The following content is adapted from fellow traveler Pinkey Lo’s shared travelogue:
This marks our second visit to Bali this year. From October 11th to 18th, we spent an unforgettable eight days and seven nights on this “Island of the Gods.” The reason we chose to return was our deep attraction to Bali’s cultural charm, natural landscapes, and authentic cuisine. During this trip, we stayed at three distinct hotels, ranging from the lively Kuta Beach area to the serene rice fields of Ubud and the laid-back shores of Jimbaran, each leaving us with wonderful memories.
A special thanks to the group administrators and fellow travelers who offered advice and support when my husband suffered severe diarrhea during the trip. Your kindness helped us overcome the challenge (we’ll share how we dealt with Bali Belly later). This warmth became one of the most precious takeaways from our journey.
Day 1: Arrival in Bali, Beginning Our Tropical Island Adventure
Arrival and Currency Exchange
After several hours of flying, we finally set foot on Bali. The tropical air outside the airport greeted us with a faint scent of frangipani, instantly immersing us in the vacation vibe. After completing immigration procedures, our first stop was currency exchange. Rates in the city are usually better.
Bali Currency Exchange Guide
- Bali Money Exchange Horror Stories: Fellow Travelers Share Their Experiences, Don’t Be Fooled by Small Savings!
- Bali USD Exchange Rate: Large Bills or Small Bills? Complete Exchange Strategy Revealed!
- Credit Card Fraud/Fees/Additional Charges: Is It Safe to Use Credit Cards in Bali?
- The Ultimate Guide to Currency Exchange and Money Management in Bali/Indonesia: What currency is used? How to get the best exchange rate? Where are the best places to exchange money? Recommended exchange locations
Dinner at GOSHA x GOEMEROT
After settling into our accommodation, we eagerly headed to GOSHA x GOEMEROT for our first meal in Bali. This restaurant blends modern and traditional Balinese flavors, with beautifully presented dishes and authentic tastes. On our first night in this foreign land, we savored the meal while looking forward to the exciting itinerary over the next seven days.
Staying at Aloft Bali Kuta at Beachwalk
Accommodation Recommendation: Aloft Bali Kuta at Beachwalk
Tonight, we stayed at Aloft Bali Kuta in the Kuta area, opting for the Pool View Double room type, which featured two comfortable double beds. While the room wasn’t particularly spacious, the overall design was modern and stylish, with excellent cleanliness. What we appreciated most was the hotel’s prime location—directly connected to the Beachwalk shopping center, making it incredibly convenient for shopping or dining out. Additionally, it’s just a short walk from the bustling JL. Poppies II street. The hotel’s breakfast was both varied and delicious, and the staff were friendly and welcoming, setting a great tone for our Bali adventure.
Day 2: Tanah Lot Temple and Leisurely Seminyak
Morning: Tanah Lot Temple
After enjoying a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we drove to one of Bali’s most iconic landmarks—Tanah Lot Temple. This 16th-century Hindu temple stands on a massive rock in the sea, accessible by foot during low tide and surrounded by water during high tide, creating a picturesque scene. Standing on the shore, watching the waves crash against the rocks with the temple gleaming in the sunlight, the sense of awe was indescribable. We recommend visiting in the late afternoon when the sunset makes Tanah Lot even more breathtaking.
Quick Reference: Must-Visit Spots in Bali: Detailed Guide to Tanah Lot Temple, Tides, and Nearby Attractions
Afternoon: Dining and Shopping at Seminyak Square
After leaving Tanah Lot, we headed to the trendy Seminyak area, known for its boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes—a more modern part of Bali. We strolled around Seminyak Square, enjoying a leisurely shopping experience. The area is filled with designer boutiques offering unique clothing, accessories, and home decor, perfect for travelers looking for distinctive souvenirs.
Restaurant Recommendation: ENDO Seminyak
We had lunch at ENDO Seminyak near Seminyak Square, and it was a delightful surprise! Initially chosen at random, the restaurant exceeded our expectations with its exceptional food quality. Highly recommend their Bebek Betutu (Dirty Duck) and Mie Goreng (Fried Noodles). The duck was crispy on the outside and tender inside, perfectly spiced, while the noodles offered authentic Balinese flavors with generous toppings and hearty portions.
