(Friendly reminder: At the time of posting, VietJet Air still had plenty of zero-dollar ticket promotions, so interested friends should keep an eye out!)
On the day of departure, we smoothly arrived at the airport and completed check-in. VietJet Air’s emergency exit seats are highly recommended—the legroom is so spacious that you can fully stretch out your legs, and the reclining seats significantly enhance the comfort of the flight! However, there was a minor hiccup: the tall Western gentleman sitting behind me, due to his limited space, kept bumping my seat with his knees, which was slightly uncomfortable. But aside from that, the overall flight experience was pleasant.
(VietJet Air tip: Choose seats in row 11 to ensure you can stretch your legs without touching the person in front of you.)
September 4th: Welcome Flower Leis and Our First Spa Experience
As soon as we landed at Bali Airport, our private driver, Dwik, warmly greeted us with flower leis and thoughtfully handed us ice-cold water, instantly making us feel refreshed! One reason we chose Dwik was that he drives a spacious and quiet 2024 Toyota SUV, perfect for relaxing during transfers. Dwik’s American English is fluent, and we later learned that he had worked on a cruise ship in the US and Mexico, which explains his strong sense of service.
Next, we headed to a nearby currency exchange with much better rates than the airport. Following Dwik’s recommendation, we visited Calma Spa for a two-hour relaxation session, and thanks to Dwik, we got a better deal than the menu price. The spa experience was incredibly soothing, leaving us completely refreshed.
一下峇里島機場，我們的包車司機Dwik就充滿熱情地為我們戴上迎賓花圈，還貼心地遞上冰水，讓我們瞬間感到清涼舒適！選擇Dwik的其中一個原因就是他開的是2024年款的Toyota新休旅車，車內空間寬敞又安靜，乘坐起來特別放鬆，適合在移動中小憩片刻。Dwik的美式英語非常流利，一問之下才知道原來他曾在美墨獨郵輪上工作過，難怪服務意識如此強。
隨後，我們前往附近的換匯點兌換當地貨幣，這裡的匯率比機場好得多。接著，在Dwik的推薦下，我們來到了Calma Spa，享受了兩小時的水療放鬆，並且透過Dwik還拿到比menu價格更優惠的價錢。這次的水療體驗真是令人放鬆，整個人都得到了完全的舒緩。
Rock Bar (provided by Zhang Jiawei)
After finishing our spa session, we headed to Bali’s famous Rock Bar to enjoy the sunset. Sitting on the cliffside seats, as the sun slowly descended, the breathtaking view before us completely captivated our hearts.
Wahaha Pork Ribs (provided by Zhang Jiawei)
For dinner, we chose Wahaha Pork Ribs, where the grilled pork ribs and corn were both satisfying. The restaurant also featured a traditional Balinese Barong dance performance, adding a lot of charm to the atmosphere. In the evening, we checked into Marriott’s Fairfield Legian, which has a great location, friendly and enthusiastic staff, and a clean, beautiful pool, perfectly concluding our relaxing and enjoyable first day of the trip.
▶Check Availability & Rates for Fairfield Legian
September 5: Spectacular Nusa Penida Day Trip and Snorkeling Experience
Today’s highlight was a day trip to Nusa Penida. We set off early in the morning, and our private driver even arranged for his girlfriend Indah to be our assistant guide, accompanying us throughout the trip. She helped us choose good seats on the boat, took photos for us, and assisted with keeping our belongings safe. Upon arriving at Nusa Penida, we visited the island’s stunning spots, such as Broken Beach and Kelingking Beach, where the sapphire-like clear blue waters were truly awe-inspiring.
The subsequent snorkeling activity was an unforgettable experience. We visited three snorkeling spots and marveled at the diverse marine life. Although we didn’t see any manta rays in Manta Bay and got stung by a small jellyfish, causing a slight sting, this unique experience became another memorable part of our journey. To our surprise, we encountered a pod of dolphins jumping on our boat ride, saving us the planned trip to North Bali to see dolphins—a truly unexpected gift.
This trip to Nusa Penida, from the island’s stunning landscapes to the underwater wonders, truly allowed us to appreciate the natural beauty of Bali.
Nusa Penida Travel Guide
- 🏝️ Nusa Penida Attractions Guide
- 🍽️ Nusa Penida Dining with a View Guide
- 🤿 Nusa Penida Snorkeling Spots Guide
- 🏨 Nusa Penida Accommodation Guide
September 6: Volcano Sunrise and Pork Cuisine Adventure
(Provided by Zhang Jiawei)
Today’s adventure began with a Mount Batur sunrise tour at 2 AM. Wrapped in the provided thick blankets, we bumped along in a jeep, accompanied by the twinkling stars in the night sky. As the sun slowly rose, the majestic scenery of the volcano gradually unfolded before our eyes. Indah and our driver didn’t forget to capture romantic photos of the starry sky for us, making this moment one of the highlights of the entire trip.
