Bali has certainly changed since I was here two years ago. I thought I’d share a few insights should you be thinking of visiting.
Travel
I did a post the other day that covered everything you need to know about getting here and getting as far as your accommodation. So give this a read if you haven’t already.
Accommodation
There is so much accommodation, it makes no sense to me that so little of it is posted on Airbnb. But it is safe to say, you can book whatever you like for your first couple of days, which you are required to do in order to enter Bali, but it will take you no time to find suitable accommodation once you are here. So I really do advise against taking a month stay at an Airbnb you have not stayed at before or that doesn’t come highly recommended, as there are some dives in the same price range as some real gems.
Location
I prefer to stay as close to the beach and a gym as possible. I opted to stay near a gym everyone always mentions in videos. I don’t recommend this either; I’d suggest finding a location and then go explore the gyms in that area, and I’m certain you’ll find something suitable. But I’ll discuss this further; let’s stay on topic. The location doesn’t matter as much as you think, as there has been so much growth here—it blows my mind, feels like Bali has 10x’d since my last visit two years ago. So going a little more inland is actually quite normal and will only be a few more minutes’ bike ride, so don’t sweat it. There’s really not too many places to take a walk, so you’ll likely take a ride to the beach in order to get your steps in.
Food
You are absolutely spoiled for choice in Bali. I stay around Canggu, and there are restaurants everywhere. I sometimes simply don’t know which restaurant I want to try. Some of my favourites are Milk & Madu, Nude, and my favourite dessert place is a Greek sandwich shop called OVRDOS, which I highly recommend. I have eaten out in the evenings, but I mostly order in through Grab or GoJek. Prices are totally reasonable, and the quality is insanely good value for money. Of course, everything is Instagrammable, so content creators and foodies will love it.
Exercise
Like I’ve mentioned above, there are so many gyms, fitness centres, Pilates studios, etc. When I came here two years ago, there were too many tattoo shops; now there are likely too many gyms, and they’re big business, offering more than a weight room or yoga classes. Recovery seems to be the buzz here, and everyone is offering ice baths and chill areas around the pool overlooking the few remaining rice fields. I took an overpriced gym as I didn’t go check out enough gyms. The gym is okay, but the service is quite special—the likes I’ve only seen at premier Virgin Actives.
Transport
If you really can ride a scooter, then rent one; it will give you the freedom you will want to get around the island at a moment’s notice. I don’t have a lot of experience on scooters, other than being a passenger, so I use Grab or GoJek to get around. They are insanely cheap. Only get a car if you’re going on a longer road trip or have suitcases to move around. Walking, like I’ve said before, is challenging; they mostly have no pavements, and you’ll be dodging bikes and cars at crazy traffic jams at every intersection. People said the traffic was bad, and that’s no lie. I can see why many people are moving out of these areas for quieter parts of the island.
Weather
It’s hot all the time—not Bangkok hot, but it’s toasty, and you will sweat. There’s plenty of air-conditioned spaces, so you won’t melt unless you spend a large amount of time outdoors. While I’ve been here, it’s been mostly cloudy every day—no blinding light and blue skies as I’ve experienced before, as it’s October; we’re heading into the wet season after all.
Working
I’ve been trying to work from my room, but I only really have a bed to lay on, so it’s been quite challenging. I have ventured out to co-working spaces, but I still find them rather distracting as they’re rather busy. I tried the Tribals, but they’re not my scene and fill up early. My current favourite spot is ZIN Cafe, which is a minute away from the beach I frequent.
Beaches
I’m on the western side of the island and make sure I visit the beach every day, mostly to enjoy the sunset. I’m yet to take an early morning stroll, but they are as lovely as ever. They do seem cleaner than they are in the mornings I’ve experienced on previous visits. However, they are full; there are so many places to chill on the beach, never mind all the beach clubs. The water is lovely; there’s plenty of sand, even if it’s not the powdery white stuff I’ve experienced most everywhere else in the world. But that’s what makes Bali unique. The surf is crazy too; doubt I’d have the courage to venture out given just how many people I’d likely annoy with my lack of experience.
People
There’s people from everywhere; Bali really has to be one of the most diverse mixes of people on earth. Given its location, though, the largest recognisable accents have to be the Australians, who travel here in squads. I’ve rarely met an Aussie on their own; they are always here with the rest of the pack. To their credit, it’s probably why the food is so good, as their food expectations are really high. There’s also lots of really beautiful people; thank goodness I don’t give a damn at my age. Again, something that surprises everyone when they find out how old I am, often being told by girls how they like older men and by guys what an inspiration I am. Maybe they’re just being polite, but I’ll take it.
Dress Code
It’s an island; please, don’t bring your cowboy boots—yep, I’ve seen that. Most people are either in flip-flops or trainers because they are training. Otherwise, it’s all board shorts and tank tops. Everyone seems to have already gotten their tan on. Thankfully, I’ve been living in Thailand and have a little colour too, so not blinding them with my pale English complexion. There are families, but I’d say you’ll find most people are between the ages of 25–35 and here for a lot more than vegan food and yoga. Alcohol is plentiful, and people sure like to party. Where I stay, there seems less of the party crowd thankfully, but you don’t have to stray far to find it.
Conclusion
It’s only the first week; I’m here for the rest of the month, and my views might change. So I’ll be sure to update you as I go. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions. But honestly, it’s still an amazing place to visit, and I do recommend it.