The following content is adapted from a travelogue shared by group member Pinkey Lo:
This was our second visit to Bali this year. From October 11 to 18, we spent an unforgettable eight days and seven nights on this ‘Island of the Gods.’ We chose to return because we were deeply captivated by Bali’s cultural charm, natural landscapes, and authentic cuisine. During this trip, we stayed at three different hotels, each with its own unique style—from the lively Kuta Beach area to the serene rice paddies of Ubud, and then to the laid-back shores of Jimbaran. Every place left us with wonderful memories.
A special thanks to the group admins and fellow members. When my husband suffered from severe diarrhea during the trip, your advice and care helped us get through the ordeal (I’ll share our solution for Bali Belly at the end). This warmth became one of the most precious takeaways from the journey.
Day 1: Arriving in Bali, Kicking Off a Tropical Island Adventure
Arrival and Currency Exchange
After a few hours of flying, we finally set foot on Bali’s soil. The tropical air hit us as we stepped out of the airport, carrying a faint scent of frangipani, instantly immersing us in a vacation vibe. After clearing immigration, our first stop was to exchange money. The exchange rates at city-center money changers are usually better.
Bali Currency Exchange Guide
- 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
- Bali USD Exchange Rate: Large Bills or Small Bills? Complete Exchange Strategy Revealed!
- Bali Money Exchange Horror Stories: Fellow Travelers Share Their Experiences, Don’t Be Fooled by Small Savings!
- Credit Card Fraud/Fees/Additional Charges: Is It Safe to Use Credit Cards in Bali?
Dinner at GOSHA x GOEMEROT
After settling our luggage, we couldn’t wait to head 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 a foreign land, we savored the food while eagerly anticipating the exciting itinerary ahead over the next seven days.
Check-in at Aloft Bali Kuta at Beachwalk
Accommodation Recommendation: Aloft Bali Kuta at Beachwalk
Tonight we checked into Aloft Bali Kuta in the Kuta area, opting for the Pool View Double room, which comes with two comfortable double beds. While the room isn’t particularly spacious, the design is modern and stylish, with excellent cleanliness. What impressed us most was the hotel’s location—directly connected to the Beachwalk shopping mall, making it incredibly convenient for shopping or dining. Plus, it’s a short walk to the lively JL. Poppies II street. The hotel’s breakfast offers a wide variety of delicious options, and the staff are friendly and welcoming, giving our Bali trip a great start.
Day 2: Tanah Lot Temple Visit and Relaxed Time in 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 sits atop a massive offshore rock, accessible on foot during low tide but surrounded by water at high tide, creating a picturesque scene. Standing on the shore, watching the waves crash against the rocks as the temple glistens in the sunlight, the awe is indescribable. I recommend visiting in the afternoon, as the temple at sunset is breathtakingly beautiful.
Quick Reference: Bali Travel Must-Visit: Tanah Lot Detailed Guide with Tides and Nearby Attractions
Midday: Exploring and Dining at Seminyak Square
Leaving Tanah Lot, we headed to the trendy Seminyak area, home to numerous boutiques, restaurants, and cafes, making it one of Bali’s more modern districts. We strolled around Seminyak Square, enjoying a leisurely shopping spree. This area is dotted with designer boutiques where you can find unique clothing, accessories, and home decor—perfect for travelers seeking special souvenirs.
Restaurant Recommendation: ENDO Seminyak
We had lunch at ENDO Seminyak, right next to Seminyak Square, and it was a delightful surprise! Originally a random pick, the quality of the food far exceeded expectations. I highly recommend their Bebek Betutu (crispy duck) and Mie Goreng (fried noodles). The crispy duck has a crunchy skin and tender meat, perfectly seasoned with spices; the fried noodles are authentically Balinese, loaded with toppings and generous in portion.
Dinner: WAHAHA
As evening fell, we headed to WAHAHA for a pork rib dinner. Under Bali’s warm night sky, savoring the delicious meal was the perfect way to end a fulfilling day.
