From Laid-Back to Energetic, Exploring the Cities of Lovina and Kuta in Bali

1 April 202222 September 2024

It was my last morning in Lovina and I was traveling south to explore the popular tourist city of Kuta. I said goodbye to the beach, joined the Sunarsas as we caravanned our way for a two and a half hour journey.

Passing through the town of Batur, we could see the Ulun Danu Temple with its numerous statues. Dedicated to the goddess of rivers and lakes, Dewi Danu, it is the second most important temple in Bali. Pura Gunung Menak is set in the beautiful region of Kintamani at the base of Mount Batur and is one of Bali’s nine directional temples. The devastating eruption of Mount Batur left the local villagers to rebuild their town yet miraculously its most important shrine survived.

The nine temples on the complex are categorized by each god and its purpose. For example, Pura Taman Sari represents all matters relating to agriculture while Pura Sampian Wangi is dedicated to the making of various crafts. The Balinese Hindus leave offerings at the designated temples and pray for blessings depending on their specific needs. Throughout the temples, there are statues of monkeys, representing Hanuman, a heroic god of Hindu legend. His likeness represents bravery, strength and perseverance, a symbol of loyalty and selflessness.

The spectacular scenic view from the temple overlooks Lake Batur and the mountain. The weather was a bit overcast, but the vantage point from here on a sunny day is nothing less than spectacular.

I was a little disappointed that I could not see the top of Mount Batur because of the clouds. A trek to the top to view the sunrise is a popular excursion for many tourists. We gathered back into the car for the remainder of our drive, deciding to make a stop in the artistic town of Ubud to take in the view of its famous rice terraces in the heart of the city.

The drive seemed to fly by as we entered the town of Ubud. We found a parking spot close to the rice fields and hurriedly walked towards the restaurant where Wayan had made plans to meet some friends for lunch. This little artist community is abundant with Balinese restaurants and we planned to browse the assorted clothing and art shops after our meal.

Having finished my order of delicious bakso soup and a side of rice, the Sunarsas and I walked around the corner to the Tegallalang Rice Terrace. This location was made popular by the film Eat, Pray, Love. I am fascinated by the vivid green layers of rice plants that create a set of stairs on the side of the hill. The local owner of the terraces offered us coconut milk from his trees and encouraged us to buy some of the artwork and souvenirs from the nearby shops.

The view from the street was surreal as we descended a set of stairs taking us closer into the fields. Wayan’s children decided to take the walkway down so that I could take their photos. Having a few minutes for visiting the shops, it was finally time for our departure.

The character and charm of Ubud can be seen in its amazing architecture. Walking back to the car, we strolled through the stone pagodas and sacred buildings. The subdued colors seem to blend in with the earthy surroundings as tourists made their way into boutiques and coffee shops for a moment to relax. I love the laid back atmosphere of Ubud, but I am looking forward to checking out the upbeat crowds of the south before flying back to the United States.

What type of vacation do you prefer? A relaxed, laid back journey or a fast-paced energetic adventure? I would love to hear about your perfect idea of a vacation if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my fabulous trip to Bali! Wishing you many Happy Travels of your own!

What to See and What to Do:

Ulun Danu Baratan Temple
Jalan Bedugul, Singaraja, Candikuning
Baturiti, Kabupaten, Tabanan, Bali, 82191 Indonesia
Telephone: +62 368 2033050

Updated Information since my last visit in January 2015!

Admission Fee: Adult: 50,000 IDR (Indonesian Rupiahs); Children: 25,000 IDR. There is an additional charge for parking: Motorbike (2,000 IDR), Private car (5,000 IDR), Bus (10,000 IDR). There may be additional fees for activities associated with the temple and gardens. At the time of this update, the exchange rate was 15,000 IDR to the US dollar.
Hours: Open daily from 8AM to 6PM
Amenities: Access to the temple grounds, lake activities to include fishing, speed boating, traditional Jukung boating and pedal boats. There are additional opportunities to have your photo taken with a local wild animal, shop for gifts and enjoy a meal at the restaurant.
Scenic View: Gorgeous views of the temple and Lake Bratan
Length of Time to Spend Here: Approximately 2 -3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Lake Bratan is about an hour and 30 minutes from the popular tourist areas of south Bali. Bring a change of clothes for participating in the water activities. Dress appropriately for the temple ensuring that your shoulders and knees are covered. Note that some of the areas may be closed to accommodate local prayers or religious ceremonies.