Dinner: WAHAHA
In the evening, we headed to WAHAHA for a pork ribs dinner. Enjoying delicious food under Bali’s warm night sky was the perfect way to end a fulfilling day.
Day 3: From Kuta to Ubud, Exploring a Different Side of Bali
Morning: Hotel Pool Time
Today was all about relaxation. After a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, we decided to make the most of the pool facilities. Playing in the water under Bali’s sunshine truly embodies the essence of a vacation. Lounging by the poolside, we soaked up the sun and enjoyed the island’s warmth.
Noon: Check-out and Massage
After checking out at noon, we visited a nearby spa for a traditional Balinese massage. Known for its aromatic oil massage, the skilled therapists provided just the right pressure. After over an hour of treatment, all travel fatigue vanished, leaving us completely relaxed in both body and mind.
Afternoon: Massimo Italian Restaurant and Gelato
After our massage, we headed to Massimo Italian Restaurant for lunch. This restaurant is quite renowned in Bali, offering authentic Italian cuisine. The dishes are truly authentic, especially the handmade pasta and pizza, making you feel as if you’re in Italy. After the meal, don’t forget to try their gelato—it’s creamy and smooth, the perfect dessert for a hot day.
Shopping at Grand Lucky Supermarket
Shopping Recommendation: Grand Lucky Supermarket
On our way to Ubud, we made a special stop at Grand Lucky Supermarket. This supermarket is highly recommended by many tourists for souvenir shopping, with transparent and reasonable prices, so you don’t have to worry about being overcharged as a tourist. The supermarket offers a wide variety of products, from Balinese coffee, spices, snacks to daily necessities. We bought a lot of local specialty foods here to bring back to Taiwan to share with friends and family.
Staying at KAAMALA Resort & Spa Ubud
Accommodation Recommendation: KAAMALA Resort & Spa Ubud
In the evening, we arrived at KAAMALA Resort & Spa in Ubud. We fell in love with this resort at first sight! We stayed in a private Villa, and when we opened the curtains the next morning, we were amazed by the golden rice field scenery before us. The breeze blowing through the rice fields made us feel as if we were in a paradise.
The hotel offers mainly Western-style breakfast. Although the choices aren’t particularly extensive, each dish is carefully prepared and tastes great. The resort also features an infinity pool, with views of the layered rice fields from the pool, which is absolutely stunning. What impressed us the most was the hotel’s service—the staff would proactively chat with guests, checking on their stay, making us feel not like we were in a hotel, but rather visiting a friend’s home.
▶KAAMALA Resort & Spa Booking Link
Day 4: Deep Exploration of Ubud, Experiencing the Essence of Bali Culture
Morning: Leisurely Time at the Hotel
On our first morning in Ubud, we chose to relax at the hotel, fully enjoying the private space of our villa and the surrounding rural scenery. Sitting on the balcony, gazing at the rice fields in front of us and listening to the distant chirping of insects and birds, this sense of tranquility away from the hustle and bustle was exactly why we came to Ubud.
Noon: Lunch at Bebek Tepi Sawah
Restaurant Recommendation: Bebek Tepi Sawah
At noon, we headed to Bebek Tepi Sawah for lunch. The name of the restaurant translates directly to ‘Duck by the Rice Field,’ and it truly lives up to its name, situated beside beautiful rice fields. The restaurant is decorated in traditional Balinese style, exuding a strong local atmosphere. We chose outdoor seating, enjoying the refreshing rural scenery while savoring authentic Balinese cuisine. The gentle breeze carried the scent of rice fields, making this lunch a delightful experience. The restaurant’s signature roasted duck dish is a must-try, with tender meat and perfectly balanced spices.
