The following content is adapted from fellow traveler Liu Huici’s travelogue:
This Bali free-and-easy trip was an exciting first-time experience for me! I’m very grateful to the kind folks in the Facebook group who shared their insights, helping me find an amazing Chinese-speaking private driver, whom I’ll introduce in detail at the end.
Essential Preparations Before Departure:
- An Excellent Chinese-Speaking Driver
Having a Chinese-speaking private driver made this trip stress-free. His fluent Chinese allowed us to explore popular local spots effortlessly, and he adjusted the itinerary flexibly based on time and traffic, ensuring a smooth journey. - Confirm the Itinerary with the Driver
Before departure, make sure to communicate your daily plans with the driver. They’ll offer professional advice tailored to your needs, ensuring the best experience at each destination. - Exchange NT Dollars for USD
Before leaving, exchange some NT dollars for USD, then convert it to Indonesian Rupiah in Bali. This is the most cost-effective way to handle currency exchange. - E-Visa
Don’t forget to apply for Indonesia’s e-visa in advance. This saves time at immigration and ensures a smooth start to your journey. - Tourism Tax
Bali charges a tourism tax for incoming travelers. It’s recommended to pay it online beforehand to avoid hassle upon arrival. - Customs Declaration Form
Three days before departure, fill out the customs declaration form online to save time during immigration. - Health Declaration and Flight Tickets
On the day of departure, ensure you have your flight tickets and complete the health declaration form. Having all documents ready avoids last-minute panic at the airport. - Prepare Basic Medications
Although this trip isn’t long, it’s wise to bring essential medications like stomach remedies and cold medicine, just in case.
These preparations might seem tedious, but they ensure a smoother journey, allowing me to fully enjoy every moment in Bali!
Further Reading: Bali Arrival Process - From Landing to Customs to Baggage Claim
Further Reading: Bali Travel Tips: 31 Must-Know Tips for First-Time Visitors
Day 1 Itinerary:
Arrival in Bali 15:15
The plane landed on time at Bali International Airport, marking the official start of our highly anticipated journey!
Present Completed Health Declaration
After disembarking, the first step was to present the pre-filled health declaration. This was quickly completed, giving us a smooth impression of Bali’s pandemic prevention procedures.
Present Completed eVisa
Next was presenting the eVisa. Since we had prepared it in advance, we didn’t need to queue and directly used facial recognition technology for fast clearance. This process was incredibly convenient and saved us a lot of hassle!
Present Customs Declaration Form
The final step was presenting the customs declaration form, which was also completed online beforehand, making the entire immigration process very smooth.
Wait for Luggage
The clearance was so fast that we ended up spending the most time waiting for our luggage 🤣! However, once we had our bags, we felt much more relaxed.
Meet the Driver
As soon as we exited the airport, our pre-booked driver was already waiting for us. Seeing him made the entire trip feel more secure! We were ready to start our culinary adventure in Bali.
Dinner: Naughty Nuri’s Warung, Sanur (Delicious Pork Ribs)
For our first meal in Bali, we chose Naughty Nuri’s Warung in Sanur, famous for its signature pork ribs. It lived up to its reputation—the meat was tender, and the secret sauce awakened our taste buds. It was absolutely delicious! This place is definitely a must-try when visiting Bali.
▶Sanur Naughty Nuri’s Warung Food Experience
Accommodation: Maison Aurelia Sanur, Bali by Preference
➡️ Maison Aurelia Sanur Rates & Availability
After dinner, we checked into Maison Aurelia in Sanur. The hotel exudes a comfortable atmosphere with elegant decor and a convenient location, instantly immersing us in a relaxing vacation vibe upon entering our room. We enjoyed a good night’s rest, recharging for tomorrow’s adventures.
Day 2 Itinerary (Nusa Lembongan Adventure):
Morning Hotel Pickup by Driver
Early in the morning, our private driver arrived punctually at our hotel to take us on today’s journey to the beautiful Nusa Lembongan, filled with anticipation!
Purchase Nusa Lembongan Tour at Sanur Harbor
Upon arriving at Sanur Harbor, we purchased a day trip to Nusa Lembongan on the spot. There were many options available, and we chose a package that included snorkeling and sightseeing, offering excellent value.
Thoughtful Chinese-Speaking Guide Arrangement
The best part of the tour was the inclusion of a Chinese-speaking guide who accompanied us throughout, providing explanations and making the journey more relaxed and enriching. We didn’t have to worry about language barriers and gained deeper insights into the local natural landscapes and culture.