Tegallalang Rice Terraces
Ubud, Bali, Indonesia

Admission Fee: Free
Hours: Open daily, 24 hours
Amenities: Nearby restaurants, souvenir shops, and cafes.
Scenic View: Spectacular views the terraced rice farms
Length of Time to Spend Here: Less than 1 hour to see the rice fields and additional time set aside for shopping and dining
Tips for Your Visit: The rice terraces are located about 15 minutes outside of Ubud. For a tour guide, contact Ubud Adventures at www.ubudadventures.com or by email at admin@ubudadventures.com for more information.

Where to Stay:

Puri Sebali Resort (affordable)
Jalan Raya Sebali
Banjar Sebali, Desa Keliki
80571, Ubud Indonesia
Telephone: + 62 81 808 889 028

Where to Eat:

Bridges Bali
Campuhan Bridge
Jalan Campuhan
Ubud, Bali, Indonesia
Telephone: +62 361 970095

Traditional Balinese style food overlooking the Campuhan River.

What to Eat:

Babi Guling: Suckling pig, which is similar to BBQ pork in the US.
Bakso Soup: Indonesian soup made with meatballs, noodles, spices, vegetables and broth
Gado-Gado: A cold salad of vegetables served with a peanut sauce
Nasi Goreng: Fried noodles with lots of vegetables and a choice of meat, topped with peanuts and an egg.
Pisang Goreng: Fried Bananas, served with palm sugar, honey, flaked coconut or ice cream
Sate Ayam: Chicken on a stick usually served with a peanut sauce
Spring Rolls: Crispy pastry filled with minced meat and mixed vegetables and then fried, usually served with a chili sauce

What to Read:

Balilicious, by Becky Wicks
Eat, Pray, Love, by Elizabeth Gilbert
A House in Bali, by Colin McPhee
Love and Death in Bali, by Vicky Baum
Snowing in Bali, by Kathryn Bonella
Under the Volcano: A story of Bali, by Cameron Forbes

Photo Guide for South Bali:

The Edge Hotel in Uluwatu, Bali is amazing for spectacular cliff views.
Rock Bar Bali is the perfect location to watch the sunset over Uluwatu
Ulu Cliff House is a beach club located in Uluwatu that provides incredible views of the coastline
OMNIA Bali’s infinity pool
Gili Trawangan Swings at Ombak Sunset
The Ayana Pool at Ayana Resort
Sea Circus in Seminyak for breakfast
La Brisa Bali located in Canggu is the popular location to watch the sunset
Tegenungan Waterfall in Ubud
Tegalalang Rice Fields for the gorgeous scenery and the Love Bali sign
Thomas Beach Uluwatu
Bingin Beach Uluwatu
Motel Mexicola for its colorful exterior
Bambu Indah Hotel in gorgeous Ubud
The Monkey Forest in Ubud
Hidden Hills Villas
Nusa Penida for the cliffside views
La Laguna Bali in Canggu
Mt. Batur for its sunrise (north Bali)
Crate Cafe at Canggu

Artwork in Bali

A Jungle Atmosphere on the Streets

The Bali Zoo, A Journey Through Photos

25 March 202222 September 2024

Trying to decide what I wanted to do while in Kuta, I learned that I could interact with some of the animals at the Bali Zoo. Hiring an amazing driver for the day, he suggested that we start here and then I could decide if I wanted to attend the Safari Park as well.

The Bali Zoo attracts visitors from all over the world. I was looking forward to seeing some of the unique animals that I may not have a chance to see back home. Here is a photographic account of some of the animals I enjoyed meeting at The Bali Zoo.

Entering the zoo, I was welcomed by white parrots and an opportunity to have my photo taken with them. I quickly made my way towards the lions when I noticed the zookeepers were preparing to feed them.

With raw chickens tethering from a hoisted line, these lions were going to have to work for their lunch.

Once the lions had eaten, the lioness took a relaxing break from the action by resting on the rock.

This tiger had a large area to roam and was pacing back and forth in preparation of eating his afternoon meal.

The Australian wallabies were preparing for their nap while basking in the afternoon sun.

Can you believe the tongue on that sun bear? They use it to extract honey from bee nests.

The orangutan gave us quite a show. He paced back and forth, posing for the cameras.

After taking a ride on this beautiful beast, I fed Budi sugarcane sticks in preparation for his next customer.

While grabbing a bite to eat at the Elephant View Restaurant, I was entertained by the bathing elephants.

I had the opportunity to wrap a bearcat around my neck.

I was a little less excited to hold the crocodile as I watched him become a bit fidgety with the person holding him before me. Was happy to give him back before I lost any body parts!

Look at the paws on this tiger cub! We could have our photo taken with him but was instructed not to touch him. So beautiful!

Indonesia’s native kumodo dragon. This beast could eat a human!