Afternoon: Bali Reptile Park
Attraction Recommendation: Bali Reptile Park
After lunch, we visited the Bali Reptile Park, a must-see for reptile enthusiasts! The ticket includes a full English guided tour by the park staff, which is one of the highlights of this attraction. The guides are very professional and passionate, providing detailed introductions to the habits and characteristics of each reptile, making the explanations lively and interesting. Even those who were initially a bit afraid of reptiles were infected by their enthusiasm.
The most special part was that during the tour, we had the opportunity to touch several gentle reptiles, including pythons and lizards. The staff ensured safety first and taught the correct way to touch them. This close-up experience gave us a new understanding and appreciation of these creatures. The entire visit takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, making it very suitable for family outings.
▶🎭 Bali Reptile Park is an excellent place to observe Southeast Asia’s most comprehensive collection of reptiles and learn about them (Klook Discount Ticket)
After visiting the reptile park, explore nearby attractions to extend your Bali nature adventure:
- 🐘 Bali Zoo: Offers a close-to-nature wildlife experience, featuring a variety of animals from Indonesia and around the world, perfect for a family day trip (Klook Discount Ticket)
- 🦁 Bali Safari & Marine Park: Embark on a safari adventure to encounter a variety of animals, including endangered species. Take a safari bus to see lions and zebras (Klook Discount Ticket)
- 🐳Bali Marine Safari: Explore diverse marine and terrestrial ecosystems, including capybaras. Experience the beauty of life through exploration, education, and conservation (Klook Discount Ticket)
- 🦚Bali Bird Park: A tropical paradise filled with exotic birds from around the world and immersive natural landscapes. Enjoy bird shows and interactive experiences, perfect for families (Klook Discount Ticket)
- 🛍️ Mason Elephant Park: Explore Bali’s only professional elephant rescue park and interact with Sumatran elephants. Watch elephant performances and connect with these gentle giants through feeding activities (Klook Discount Ticket)
Evening: Ubud Market Shopping
After leaving the reptile park, we headed to Ubud Market. This is the liveliest area in Ubud and the best place to buy Balinese handicrafts. The market offers a wide variety of goods, from traditional clothing, wood carvings, silver jewelry, woven bags to paintings. Bargaining is essential here, and it’s recommended to start at one-third of the vendor’s asking price. Enjoying the art of haggling is part of the market experience. Hidden among the market’s alleys are numerous cafes and small eateries, perfect for taking a break with a cup of Balinese coffee and soaking in Ubud’s relaxed atmosphere.
Dinner: Taman Dedari
We ended our day with dinner at Taman Dedari.
Quick Reference: 【Ubud Food + Scenery Recommendations】Taman Dedari Fairy Park
Day 5: Mount Kintamani and Traditional Village Exploration
Morning: Kintamani and Ritatkala Café
Attraction & Restaurant Recommendation: Kintamani & Ritatkala Café
Today we drove to Kintamani, Bali’s famous volcanic landscape area. Here, you can enjoy the magnificent views of Mount Batur and Lake Batur, making it one of Bali’s must-visit natural attractions.
We chose to dine at Ritatkala Café, a scenic coffee shop with an excellent view. I highly recommend choosing an outdoor seat, facing the volcano and lake, enjoying delicious food while marveling at nature’s craftsmanship. The restaurant’s chicken wings are particularly recommended—crispy skin, juicy meat, and paired with a special sauce, they are truly delicious. In the cool mountain climate, sipping hot coffee while gazing at the distant volcano creates an indescribable sense of tranquility.
Quick Reference: Top 12 Scenic Volcano Cafes in Kintamani, Bali 🌄☕
Afternoon: Penglipuran Village Traditional Village
Attraction Recommendation: Penglipuran Village
After leaving Kintamani, we headed to Penglipuran Village, a well-preserved traditional Balinese village. The uniform architectural style within the village fully showcases Bali’s traditional architectural aesthetics and cultural characteristics. The most special part is that visitors can enter the homes to tour, which was a dream come true for me, who has always been curious about the interior of traditional Balinese houses!
