(SPOT.ph) Bali is fast becoming a favorite destination among travel-loving Filipinos. From girls’ trips to bachelorettes and weddings, more and more people are flocking to the Indonesian province that’s known for its lush rice fields and surf-ready beaches.
Also read:
The Best Things to See and Do in Taipei, Taiwan in 24 Hours
The Best Things to See and Do in Kota Kinabalu in 24 Hours
The Best Things to See and Do in Penang, Malaysia in 48 Hours
Planning a trip soon? Here’s a one-day itinerary to get your tropical paradise vacation started:
Have nasi goreng for breakfast
Literally translated into English as fried rice, this unofficial national dish of Indonesia should be on your must-eat list. It combines all the flavors and spices of the Indo cuisine in one plate. You can find this at most warung (small restaurant or café), but try the one at Good Mantra Café inside Kosta Hostel. Pair with a cup of coffee and you’re pumped for a full day discovering the beauty of Bali.
Good Mantra Café is at Kosta Hotel, Jalan Dewi Saraswati III, No.77 Kunti 2, Seminyak, Kuta, Bali, Indonesia.
Head to the streetside stores for some shopping
From woven bags to batik garments, there are so many stores along the entire strip of Jalan Raya to hit for some good old shopping. Make sure to survey the area to get the best deal before you make a purchase. Aside from resort wear and island-appropriate accessories, Bali is also a treasure trove of homeware. From gorgeous handmade furniture to hand-carved wooden accoutrements, you won’t run out of things to purchase for your home.
Try the Indonesian version of lechon
For lunch, head to Warung Babi Guling Pak Malen for suckling pig done three ways. There’s a stick of pork satay, crisp pork skin, and chicharon—all sitting on a spicy bean salad and steamed white rice. Get ready to sweat because this warung is not air-conditioned and this dish is hot! Wash it down with a bottle of Teh Botol while you’re at it.
Warung Babi Guling Pak Malen is at Jalan Sunset No. 554, Seminyak, Kuta, Bali, Indonesia. It is open daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Get some dessert and cool down with a cocktail
You’ll definitely want to cool down after that spicy lunch. Due to its proximity to the island, you’ll notice a lot of Australians in Bali, which explains why there are a lot of establishments in the area that serve Australian fare. Check out Sisterfields for some mouth-watering desserts and refreshing juices and cocktails. The restaurant feels airy with its large windows that let daylight in, making it the perfect spot to unwind after some exploring.
Sisterfields is at Jalan Kayu Cendana No.7, Seminyak, Kuta, Bali, Indonesia. It is open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Relax with a spa afternoon in Canggu
Head to the more laid-back neighborhood of Canggu on a rented motorbike or hire a private car to take you. It’s about a 30-minute drive to the area from Seminyak with a view of rice fields along the way. There’s a variety of choices when it comes to spas if you’re looking to get a massage, so take your pick. At Desa Seni, there’s a Boost package that includes a yoga session, some tea and a snack, a signature massage of reflexology. If you’re not feeling the spa, take a dip in the ocean or lounge on the sand for a bit before heading back.
Desa Seni is at JI Subak Sari No. 13 Pantai Berawa, Canggu, Bali, Indonesia.
Catch the sunset at a beach club
There’s nothing quite like sitting back and watching the sun set against a beautiful beachscape. Make sure to book a table as this is quite a popular spot. You won’t miss the potato head because it’s enclosed in a gorgeous installation made up entirely of repurposed window shutters. You can snag a daybed by the pool where you’ve got a fantastic view of the ocean. Have dinner here, too, and choose from the different restaurants within the club.
Potato Head Beach Club is at Jalan Petitenget No.51B, Seminyak, Kuta, Bali, Indonesia.
Freshen up before hitting the night life
If you’re looking to splurge on a luxury suite, just a few steps away from the beach club is Katamama. This terracotta haven features an exterior made with 1.8 million hand-pressed temple bricks. It’s a study in marrying traditional Balinese and Indonesian aesthetics with modern design. The luxury hotel also supports local artisans and businesses by providing amenities made in Bali.
Katamama Suites is located at Jalan Petitenget No.51, Seminyak, Kuta, Bali, Indonesia. Rates start at 3,860,600 Indonesian rupiah (roughly P13,000).
Let loose with some dancing and drinks
Time to put on your dancing shoes and shimmy your way to Motel Mexicola. This crowd favorite is a feast for the senses with everything in technicolor and a DJ blasting club favorites all throughout the night. Participate in a conga line once it passes your table and fuel up with some tacos, nachos, and guac to go with your margaritas—a great way to end the day before retiring to your hotel.
Motel Mexicola is Jalan KayuJati, Seminyak, Kuta, Bali, Indonesia.
Â
