(Friendly reminder: At the time of posting, VietJet Air still had many zero-dollar ticket promotions available. Interested friends should check them 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 with reclining seats, the overall flight comfort is significantly enhanced! However, there was a minor hiccup: the tall Western gentleman seated behind me, due to his limited space, kept bumping his knees against my seatback, which was slightly uncomfortable. But aside from this small incident, the overall flight experience was quite pleasant.
(VietJet Air tip: Choose seats in row 11 to ensure you can stretch your legs fully without touching the person in front of you.)
September 4th: Welcome Flower Necklaces and Our First Spa Experience
Upon landing at Bali Airport, our private driver, Dwik, warmly greeted us with flower necklaces and thoughtfully handed us ice-cold water, instantly making us feel refreshed! One of the reasons we chose Dwik was because he drives a brand-new 2024 Toyota SUV, which is spacious and quiet, perfect for relaxing during our transfers. Dwik’s American English is fluent, and we learned that he previously worked on a cruise ship between the US and Mexico, which explains his strong service orientation.
Afterwards, we headed to a nearby currency exchange spot, where the rates were much better than at the airport. Then, on Dwik’s recommendation, we visited Calma Spa for a two-hour relaxing treatment. Thanks to Dwik, we even got a better deal than the menu price. The spa experience was incredibly soothing, leaving us completely relaxed.
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 our spa session, we headed to Bali’s famous Rock Bar to enjoy the sunset. Sitting at the cliffside seats, watching the sun slowly sink, the breathtaking view 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 traditional Balinese Barong dance performances, adding a lot of charm to the evening. Later, 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.
▶Fairfield Legian Availability Check & Rates Trip Booking
September 5: Spectacular Nusa Penida Day Trip and Snorkeling Experience
Today’s highlight was a day trip to Nusa Penida. We set off early, and our driver even arranged for his girlfriend Indah to be our assistant guide, accompanying us throughout the day. She helped us choose good seats on the boat, took photos for us, and kept our belongings safe. Upon arriving at Nusa Penida, we visited stunning spots like Broken Beach and Kelingking Beach, where the sapphire-blue clear waters shimmered, leaving us in awe.
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 manta rays at 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 way back, saving us the planned trip to North Bali for dolphin watching—a truly unexpected gift.
This Nusa Penida trip, 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: Sunrise at the Volcano and Pork Cuisine Adventure
(Provided by Zhang Jiawei)
Today’s adventure began with a Mount Batur sunrise tour at 2 AM. Bundled up in the provided thick blankets, we bounced along in a jeep, accompanied by the twinkling stars in the night sky. As the sun slowly rose, the majestic view of the volcano unfolded before our eyes. Indah and our driver didn’t forget to capture romantic starry photos for us, making this moment one of the highlights of the trip.
(Provided by Zhang Jiawei)
Next, we enjoyed a natural hot spring bath by the volcano. Although the overwhelming number of flies was frustrating (seriously, too many—this spot isn’t recommended), the relaxing soak was still worth experiencing. For lunch, we dined at a local tourist restaurant with scenic views, savoring our meal while admiring the grandeur of the volcano. Before ending the day, our driver took us to try a local snack—Siobak, a delicious pork dish that truly impressed and gave us plenty of energy for the rest of our journey!
Editor’s Note: Siobak: A Balinese Dish from Singaraja
Siobak is a traditional dish from Singaraja, made with pork. Its name originates from Chinese culture (siu yuk, meaning roasted pork), perfectly blending local and Chinese flavors. Since Hinduism is prevalent in Bali, where beef is considered sacred, pork has become a popular choice.
The dish is seasoned with spices, and the pork is boiled at a low temperature to remove any gaminess. It’s then mixed with cloves, shallots, garlic, and other spices, creating a unique flavor.
You can find this dish in Singaraja or at specific restaurants in Denpasar. If you have the chance to visit Bali, don’t miss out on trying the distinctive taste of Siobak!
September 7: Waterfalls and Night Safari
Today’s itinerary is a bit more relaxed. We set out later in the morning and first headed to Tegenungan Waterfall, where the breathtaking natural scenery left us in awe. The lush greenery surrounding the cascading waters created a picturesque scene. For lunch, we enjoyed crispy pork rice recommended by our driver. Although most patrons were foreign tourists, the meal was full of local flavor.
