Bali is by far the most popular island in Indonesia thanks to a little movie about food and sex and Julia Roberts, and while it's certainly more commercial than some of the others, it's not without its merits. My mom and I spent five nights in Bali, two in Legian, along the southern coast, and three in Ubud, in the center of the island. Here's a list of where we stayed and some things we did that I most enjoyed.
Legian beach, where we got horribly sunburned
(not a highlight of the trip, of course, but still a beautiful sight)
Eat:
Sea Circus
This restaurant is is the very touristy part of Bali- Seminyak- but is so cute and definitely worth a trip. We split a grilled chicken wrap (small by American standards, but really a quite fine portion) and my mom had a mixed berry smoothie while I gorged on two scoops of caramel and banana gelato. There were lots of cute boutiques nearby as well.
Gedong Sisi
We happened upon this beautiful garden restaurant while strolling Jalan Raya Ubud on our first night in Ubud. Open air and filled with vegetation, this was the perfect option for filling up on some delicious Indonesian cuisine and watching the passersby.
Si Doi Hotel, Legion
Located between the party town of Kuta and the upscale Seminyak, what Si Doi lacks in fancy shmancy rooms, it makes up for in location and amenities. Free breakfast is included from their restaurant (there's a bar with live music at night as well) and the pool is perfection.
Three Dewi's Guest House, Ubud
This home stay offers an unparalleled experience, situated in the middle of a rice field, and has some of the kindest, most helpful staff I've ever encountered. Be forewarned- there is no A/C, but you'll be so distracted by the lovely surroundings that you won't be bothered.
Tegalalang Rice Terraces
Our tour didn't allow us nearly enough time to explore; make sure you get the chance to check it out in full effect! Just beautiful.
Mt. Batur
The first pic of the post is the view from Sari Restaurant where our day tour stopped for lunch. The sight was truly magnificent; my photos don't do it any justice.
Legong Dance @ Ubud Palace
A hypnotizing traditional dance, the ladies and men who performed were just mesmerizing to watch.
Play:
Frankenstein's Laboratory, Legian
Probably one of the most fun bars I've ever been to, this movie monster themed watering hole has three ghoulish cabaret shows seven nights a week and cocktails served in the beakers of a mad scientist. Such an original concept and so fun! The performers were exceptionally talented.
Ubud Art Market
Relentless shop owners clamoring for your business, but still worth a look. Don't hesitate to haggle.