Day 3: From Kuta to Ubud, Experiencing a Different Side of Bali
Morning: Pool Time at the Hotel
No rush today. After a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, we decided to make the most of the pool facilities. Splashing around and relaxing under the Balinese sun—this is what a vacation should feel like. Lying on the poolside loungers, we soaked up the sun and embraced the island’s warmth.
Midday: Check-out and Massage
After checking out at noon, we headed to a nearby spa for a traditional Balinese massage. Bali is famous for its essential oil massages, and the therapists were skilled with just the right pressure. After an hour-long session, all travel fatigue melted away, leaving us completely refreshed in both body and mind.
Afternoon: Massimo Italian Restaurant & Gelato
After the massage, we headed to Massimo Italian Restaurant for lunch. This restaurant is quite renowned in Bali, serving authentic Italian cuisine. The dishes are true to their origins, especially the handmade pasta and pizza, making you feel as if you’re in Italy. After your meal, don’t forget to try their gelato—smooth and creamy, it’s the perfect dessert for the hot weather.
Shopping at Grand Lucky Supermarket
Shopping Recommendation: Grand Lucky Supermarket
On our way to Ubud, we made a special detour to Grand Lucky Supermarket for some shopping. This supermarket is a popular spot among tourists for buying souvenirs, with transparent and reasonable prices, so you don’t have to worry about being overcharged as a tourist. The store offers a wide variety of products, from Balinese coffee, spices, cookies, and snacks to daily necessities. We picked up quite a few local specialties here to bring back to Taiwan and share with friends and family.
Check-in at KAAMALA Resort & Spa Ubud
Accommodation Recommendation: KAAMALA Resort & Spa Ubud
By early evening, we arrived at KAAMALA Resort & Spa in Ubud. We fell in love with this resort at first sight! We stayed in a standalone villa, and when we pulled back the curtains the next morning, the golden rice field view before us left us in awe. The breeze rustled through the rice stalks, making us feel like we were in a paradise.
The hotel’s breakfast is mainly Western-style, and while the selection isn’t particularly extensive, every dish is thoughtfully prepared and tastes great. The resort also features an infinity pool, offering stunning layered views of the rice fields. What impressed us most was the service—the staff would proactively chat with guests and check on their stay, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere that felt less like a hotel and more like visiting a friend’s home.
▶KAAMALA Resort & Spa Booking Link Trip Booking
Day 4: Deep Dive into Ubud, Embracing the Essence of Balinese Culture
Morning: Leisurely Time at the Hotel
On our first morning in Ubud, we chose to unwind at the hotel, fully enjoying the private space of the villa and the surrounding rural scenery. Sitting on the balcony, gazing at the rice paddies and listening to the distant chirping of insects and birds, this sense of tranquility far from the hustle and bustle is exactly why we came to Ubud.
Noon: Lunch at Bebek Tepi Sawah
Restaurant Recommendation: Bebek Tepi Sawah
At midday, we headed to Bebek Tepi Sawah for lunch. The name of this restaurant literally translates to ‘Duck by the Rice Field,’ and it truly lives up to its name, nestled beside beautiful rice paddies. The restaurant is decorated in a traditional Balinese style, exuding a strong local atmosphere. We chose an outdoor seat, enjoying the refreshing rural views while savoring authentic Balinese cuisine. A gentle breeze carried the scent of rice, making this lunch a truly delightful experience. The restaurant’s signature roast duck is not to be missed—tender meat with perfectly balanced spices.
Afternoon: Bali Reptile Park
Attraction Recommendation: Bali Reptile Park
After lunch, we visited Bali Reptile Park, an absolute must for reptile enthusiasts! The entrance fee includes a full English-guided tour by the park staff, which is one of the park’s biggest highlights. The guides are highly professional and passionate, providing detailed explanations of each reptile’s habits and characteristics. Their lively and engaging commentary is so infectious that even those initially afraid of reptiles will be won over.
💰 Want to know ticket prices for more attractions? Check out the Bali Ticket Price Guide for real-time reference prices of 49 popular spots, complete with Klook/Trip.com comparison links.
