I can’t count all the times I’ve been to Bali. Bali was a simple choice: never disappointing, perfect for family, friends, or alone holidays; and, especially while still living in Singapore, an effortless trip. This Christmas, everything was different, except for Bali being phenomenal as always, though in a new way. Now, as the world re-opens, I’d love to share with you some highlights, which I hope you won’t miss when you visit!

For beach lovers: Bali is too diverse and exciting for a 2-week beach all-inclusive, please don’t. But if you want a couple of beach-beach days, the best is in Nusa Dua with the classical al-you-can-dream-of proposition. Actually, a great way to start your vacation as it’s close to the airport and a 1-2 day pampering without leaving the hotel property after a long trip is always a good idea.
For true beach lovers with extra time: stunning beaches and beauty on neighboring islands such as Nusa Penida, or Gili Islands; just a boat trip away
Suggestions: Luxury Collection Laguna has the very best beach, and the staff is just outstandingly perfect every time I visit!

For wellness and food (!!) addicts: Ubud with relaxation heavens and top-notch restaurants, beware of yoga and hipsters everywhere
Suggestions: Food: Fusion fine dining and butcher’s table (Sundays only) at Locavore (the best!), Indonesian high-cuisine at Nusantara (another best, same owner), Sweet indulgence at Room4Dessert (take the tasting menu), posh fine dining at Aperitif (the drinks are fabulous, too!); Wellness: check out hotel spas which are usually much better than what you find on the street (Mango Tree by Occitane, one of the most professional ones); for accommodation, Bisma 8 Villas are incredible

For the water (and nature) folks: sunny North-West with a hilly landscape and national parks. Stunning views, snorkeling and hiking, dolphins watching at Lavana beach; and sustainability-focused projects such as Coral nursery project Metamofosa, Turtle Hatchery, Re-forestation efforts. Also, East Bali for diving: USS Liberty shipwreck is a must-visit if you are into diving!
Suggestions: stay at Sumberkima Hill Villas for fabulous sunsets overseeing the bay area and great hospitality as the retreat is mainly staffed with local Sumberkima Villagers, plus wonderful food with locally grown ingredients

For surfers and party-folks: South-West coast with Canggu, Kuta, Seminyak, Uluwatu, the vibe varies immensely; in general, Uluwatu and Bingin beach are more down-to-earth and also offer some yoga and temples; Canggu is a perfect surfing, food, and easy evening hang-out place, Seminyak can be higher-end evening hang-outs, and Kuta used to be the ‘trashier’ party area; check before you go as the pandemic has shifted the dynamics!
Suggestions: hotels are plenty, and do try Airbnb for a villa – you will enjoy the flexibility and space. I loved Bingin beach for being super laid-back, and breakfast/lunch at Cashew tree collective was fabulous! Absolutely do go to KuDeTa, an iconic restaurant, bar and club

For culture lovers and nature explorers: temples and waterfalls anywhere you go! Stay anywhere, arrange a driver/guide for a full-day tour, and visit: Tirta Empul, Bat temple, Mother temple, Buddhist temple, rice terraces, Mount Agung, Mount Batur, Waterfalls (Aling Aling (the best!) with natural slides and pools, Munduk, Twin, Sekumpul), Bedugul lake (the view, and get local strawberries!)

For the spiritual hipsters: mainly Ubud with yoga and meditation centers, healers, and vegan food options for any level of spiritual addiction. Please be careful with all kind of promised healing, kundalini snake re-awakening, and shamans; hyperventilation, and natural drugs can lead to dangerous mental and physical situations
Suggestions: not quite my area of expertise, but recommended by friends: healthy-branded food options (Akasha, Clear Kafe, Seeds of Life, Moksa, Zest), yoga and meditation (Yogabarn for classes and ecstatic dance, pyramids of Chi for meditation)

Enjoy your next trip to Bali, and I hope you can stay for several weeks to see and experience the entire island.
Katia

Disclaimer:
All recommendations are based on personal experience only and are not sponsored.
Check regulations for immigration and pandemic-related rules before planning your trip, and choose the most flexible cancellation policy options; quarantine and visa regulations change quickly.
Take the time for most recent reviews on, e.g., Google, TripAdvisor before booking, places changed due to the pandemic significantly, incl. some top hotels really disappointing (not mentioned in this review)
If you have any medical issues during your stay, don’t wait and go to a hospital immediately, e.g., BIMC network.