Travel companion Li Ly and her friend just returned from their Bali trip during the rainy season and are here to share their travel experiences with us!
Having benefited greatly from the wealth of information in various forums, I’d like to share my experiences from my late February trip to Bali. Here’s a brief overview of our itinerary, for reference purposes: We focused on participating in various activities, indulging in spa treatments, savoring delicious food, and simply enjoying the rest of our time—what we like to call ‘pure relaxation’.
Arriving in Bali
We had already completed and paid for all our entry requirements online. We exited swiftly through the automated gate on the far left (though unfortunately, I had to wait 40 minutes for my luggage 😅😅😅).
Quick Reference: 2026 Latest Entry Procedures - From Landing to Airport Exit
Recommended Activities & Insights
Surfing at Kuta Beach
- The one-on-one coaching session included one hour of instruction and one hour of free practice. While the teaching style was slightly rougher compared to what you’d find in Taiwan, it was still a good experience overall. However, the amount of trash on Kuta Beach was quite noticeable.
- To avoid sunburn, we scheduled our surfing session for around 9 AM. During this time slot, we were the only group out on the water, which made for an excellent experience.
- During surfing, there was no need to worry about our valuables, as we simply handed them over to our private driver for safekeeping.
- A dedicated photographer was on hand to capture photos and videos of us, allowing us to preserve these precious memories.
- Changing rooms and showers were also available (additional fees applied).
Xiao Jie’s First Surfing Experience
Kuta Beach Surfing Lesson (provided by 27 Surf Bali)
Kuta Surfing Lesson (provided by Bali Wau Surf)
Sunset Beach Horseback Riding
- By booking online, it costs around USD$55 per person and includes a one-on-one instructor who will lead the horse.
- The experience was quite enjoyable, as each instructor helped take photos and videos using our own phones.
- However, all activities come with certain risks. Towards the end of the experience, I was suddenly thrown off the horse. Fortunately, I had been holding onto the horse firmly and have decent athletic ability, so when I fell, I partly jumped off and partly was thrown, resulting in minimal injury. My instructor kept apologizing, and eventually, their staff took me back on a small scooter. After discussing with the vendor, they mentioned this was the first time such an incident had occurred and wanted to understand exactly what happened. However, all I remember is the horse suddenly started bucking, leaving both me and the instructor feeling helpless.
- The scenery here is truly stunning, and compared to Taiwan, the prices are quite affordable. The only thing to be mindful of is safety, as all activities inherently carry some level of risk, making travel insurance essential.
Beach Horseback Riding Experience
Sunrise Jeep Adventure
Contributed by fellow traveler Li Ly
- Booked through KLOOK for around USD$48 per person, including transfers.
- At 2:50 AM, driver Dita arrived punctually at the hotel lobby for pickup. Although he drove fast, he maintained safety. When I forgot my water bottle in the car on the return trip, he kindly brought it back to the hotel.
- Jeep driver Suda was very friendly, always informing us in advance about turns and steep sections, ensuring we were holding on securely before proceeding. He also diligently helped take photos.
- Due to bad weather, we couldn’t see the sunrise. The driver mentioned that on clear mornings, we could have enjoyed a sky full of stars. It was a bit disappointing, but I’d love to try again!
- Remember to dress warmly and bring a hat, as it gets very cold in the early morning at high altitudes.
Kintamani Trunyan Jeep Sunrise Experience
Mount Batur Volcano Jeep Safari + Hiking Tour
Bali Spa Recommendations & Experiences
Here’s my personal experience for reference: Also, I’m not sure if it’s a coincidence, but these six places that I found less comfortable were all closing-time massages.
Pro tip: Get your massages during the day.
- Putri Ubud Spa Seminyak: Located at No.5, Jl. Kayu Jati, Kerobokan Kelod, Kuta Utara, Badung Regency, Bali 80361. Arie helped with the booking, and it feels like the most local small shop in the area. The place is clean overall, with disposable underwear provided but no shower facilities. The prices are affordable. Recommended experience: 1:00 PM Bali Spa for 60 minutes, priced at 165K IDR (~USD$11).