(Provided by Zhang Jiawei)
In the afternoon, we relaxed with a massage at Jaen Spa, where our tired bodies and minds were soothed by skilled therapists. Later, we participated in the Bali Safari Marine Park’s night safari activity. Riding in a caged vehicle, we got up close to watch the nighttime feeding of animals, which was both thrilling and fascinating, offering a completely new experience.
Is the Bali Night Safari worth recommending?
Personally, I think the night safari is a great experience! 👍 It’s not just about being in a cage watching animals; the unique fire dance performance adds entertainment value to the entire activity. Additionally, a buffet dinner is included. While the dishes may not be top-tier, the flavors are decent, making it a satisfying experience overall! 🌃
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!
That evening, we stayed at Ubud Element by Westin in Ubud, where the upgraded room provided us with a comfortable night’s rest.
▶Check Availability & Rates for Ubud Element by Westin Trip Booking
More to Eat, Play, and Explore in Ubud
Ubud is the cultural and artistic heart of Bali, drawing countless travelers with its lush rice terraces, serene jungles, and deep-rooted traditions. It's the perfect place to unwind. Whether you're exploring local customs, soaking in natural beauty, or diving into exciting outdoor activities paired with stunning food and scenery, Ubud offers a unique experience that will move you. Want to learn more about Ubud? Click here
Accommodation Themes in Ubud
- 【Bali Ubud Accommodation】30+ Unique Stays in Ubud: Experience a Magical Journey Amid Bali's Mountain Scenery!
- 【Ubud Accommodation Guide】Ubud Villa Pool Villas: A Private Paradise – 20+ Stunning Bali Villa Recommendations
- Bali Ubud Yoga Retreat Accommodation: 10 Dreamy Choices Combining Yoga Classes and Spiritual Relaxation
- 18 Bali Resorts with Kids Clubs for Families: Best Choices in Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, Jimbaran, Uluwatu, and Ubud for a Family Vacation
- Bali Group Travel: Ubud Private Villa Rentals with 3, 4, 5, 6+ Bedrooms for Family Stays
September 8: Purification Ritual at Tirta Empul Temple & Rice Terrace Scenery**
Today we visited Tirta Empul Temple to experience the local purification ritual. This ceremony allowed us to feel Bali’s unique cultural and spiritual atmosphere. As the water flowed over our bodies, our minds found peace and release, filling us with renewed energy.
(Provided by Zhang Jiawei)
After the ceremony, we headed to the Luwak Coffee Plantation to taste the famous civet coffee. Although this was purely a tourist activity, it was 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 flavor was exquisite and definitely worth trying! After the meal, we took a short rest to recharge for the next part of our journey.
In the evening, we made our way to Ubud Palace to watch a traditional performance. For those of us who enjoy cultural shows, this was truly worthwhile, allowing us to deeply appreciate Bali’s cultural charm. The entire day was both fulfilling and enjoyable, adding many wonderful memories to our trip.
(Provided by Zhang Jiawei)
September 9: 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 Bali dawn. My girlfriend smiled as she watched the staff and guests, feeling the warmth and sincerity of the moment. This small birthday gesture became an unforgettable memory, adding even more meaning to our journey.
After breakfast, we took a short break and visited the Tegalalang Rice Terraces. The area was meticulously arranged like a painting. Although it was crowded with tourists and water wasn’t allowed 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, splashing water everywhere. The majestic and sacred scene left us breathless. Despite the number of tourists, the mysterious atmosphere of Tanah Lot 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 with a charming night view. We enjoyed creative tapas-style dishes, 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 cool, but… well, let’s keep it mysterious (laughs). It was one of those experiences you just know! 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 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 (all drinks in the fridge were complimentary!). The room was spacious and comfortable, featuring an open-air bathroom and a bathtub with a rain shower. The only minor drawbacks were that the hot water wasn’t hot enough and the bathtub drain was a bit loose, causing water to leak. Overall, though, we were very satisfied.
▶Check availability & rates at VIVARA Private Pool Villas & Spa Retreats Trip Booking
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 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 in a row, and before each show, we used ChatGPT to translate the descriptions of the performances through photos, which helped us better understand the mythological stories behind them, adding to the enjoyment of the experience.
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 Chinese-Indonesian fusion cuisine. It definitely didn’t disappoint - the flavors were refreshing and satisfying.