Exciting Activities: Snorkeling, Devil’s Tear, Dream Beach, Mangrove Ecosystem
At the snorkeling spot on Nusa Lembongan, we enjoyed crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, surrounded by colorful tropical fish—truly breathtaking! Next, we visited the famous ‘Devil’s Tear,’ where massive waves crashed against the rocks, creating a spectacular and awe-inspiring scene. Later, we arrived at Dream Beach, which lived up to its name with its fine white sand and azure waters, offering complete relaxation. Finally, we explored the mangrove ecosystem, getting up close to this natural wonder. The entire itinerary was diverse and engaging.
Devil’s Tear
Includes Lunch, Leisurely Beach Time, and Bintang Beer
The tour thoughtfully included lunch, and we enjoyed local flavors at a beachside restaurant on Nusa Lembongan. Afterward, we strolled leisurely along the beach, took photos, and cracked open a cold Bintang beer, fully savoring this rare moment of relaxation.
Scenery of Nusa Lembongan
Editor’s Note:
Want to know what’s fun to do on Nusa Lembongan? What are the interesting attractions?
Check out our ‘Nusa Lembongan Attractions Guide’
Private Driver Transfer Back to Hotel
After a day full of excitement, our Bali private driver arrived punctually to take us back to the hotel. The stunning scenery of Nusa Lembongan left us wanting more, making this journey truly worthwhile.
Exploring Sanur Streets
Upon returning to Sanur, we freshened up and took a stroll around the neighborhood. Sanur’s streets are lively and brimming with local charm. As we wandered, we discovered numerous small shops exuding a strong Balinese vibe.
Dinner: Forketta Bali Italian Restaurant
For dinner, we chose Forketta Bali, an Italian restaurant in Sanur. Known for its refined Italian cuisine, we ordered their signature handmade pasta and wood-fired pizza. The authentic flavors and textures were absolutely delightful, making it the perfect way to cap off a fulfilling day!
Further Reading: For more Sanur attractions and food recommendations from fellow travelers, click here
Sanur Guide Map
Day 3 Itinerary (Ubud Day Trip):
White Water Rafting Adventure
Our Ubud adventure began with an exhilarating white water rafting experience. Navigating through Bali’s magnificent tropical rainforest and drifting on crystal-clear river waters, we felt the thrill of the rapids—a must-do for adventure enthusiasts! The entire journey was filled with surprises and challenges, making it unforgettable!
Instagram-Worthy Cafe: Swing Photos
After rafting, we arrived at a very famous Instagram-worthy cafe. Its standout feature is a giant swing, allowing us to swing while enjoying the breathtaking views of the rice fields. The locals are truly skilled at photography, and the entire atmosphere makes every photo look like a postcard. It’s definitely a great spot for photos and social media check-ins.
Tebasari Resto, Bar & Lounge
Classic Bebek Bengil (Dirty Duck)
For lunch, we visited the famous Bebek Bengil restaurant in Ubud. This dish is a classic Ubud delicacy—crispy duck skin paired with tender duck meat, complemented by various local sauces, making it absolutely mouthwatering! It’s truly a must-try dish in Bali.
Ubud Palace
After lunch, we visited the historic Ubud Palace. The palace’s architecture is distinctly Balinese, with intricate carvings and elaborate decorations that leave visitors in awe, offering a deep sense of the local culture and history.
Ubud Market
Next, we strolled through Ubud Market, which is filled with various handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs. The market’s lively atmosphere was infectious, and we picked up a few locally crafted souvenirs as mementos of our trip.
Further Reading: Complete Guide to Ubud’s Top Five Art Markets: Souvenirs, Gifts, and Balinese Cultural Treasures
Heading to Canggu
After wrapping up our day in Ubud, we set off for Canggu, ready to begin the next few days of relaxation.
Day 4 Itinerary (Chill Day in Canggu):
The Avocado Factory: Healthy and Delicious Breakfast
Today’s itinerary started at The Avocado Factory, a breakfast spot specializing in healthy meals. We ordered avocado-centric dishes—whether it was avocado toast or a healthy salad, everything was fresh and delicious, energizing us for the sunny morning ahead.
