Bali. For many, this Indonesian Isle is paradise found. Think white ribbons of sand flanked by glossy turquoise waters. Cloud-skimming peaks carpeted in rich green forests. Stilted, painted pagodas dating back hundreds of years. And some of the friendliest, most welcoming locals anywhere on the planet.
Putting its idyllic beauty and unique culture aside; Bali truly is a wonderful holiday destination. As the largest of a series of islands in Indonesia’s serene southern region, Bali has become recognised as one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations — enticing thousands of visitors each year with its utopian good looks and warm, equatorial climate.
If you’ve recently booked an Indonesian cruise holiday, chances are, Bali will head up your itinerary. So, to help you make the most of your time spent on this glorious isle, here’s an in-depth guide on what to see, do and eat during your trip.
See
Menjangan Island
Experience the comprehensive beauty of Bali in a single excursion with a daytrip to Menjangan Island, also known as the West Bali National Park. Encompassing 382 hectares of unspoilt wilderness, Menjangan is the perfect place to relax and unwind away from the hubbub of your fellow cruise passengers.
Tirta Gangga
Looking for somewhere to while away a sunlit afternoon? Head to Tirta Gangga, a former royal palace turned mesmerising water garden located in the east of the island. Littered with ancient pagodas and boasting a continuous soundtrack of tranquil running water — Tirta Gangga is a must-visit attraction for history buffs and relaxation-seekers alike.
Sekumpul Waterfalls
If you want your holiday photos to make your loved ones green-eyed with envy, the Sekumpul Waterfalls ought to be your first port of call in Bali. Despite being one of Indonesia’s most dramatic falls, Sekumpul is entirely accessible — making it the perfect place to enjoy an impromptu swim.
Do
Mayong Village Tracking Experience
There’s no denying it: North Bali is outrageously beautiful. From its secluded villages to its pine tree strewn outback, the region is perfectly suited to those who want to strap on the walking boots for a spot of exploration. If you’re up for an adventure, make for Mayong Village — a charming, isolated village where visitors can partake in the now legendary Mayong Village Tracking Experience.
Snorkelling at USS Liberty Shipwreck
Choose to brave Bali’s treacherous depths, and you’ll be rewarded with some of the best diving available anywhere on the planet. One of the best places to go snorkelling in Bali is at the site of the USS Liberty shipwreck, where you’ll find bountiful fish and no end of colourful coral.
Campuhan Ridge Walk
If you like to hike, make for the Campuhan Ridge, where you can follow a designated trail for miles through Bali’s lush, green outback. With historic sites littering the route and some of the best views available anywhere on the island, the Campuhan Ridge Walk is the perfect opportunity to stretch those legs and get to grips with the scenic splendour of this magnificent island.
Eat
Warong Legong
“Honest, clean, fresh and delicious” — so reads a review of Warong Legong on Tripadvisor. If you’re unafraid to sample authentic Indonesian cuisine, this humble, friendly restaurant is the perfect place to do so. With fresh seafood and traditional Indonesian dishes available at laughably affordable prices, Warong Legong sure makes a refreshing change from the pricey eats found aboard your cruise ship.
Black House Burgers
Not ready to surrender those tastebuds to exotic Indonesian cuisine just yet? Head to Black House Burgers, where you can indulge in a mouth-watering array of tasty burgers that offer an exciting twist on the all-American classic.
Who’s Who
Who’s Who may not sound the most authentic take on traditional Indonesian cuisine, but believe us when we say — this is the perfect place to visit if you want to sample local fare. Located in the dreamy, mountainous town of Ubud, Who’s Who is an eclectic café whose eccentric owners serve up some of the tastiest cuisine on the island.
If you’re interested in booking an Indonesian cruise which benefits from a Bali port call, visit the Cruise1st Australia website, and use the search function on the left to browse a range of upcoming cruise breaks to the region. Alternatively, if you need any further assistance finding your dream holiday to Bali, give the Cruise1st Australia a team a call on 1300 857 345.
Images source via Flickr Creative Commons. Credit: Jelle Oostrom, Rob Bertholf, Fabio Achilli, Amelia Prayoga.
The footage used in these videos is licensed via Creative Commons and has been modified from the original. Credits: Timelapse Photography of Bali Ocean Temple, Diving Bali – Reef Seen, Bali Dreaming, Time to move: Bali, BALI VLOG 4/ сдались полиции, Улувату, suluban beach
