Tourist’s 5-minute impression of Bali

Bali can be all things to all people. The perfect surf destination, a tropical party zone, an arts and culture center, a diving paradise, ‘spa world’ or just a comfortable place in the sun.

One recent visitor to Bali, from the UK, explains why he came, what he did and what his impression was. Its rather simplistic, but worth noting that many people who come to Bali, see it as a ‘pool by the beach’.

This guy managed to get out of Kuta, up to Ubud. He then did an early morning hike, plus a 12km bike ride. Both these are good ideas in the Ubud area. Things that could of made his trip better, would probably been hiring a car with driver (130,000rp per day for a Suzuki) and getting around a bit earlier. Also wearing a hat and using sunscreen, are essential, if you are going to be out longer than an hour.

For people coming out to Bali who don’t know the island, and want to avoid the ‘poolside’ scene, here are some tips.

•Hire a car & driver and get out of the Kuta area.
•Ubud is great for history, art, morning hikes, bike rides.
•East Bali is a wonderful part of the island, with an entirely different pace than Kuta. You can base yourself in Candi Dasa and do your own day trips, or stay in quiet places such as Sideman, or Jasri.
•The mountains are awesome too. Hiking up Gunung Batukaru and staying at the Eco Lodge, will certainly get you away from the madening crowds. Accommodation and hiking also available in Munduk.
•The western coast at Balian and Yeh Gangga is not touristy at all, with rice fields coming down to the beach. With your own transport you’ll see great sights, meet local people.
•Bukit peninsula has budget / luxury accommodation. Everything from a bamboo shack on Bingin beach for 50,000rp, to cliff top places at Balangan to the Bulgari. A much quieter, more village type scene, and close to Kuta.

There you go, plenty of options for people who desire adventure, or an alternative to sitting by the pool.