Café
Hidden away behind green leaves, you’ll find this cosy little healthy & happy place specialized in paleo and vegan! In collaboration with Motion Fitness Bali, Avocado café loves to share the importance of healthy nutrition. With fresh and organic produce every day you can enrich your body with lots of vitamins and minerals… Isn’t that what we want!?
BatuBolong, 69b, Canggu
Insta: @avocadoccafebali
www.motionfitnessbali.com

Source Instagram @avocadocafebali

ULUWATU

Nalu Bowls
Besides Uluwatu, Nalu Bowls can be found in Canggu (Echo Beach), Ubud and Seminyak so there’s absolutely no way around this healthy smoothie bowl experience! I always take the “Mavericks” bowl, named after a big wave surf break on the American West Coast. It’s an Açai blend with granola, banana, strawberries and COCONUT flakes. I love to eat mine on the cliff overlooking the Uluwatu surf…Goodlife!
Jalan Mamo, Uluwatu, attached to Single Fin
Insta: @nalubowls
www.nalubowls.com

Source: @elljay12

Drifter Surf Store
Believed to be “the soul of surfing” by founders Jake Mackenzie & Tim Russo…. Drifter doesn’t only offer you the coolest collection of surf boards and retail but also gives you a place to enjoy great espresso and read tons of books, hand selected. On the road from Uluwatu to Bingin it’s hard to miss this amazing old Javanese teak house that is transformed into a surfers paradise, inland!
Jl. Labuan Sait, Pecatu
Insta: @drifterbali
www.driftersurf.com

Source:@drifterbali

Bukit Café
“Best food in the Bukit” as their wifi password reveals and they are damn right! Me and my friend Isabel (another Dutchie from Amsterdam) kept coming back here for mouthwatering foodies, colorful smoothies and quality time. Owned and operated by an Australian vs. Brazilian a.k.a. a party for your tastebuds! What we loved: the pink pitaya smoothie with dragonfruit and the zucchini fritters!
Jalan Labuan Sait
Insta: @bukit___cafe
www.bukitcafe.com

Source: @bukit___cafe

SEMINYAK

Revolver
Right in the middle of Seminyak’s shopping walhalla, Revolver Boutique Coffee House provides you with one of the best coffee experiences you can have. The vintage, jazzy, mixed with wild west interior and the lovely people make you smile for miles. The coffee brand became pretty big on the island resulting in many hotspots brewing their coffees with Revolver coffee beans! For speedy take-aways step by “Baby Revolver” situated at Jl Petitenget 102. Love, love, love!
Jl kayu aya / Gang 51
Insta: @revolverespresso
www.revolverespresso.com

Revolver Coffee Bali
Source: @revolverespresso

Watercress
Where sun, surf and sea come together, where Byron Bay and Bali cross paths…. Open all day every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner. With the same owners as Milk & Madu, Watercress will never let you down! Enjoy the goodness of their (Revolver) coffee combined with their smashed chats & goats cheese! No better way to start your day.
Jl Batu Belig 21a, Kerobokan
Insta: @watercressbali
www.watercressbali.com

watercress bali
Source: @watercressbali

UBUD

Yoga Barn
Did you know that Bali is the island of spirituality!? Where better to go than Ubud? Wander around the Yoga Barn and explore a deeper meaning of life through meditation, holistic healers, Ayurvedic Rejuvenation, acupuncture and different styles of yoga! Calm down, connect your body, mind and soul while finding your inner peace. Namasté!
Jalan Raya Pengosekan
www.theyogabarn.com

Source: @guna_kviese

Bali Buda
I actually love the Bali Buda store/café situated in Sanur but the one in Ubud is just as lovely. A great supplier of wholesome, raw, vegan, honest and organic foodies, as well as skin care products that make you feel good inside and out. What I love: their organic sunscreens and the cassave flour pancakes!
Jl Jembawan 1
www.balibuda.com

NUSA LEMBONGAN

Villa Pasir
One day I took a little trip to Nusa Lembongan to explore the island and surf some waves. I never booked any accommodation up front (as usual) so upon arrival I started walking past all the cute home-stays on the beach. Villa Pasir was one of them and I immediately fell in love with this guest house designed and owned by a beautiful French lady living her dream!
Front Beach, Jungut Batu
Insta: @villa_pasir
www.villapasir.com

Villa Pasir Bali

Bed villa pasir
Amazing place to stay in Bali!