(Provided by Zhang Jiawei)
Next, we enjoyed a natural hot spring bath beside the volcano. Although the overwhelming number of flies was frustrating (really too many, this spot is not recommended), the relaxing sensation of soaking in the hot spring was still worth experiencing. For lunch, we dined at a local tourist restaurant, savoring scenic cuisine while admiring the spectacular view of the volcano, adding a unique flavor to the meal. Before ending the day, our driver took us to try a local snack—Siobak. This delicious pork dish was truly impressive, providing ample energy for the rest of our journey!
Editor’s Note: Siobak: Balinese Cuisine from Singaraja
Siobak is a traditional dish from Singaraja, made from pork. Its name originates from Chinese culture (char siu), perfectly blending local and Chinese flavors. Since the local population practices Hinduism, beef is considered sacred, making pork a popular choice.
This dish is seasoned with spices, with the pork being boiled at low temperature to remove any gaminess, then mixed with cloves, shallots, garlic, and other spices, resulting in a unique flavor.
Whether in Singaraja or at specific restaurants in Denpasar, you can savor this delicacy. If you have the chance to visit Bali, be sure to try the distinctive flavor of Siobak!
September 7: Waterfalls and Night Safari
Today’s itinerary is a bit more relaxed. We start late and head to Tegenungan Waterfall, where the breathtaking natural scenery amazes us. The lush greenery and rushing waters create a picturesque scene. For lunch, we enjoy crispy pork rice recommended by our driver. Although most customers are foreign tourists, the meal still retains its local flavor.
(Provided by Zhang Jiawei)
In the afternoon, we relax with a massage at Jaen Spa, where our tired bodies and minds are soothed by professional therapists. Later, we participate in the Bali Safari Marine Park night safari, riding in a caged vehicle to observe nocturnal animals up close during feeding time. It’s both thrilling and fun, offering a completely new experience.
Is the Bali Night Safari worth recommending?
Personally, I think the night safari is a great experience! 👍 Not only do you get to see animals from inside a cage, but there’s also a unique fire dance performance that adds entertainment to the whole trip. Additionally, a buffet dinner is included. While the dishes aren’t top-tier, the taste is decent, and overall, it’s quite satisfying! 🌃
You can freely enter and exit the restaurant without worrying about missing the show: after watching the performance, you can return to continue dining until the restaurant closes, which is very convenient. If you’re interested, the night safari here is definitely worth a visit!
We stay at Ubud Element by Westin in Ubud for the night, and the upgraded room ensures a comfortable evening.
▶Check Availability & Rates for Ubud Element by Westin
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
September 8: Purification Ritual at Tirta Empul Temple and Rice Terrace Scenery
Today we visited Tirta Empul, experiencing the local purification ritual. This ceremony allowed us to feel Bali’s unique culture and spiritual atmosphere. As the water flowed over our bodies, our minds found peace and release, leaving us filled with renewed energy.
(Provided by Zhang Jiawei)
After the ceremony, we headed to the Luwak Coffee Plantation to taste the famous civet coffee. While this was purely a tourist activity, it was still an interesting experience that deepened our understanding of this unique brew.
For lunch, we asked our driver to recommend a restaurant and enjoyed Bali’s famous crispy duck. The flavors were exquisite, and it’s definitely worth trying! After the meal, we took a short rest to recharge for the rest of the day.
In the evening, we made our way to Ubud Palace to watch a traditional performance. For us, who enjoy cultural shows, this was truly worthwhile, allowing us to delve deeper into Bali’s cultural charm. The day was both fulfilling and joyful, adding many wonderful memories to our trip.
(Provided by Zhang Jiawei)
September 9th: A Surprise Birthday Celebration for My Girlfriend
Early in the morning, the staff at Ubud Element prepared a birthday cake and softly sang ‘Happy Birthday,’ giving us an incredibly heartwarming surprise in the early hours of Bali. My girlfriend smiled as she watched the staff and guests, feeling the warmth and sincerity of the moment. This small birthday blessing became an unforgettable memory, adding even more meaning to our journey.
After breakfast, we took a short break and then visited the Tegalalang Rice Terraces. The area was meticulously arranged like a painting, and despite the crowds and the rule prohibiting bringing water inside, the terraces remained a perfect spot for capturing beautiful photos.
Next, we headed to Bali’s famous Tanah Lot temple. This sacred temple sits on a rocky outcrop in the sea and can only be approached during low tide. We followed the crowd as we walked closer, with the sea breeze gently brushing against us and the waves softly lapping at the rocks, sending sprays of water into the air. The majestic and sacred scene left us breathless. Despite the number of visitors, the temple’s mysterious aura still filled us with awe. We approached the temple, lightly touched some holy water, and prayed for peace and blessings.