- Jaens Spa Shanti Ubud: Located at Banjar Kumbuh, MAS, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571. Recommended and booked by Arie, the spa has beautiful and clean decor with excellent service. Disposable underwear is provided, and the experience is great with mid-range pricing. Recommended experience: 1:00 PM Hot Stone Massage for 120 minutes, priced at 595K IDR (~USD$38).
- Putri Bali Spa: Located at Jl. Raya Sanggingan, Kedewatan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali. Booked via WhatsApp, this larger spa has beautiful decor but the experience was disappointing. Experience: 6:00 PM Ayurvedic Yoga Therapy Massage for 90 minutes, priced at 400K IDR (~USD$26). (Book here)
- The Calma Spa Bali - Jimbaran Beach: Located at Jl. Uluwatu II No.108X, Jimbaran, Kec. Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361. Recommended and booked by Arie, the spa has beautiful and clean decor with disposable underwear provided. However, some masseuses were average. Experience: 7:00 PM Hot Stone Massage for 120 minutes, priced at 650K IDR (~USD$42).
- LuxMe Bali Spa: Located at Jalan Nuansa Utama VIII, Jl. Nuansa Utama Jl. Taman Griya No.6, Jimbaran, Kec. Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361. Booked via WhatsApp, this spa is tucked away in an alley, clean, with disposable underwear provided. The service is excellent, and the massage is comfortable. Recommended experience: 3:30 PM Four-Hand Massage for 60 minutes, priced at 420K IDR (~USD$27).
- ASAI Spa: Located at Jl. Pura Sekaang, ASAI Village, Jimbaran, Bali 80361. Booked via WhatsApp, the spa is clean overall, though privacy is slightly lacking. Disposable underwear is provided, and the pricing is mid-range. Experience: 11:00 AM Deep Tissue Massage for 90 minutes, priced at 575K IDR (~USD$37). (Book here)
The SPA You Want But Can’t Book:
Body works: The photos look beautiful, and it’s super popular! If you’re interested in trying it out, make sure to book way in advance! (Book here) We tried on our first day, but couldn’t get a spot for the entire week… orz
Restaurant Recommendations & Reviews
- WAHAHA Pork Ribs - Jimbaran: A great spot for pork ribs, with air-conditioning on the second floor. The delicious food makes us want to return again.
Introduction to WAHAHA Pork Ribs
- Bakso LA: A roadside food stall where we wanted to try local flavors. Arie took us to his regular spot. Delicious, though the texture was somewhat similar to Taiwanese meatballs, but such large meatballs are uncommon in Taiwan. A bowl costs 17K IDR (about USD$1).
- Terang Bulan and Martabak: Another roadside snack we wanted to try. Arie took us to buy these, which are somewhat similar to Taiwanese scallion pancakes. We enjoyed them back at the villa with beer. While waiting, it started to drizzle, and Arie kindly let us stay in the car with the AC while he waited outside.
- HATIKU Jimbaran: We tried grilled fish here and compared it to the next spot, Lia Cafe. The sauce here was stronger in flavor and slightly more expensive.
- Lia Cafe: Arie’s recommended grilled fish restaurant, which we all agreed suited our tastes better. If the weather is bad, it’s best to visit another day.