Bali Eco Deli
An added value to your stay in paradise! Bali Eco Deli is conscious about the environment and tries to reduce the use of plastic with their recycling program which makes me so happy! Plastic is a huge problem in Indonesia and Eco Deli gives a great example in the race to safe the planet and its natural beauty. Their produce is not only healthy and delicious but also fresh, locally grown and organic. For the girls: pastries are the main foodies on the menu and it doesn’t matter if you can’t choose, you can just take it all! Really!
Main road Nusa Lembongan
Insta: @baliecodeli
www.baliecodeli.net

I love everything about this place!

Blue corner bar
First of all go here for an amazing sunset! Secondly, order a couple of those super tasty taco’s with either beef, chicken, fish or veggies (they are small so take at least 3)! Besides the taco’s the menu offers all sorts of yummy Mexican food. What I love: fresh coconut with lime, comfy bean bags, fish taco’s! It’s also a great place to bring your kid(s)!
At the end of front beach
Insta: @bluecornerbar
www.bluecornerdive.com

Source: @bluecornerbar

Sun, surf, yoga, good food and good people is what Bali life is all about…I hope that you will enjoy these hotspots as much as I did but I also want to spread the word of being a conscious traveler. Respect the local culture, clean up your garbage and care for mother nature…it’s your privilege to be in Bali after all. Now go and enjoy your holidays! 🙂

Till next time…

-X-

Mandy

19 May 2015

Sticky Post By Wander-lust Posted in Bali, L U S T, Tasty Hotspots, Top 5 L With 2 Comments Permalink

Top 5 » Bali’s most healthy hotspots

Sticky Post By Wander-lust On May 19, 2015 With 2 Comments

It’s that tropical & magical little island, it’s the island that everybody escapes to recharge their batteries. I’m talking about Bali, Indonesia. Like London, Australia, and some other big western countries, Bali is is one of those places where the healthy food and lifestyle started a while back. And yet more and more healthy hotspots are popping up.

This is our Top 5 of Bali’s most healthy hotspots :

1. Sisterfields
Jl. Kayu Cendana No.7, Seminyak, Bali 80361
With Australia around the corner, it’s not a big surprise that this kind of cafe opened up in Bali not too long ago. They call themselves “The Iconic Australian Cafe”. You can certainly have breakfast like a king or eat lunch like an emperor with one of their famous tropical juices.

Source: Sisterfields

2. Sari Organik, Ubud
Jl. Raya Tjampuhan, Ubud, Bali
I came to this place in 2010. First I wasn’t sure where I would end up because you’ll need to walk through the rice fields for about 20 minutes which makes this place even more special! Once arrived, you can enjoy the best fresh coconuts, and homemade organic lunches.

Source: letsmakan.com

3. Shelter café
Jl. Drupadi, Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali
http://www.sheltercafebali.com/
From 7am you can indulge yourself with healthy food and this open tropical café. Amazing salads, homemade gingerbeer, lemon squash or their super smoothies will make you want to come back here. Many holiday seekers are fan of this place, and so are we!

Source: Facebook Shelter Cafe

4. Ubud Hanging Gardens
You can imagine my jaw dropping when I entered the hanging gardens for the first time. I had a wonderful dinner here with no time for a jump in the infinity pool but let’s just say we have a rain check on that one! They mainly use vegetables, fruits and spices from the Bedugul or are grown at their own property, their seafood comes directly from Jimbaran Bay making lunch and dinner very tasty!

Source: both pictures courtesy to the Ubud Hanging Gardens

5. Warung Kecil
Jalan Duyung no 1, Sanur, Bali
My parents told me about this secret place. Sanur residents love it here. The prices are extremely low but the food quality is sky high! From the outside it doesn’t look like anything special but it’s cosy and cute on the inside. They offer vegetarian and vegan options plus healthy wheatgrass shots, fresh almond or macha milk, pressed juices, young coconuts and you can also go for a buffet. Check their Facebook for more info.

Source: Facebook Warung Kecil

Love,

Elke