In the evening, we arranged a special birthday dinner for her at Cuca Restaurant. Located in Jimbaran, the restaurant was illuminated by flickering candlelight and offered a charming night view. We enjoyed a creative tapas-style meal, and the restaurant thoughtfully prepared a small birthday gift, creating a romantic and warm atmosphere. We specifically ordered a set menu called “Nicholas Tse’s Favorite,” thinking it must be something cool, but… well, let’s keep it mysterious (laughs). It was definitely one of those experiences you just have to try! This romantic dinner perfectly concluded her birthday celebration.
Here’s a Cuca “Surprise Chef’s Tasting Menu” discount voucher
We stayed overnight at VIVARA Private Pool Villas & Spa Retreats. Upon arrival, the hotel greeted us with welcome juice shots and cold towels, which felt incredibly refreshing. A golf cart took us to our villa, where we were greeted by a spacious private pool, an outdoor kitchen, and a dining area (with complimentary drinks in the fridge!). The room was spacious and comfortable, featuring an open-air bathroom and a bathtub with a rain shower. The only minor downside was that the hot water wasn’t very hot, and the bathtub drain was a bit loose, causing water to leak. However, overall, we were very satisfied.
▶Check availability & rates at VIVARA Private Pool Villas & Spa Retreats
September 10: GWK Cultural Park & Kecak Fire Dance Tour
(Provided by Zhang Jiawei)
As our trip neared its end, the surprises continued. We started the day by visiting GWK Cultural Park (Garuda Wisnu Kencana), known for its giant Garuda statue and rich displays of traditional Balinese dance performances. The park hosts different dance shows almost every hour, showcasing the beauty of Balinese culture. We watched two or three performances, each unique in its own way. Before each show, we used ChatGPT to translate the descriptions and take photos, which helped us better understand the mythological stories behind the performances, adding to our enjoyment.
Quick reference: 【Bali Landmark】Complete Guide to GWK Cultural Park: World’s Tallest Statue, Traditional Dance Performances & Photo Spots
For lunch, we chose Waroeng De Dusun, recommended by our driver. This restaurant serves delicious and affordable Indonesian-style Chinese cuisine. The flavors were refreshing and satisfying, definitely not a disappointment.
In the afternoon, we drove to Uluwatu Temple. Be careful of the monkeys along the way! These monkeys are known for their cleverness and cunning, and they can quickly snatch sunglasses, hats, or even hand sanitizer from tourists. We witnessed a monkey ‘unlocking’ a tourist’s belongings and happily chewing on them, requiring the staff to ‘redeem’ them with food. It’s best to leave valuables in the car to avoid trouble.
(Provided by Zhang Jiawei)
As evening approached, we found our seats to watch the renowned Kecak Fire Dance. This performance combines Balinese mythology with traditional dance, presented on a semicircular tiered stage. The visual effect of being surrounded by the fire dance was mesmerizing. The entire performance was accompanied only by the rhythmic chanting of dozens of dancers, creating a captivating background sound. As the performance neared its end, a spectator proposed to his beloved amidst the flames, blending the surprise proposal with the classic performance, making it a memorable highlight of our trip.
What is the Kecak Fire Dance? What makes it special? Check out the introduction here
The day was filled with tradition, surprises, and rich Balinese culture.
Uluwatu Dining and Entertainment Recommendations
Uluwatu is one of the most popular areas in southern Bali, renowned for its stunning cliff views, charming beaches, and excellent surfing spots. Filled with a romantic tropical vacation atmosphere, it's the perfect choice for enjoying sunset views and relaxing moments. If you're also considering staying in Uluwatu, you can refer to the following carefully curated dining and entertainment guide to make your trip even more enriching and fun: Uluwatu Guide: Uluwatu Attractions and Dining Recommendations
Uluwatu Accommodation Themes
- Uluwatu Accommodation Recommendations: 14 Private Villas with Stunning Ocean Views
- Bali's 18 Best Family Resorts with Kids Clubs | Top Choices for Family Vacations in Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, Jimbaran, Uluwatu, and Ubud
- Bali Family Fun: 15 Resorts with Water Slides and Playgrounds
- Bali Group Travel: Uluwatu Private Villas with 3/4/5/6+ Bedrooms for Family Stays
September 11: A Reluctant Farewell
On the final morning, we strolled along our beloved beach, gazing deeply at Bali’s azure coastline. The sight of the blue sea and sky, no matter how many times we see it, always enchants us. We set down our luggage, sat on beach chairs, sipped cool coconut water, and stared at the distant horizon, reminiscing about the past few days. Every sight, every meal, every laugh seemed to remind us of the preciousness of this journey.
