Which Bali are you? A Canberra guide to the island that has it all
Posted on
Canberra, I’m setting us a collective mission. You might have heard that there are direct flights to Bali coming to our fair city this June, and I’m determined that this time, we can keep hold of this direct international route.
But to do so, we’ve got to take advantage of it.
Here’s where my thoughts are at. Maybe you’ve heard a few rumours: Bali is for bogans, Bali is too busy and the traffic is a nightmare, or Bali is for schoolies. Whilst there may be those elements, I’ve put in the legwork, and I’m convinced that Bali has something for everyone, no matter what your particular interests are.
Not convinced yet? Let’s take a closer look at a range of travel styles; you might just find something that intrigues you.
Bali for people who can’t sit still
This is my category. While I love the idea of relaxing, five minutes on a sun lounger and I’m looking around for the next thing to do.
I recommend heading north to Ubud and the surrounding highlands – this is the perfect base to experience the best adventures on the island.
Trek up the volcano of Mount Batur to catch sunrise, take a thrilling bike ride back down it, swim in waterfalls, quad bike through the jungle, take a white water-rafting trip or hike through the lush green rice paddies to see artisans at work and village life all around you.
At night, you can enjoy the many restaurants and bars in Ubud itself and fuel yourself up for another day of adventure.
Budget stay
Ubud Jungle Stay is a hidden escape buried in the jungle that’s the perfect haven for those with an adventurous spirit.
Luxe stay
Capella Ubud. This one is for the cashed-up adventurer looking for curated experiences and exceptionally appointed facilities.
Bali for the soul-seekers
The Eat, Pray, Love trail will lead you right back to Ubud, and for the soul-seeking meditation and yoga crowd, there is really no better place in the world to find yourself.
With sound baths, daily yoga, nutritious eating, holistic health, calming vistas and wellness treatments, you’ll be able to fill your agenda with the world’s best relaxation services and meet like-minded travellers from all over the world.
Budget stay
Firefly Retreat is a budget-friendly yoga immersion retreat aimed at giving solo travellers a week-long safe and inclusive experience.
Luxe stay
Como Shambhala Estate has a holistic approach to wellness that starts with the philosophy of ‘eat well, be well’ and ends with world-class suites and villas.
Bali for shoppers and foodies
If browsing boutiques, popping into cafés and buying things you didn’t know you needed brings you joy, Seminyak and Canggu are the places to be.
Seminyak is polished and well-established, with designer beach clubs and high-end shopping. Canggu is the hub for young digital nomads and the permanently caffeinated crowd, full of surf shops, concept stores and cafés serving things on wooden boards.
No matter which you choose, you’ll be in the heart of the action yet never more than a few hundred metres from the beach.
Budget stay
Bali Ginger Suites and Villa is a cute and fun boutique hotel in the heart of Seminyak with ten rooms set around a pool.
Luxe stay
The Bohemian Bali in Canggu is sleek, contemporary and gorgeously moody, ideal for the refined traveller looking for inspiring spaces.
Bali for the flop-and-drop traveller
If perfecting the fine art of doing nothing has been your life’s work, then Uluwatu is your spirit animal.
Sunset drinks, infinity pools, cliff-top vistas and long lazy mornings by the ocean, it could all be yours. Simply check in, call room service and take in the sweeping views of the Indian Ocean.
Luxe stay
Flop-and-drop holidays are all about the resort, so we’re skipping the budget accommodation on this one, and you’re checking into the Anantara Uluwatu Bali Resort. With dramatic views and a private beach, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in unparalleled relaxation.
Bali for families
If you’re seeking family fun in a safe environment, then Nusa Dua on Bali’s south-east coast is your destination. A purpose-built gated enclave, Nusa Dua has more than 20 premier beachfront resorts to choose from, and let’s just say, humongous swimming pools are the order of the day.
You’re also located not too far from the airport for a quick arrival and check-in, and the kids will have the run of the resorts with sprawling gardens and swimmable beaches.
Budget stay
The Bali Nusa Dua Hotel offers five-star facilities and large rooms ideal for families at very affordable prices.
Luxe stay
The Laguna Nusa Dua is a part of the worldwide Luxury Collection of hotels. With a recent refurbishment of the amenities, its pristine white-sand beach and two-bedroom suites, you’ll never want to leave, and neither will the kids.