Additional Zoo Photos

The beautiful zoo grounds

Elephant Souvenirs

Majestic Tiger

Frisky Crocodile

The Tiger and White Tiger

The Bali Zoo is in the south of Bali in Gianyar about an hour’s drive from Kuta. They are open from 9AM to 6PM and offer several different packages, elephant rides, animal handling and feeding. There is a night time admission as one of the packages that Bali Zoo offers. Admission price is $28 US for adults and $18 US for children. There are additional fees for the elephant rides and animal feedings. For more information about the zoo, visit their website at http://www.bali-zoo.com/en.

Zoos are wonderful attractions to visit in other countries as well as the United States! Do you have a favorite zoo experience? I would love to hear about it, so leave your comments below! Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Bali Zoo
Jalan Raya Singapadu,
Sukawati, Singapadu,
Sukawati, Kabupaten Gianyar,
Bali 80582, Indonesia
Telephone: +62 361 294357

Admission Fee: $28 US for adults and $18 US for children
Hours: Open daily from 9AM to 6PM.
Amenities: Animal Interactions, Breakfast with the Orangutan, Elephant Expedition, Dinner with the Great Elephant, Jungle Dinner, Event Rental, Villas and Spa, Photography, Gift Shop, VIP Experience, Restaurants (Wantilan, Wana Lounge and Bar, Gayo Restaurant, Snack Shack)
Scenic View: Spectacular views of local, exotic animals
Length of Time to Visit: Over 3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: The traffic in Kuta can be brutal in the morning, so leave early. When the park is busy, expect long lines for the buffet.

Where to Stay:

Kuta Puri Bungalows
Jalan Pantai Kuta
Poppies Lane 1
Kuta, Bali 80361 Indonesia
Telephone: +62 361 751903

Where to Eat:

Bali Zoo Gayo Restaurant
Jalan Raya Singapadu,
Sukawati, Singapadu,
Sukawati, Kabupaten Gianyar,
Bali 80582, Indonesia
Telephone: +62 361 294357

Lunch Buffet from 12PM to 2PM.

What to Eat:

Babi Guling: Suckling pig, which is similar to BBQ pork in the US.
Bakso Soup: Indonesian soup made with meatballs, noodles, spices, vegetables and broth
Gado-Gado: A cold salad of vegetables served with a peanut sauce
Nasi Goreng: Fried noodles with lots of vegetables and a choice of meat, topped with peanuts and an egg.
Pisang Goreng: Fried Bananas, served with palm sugar, honey, flaked coconut or ice cream
Sate Ayam: Chicken on a stick usually served with a peanut sauce
Spring Rolls: Crispy pastry filled with minced meat and mixed vegetables and then fried, usually served with a chili sauce

What to Read:

Balilicious, by Becky Wicks
Eat, Pray, Love, by Elizabeth Gilbert
A House in Bali, by Colin McPhee
Love and Death in Bali, by Vicky Baum
Snowing in Bali, by Kathryn Bonella
Under the Volcano: A story of Bali, by Cameron Forbes

Photo Guide for South Bali:

The Edge Hotel in Uluwatu, Bali is amazing for spectacular cliff views.
Rock Bar Bali is the perfect location to watch the sunset over Uluwatu
Ulu Cliff House is a beach club located in Uluwatu that provides incredible views of the coastline
OMNIA Bali’s infinity pool
Gili Trawangan Swings at Ombak Sunset
The Ayana Pool at Ayana Resort
Sea Circus in Seminyak for breakfast
La Brisa Bali located in Canggu is the popular location to watch the sunset
Tegenungan Waterfall in Ubud
Tegalalang Rice Fields for the gorgeous scenery and the Love Bali sign
Thomas Beach Uluwatu
Bingin Beach Uluwatu
Motel Mexicola for its colorful exterior
Bambu Indah Hotel in gorgeous Ubud
The Monkey Forest in Ubud
Hidden Hills Villas
Nusa Penida for the cliffside views
La Laguna Bali in Canggu
Mt. Batur for its sunrise (north Bali)
Crate Cafe at Canggu

Kuta Puri Bungalows, Bali

11 March 202222 September 2024

The Kuta Puri Bungalows is a jewel of a resort in Kuta, Bali that is quietly tucked away in the fast-paced streets of the city. I had been booked in the nearby Hard Rock Hotel, but they had overbooked and my friend, Wayan found this amazing place.

The front desk is an open air structure where the attendants are super friendly and helpful in arranging tours and drivers for the day.

The paved pathways are perfect for exploring the grounds and taking a leisurely stroll.

Towards the front of the resort are the smaller rooms that are perfect for an economical stay.

I opted for the bungalow which included a sunken in living room, raised bedroom and an upscale outdoor bathroom set up in a garden style environment.

The outdoor bench was the perfect location for watching the thunderstorms. The bungalow was set towards the back of the resort where it was very private and quiet.

