The Basic Bali Checklist
1. Dress up in all white and take photos in Pantai Kelating (Bali's favourite black sand beach)
Pantai Kelating might seem off the track when you’re planning your itinerary but it actually is a mere 30 minutes away from Tanah Lot. Before you head off to Tanah Lot for sunset-watching, Kelating is definitely worth a drop by! Frequently ventured by amateur and professional photographers, the stretch of volcanic ash-like sand is an ideal backdrop for any Instagram worthy pictures. Go dress up with your pals in all white, snap some smiles and highlight the contrast between you, the sand and the sea.
2. Spend a day suntanning and sipping up cocktails at Mrs. Sippy
photo credit: @mrssippybali
Mrs. Sippy is the newest hangout in Seminyak. Unlike other generic Ibiza style beach clubs in Bali, Sippy offers a contemporary Mediterranean take on beach lounging. The first beach club in Bali to have a saltwater swimming pool and three elevated diving platforms, Sippy is a haven for international travelers. With local and international DJs performing everyday, Sippy is a fantastic place to cool down, escape the fast-paced Bali life and sip in the fabulous cocktail mixes that all of you have worked hard for. So be there before your friends do!
3. Unwind at a budget local spa, Bodyworks
Tourists often flock to Bali in search for a relaxing holiday but they might not always find it. However, it is really implausible for anyone to not feel relaxed from a spa day at Bodyworks. With massages starting from IDR275,000, spa days are no longer restricted to conglomerates. So do fulfil your ideal dreams of spending a day just “nua-ing” at a day spa without breaking your bank, you can have your hard-earned spa day too.
4. Brunch, brunch, brunch.
Not only just good Indonesian food, Bali also has a vibrant and hip brunch scene. With many Australian restaurant owners, places such as the Bistrot and the Fat Turtle serve regular brunch services everyday. Signature options such as sweet and savoury pancakes or eggs benedict are always available and cooked to a tee. You can have your good food, latte-art and homey ambience ready for Snapchat or Instagram story!
5. The hunt for the cheapest Bintang singlets
Not only the most famous drink in Bali, Bintang is also famous for its logo singlets — crafted by locals without any official affiliation to the brand. Nonetheless, these singlets have been the staple of tourists for many years now and of course, thousands of stores across the island have responded to the demand. However, Pasar Sukawati is the only place where wholesalers will offer you much cheaper prices when bought in bulk! So have your matchy matchy singlets, put on some shades and then you’re ready to get lit!
6. Downdress to impress at Skygarden
The Skygarden is a four-storey haven where clubbing never stops*. However, the Bali clubbing scene is not like any other places worldwide, there is no formal attire needed. Skygarden allows you to dress down to your swimwear and club with no need of tight skirts and high heels. Foam parties are held weekly and those are when the night really gets lit. Regularly bringing world class DJs such as Afrojack, W&W and Laidback Luke, Skygarden is where you can down dress to impress.
7. Head back in time at Payangan
The laid back lifestyle of the Balinese is definitely a change that all tourists aspire to have. It is possible to experience it for free at Payangan where the villages are always friendly to outsiders coming in and exploring their surroundings. A 90-minute drive from Seminyak, Payangan is definitely where nature and tradition come together in sync. See and explore local farms, paddy fields and traditional ceremonies in the most authentic way. Its a hidden gem that you would not want to tell anyone.