What makes it most special is that during the tour, we had the chance to touch several docile reptiles, including pythons and lizards. The staff ensured safety first and taught us the proper way to handle them. This up-close encounter gave us a whole new perspective and understanding of these creatures. The entire visit takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, making it perfect for a family outing.
▶🎭 Bali Reptile Park is a fantastic place to see the widest variety of reptiles in Southeast Asia and learn all about them (Klook discount ticket)
After visiting the Reptile Park, you can easily explore nearby attractions to extend your Bali nature adventure:
- 🐘 Bali Zoo: Offers an up-close animal experience in a natural setting, featuring a variety of creatures from Indonesia and around the world—perfect for a family day out (Klook discount ticket)
- 🦁 Bali Safari & Marine Park:
- Embark on a safari adventure and encounter a wide range of animals, including endangered species. Hop on the safari bus to see lions and zebras up close (Klook discount ticket)
- 🐳 Marine Safari Bali: Explore diverse marine and terrestrial ecosystems, including capybaras. Experience the beauty of life through exploration, education, and conservation (Klook discount ticket)
- 🦚Bali Bird Park: An exotic tropical paradise showcasing rare birds from around the globe amid immersive natural landscapes. With captivating bird shows and interactive experiences, it’s ideal for a family outing (Klook discount ticket)
- 🛍️ Mason Elephant Park: Explore Bali’s only dedicated elephant rescue park and interact closely with Sumatran elephants. Enjoy the park’s elephant shows and connect with these gentle giants through feeding activities (Klook discount tickets)
Evening: Ubud Market Stroll
After leaving the Reptile Park, we head to Ubud Market. This is the liveliest area in Ubud and the best spot to shop for Balinese handicrafts. The market is packed with everything from traditional clothing, wood carvings, silver jewelry, woven bags, to paintings. Prices here are negotiable—try starting at one-third of the asking price; haggling is part of the fun! Tucked away in the alleys are cozy cafes and small eateries, perfect for taking a break with a cup of Balinese coffee and soaking in Ubud’s laid-back vibe.
Dinner: Taman Dedari
In the evening, we had dinner at Taman Dedari, bringing a fulfilling day to a perfect close.
Quick Reference: 【Ubud Food + Scenery Recommendation】Taman Dedari Fairy Park
Day 5: Exploring Mount Kintamani and a Traditional Village
Morning: Kintamani & Ritatkala Café
Attraction & Restaurant Recommendation: Kintamani & Ritatkala Café
Today we drove to Kintamani, Bali’s famous volcanic landscape area. Here, you can take in the stunning views of Mount Batur and Lake Batur—one of Bali’s must-visit natural attractions.
We chose to dine at Ritatkala Café, a scenic coffee shop with an unbeatable vantage point. I highly recommend grabbing an outdoor seat, facing the volcano and lake, to enjoy your meal while marveling at nature’s masterpiece. The chicken wings here are especially recommended—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and delicious with the special dipping sauce. Sipping hot coffee in the cool mountain air while gazing at the distant volcano—it’s an indescribably refreshing experience.
Quick Reference: Top 12 Scenic Volcano Cafés in Kintamani, Bali 🌄☕
Bali Kintamani Mount Batur Lake Guide: Sunrise Hiking × Royal Boat × Lakeview Cafés × Hot Springs
Afternoon: Penglipuran Village Traditional Village
Attraction Recommendation: Penglipuran Village
After leaving Kintamani, we headed to Penglipuran Village, a well-preserved traditional Balinese village. The architecture here is uniform, showcasing Bali’s traditional building aesthetics and cultural essence. What makes this place truly special is that visitors can step inside the homes—a dream come true for someone like me who has always been curious about the interior of traditional Balinese houses.
The village streets are clean and tidy, lined with bamboo groves, making for a serene stroll. Some homes also sell handmade crafts or local specialties, and prices are negotiable, so feel free to chat with the owners. We bought popsicles from one family, and the host was incredibly warm, inviting us to rest in their courtyard. Sitting in that traditional Balinese compound, feeling the gentle breeze and tranquility, the sense of relaxation made me never want to leave. Life here moves at a slow, heartfelt pace—it’s a perfect place to experience Bali’s traditional culture.