A small back porch of flowers and fauna was located off of the living quarters of the bungalow.

Two swimming pools are one of the few wonderful amenities provided by the hotel.

An attendant provides guests with pool towels each day.

Kuta Puri offers daily massages in a simple secluded area of the hotel’s property.

A Hindu temple is located towards the back of the hotel.

The resident cat stands guard at the Hindu temple.

A complimentary breakfast is served each morning at the resort’s restaurant. Lunch and dinner can be purchased here throughout the day.

The grounds are impeccable which makes for a nice morning, afternoon or evening walk.

Thank you for exploring the grounds of the Kuta Puri Bungalows with me. It is a resort that I highly recommend during your stay in the Kuta area of Bali. The hotel is reasonably priced with great accommodations and is close to the beach.

Have you been pleasantly surprised by a hotel or accommodation that you booked? I would love to hear about your experience in the comments below! Happy Travels!

Where to Stay:

Kuta Puri Bungalows
Jalan Pantai Kuta
Poppies Lane 1
Kuta, Bali 80361 Indonesia
Telephone: +62 361 751903

Exploring Kuta Beach on the Island of Bali, a Photo Journal

4 March 202222 September 2024

Exploring the Beaches of Kuta

Lifeguard Station on Kuta Beach

Rough Waters at Kuta Beach

Warning: No Swimming at Kuta Beach

A Haze Hits Kuta Beach

Family Get-Togethers at the Beach

The Sun Setting over Kuta Beach

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

Temples, Monkeys and Seafood in South Bali

11 February 202222 September 2024

As we left Ubud and traveled towards Kuta, it was quite clear that we were headed back to city life. With a short drive through rush hour, we saw several buses, cars, dump trucks and a large number of motorbikes. Soon we arrived in the city of Kuta with its beachfront hotels and upscale restaurants.

Since I wasn’t sure how long I would be staying in northern Bali, I did not make hotel reservations for the latter part of my vacation. Arriving in Kuta, I stopped by the Hard Rock Hotel where I stayed the first night, but unfortunately, there were no rooms available for a short term stay. Hotels in Kuta book up fast, even in the off-season.

I was hoping to find a place where I could relax and hang out by a pool, so my friend Wayan suggested we try the bungalows located around the corner. With a setting of solace and quiet, I was happy that the Kuta Puri Bungalows had space available. The property and location was perfect and happened to be one of the best accommodations I had ever experienced, staying a few nights in the Luxury Bungalow.

Waking early, I enjoyed the hotel’s complimentary breakfast and decided to make plans for seeing more of South Bali. I wanted to visit the Uluwatu Temple, known for its spectacular ocean views and resident monkeys but my friends had already left to go back to Lovina Beach. With the help of the hotel, I was able to find a local driver who would take me to the temple, wait with me until I had completed my tour and could recommend a seafood lunch on Jimbaran Beach.

As my driver dropped me off at the temple, I was welcomed by a troop of monkeys. I watched them as they eagerly taunted a group of visitors, stealing their belongings in the parking lot.

Before entering the temple, I wrapped the sarong around my waste to cover my knees. Many of the Hindu temples are strict about the dress of visitors and require that the shoulders and knees are covered prior to entering. Several of them loan out sarongs as a cover-up which can be returned at the end of their visit.

It was windy outside with overcast skies, and I was excited to visit one of the most dramatic temples of Bali, perched on a cliff high above the sea.

A pathway following along the coast led me past a steep cliff before arriving at the temple. I could hear the faint sound of waves crashing against the rocky bluff. The crystal blue waters with their white foam disappeared into the cave-like tunnels beneath the craggy rocks.

The temple was closing in and I could hardly see the tourists in the distance. I was nervous in anticipation as I thought about standing along the edge of the cliff. Climbing higher, the wind began to pick up so I started to hang on tightly to the railing until I reached the top. The view of the ocean extended for miles and looking down made me weak in the knees. What an exhilarating experience!

I slowly wandered to an adjacent open-air building where monkeys were playing, begging from visitors and sharing their food with their friends. Tourists were tossing fruit and coconuts towards them and those that had their fill went back to playing around and grooming each other affectionately.

While the adult monkeys were eating, it was the baby monkeys that stole the show. Tumbling over each other and playing a lively game of tag, their energy was adorable. Their big brown eyes and tiny features made them all the more lovable. I could have stayed here for hours but it was time for lunch along the beach and I was looking forward to sampling some of the Iocal seafood.

Jimbaran Beach was not far from the temple and the wind was beginning to die down. I was looking forward to having lunch outside along the beach, enjoying the scenic view of the coast. A large selection of restaurants lined the shore so I trusted my driver to provide a recommendation. He suggested the Bawang Merah Beachfront Restaurant where I ordered the red snapper with rice.

