Bali
Indonesia, Asia
Temples, rice terraces, and surf breaks on an island that runs on offerings and incense.
An Indonesian island where volcanic peaks, terraced rice fields, and cliffside temples meet world-class surf and warm hospitality. The south draws beach-goers while the inland town of Ubud is the cultural heart.
Our honest take
Bali deserves the hype but only if you escape the Kuta/Seminyak tourist trap. Head north to Ubud or east to Amed for the real Bali. The south is for beach clubs and hangovers; the interior is for the soul.
Why go
- Rice terraces and temple ceremonies feel timeless
- World-class surfing at every skill level
- You can live like royalty for $50/day outside tourist zones
Skip if you can
- Kuta Beach — dirty, overcrowded, aggressive hawkers
- Tanah Lot at sunset — beautiful but a tourist conveyor belt
- Instagram swing parks — overpriced photo ops
Things to do
- Surfing
- Temple visits
- Yoga retreats
- Snorkeling
Where locals eat
Whole spit-roasted suckling pig with crispy skin, served with rice and sambal — Bali's ceremonial dish gone daily
Ibu Oka in Ubud (the original, ignore the tourist overflow — go to the side stall)
A plate of rice surrounded by small portions of whatever's on today — vegetables, meat, sambal, peanuts
Warung Biah Biah in Ubud or any warung with a glass case of dishes out front
Minced meat or jackfruit mixed with grated coconut, spices, and sometimes fresh blood (traditional version)
Morning markets in Gianyar or the warung stalls along Jalan Raya Ubud before 10am
Minced fish or pork pressed onto lemongrass sticks and grilled — different from regular satay
Night market in Gianyar (largest in Bali) or Warung Sate Lilit Made Mekar in Sanur
Costs
Private villa with pool: $50-150/night. Warung meal: $2-4. Scooter: $5/day.
Airport, transport, and accommodation options
Good to know
- Scooter accidents are the #1 tourist injury — wear a helmet always
- Monkeys at Ubud Forest will steal glasses/phones
- Rip currents at unmarked beaches
- Don't touch offerings (canang sari) on the ground
Prices, visa rules, and transport details may change. Always verify with official sources before booking. Last updated: August 2026.