Gigi Susu: Trendy Coffee and Bakery
Next, we visited the trendy coffee shop Gigi Susu, known for its unique bread and coffee. The stylish interior made it perfect for photos and social media check-ins. The coffee was rich and smooth, paired with freshly baked local bread—a true delight.
For more reading: Over 30 Canggu restaurants recommended by netizens, check out the “Canggu Guide Map”
Visiting Tanah Lot Temple
In the afternoon, we headed to one of Bali’s landmarks—Tanah Lot Temple. This seaside temple appears to float on the water, creating a breathtaking sight. Both the majestic scenery and sacred atmosphere inspire awe. It’s also an excellent spot to watch the sunset, making it a must-visit when in Bali.
The Lawn Canggu Beach Club
Our final stop for the day was The Lawn, a popular beach club in Canggu. Here, we enjoyed a relaxing afternoon filled with sunshine, sand, delicious food, and plenty of bikini-clad beauties and handsome guys. We lounged by the pool, sipped on chilled cocktails, and watched Bali’s famous sunset slowly descend. As night fell, the beach lit up, creating a cozy and romantic atmosphere that allowed us to unwind and savor every moment of our vacation.
Further reading: The “Canggu 2025 Guide” is now available! To learn more about Canggu, click here
Day 5 Itinerary (Time to Head Home!):
Shopping at Love Anchor Canggu
Our first stop today was the popular Love Anchor Market in Canggu. Here, you can find a variety of accessories and souvenirs, from handicrafts to clothing and small trinkets, all infused with Balinese charm. Remember to haggle—prices here are highly negotiable, and we managed to cut the cost of many items by half, making it a great deal!
Enjoying the Final Hours at the Villa
After shopping, we returned to our villa to enjoy the last few hours of our vacation. The villa’s serene and comfortable atmosphere allowed us to relax completely, soaking in the pool under the warm sun, bringing our wonderful Bali trip to a perfect close.
Heading to the Airport for the 4:30 PM Flight
After leaving the villa, we arrived at the airport three hours early—a good habit, especially for international flights. This ensured we had plenty of time to handle any formalities or unexpected situations. With all our documents ready, we waited calmly for boarding.
❤️ Reflections:
- Prepare Your Travel Documents in Advance!
During this trip, I noticed many travelers waited until the last minute to handle their documents, causing long lines and chaos. Make sure to prepare your health certificates, e-visas, and customs declarations ahead of time for a smoother entry process. - Bali Has Many Attractions, but Traffic Can Be Heavy—Don’t Overpack Your Itinerary!
While Bali offers a diverse range of attractions, traffic can be intense, especially during peak hours. Avoid cramming too much into your schedule to prevent wasting time on the road. The best way to experience Bali is to chill and embrace the local pace of life. - Remember to Haggle at Markets!
When shopping at markets, don’t forget to haggle! For example, I managed to negotiate a coin purse down from USD$10 to USD$5, and even USD$3 at another stall. There’s always room for negotiation, so don’t be shy—speak up! 😅 - Limited English + Three Months Pregnant, Thankfully Met a Local Who Speaks Chinese
During this trip, despite being three months pregnant and worried about my limited English, I was fortunate to meet Kang (Wayan Suantara), a local driver who speaks Chinese. His thoughtful assistance made the journey stress-free, especially with route planning and attraction recommendations. - Souvenir Recommendation: BALI BANANA Banana Cake
Don’t forget to bring back a box of BALI BANANA banana cake—a specialty souvenir from Bali. Soft, sweet, and delicious, it’s available at the airport. Try it upon arrival and buy more if you like it. They even offer free packing services, making shopping more convenient.
Further Reading: 【Netizen Recommendations】Six Categories, Over 20 Bali Souvenir Recommendations: Perfect Choices to Preserve Precious Memories
Driver Recommendation
As for the fantastic Chinese-speaking private driver I mentioned, it’s ‘Wayan Suantara’, also known as ‘Brother Kang’. After adding him on Line, I immediately explained the itinerary I wanted to arrange. Not only did Brother Kang quickly provide a schedule, but he also offered many professional suggestions that made the entire trip even more perfect. I highly recommend him! ❤️ Completely trustworthy 👍
This trip to Bali was full of surprises and memories, from breathtaking scenery to delicious food, from adventures to relaxation. Whether experiencing Bali’s natural beauty or enjoying its laid-back atmosphere, this place is truly a paradise for vacation. Looking forward to coming back next time!
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