Blackened and grilled, my red snapper arrived and I could smell the heat from the spices. The fish was tender and the rice prepared perfectly. Enjoying my meal, I reflected on my Balinese vacation over the past two weeks and the amazing memories I had made in such a short period of time. Sitting along the beach, I thought about how much this opportunity taught me culturally, physically and spiritually. I made a mental note to take in the scenery at this very moment and promised myself never to take for granted this spectacular journey of a lifetime and promised myself that one day I would return.

What was your most recent journey that made a huge impact on you where you wanted to return again soon? I would love to hear your experience, so kindly leave a summary in the comments section below! Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Uluwatu Temple
Pecatu, South Kuta
Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia

Admission Fee: 35,000 Rupiah (IDR) to enter the temple and 50,000 Rupiah (IDR) for the kecak performance; $5 per car or $1 per person for pedestrians, cash only
Hours: Open daily from 9AM to 6PM.
Amenities: Sarong rental to ensure appropriate dress, kecak fire dancing performances in the evening,
Scenic View: Spectacular views of the temple on the cliffside and of the ocean below
Length of the Hike: 1 to 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Please be aware of the monkeys at the temple. They may try to steal your belongings, so ensure that your sunglasses, hats, water bottles, etc. are secure in your possession. Hiking up to the temple, stay on the pathway as there are dangerous cliffs around. This is an amazing location to watch the sun set.

Where to Stay:

Kuta Puri Bungalows
Jalan Pantai Kuta
Poppies Lane 1
Kuta, Kubupaten, Badung, Bali, 80361, Indonesia
Telephone: +62 361 751903

Where to Eat:

Bawang Merah Beachfront Restaurant
Kelan, Jimbaran Bay, Bali, 80361, Indonesia
Telephone: +62 361 770210

I ordered the grilled, blackened red snapper which was incredibly fresh and absolutely delicious!

What to Eat:

Babi Guling: Suckling pig, which is similar to BBQ pork in the US.
Bakso Soup: Indonesian soup made with meatballs, noodles, spices, vegetables and broth
Gado-Gado: A cold salad of vegetables served with a peanut sauce
Nasi Goreng: Fried noodles with lots of vegetables and a choice of meat, topped with peanuts and an egg.
Pisang Goreng: Fried Bananas, served with palm sugar, honey, flaked coconut or ice cream
Sate Ayam: Chicken on a stick usually served with a peanut sauce
Spring Rolls: Crispy pastry filled with minced meat and mixed vegetables and then fried, usually served with a chili sauce

What to Read:

Balilicious, by Becky Wicks
Eat, Pray, Love, by Elizabeth Gilbert
A House in Bali, by Colin McPhee
Love and Death in Bali, by Vicky Baum
Snowing in Bali, by Kathryn Bonella
Under the Volcano: A story of Bali, by Cameron Forbes

Photo Guide for South Bali:

The Edge Hotel in Uluwatu, Bali is amazing for spectacular cliff views.
Rock Bar Bali is the perfect location to watch the sunset over Uluwatu
Ulu Cliff House is a beach club located in Uluwatu that provides incredible views of the coastline
OMNIA Bali’s infinity pool
Gili Trawangan Swings at Ombak Sunset
The Ayana Pool at Ayana Resort
Sea Circus in Seminyak for breakfast
La Brisa Bali located in Canggu is the popular location to watch the sunset
Tegenungan Waterfall in Ubud
Tegalalang Rice Fields for the gorgeous scenery and the Love Bali sign
Thomas Beach Uluwatu
Bingin Beach Uluwatu
Motel Mexicola for its colorful exterior
Bambu Indah Hotel in gorgeous Ubud
The Monkey Forest in Ubud
Hidden Hills Villas
Nusa Penida for the cliffside views
La Laguna Bali in Canggu
Mt. Batur for its sunrise (north Bali)
Crate Cafe at Canggu

A Taste of Balinese Foods and Fruits

4 February 202222 September 2024

Experiencing the local food in another country is one of the highlights of my travels. During my visit to Bali, I was looking forward to trying the satay, the soups and to learn more about their exotic fruits. Prior to my trip, I decided to visit an Indonesian restaurant so I would have an idea of what to order and I was pleasantly surprised by all of the delicious options that would be available during my vacation.

From traditional, sit-down meals to the food stalls and roadside stands, there was no shortage of choices for experiencing an amazing meal in Bali. The fruit was incredibly fresh and deliciously unique from the Durian fruit to the Rambatan. There were a number of fruit stands throughout Bali where the generous merchants allowed me to try their produce before buying. There were pineapples, small bananas and mangoes which are popular in the United States, but they also had fresh tropical selections that tasted unlike anything I have tried back home.