More Jimbaran Dining and Entertainment Guide
Jimbaran is a coastal paradise on Bali renowned for its romantic ambiance and culinary delights, featuring stunning golden beaches and breathtaking sunset views. The seafood restaurants here are a must-try culinary experience, while luxurious resorts and tranquil fishing village vibes allow visitors to enjoy both indulgence and local life. Whether for family trips or romantic dates, Jimbaran will exceed your expectations! Want to learn more about Jimbaran? Click here
Jimbaran Accommodation Themes
- Bali Accommodation Recommendations: Stunning Ocean View Jimbaran Stays
- 【2026 Bali AYANA Complete Guide】Rock Bar Reservation Tips
- 18 Family-Friendly Resorts with Kids Clubs in Bali｜Best Choices for Family Vacations in Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, Jimbaran, Uluwatu, and Ubud
- Bali Family Fun: Fifteen Resorts with Water Slides and Playgrounds
- Bali Group Free Travel: Jimbaran Private Villas with 3/4/5/6+ Bedrooms Recommended for Family Stays
- Double-Six Rooftop: A great spot for sunset views. Reservations guarantee front-row seating (minimum spend USD$32 per table). Enjoy buy-one-get-one-free cocktails before 7pm.
- Merah Putih: Serves delicious Indonesian cuisine in a beautifully designed space with comfortable air conditioning, though prices are on the higher side.
- La Brisa Bali: A stunning beach club perfect for photos, offering tasty food and drinks. You can easily walk to the adjacent beach.
Further Reading: Known as ‘The Most Beautiful Restaurant in Bali’: How Does La Brisa Stand Out Among Tens of Thousands of Dining Options?
More Canggu Food and Fun
Canggu is a hotspot on Bali that combines a relaxed atmosphere with trendy vibes. Not only does it boast stunning beaches, but it's also home to many unique cafes, creative restaurants, and boutique shops, making it a favorite among surfers and young travelers. Whether you're seeking natural scenery or looking to explore local culture, Canggu has something for everyone! Want to learn more about Canggu? Click here.
Canggu Accommodation Themes
- Bali Accommodation Recommendations: Top 17 Canggu Stays You Can't Miss
- 16 Private Pool Villas in Canggu: Canggu Villa Recommendations You Can't Miss
- Luxury Resort in Canggu: Regent Bali Canggu
- 18 Family-Friendly Resorts with Kids Clubs in Bali: Best Choices for Family Vacations in Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, Jimbaran, Uluwatu, and Ubud
- Bali Family Fun: Top 15 Resorts with Water Slides and Playgrounds
- Bali Group Travel: Canggu Private Villas with 3/4/5/6+ Bedrooms for Family Stays
- L’Osteria Pizza e Cucina Ubud: Delicious pizzas, but even more impressive are the risottos. Prices are much more affordable compared to Taiwan, making it worth revisiting (it’s a chain restaurant).
More Ubud Food and Fun
Ubud, the cultural and artistic heart of Bali, attracts countless travelers with its lush rice terraces, serene jungles, and rich traditional culture. It's the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate. Whether you're exploring local traditions, enjoying natural beauty, or engaging in exciting outdoor activities, Ubud offers unique experiences that combine delicious food with stunning scenery! Want to learn more about Ubud? Click here
Ubud Accommodation Themes
- 【Ubud Accommodation】Recommended Unique Stays in Ubud: Experience a Magical Journey Amid Bali's Mountain Scenery!
- 【Ubud Villa Recommendations】Private Pool Villas in Ubud: 20 Stunning Bali Villa Options
- Bali Ubud Yoga Retreats: 10 Dreamy Options Combining Yoga Classes and Spiritual Relaxation
- Bali's 18 Best Kids Club Resorts｜Top Family-Friendly Choices in Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, Jimbaran, Uluwatu, and Ubud
- Bali Group Travel: Private Ubud Villas with 3/4/5/6+ Bedrooms for Family Stays
Bali Accommodation Recommendations & Insights
Inara Alas Harum
During our trip, we stayed at three different places, and one that left a lasting impression was Inara Alas Harum. Although it’s nestled in the jungle and not in a bustling area (but Arie ensures safe transportation), the staff were incredibly friendly. Any requests could be made via WhatsApp, and even with our limited English, communication wasn’t an issue as they patiently translated. Despite being in the jungle, the environment was exceptionally clean and tidy—out of the three places we stayed, this was the cleanest, and we didn’t encounter any bugs.
