B A L I - Secrets, Sips & Serendipity

Hey there, wanderlust wanderers!

Come with me and explore the beautiful island of Bali.

With its secret beaches, sacred temples, local coffee, and some of the best food, this Indonesian gem has everything your wild explorer heart desires. So get ready, because I'm about to take you on a budget friendly journey through the Island of a Thousand Temples!

1. Secret No More, Secret Spots:

You might think of Bali as a tourist hotspot, and you're not wrong, but theres definitely plenty of places to visit that will make you feel secluded and part of the local culture.

Tucked away amidst lush greenery is Goa Gajah, also known as the Elephant Cave. No elephants here, but there's plenty of awe-inspiring ancient rock carvings. Want to avoid the crowds? Pay a visit to the lesser-known Tukad Cepung Waterfall, where twinkling sunlight dances through a breathtaking waterfall in a hidden canyon, or do what I did and book yourself a 5.30am morning sunrise trip. I did it solo and nothing beats a morning sunrise swim; just you, the sunrise and nature!

2. Temple-tastic Tales:

Bali boasts more temples than cute puppies on Instagram. Start with Tanah Lot, a majestic sea temple that seems to float gently in the ocean waves. For a blissful experience, visit Pura Lempuyang, also known as the Gateway to Heaven. Dive into the vibrancy of Balinese culture at the handcrafted Tirta Empul, where you can cleanse your soul in natural holy springs. Just steer clear of doing cannonballs—it tends to ruin the tranquility.

3. Culinary Delights and Coffee-Culture Craze:

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds, foodies! Bali is a treasure trove of gastronomic wonders. Dive into the flavors of Nasi Goreng, a fragrant and heavenly fried rice dish. Craving something unique? Try Babi Guling, the Balinese version of a hog roast—it's an absolute snout-flipping delight! Wash it all down with a cup of Luwak coffee, lovingly made from beans that have passed through the digestive system of a civet cat. Yeah, you read that right. Hey, don't knock it 'til you've sipped it!

4

. Cultural Quirks and Festivities:

The Balinese take celebration seriously, with vibrant festivals happening year-round. One highlight is Nyepi, the Day of Silence, where everyone shuts down to reflect and meditate. No noise, no lights, no outdoor activity — so brace yourself for some serious silence. Witness the spirited Kecak Dance, where the performers channel their inner monkeys while telling ancient tales through rhythmic chants and movements. A great place to see this is at sunset at Uluwatu Temple, it might be a little touristic but the sunset and ocean view, does make it worth it!

Budgeting Bonanza:

Now, let's talk moolah! Bali can be as easy on the wallet as you make it. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious resorts. Street food stalls offer mouthwatering meals at a fraction of the cost compared to restaurants. And when it comes to transportation, hitch a ride on a scooter (Gojek) or hop aboard a local bus to save some rupiahs. Pro tip: bargaining is a sport here, so dont be afraid to haggle for the best price!

Cost Pump, Money Slump:

While Bali can be affordable, keep in mind that tourist traps lurk around every corner, ready to pounce on unsuspecting visitors. A mid-range meal can cost you around 100,000-200,000 rupiahs (approximately £6-£12). As for transport, renting a scooter will set you back roughly 50,000 rupiahs (£3.00) per day, while taxis are a bit pricier. But don't worry, with our budgeting tips, you'll be sipping cocktails and stroking your souvenir monkey keychain in no time!

So there you have it, fellow explorers! A peek into Bali's hidden wonders, scrumptious pleasures, and cultural oddities. From secret spots to serene temples, this island paradise will leave you awe-inspired and craving more. Just don't forget to pack your sense of adventure, a healthy appetite, and of course, a sturdy belly for all the exotic culinary delights. Now hop on that plane and get ready to experience Bali like never before. Safe travels, my wanderers!