One of the most colorful fruits I enjoyed was the pitaya, which is commonly known as the dragonfruit. Its external. layered skin is pink at the center turning green at its outer edges. It certainly looks like a dragon, but there is nothing scary about this fruit that comes in both sweet and sour flavors. This yummy fruit resembles the kiwi with small little seeds and a juicy flesh on the interior.

The mangosteen has a purple exterior which looks like an onion from afar. They grow on a tropical evergreen tree and have a juicy, sweet taste. Opening the fruit causes the rind to give off a purple sap which can stain clothes and skin. Inside they are segmented like the orange but the flesh of the fruit is white in color.

Finally, there is the Duran fruit. I had the opportunity to taste this spiny, thick skinned fruit on the first day of my arrival and it must be an acquired taste. The fruit has a strong odor which is sometimes described as kerosene, but it has a tender, runny-like pulp that is said to resemble an almond flavor with the thickness and texture of custard. I have to admit that I was not a big fan of the fruit, but I had later tried Durian ice cream which I found to be a bit more palatable.

Chicken Bakso was a staple of my diet during my visit to Bali. I absolutely love this dish!! Many of the locals refer to this as their Indonesian meatball soup and you can find it at the various food stalls throughout the island.

Some of the other snack foods that I enjoyed in Bali were bananas dipped in coconut, Krupuk (deep fried rice sugar) and the spinach fried with a peanut crust. There were so many options from which to choose, including other Asian snacks that included spring rolls, stuffed peppers and rice balls. Although some of the combinations seemed a bit interesting, I wanted to at least try them and was not disappointed.

Over the last couple of days in the south of Bali, the town of Kuta, I asked my driver to take me to a restaurant where I could have fish. He told me that there was a great place on the beach in Jimbaran, Bawang Merah Beachfront Restaurant and suggested that I try the red snapper. The dish was served with rice and it was absolutely phenomenal. The fish in Bali is a staple food for the locals and that is no surprise. There are a variety of dishes in Bali that include fish as the main ingredient and I planned to search for some of them to make once I traveled back home.

Have you traveled to a country where you fell in love with the food and wanted to replicate the foods you enjoyed? I would love to hear your story if you would kindly leave a message in the comments below! Many thanks for exploring the foods of Bali through my post! Wishing you many Happy Travels!

Where to Eat:

Road Side Stalls Throughout Bali

Bawang Merah Beachfront Restaurant
Kelan, Jimbaran Bay, Bali, 80361, Indonesia
Telephone: +62 361 770210

Bali Safari & Marine Park Photos

28 January 202222 September 2024

I enjoyed a fabulous morning at the Bali Zoo and my driver suggested that I also check out the Bali Safari Marine Park. The Safari Park is quite different from the zoo. The setting is similar to booking a safari experience where an open air tram transports visitors through nearly 100 acres of animals in their “natural” habitat.

Here is a photographic account of my experience at Bali’s Animal Safari Park.

Since I had arrived later in the afternoon, I did not want to miss the opportunity to take the tram , so I decided that this would be my starting point. There were tigers, lions, rhinos and all sorts of exotic animals along the open environment. We witnessed a beautiful Blackbuck Antelope, one of the fastest antelopes in the world.

I would have been sad to have missed the hippo, who just happened to appear out of nowhere from the waters below.

A giraffe was slowly making its way to meet up with a tower of giraffes close by

I could have reached out of the tram to touch the zebra. Look at the beautiful design of his coat! Did you know that their dark stripes are actually brown?

The rhinoceros could not have been more friendly. As we were passing by, he began walking towards the tram….or maybe he was ready to charge….

One of my favorite exhibits was that of the white tiger. Magnificent!

Across from the white tigers was a lion cub. We were also allowed to pet this beautiful animal and have our photo taken with him! Check out those paws!

A cheetah taking a nap in one of the trees

The white tiger after feeding time. We were separated only by a piece of glass and had a fabulous view!

Do you enjoy animal adventure, encounters and zoos? i would love to hear about your favorite experience, so leave a message below in the comments section! Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Bali Safari & Marine Park
Jalan Bypass Prof. Dr. Ida Bagus Mantra Km.
19,8 Kec. Gianyar, Bali 80551, Indonesia
Telephone: +62 361 950 000

Admission Fee: Rates range from 720,000 Rupiah (IDR) to 2,140,200 Rupiah (IDR) per person ($39 US to $145 US, at the time of my visit) depending on the number of activities purchased. The Bali Night Experience package is offered for visitors who want to tour the park after hours.
Hours: Open daily from 9AM to 9PM.
Amenities: Safari Journey, Aquarium, Animal Show, Harimau Show, Elephant Show, Bali Agung Show, Waterpark, Afternoon Tea, Restaurants, Welcome Drink, Elephant Ride, Photo Pictures, Souvenirs
Scenic View: Spectacular opportunity to see local animals to Asia
Length of Time to Visit: More than 3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Wear appropriate shoes for walking. Compared to other attractions in Bali, this may seem expensive to some. The park is about an hour and a half drive from Kuta.