The streets in the village are clean and tidy, lined with bamboo forests, making it feel particularly serene. Some homes also sell handicrafts or local specialties, and prices are negotiable, so don’t hesitate to chat with the owners. We bought ice pops from one household, and the owner was very friendly, warmly inviting us to rest in the yard. Sitting in the courtyard of a traditional Balinese house, feeling the breeze and tranquility, the relaxation was so profound that I didn’t want to leave. The residents here live at a slow pace, full of warmth, making it an excellent place to experience Bali’s traditional culture.
Quick Reference: Time-Traveling Penglipuran Village: Experience Bali’s Ancient Charm
Rice Terrace Swing Experience
After visiting the village, we headed to the nearby rice terrace swing spot. Swinging in front of the layered green rice terraces has become one of the most popular activities in Bali in recent years. The moment you swing, you’re greeted with a view of lush rice fields and distant jungles, feeling as if you’re flying through nature. That sense of freedom and beauty became one of the most unforgettable memories of this trip.
Quick Reference: Ubud Swing: Bali’s 8 Most Beautiful Swing Photo Spots｜Ubud Swing/Dress Rental Guide
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
Day 6: Exploring the Southern Coastline and Cliffside Views
Morning: Hotel Pool Time
On our last morning in Ubud, we returned to the hotel’s infinity pool to fully enjoy the view of the rice fields. Floating in the pool while gazing at the pastoral scenery filled our hearts with peace and gratitude.
After Checkout: Uluwatu Cliff Road
After checking out, we drove to the Uluwatu area in southern Bali. Cruising along the cliffside coastal road, with the azure Indian Ocean on one side and steep limestone cliffs on the other, the expansive views opened our hearts. This road is considered one of Bali’s most beautiful coastlines, with several scenic spots along the way to stop and take photos—don’t miss them.
Afternoon: Afternoon Tea at Roosterfish, Pandawa Beach
We enjoyed afternoon tea at Roosterfish restaurant on Pandawa Beach. Located right by the beach, the restaurant offers stunning ocean views. Sipping a cold drink with light snacks on the breezy terrace while watching the waves lap the shore made for a simple yet delightful afternoon. Pandawa Beach, with its clear waters and white sand, is one of Bali’s more serene beaches, perfect for travelers looking to escape the crowds.
Evening: Uluwatu Temple
Attraction Recommendation: Uluwatu Temple ⚠️ Beware of Monkeys!
In the evening, we headed to Uluwatu Temple, one of Bali’s most important religious sites perched on a cliff. It’s also one of the best spots to watch the sunset. The temple stands majestically on a 70-meter-high cliff overlooking the vast Indian Ocean, offering a breathtaking view.
Important Reminder: The monkeys here are very mischievous and bold! We witnessed firsthand how a tourist’s glasses were snatched by a monkey. These monkeys have learned over time how to quickly grab items like glasses, hats, and sunglasses from tourists and then ‘demand’ food in exchange. Therefore, please keep your belongings secure when visiting. Consider using a strap for your glasses and avoid carrying shiny accessories or food to prevent attracting the monkeys’ attention.
Quick Reference: Bali Uluwatu Temple/Lover’s Cliff Travel Guide: Must-See Highlights and Practical Tips
Despite the need to be cautious around the monkeys, the view from Uluwatu Temple is truly stunning. As the sun sets, the golden light reflects off the ocean, creating a shimmering effect, and the temple appears even more sacred and solemn in the backlight. If time permits, stay to watch the traditional Kecak Fire Dance performance, a cultural feast of dance, music, and drama set against the backdrop of the sunset.
Quick Reference: Kecak Fire Dance: A Must-See Spectacular Performance in Bali (with Ticket Information)
Dinner: Ulu Cliffhouse
For dinner, we dined at Ulu Cliffhouse, a restaurant also located on the cliff with excellent ocean views. Under the stars, listening to the sound of the waves, we enjoyed a fine meal, perfectly concluding today’s exciting itinerary.