Quick Reference: A Journey Through Time in Penglipuran Village: Experience Bali’s Ancient Charm
Rice Terrace Swing Experience
After exploring the village, we headed to a nearby rice terrace swing spot. Swinging in front of layered green rice terraces has become one of Bali’s most popular activities in recent years. The moment the swing lifted off, I was greeted by a sea of emerald paddies and distant jungles—it felt like flying through nature. That sense of freedom and beauty became one of the most unforgettable memories of the trip.
Quick Reference: Ubud Swings: The 8 Best Swing Photo Spots in Bali | Ubud Swing & Dress Rental Guide
More to Explore in Ubud
Ubud is the cultural and artistic heart of Bali, drawing travelers with its lush rice terraces, serene jungles, and deep-rooted traditions. It's the perfect place to unwind and recharge. Whether you're diving into local customs, soaking up natural beauty, or seeking thrilling outdoor adventures paired with stunning food and scenery, Ubud offers a truly unique experience. Want more Ubud tips? Click here
Ubud Accommodation Themes
- 【Bali Ubud Accommodation】30+ Unique Stays in Ubud: Experience a Magical Journey Amid Bali's Mountain Scenery!
- 【Ubud Accommodation Guide】Ubud Villa Pool Villas: Private Paradise – 20+ Stunning Bali Villa Recommendations
- Bali Ubud Yoga Retreats: 10 Dreamy Choices Combining Yoga Classes and Mindful Relaxation
- 18 Bali Kids Club Family Resorts: Best Family-Friendly Options in Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, Jimbaran, Uluwatu & Ubud
- Bali Group Travel: Ubud Private Villa Rentals with 3, 4, 5, 6+ Bedrooms for Family Stays
Day 6: Southern Coastline Exploration & Cliff Views
Morning: Pool Time at the Hotel
On our last morning in Ubud, we returned to the hotel’s infinity pool to soak in the rice field views one last time. Floating in the water, gazing out at the pastoral landscape, I felt a deep sense of peace and gratitude.
After Checkout at Noon: Uluwatu Cliff Road
After checking out, we drove to the Uluwatu area in southern Bali. Cruising along the coastal cliff road, with the deep blue Indian Ocean on one side and steep limestone cliffs on the other, the breathtaking scenery opens up the soul. This stretch of road is hailed as one of Bali’s most beautiful coastlines, with several viewpoints along the way where you can stop and take photos—don’t miss them.
Afternoon: Roosterfish Afternoon Tea at Pandawa Beach
We enjoyed afternoon tea at Roosterfish restaurant on Pandawa Beach. Located right by the beach, this restaurant offers stunning ocean views. Ordering an iced drink and some light bites, we sat on the breezy terrace, watching the waves crash onto the shore—a simple yet perfect afternoon. Pandawa Beach boasts clear waters and white sand, making it one of Bali’s quieter beaches, ideal for travelers looking to escape the crowds.
Evening: Uluwatu Temple
Attraction Recommendation: Uluwatu Temple ⚠️ Beware of Monkeys!
As evening approached, we headed to Uluwatu Temple, a sacred site perched on a cliff edge. It’s one of Bali’s most important religious landmarks and one of the best spots to watch the sunset. The temple stands on a 70-meter-high cliff, facing the endless Indian Ocean, exuding a majestic aura.
Important Reminder: The monkeys here are incredibly mischievous and bold! We witnessed tourists having their glasses snatched away by monkeys. These monkeys, through long-term interaction with visitors, have learned to quickly grab items like glasses, hats, and sunglasses, then ‘demand’ food in exchange. So, when visiting, be sure to secure your belongings—use a strap for your glasses, and avoid wearing shiny accessories or carrying food to avoid attracting their attention.
Quick Reference: Bali Uluwatu Temple / Cliff Travel Guide: Must-See Highlights & Practical Tips
Despite the need to watch out for monkeys, the views at Uluwatu Temple are truly stunning. As the sun sets, golden light spills across the sea, creating a shimmering surface, and the temple appears even more sacred and solemn in the backlight. If time allows, stay to watch the traditional Kecak Fire Dance performance, a cultural spectacle blending dance, music, and drama against the sunset glow.