Please make sure to check the website for hours and updated pricing.

Where to Stay:

Kuta Puri Bungalows
Jalan Pantai Kuta
Poppies Lane 1
Kuta, Bali 80361 Indonesia
Telephone: +62 361 751903

Where to Eat:

Tsavo Lion Restaurant
Bali Safari Marine Park

Tsavo Lion Restaurant: An African-themed restaurant at the park, the venue allows visitors to experience a close encounter with the lions in the park.

Uma Restaurant: Buffet style restaurant with a unique ethnic theme offering Asian and local specialties.

Antico Caffe del Teatro di Marcelo
Via del Teatro de Marcelo, 42 00186
Rome, Italy
Telephone: +39 06 678 5451

I ordered a margarita panini and it was fabulous! Check out their facebook page!

What to Eat:

Babi Guling: Suckling pig, which is similar to BBQ pork in the US.
Bakso Soup: Indonesian soup made with meatballs, noodles, spices, vegetables and broth
Gado-Gado: A cold salad of vegetables served with a peanut sauce
Nasi Goreng: Fried noodles with lots of vegetables and a choice of meat, topped with peanuts and an egg.
Pisang Goreng: Fried Bananas, served with palm sugar, honey, flaked coconut or ice cream
Sate Ayam: Chicken on a stick usually served with a peanut sauce
Spring Rolls: Crispy pastry filled with minced meat and mixed vegetables and then fried, usually served with a chili sauce

What to Read:

Balilicious, by Becky Wicks
Eat, Pray, Love, by Elizabeth Gilbert
A House in Bali, by Colin McPhee
Love and Death in Bali, by Vicky Baum
Snowing in Bali, by Kathryn Bonella
Under the Volcano: A story of Bali, by Cameron Forbes

Photo Guide for South Bali:

The Edge Hotel in Uluwatu, Bali is amazing for spectacular cliff views.
Rock Bar Bali is the perfect location to watch the sunset over Uluwatu
Ulu Cliff House is a beach club located in Uluwatu that provides incredible views of the coastline
OMNIA Bali’s infinity pool
Gili Trawangan Swings at Ombak Sunset
The Ayana Pool at Ayana Resort
Sea Circus in Seminyak for breakfast
La Brisa Bali located in Canggu is the popular location to watch the sunset
Tegenungan Waterfall in Ubud
Tegalalang Rice Fields for the gorgeous scenery and the Love Bali sign
Thomas Beach Uluwatu
Bingin Beach Uluwatu
Motel Mexicola for its colorful exterior
Bambu Indah Hotel in gorgeous Ubud
The Monkey Forest in Ubud
Hidden Hills Villas
Nusa Penida for the cliffside views
La Laguna Bali in Canggu
Mt. Batur for its sunrise (north Bali)
Crate Cafe at Canggu

Bali, Indonesia: Amazing Culture, Phenomenal Nature

8 January 202222 September 2024

Rice Fields Heading to Northern Bali

Bali had been on my bucket list for years, so taking advantage of the Christmas holiday season, I decided it was time to make the trip. I wasn’t sure when I would have the opportunity again, so I booked my travel to stay for two weeks starting on New Year’s Eve. I was taking a chance on the weather because the rainy season is between December and January and trying to find a hotel over New Year’s was proving to be a challenge.

Balinese Fishing Boats

At the last minute, all of my travel plans were confirmed and the day of my flight had finally arrived. What an adventure!

It’s New Year’s Eve and the plane was beginning its approach for landing. The view from my window was a picturesque setting, typical of island life. The fishing vessels, shrimp boats and scenic cruises scattered along the shoreline and the weather was a balmy 80 degrees.

A sample of the Indonesian Visa, Immigration

As I exited the plane, I followed the crowd of passengers into the open air terminal. Indonesia requires Americans to purchase a 30-day visa which is available on arrival at the airport. Although the lines were long, the process was quick. Once I passed through customs, I waited at an outside café to meet up with my cruise ship friend, Wayan Sunarsa and his family.

My Waitress at the Snack Bar

Trying to reach Wayan by phone, the lines were busy and the traffic was packed. I later learned that the drive from Singaraja (located in northern Bali) took twice the amount of time to reach the airport because of the New Year’s holiday. While waiting, at the snack bar, I ordered a fruity cocktail to start the celebration and enjoyed some downtime watching the crowded terminal.