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
Day 7: Relaxing Time in Jimbaran and Crazy Shopping
Stay at Movenpick Resort & Spa Jimbaran
Accommodation Recommendation: Movenpick Resort & Spa Jimbaran
Today we arrived at our final hotel of the trip - Mövenpick Resort & Spa Jimbaran, marking our second stay at this resort. Perhaps due to being returning guests, we were fortunate enough to be upgraded to a poolside room, where we could dive directly into the pool from our balcony - a convenience that felt particularly luxurious.
The resort boasts multiple pool facilities, including a children’s water play area and water volleyball court, and regularly hosts various water activities, making it perfect for families. The hotel’s breakfast offers a rich and diverse selection, from Asian cuisine to Western dishes, all of excellent quality. The most delightful surprise was the daily free Chocolate Happy Hour in the afternoon, offering a variety of chocolate desserts and hot chocolate drinks - a true paradise for dessert lovers!
Mövenpick Resort & Spa Jimbaran is a luxurious 5-star resort in the Jimbaran area, offering a serene and romantic getaway option suitable for families. Located at a corner of Samasta Shopping Center, the resort enjoys convenient amenities. The shopping center also houses a fantastic ribs specialty restaurant! Check out Jie’s introduction:
This resort caters to families of all ages, providing a variety of activities and facilities to meet family needs. For younger children, the resort offers a Meera Kids Club with a pirate theme, allowing them to enjoy games and activities while parents relax.
The resort also features a dedicated children’s pool equipped with a water slide, ensuring endless fun in the sun for the whole family.
For older children and teenagers, the resort offers a range of entertainment options. They can enjoy the latest gaming consoles and various board games, movies, and video games in the game room. Additionally, the resort has a fitness center and spa, allowing parents to relax and rejuvenate while the kids enjoy their activities.
▶Check Availability & Rates at Mövenpick Resort & Spa
Morning: Relaxing at the Hotel
Today we decided to fully unwind and enjoy the hotel’s facilities. We spent the morning sunbathing by the pool, swimming, and occasionally ordering refreshing drinks, completely immersing ourselves in vacation mode.
Afternoon: Shopping Spree at Krisna
Shopping Recommendation: Krisna
In the afternoon, we headed to Krisna Souvenir Store for our final shopping spree. As Bali’s largest chain of souvenir shops, Krisna offers an incredibly diverse range of products, from food and clothing to accessories and home goods. With transparent and affordable pricing clearly marked, there’s no need for haggling, making it one of the best places to shop for gifts.
We stocked up on coffee, cookies, chocolate, spices, and other local specialties to share with friends and family back in Taiwan. Krisna has multiple branches, each quite spacious, so we recommend setting aside at least 1-2 hours for shopping.
Dinner: Bebek Bengil (Dirty Duck Diner)
For dinner, we visited Bebek Bengil near our hotel, a renowned chain restaurant famous for its Bebek Betutu (dirty duck). The duck is slow-roasted to perfection, with crispy skin and tender, flavorful meat, served with traditional Balinese spices and sides. On our last evening, savoring this authentic Balinese dish filled us with both nostalgia and satisfaction.
Day 8: Farewell to Bali, Until Next Time
Checkout and Lunch
On our final day, we enjoyed one last lavish breakfast at the hotel before reluctantly checking out. After lunch at a nearby restaurant, we headed to the airport for our flight back to Taiwan.
Heading to the Airport
On the way to the airport, we reminisced about the past eight days—from the lively beaches of Kuta and the serene countryside of Ubud to the laid-back shores of Jimbaran; from the majestic Tanah Lot Temple and the sacred Uluwatu Temple to traditional villages and volcanic landscapes; from authentic Balinese cuisine to the warm and friendly locals. Every moment left a lasting impression on our memories.
Travel Insights and Practical Tips
Why We Fell in Love with Bali
This was our second visit to Bali this year, and by the end of the trip, we were already discussing the possibility of returning. What draws us to Bali is not just its stunning natural scenery, but also its unique cultural heritage, devout religious atmosphere, diverse culinary options, and the warm hospitality of the Balinese people.
Important Reminders
⚠️ Beware of Monkeys!