In the afternoon, we drove to Uluwatu Temple. Be careful of the monkeys along the way! These clever and mischievous creatures are known to steal (or swiftly snatch) tourists’ sunglasses, hats, and even hand sanitizer! We witnessed monkeys ‘unlocking’ people’s belongings and happily chewing on them, requiring staff to ‘redeem’ the items with food. It’s best to leave valuables in the car to avoid trouble.
(Provided by Zhang Jiawei)
As evening fell, we found seats to watch the famous Kecak Fire Dance. This performance combines Balinese mythology with traditional dance, presented on a semicircular tiered stage. The visual effect of being surrounded by fire dancers is truly mesmerizing. The entire performance has no musical accompaniment, only dozens of dancers chanting the powerful ‘Kecak’ rhythm, creating a captivating background sound. This unique performance completely immerses the audience. At the end of the show, a spectator proposed to his lover amidst the flames, blending this surprise proposal with the classic performance, creating a memorable moment in our journey.
What is the Kecak Fire Dance? What makes it special? Check out this introduction
This 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 Group Travel: Uluwatu Private Villas with 3/4/5/6+ Bedrooms for Family Stays
September 11th: A Reluctant Farewell
On our final morning, we strolled along our beloved beach, gazing deeply at Bali’s azure coastline. This beautiful sea and sky, no matter how many times we see it, continues to enchant us. We set down our luggage, sat on beach chairs, sipped refreshing coconut water, and stared at the distant horizon, quietly reminiscing about the past few days. Every attraction, every delicious meal, every burst of laughter seemed to remind us of how precious this trip was.
At the airport, we bid farewell to our driver, Dwik. With his ever-sunny smile, he sincerely told us, ‘I hope to see you again next time. I’ll be here waiting to pick you up.’ His warmth touched our hearts. Dwik and Indah’s assistance throughout the journey, along with their genuine kindness, made this trip truly unforgettable.
As the plane gradually ascended, we waved goodbye to Bali. This trip wasn’t just a celebration of a birthday, but also made more meaningful by the little hiccups along the way. Although we once faced the trouble of lost luggage, what stood out more were the warm human connections and unexpected surprises. Amidst laughter and emotion, we learned to cherish the beauty of the present moment even more.
The beauty of Bali lies not only in its magnificent natural scenery 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 expanse.
A bonus reminder: Dwik and Indah are exceptional photographers. Every shot they take looks like a masterpiece, saving us the cost of hiring a professional photographer. We unexpectedly ended up with a collection of stunning photos, proving once again the delightful surprises that travel brings!
Popular Outdoor Activities in Bali
- Bali Surfing Guide: Beaches for All Skill Levels
- Bali's 20 Beach Clubs with Free Entry
- Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park Admission Ticket
- Gates of Heaven Sunset Private Tour: Lempuyang & Tirta Gangga
- Bali Water Activities Deals on Klook
- Nusa Penida Snorkeling Experience (3–4 Snorkeling Spots)
- Bali Cultural Show Deals on Klook
- Ubud Jungle Sunrise Yoga & Meditation Experience
- 4 Top Snorkeling Spots in Nusa Penida Without the Hassle
- Bali ATV Adventure Guide: What to Know + FAQ
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 applied for our visas 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, we finally saw our suitcase slowly sliding down the conveyor belt. When I spotted my luggage, I quickly grabbed it. Everything seemed fine on the surface, so we 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 the TSA lock was destroyed. A small amount of loose change and a gold-colored 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!
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, 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 dedication. 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 moved us. He even stayed up all night, continuously discussing the matter with fellow drivers and contacting the travel company to see if similar incidents 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 assistance and kindness.)
Recommending Driver Dwik’s Thoughtful Service
Throughout our journey, our driver Dwik not only demonstrated exceptional professionalism but also made us feel incredibly welcome with his warmth and attentiveness. His fluency in English ensured smooth communication and seamless trip planning. He often went out of his way to share fascinating local insights, adding unforgettable memories to our adventure.
Whether it was selecting attractions, recommending restaurants, or surprising us with perfect photo spots, Dwik’s top-notch service made us feel right at home. We highly recommend him to anyone planning a self-guided trip to Bali! He and his team were more than just drivers—they felt like friends who accompanied us throughout the journey, making it truly heartwarming.
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 trip came to an end, we were left not only with the beauty of Bali’s nature but also the warmth of Dwik and the locals. These small details created cherished memories and left us eager to return to this beautiful island for new adventures in the future.
Did you find Zhang Jiawei’s itinerary inspiring? Start planning your own Bali adventure today! We also welcome you to share your travel stories in our community!
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