The Entrance to the Ngurah Rai Airport of Bali

Located in the Bali’s capital of Denpasar, the Ngurah Rai Airport is adorned with statues representing the island’s Hindu religion. It is conveniently located in the southern part of Bali within minutes of the more popular tourist destinations such as Kuta, Ubud and Jimbaran. The grounds of the airport were well-manicured with beautiful tropical flowers and palm trees and I could not help taking in my paradisal surroundings.

An Indonesian sacrifice at one of the many alters on the island of Bali

The stories I had heard about Bali were legendary. Laid-back and friendly, this extraordinary, Indonesian island offers spectacular scenery, phenomenal food and a fascinating culture. Indonesia is predominantly Muslim except for the island of Bali which is Hindu. Bali is a magnificent paradise where temples suspend from scenic mountainsides and sacrifices line the streets giving thanks to their Hindu gods.

The Sunarsa Family

Most people are familiar with the Bali that is depicted in movies like Eat, Pray, Love. Of course the scenery is breathtaking, but the people of Bali have an exuberant passion for life. In addition to the sites of the island, I wanted to explore their Hindu way of life through religious celebrations, monuments and everyday traditions. I was excited to meet up with the Sunarsas who were happy to show me around South Bali during the New Year’s celebration.

Garuda Statue

We finished dinner, watched the fireworks and enjoyed the festivities along the beach. Although it was late, Wayan and his family wanted to show me Wisnu Park in the nearby town of Ulu Watu. Known for its enormous statue of the Hindu god Garuda, the park is open each day and provides year around entertainment.

We would need to start driving north towards Lovina early in the morning, so we found the Hard Rock Hotel in Kuta and checked in. It was a long day of travel for me and I was exhausted. I fell asleep quickly but not before thinking about the fact that I had just spent New Year’s Eve in Bali! I was so happy to be starting the new year in such a beautiful place. Happy New Year! Or as they say in Bali, Tahun Baru!

Have you visited Bali? I would love to hear about where you stayed, what you ate and which attractions you visited if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading my blog post about Bali! Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park
Jalan Raya Uluwatu
Ungasan, Kuta, Selatan, Badung, Bali, Indonesia 80364
Telephone: +62 361 700 808

Admission Fee: Varies depending on entertainment and events
Hours: Daily from 8:00AM to 10:00PM
Amenities: Entertainment venue, shopping, restaurants with spectacular views (Beranda and Jendela Bali, gardens and plaza for entertaining, street theater, Segway rental, cultural performances, wedding venue, photo studio.
Scenic View: Gorgeous views of Bali from the park; dine at one of two restaurants for additional views.
Length of the Tour: Minimum of 1 hour
Tips for Your Visit: Visit the park’s website for upcoming events and performances.

Where to Stay:

Hard Rock Hotel Bali
Jalan Pantai
Banjar Pande Mas
Kuta, Bali, Indonesia
Telephone: +62 361 761 869

Where to Eat:

Seafood House Restaurant
Jalan Kartika Plaza
Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361
Telephone: +62 361 763900

I tried to eat as much seafood as I possibly could while I was in Bali. The fresh food and spices are unlike any other that I have tried. I ordered the fried red snapper and the bakso soup for a filling lunch.

What to Eat:

Babi Guling: Suckling pig, which is similar to BBQ pork in the US.
Bakso Soup: Indonesian soup made with meatballs, noodles, spices, vegetables and broth
Gado-Gado: A cold salad of vegetables served with a peanut sauce
Nasi Goreng: Fried noodles with lots of vegetables and a choice of meat, topped with peanuts and an egg.
Pisang Goreng: Fried Bananas, served with palm sugar, honey, flaked coconut or ice cream
Sate Ayam: Chicken on a stick usually served with a peanut sauce
Spring Rolls: Crispy pastry filled with minced meat and mixed vegetables and then fried, usually served with a chili sauce

What to Read:

Balilicious, by Becky Wicks
Eat, Pray, Love, by Elizabeth Gilbert
A House in Bali, by Colin McPhee
Love and Death in Bali, by Vicky Baum
Snowing in Bali, by Kathryn Bonella
Under the Volcano: A story of Bali, by Cameron Forbes

Photo Guide for North Bali:

Git Git Waterfall
Mount Batur
Sekumpal Waterfalls
Tamblingan Lake
Twin Lakes Viewpoint

Flight information from Taipai

A perspective of the magnitude of Garuda’s Head

Wisnu, more commonly known as Vishnu is the supreme being of the Hindu religion

The island of Bali as seen from the Airplane