At the airport, we bid farewell to our driver, Dwik. With a sunny smile, he sincerely said, ‘I hope to see you again next time. I’ll be here waiting to pick you up.’ His warmth touched us deeply. The help and genuine kindness from Dwik and Indah made this trip exceptionally unforgettable.
As the plane ascended, we waved goodbye to Bali. This trip was not only a celebration of a birthday but also deepened by the minor setbacks along the way. Although we faced the trouble of stolen luggage, the warmth of the people and unexpected surprises taught us to cherish the beauty of the present amidst laughter and emotion.
The beauty of Bali lies not only in its stunning natural landscapes but also in the locals who have helped and touched us, as well as the precious moments we’ve shared together. I look forward to returning to this land someday, embarking on new adventures amidst its endless azure beauty.
A quick note: Dwik and Indah are exceptional photographers. Every shot they take looks like a masterpiece, saving us the cost of hiring a professional photographer while unexpectedly gifting us a collection of beautiful photos. This once again proves that travel is full of delightful surprises!
Popular Outdoor Activities in Bali
- 15 種必玩水上活動體驗
- 滿分評價：Cretya Ubud、巴杜爾火山吉普車日出和瀑布之旅
- 超受歡迎：越野ATV + 泛舟（含午餐）
- 徒步或搭乘吉普車欣賞火山日出
- 可選中文導遊的海神廟日落之旅
- 庫塔海灘衝浪課程
- 烏魯瓦圖的滑翔傘飛行體驗
- 天空之門日落私人之旅
Important PS: Arriving in Bali – From Smooth Customs to Luggage Troubles
One thing worth mentioning is that our arrival in Bali initially seemed very smooth. We had already completed our visa application online and paid the tourism tax beforehand, and the customs process was surprisingly quick and efficient. Aside from a slight delay of 3 to 5 minutes during the new health declaration step, the overall procedure was straightforward and reassuring. However, the first hiccup of our journey quietly unfolded at the baggage carousel.
At the time, like other passengers, we anxiously waited for our luggage. Nearly an hour later, our suitcase finally slid out slowly from the conveyor belt. When I saw my luggage, I quickly grabbed it, and everything appeared normal on the surface, so I left the airport without a second thought. However, upon arriving at the hotel and opening the suitcase, I discovered that the zipper had been pried open, and even the TSA lock was damaged. A small amount of loose change and a golden trinket (though not real gold) were missing. Fortunately, important documents and credit cards were still intact, which gave me some relief. Still, I learned a valuable lesson from this experience: always carry valuables with you!
Seeking Help and Kindness: Driver Dwik’s Warm Support
After discovering the tampered luggage, I immediately contacted the Taipei Economic and Trade Office in Surabaya, the airport ground handling company, and VietJet Air’s customer service. The three parties kept shifting responsibility among themselves, leaving us exhausted. The Taipei office suggested we approach the ground handling company, who then redirected us to the airline’s customer service. In the end, we received no substantial help.
At this point, our private driver, Dwik, showed incredible warmth and kindness. Upon learning about the situation, he felt deeply apologetic, even blaming himself for not taking better care of our luggage. Dwik proactively noted the incident’s details and prepared to file a police report. Although we ultimately decided against reporting it due to time constraints, Dwik’s sincerity and responsible attitude deeply touched us. He even stayed up all night, continuously discussing the matter with fellow drivers and contacting travel companies to see if similar cases had occurred. His efforts made us feel supported and cared for in an unfamiliar environment.
(To this day, I remain immensely grateful for Driver Dwik’s tremendous help and kindness.)
Recommending Driver Dwik’s Thoughtful Service
During this trip, our driver Dwik not only demonstrated exceptional professionalism but also made us feel incredibly welcomed with his warmth and attentiveness. His fluency in English ensured smooth communication and seamless itinerary planning, while his proactive sharing of interesting local insights added unforgettable memories to our journey.
Whether it was selecting attractions, recommending restaurants, or arranging surprise photo spots, Dwik’s top-notch service made us feel right at home. We highly recommend him to all friends planning a self-guided trip to Bali! He and his team were more than just drivers—they became like friends accompanying us, filling the entire journey with warmth.
Dwik’s Contact Information:
- LINE ID: kadek_dwi69
- WeChat ID: dwikbali
- WhatsApp / Phone: +6287764430262
- Facebook Page: I AM Dwik Bali Travel And Tour Service
- Email: dwingurah60@gmail.com
As our journey came to an end, we were left not only with the natural beauty of Bali but also the warmth and kindness of Dwik and the locals. These small details formed cherished memories in our hearts, and we look forward to returning to this beautiful island in the future to embark on new adventures.
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Bali Area Guides
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