At places like Uluwatu Temple and the Sacred Monkey Forest where monkeys are present, extra caution is essential! We witnessed firsthand a tourist’s glasses being snatched by a monkey. These monkeys are incredibly clever and know how to ‘negotiate’ after stealing items. Recommendations:
- Secure glasses and sunglasses with straps
- Avoid carrying shiny accessories or food
- Ensure bags are properly zipped
- Maintain a safe distance from monkeys; do not attempt to touch or feed them
⚠️ Don’t Underestimate Bali Belly!—Our Personal Harrowing Experience
During this trip, my husband unfortunately experienced a severe case of Bali Belly, which was quite alarming. Here, we share the details in hopes that those planning a trip to Bali can learn from our experience.
Night of Day 6: Symptoms Begin
On our first night at Movenpick Resort, my husband suddenly complained of stomach pain and needed to use the bathroom. That night, he made three trips to the toilet and tossed and turned all night, resulting in extremely poor sleep quality. At the time, we thought it was just a mild case of travel adjustment, but little did we know it was the calm before the storm.
Morning of Day 7: A Sudden Turn for the Worse
The next morning, my husband woke up saying he had a splitting headache. When I touched his forehead, I was shocked—he was running a high fever! Soon after, his diarrhea symptoms worsened, and he couldn’t leave the room to have breakfast. I had to take our child to the restaurant alone.
However, when we returned to the room after breakfast, the sight before me was utterly alarming. My husband was sitting weakly on the toilet, his upper body slumped over the sink. He told me that due to severe stomach pain and the constant urge to use the bathroom, he didn’t dare move away from the toilet. Our child, seeing him like this, thought he had fainted and burst into tears. At that moment, I panicked.
I immediately took out the emergency medicine we had brought from Taiwan and gave him painkillers, fever reducers, and anti-diarrheal medication, then let him rest. Two hours later, his fever subsided, but the diarrhea showed no signs of improvement. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, I decided to seek help at a local pharmacy.
Seeking Help at the Pharmacy
At the pharmacy, I described my husband’s symptoms to the pharmacist. The pharmacist professionally recommended two medications (shown in the photo) and explained the dosage and precautions in detail. I quickly purchased the medicine and returned to the hotel to administer it to my husband.
In the afternoon, I took our child to Krisna to buy souvenirs, partly to distract them from worrying about their father and partly to make the most of our precious travel time. When we returned to the hotel and saw that my husband’s condition had slightly improved, we felt a bit relieved.
A Mistake at Dinner
In the evening, we went to Bebek Bengil near the hotel for dinner. My husband was very cautious, only daring to drink clear soup and eat plain rice, thinking it would be safe. However, after returning to the room, he started having diarrhea again. This time, I was truly worried and didn’t know what to do, so I posted a request for help in an online community. Thanks to the administrators and kind-hearted members, who offered valuable advice and warm concern late at night, we didn’t feel too panicked in a foreign land.
Day 8: The Challenging Journey Home
On the morning of the eighth day, I packed some white toast from the hotel restaurant for my husband to eat, but he continued to suffer from diarrhea. I began to worry whether he would be able to board the flight back to Taiwan smoothly, feeling very anxious. Fortunately, my husband said that as long as he could sit, the pain was still within bearable limits.
And so, we nervously made our way to the airport. On the plane, my husband didn’t dare to eat the in-flight meal, enduring abdominal discomfort throughout the entire flight. Finally, we landed safely in Taipei, but after returning home, my husband still experienced stomach pain and diarrhea.
Post-Return Medical Treatment and Recovery
Early the next morning, we immediately went to the clinic. The doctor inquired in detail about the symptoms and course of the illness, prescribing anti-diarrheal medication, probiotics, and other drugs. After taking the medication, the symptoms gradually began to ease, but there were still intermittent stomach pains and diarrhea.
During the recovery period, my husband only dared to eat white toast. Once he tried drinking a bit of soup, but it triggered diarrhea again, scaring him into not daring to try any other foods afterward. The entire illness lasted for six days, and it wasn’t until the sixth day that the diarrhea finally stopped completely.