On the third day, we stayed at a well-established villa in Jimbaran, but it turned out to be a nightmare. The air conditioner was noisy and ineffective, the water pressure was low, and there were many millipedes both outside and inside the room. Fortunately, they offered a complimentary breakfast from 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM with a wide variety of options, and we tried several dishes that were all delicious. Additionally, they provided a free afternoon tea from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM, which could be ordered to the room and was equally delightful (those spring rolls were unforgettable). The dinner (at our own expense) was also very tasty, although we didn’t have any alcohol.
Swimming in the jungle at Inara Alas Harum was incredibly refreshing, and they even have a hot pool, though it’s a shame they don’t offer spa services. Overall, we would definitely stay at Inara Alas Harum again on our next trip to Bali. With nightly rates under USD$50, we felt fully immersed in the vacation vibe.
▶Inara Alas Harum Booking Link
No-Fail Accommodation List
About Tipping
When it comes to tipping, we usually give based on our mood. Essentially, we tip for assistance with luggage and room service. At restaurants without a service charge, we tip if the service is good, and even at places that already include a service charge, we still tip for excellent service. As for spa treatments, regardless of whether a service charge is included, we always tip if the experience was relaxing and enjoyable.
Additionally, we also gave tips to surfing instructors, jeep drivers, and shuttle drivers. However, I didn’t leave a tip for the horseback riding experience since I fell off the horse.
Driver Recommendations
Contributed by fellow traveler Li Ly
For transportation during our 7-day, 6-night trip (except on 2/28 when Arie needed to return home to assist with a festival), we exclusively used Arie’s private car service, which we highly recommend. Here are his strengths:
- Fluent in English (we prefer drivers who don’t understand Chinese, as it makes conversations more relaxed).
- Extremely thoughtful and polite (helps with umbrellas, opening doors, and carrying luggage when it rains).
- Vehicles are new, clean, and pleasantly scented (he cleans the car inside and out every morning, showing professionalism).
- Acts like a mobile secretary (the day before departure in Taiwan, we wanted to book Double-Six Rooftop; when the restaurant didn’t respond via WhatsApp, Arie immediately helped with reservations and even called to book various SPAs).
- Offers itinerary suggestions but also fully accommodates guests’ preferences.
- Makes you feel safe and secure.
- Drives smoothly.
- Recommends delicious local snacks (even for someone like me with a sensitive stomach, there were no issues the next day).
- Transparent and reasonable pricing (the service was so good that we tipped 20-30% daily, yet it still felt like great value).
- Engages warmly in conversation but doesn’t intrude when unnecessary (when he noticed other friends sleeping, he proactively turned off the car music).
- Basically, if you have a need or curiosity, just ask him—he’ll make it happen!
Six years ago, we traveled to Bali as part of an eight-person tour organized by a travel agency, but the experience was far from ideal. The worst part was our driver-cum-guide. Although he spoke Chinese, communication was nearly impossible, which made us deeply appreciate the importance of a good driver for a trip. They can make the journey more complete and relaxing. Arie was so considerate that we tipped him 20-30% every day.
Driver’s recommendation: ARIE
Whatsapp: +6287861098850
LINE: abayka10
FB: Abayka Arieprayudha
Mail: abaykaari@gmail.com
More About Private Car Hire
- Must-Have Bali Travel App: Complete Gojek Guide
- Gojek & GoPay in Indonesia/Bali: Registration, Usage & Top-Up Guide
- Bali Ride-Hailing Driver Scams: How to Avoid Grab/Gojek Traps
- Complete Gojek & Grab Ride-Hailing Guide with Screenshots
- Bali Private Car Hire Guide: Costs, Booking Tips & Benefits
- Private Car vs. Ride-Hailing: How to Choose the Best Option for Your Trip
- Find Your Perfect Bali Driver: Real Traveler Reviews
- Bali Motorbike Rental Safety Checklist
Did you find Li Ly’s itinerary exciting? Start planning your own Bali adventure now! We also welcome everyone to share their itineraries in our community group!
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