Bali Travel Guide
Bali holds a very special place in my heart. It was the first place I ever modelled overseas, and I will never forget the instant connection I had with the people, land and culture.
With the pandemic, it has been over two years since I had visited this place that feels like home to me. As soon as the borders opened to Indonesia, my best friend Viccy and I booked a trip to this tropical destination with the help of Social Luxe.
The first thing I noticed was how quiet it felt compared to when I was last here. A lot of storefronts in Seminyak had shut down, and the economic effects of the pandemic were evident from our first steps off the plane.
For the majority of our trip we stayed in Canggu, which on the other hand was thriving. Everywhere I looked was a new café, bar or restaurant. This is definitely the spot to be!
Where we stayed:
I can’t recommend the Cali Villas in Canggu more! Cali offers 7 luxury villas in the heart of Canggu, situated walking distance from the beach and all the best restaurants. We stayed in Villa Rosa. The villa had two large bedrooms, a kitchen, private pool and more. From the moment we checked in, we felt relaxed. The staff here were incredibly helpful and accommodated to all our needs. Complimentary vespas were also included in our stay.
My Favourite spots to eat
Kynd Café
Colourful, wholesome and vegan cuisine! Kynd’s menu offered everything from smoothie bowls to “eggs” benedict. Even if you aren’t plant based, I recommend trying this café. The décor is also really instagammable!
Crate Café
Crate Café has a really good energy about it. Located amongst the rice fields, their menu offers toasties to breakfast bowls that are all generous in size! Crate also holds night events and parties, so keep your eyes peeled while you are in town to see what’s on.
The Shady Shack
I am a sucker for any vegan and gluten free dessert, and the Shady Shack offered a cabinet full of delicious treats! I tried the vegan bounty bar and it didn’t disappoint. I also had a greens bowl which was full of wholesome goodness. I find it so easy to eat a healthy and balanced diet when travelling in Bali.
Ji Japanese
This fusion of ancient Japanese and Chinese cultures is a must when visiting Bali. The food, service and atmosphere is second to none. The upstairs dining area looks over Canggu beach, and is the perfect spot to watch sunset. Make sure you book this spot in advance via their online booking service as it tends to get booked out pretty quickly.
The best beach clubs
Sundays Beach Club Uluwatu
If you have the time, I highly recommend spending at least a couple of nights in Uluwatu. Uluwatu is a surfers dream, with epic surf breaks and white sand beaches. If you don’t have the time, I suggest a day trip to Sundays Beach Club. This is the picture of heaven and the perfect spot to spend your day relaxing. Sundays also hosts events, so definitely keep an eye out for what’s on while you’re in town.
Finns VIP Beach Club
The original Finns Beach Club holds a strong reputation in Bali, I’ve had many fun nights there. This time around we mixed it up and went to the VIP Club next door. From the moment we walked in, it was luxe! The decor is all white, and the atmosphere is sophisticated. We stayed for spicy margs and sushi, and danced the night away at our table. I can’t recommend this spot enough!
Bali relies heavily on tourism. If you are thinking about travel, I couldn’t recommend Bali enough. It is affordable, and offers everything from adventure to complete relaxation.