The Surprising ‘Side Effect’
This bout of Bali Belly caused my husband’s weight to drop from 78 kg to 73 kg, a total loss of 5 kg! Although this is definitely not a healthy way to lose weight, it could be considered a blessing in disguise, right? My husband joked, ‘When the stomach pain hit, I felt like I was about to give birth!’
Cause Analysis and Reflection
Afterward, we carefully recalled the entire trip, and both my child and I were fine, only my husband was affected. We speculated the possible reasons as follows:
- Ice Issue: On the 6th day at noon, my husband bought a cup of freshly brewed iced coffee filled with ice cubes from Pepito supermarket. The source of ice in Bali is unclear, and it might very well be the culprit.
- Hand Hygiene: Men sometimes get lazy and don’t wash their hands properly before meals. My child and I, however, strictly adhere to washing hands before eating. Unfortunately, that evening we had pizza, which required eating with our hands, increasing the risk of infection.
- Probiotic Protection: Throughout the 8-day trip, my child and I took gastrointestinal probiotics every morning, which might have helped protect our digestive health to some extent. (Note: This is purely personal speculation and not medical advice.)
It’s worth mentioning that this is already our second encounter with Bali Belly this year. In January, we stayed in Bali for 6 days, and all three of us experienced varying degrees of diarrhea, with our child even running a fever. However, the symptoms were relatively mild back then, and we recovered quickly after taking medication. We didn’t expect my husband’s symptoms to be so severe this time, truly experiencing the power of Bali Belly.
Advice for All Travelers
After this painful experience, I would like to offer the following advice to friends planning to visit Bali:
- Prepare sufficient gastrointestinal medication before departure: Including anti-diarrheal, fever-reducing and pain-relieving drugs, probiotics, and stomach medicine. Don’t take chances; it’s better to have them and not need them.
- Absolutely avoid drinks with ice cubes: This cannot be emphasized enough! Avoid freshly brewed drinks from street vendors, supermarkets, and restaurants if they contain ice. Also, ensure that bottled water is sealed.
- Implement hand hygiene before meals: Wash hands thoroughly with soap or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Don’t skip this step because it’s troublesome.
- Consider taking probiotics daily: Start taking them a few days before departure and continue throughout the trip, which may help protect your digestive system.
- Be cautious when choosing street food: Pay attention to hygiene; if the environment looks unclean, it’s better to pass.
- Don’t push through severe symptoms: If you experience high fever, severe dehydration, or persistent diarrhea, seek immediate assistance from a local pharmacy or go directly to a hospital. Don’t wait until the next day like we did.
- Travel insurance is crucial: Ensure your insurance covers overseas medical expenses, which can alleviate the burden if you need medical attention.
Special Thanks
Here, I would like to extend special thanks to the administrators and all members of the Bali community group. During my most panicked and helpless moments, your advice, concern, and support helped us calmly handle the situation and smoothly overcome the crisis. This warmth will forever be remembered in our hearts.
Practical Shopping Information
Recommended Shopping Locations:
- Grand Lucky Supermarket - Ideal for daily necessities, snacks, drinks, etc., with transparent and reasonable prices
- Krisna - The largest chain store for souvenirs, offering a wide range of products at affordable prices without the need for bargaining
- Ubud Market - The go-to place for handicrafts and traditional clothing, remember to bargain
Conclusion
Our eight-day Bali journey took us from bustling beach areas to serene mountain rice fields, from modern shopping centers to traditional ancient villages, from lively markets to tranquil temples. The island’s diversity and inclusiveness ensure that every travel style can find its own corner.
Despite experiencing a severe case of Bali Belly that caused us great concern during the trip, it did not diminish our love for Bali. Instead, it taught us to be more cautious about potential risks while traveling and to cherish every moment of peace and health.
Sampai jumpa lagi, Bali! (Goodbye, Bali!) We will definitely return. 🌺
Did you find Pinkey Lo’s itinerary exciting? Quickly plan your own Bali free and easy trip! We also welcome everyone to share your itineraries in the community!
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