Ceremonies in Bali: the magic of coming together
One day, I heard music coming from our beach. It sounded a little like a brass band. To the right of the villa, a large group of people had gathered in beautiful traditional clothing. There was so much happening, and naturally, I was curious. Later, I learned that it was a cremation ceremony. That wasn’t […]
North Bali or South Bali? What’s the Difference?
Bali brings to mind tropical scenery, temples, welcoming people and a relaxed life by the sea. Yet your holiday can feel very different depending on where you stay. In South Bali’s popular tourist areas, you will find busy roads, international restaurants, beach clubs and a lively nightlife scene. North Bali offers a different setting: coastal […]
A taste of Bali
My favourite lunch in Bali? If I can choose, it’s freshly made spring rolls with sweet-and-sour sauce. Ayu and Sepi know how much I love them by now. They make plenty, and a few portions go into the freezer too. That way, I know I can enjoy them again later in the week. Perhaps twice. […]
Practical tips for your trip to Bali: what I pack
Every time I travel to Bali, I promise myself I’ll pack fewer clothes. And every time, plenty of them come home unworn. Once I’m at the villa, I tend to wear the same comfortable, lightweight outfits. But when I’m packing, I apparently imagine I’ll need a different outfit every evening. Fortunately, I’ve also learned what […]
Dolphin watching in Lovina: setting sail from Villa Bima Sena
Lovina is famous for its dolphins. Many visitors travel to North Bali especially to see them in the wild, and I completely understand why. No matter how often I return to Bali, a morning like this at sea always feels special. The dolphins move through the Bali Sea in search of breakfast. They’re seen off […]
Money in Bali: cash machines, currency exchange and the Indonesian rupiah
Planning a holiday in Bali? You’ll be using the Indonesian rupiah. What is it worth, where can you withdraw cash, and will you still need cash during your stay? Here you’ll find practical tips for paying, withdrawing money and exchanging currency in Bali. Making sense of Indonesian rupiah With all those zeros, prices in Bali […]
Things to Do in North Bali: Attractions, Activities and Day Trips
What is there to do in North Bali? Much more than you might think. Waterfalls, hot springs, royal palaces, temples, mountain lakes and beautiful snorkelling and diving spots make it easy to plan a varied holiday. Head out early to look for dolphins, walk through the green hills around Munduk or discover the underwater world […]
Avoiding Bali belly: tips to reduce the risk of an upset stomach
You are looking forward to your holiday in Bali: the warmth, the food and that first morning by the pool. Stomach problems are certainly not on the itinerary. Yet many travellers have heard of Bali belly. What exactly does it mean? And what can you do to reduce your chances of getting it? Preventing Bali […]