Quick Reference: Kecak Fire Dance: A Must-See Spectacular Performance in Bali (With Booking Info)
Dinner: Ulu Cliffhouse
In the evening, we dined at Ulu Cliffhouse, another restaurant perched on a cliff with stunning ocean views. Under the stars, listening to the waves, we savored exquisite cuisine, perfectly capping off an exciting day.
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
Day 7: Leisurely Time in Jimbaran and Crazy Shopping
Check-in at Movenpick Resort & Spa Jimbaran
Accommodation Recommendation: Movenpick Resort & Spa Jimbaran
Today we arrived at our final hotel of the trip—Movenpick Resort & Spa Jimbaran, marking our second stay at this resort. Perhaps because we were returning guests, we were lucky enough to be upgraded to a poolside room, where we could jump directly into the pool from our balcony—a convenience that felt incredibly luxurious.
This resort boasts multiple pool facilities, including a children’s splash zone and a water volleyball court, and regularly hosts various water activities, making it perfect for families. The hotel’s breakfast buffet is rich and varied, offering everything from Asian dishes to Western fare, all of excellent quality. The biggest surprise? A complimentary Chocolate Happy Hour every afternoon, featuring an array of chocolate desserts and hot chocolate drinks—a paradise for dessert lovers!
Mövenpick Resort & Spa Jimbaran is a luxurious 5-star resort in the Jimbaran area, offering a serene and romantic getaway suitable for families. Located on the edge of the Samasta shopping center, it’s quite convenient for daily needs. This shopping center also houses a fantastic pork rib specialty restaurant! Check out Xiao Jie’s introduction:
This resort is suitable for families of all ages, offering a variety of activities and facilities to meet family needs. For younger children, the resort features 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 waterslide, ensuring the whole family enjoys endless fun in the sun.
For older kids and teenagers, the resort offers a variety of entertainment options. They can enjoy the latest gaming consoles, a selection of 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 are entertained.
▶Check Mövenpick Resort & Spa availability & rates Trip Booking
Morning: Lazing Around the Hotel
Today, we decided to fully unwind and enjoy all the hotel’s amenities. In the morning, we soaked up the sun by the pool, swam, and occasionally ordered a chilled drink, fully embracing vacation mode.
Afternoon: Big Shopping at Krisna
Shopping Recommendation: Krisna
In the afternoon, we headed to Krisna souvenir shop for a final shopping spree. Krisna is the largest chain of souvenir stores in Bali, offering an incredibly wide range of products from food, clothing, and accessories to home goods. Prices are transparent and affordable, with clear tags and no haggling needed, making it one of the best choices for buying souvenirs.
We bought plenty of coffee, cookies, chocolate, spices, and other local specialties to bring back to Taiwan and share with friends and family. Krisna has multiple branches, each with a large space, so it’s recommended to set aside at least 1-2 hours for shopping.
Dinner: Bebek Bengil (Dirty Duck Diner)
In the evening, we dined at Bebek Bengil near our hotel. This restaurant is famous for its dirty duck (Bebek Betutu), a chain eatery in Bali. The duck is slow-smoked until the skin is crispy and the meat is tender and flavorful, served with spices and side dishes—a true taste of traditional Balinese cuisine. On this night, as our journey neared its end, savoring the delicious Balinese food filled us with both reluctance and contentment.
Day 8: Farewell to Bali, Looking Forward to Our Next Visit
Check-out and Lunch at Noon
On the final day of our trip, we enjoyed one last hearty breakfast at the hotel before reluctantly checking out. After lunch nearby, we headed to the airport, ready to fly back to Taiwan.
Heading to the Airport
On the way to the airport, we reminisced about the highlights of these eight days—from the lively beaches of Kuta, the serene rice fields of Ubud, to the laid-back shores of Jimbaran; from the majestic Tanah Lot temple, the sacred Uluwatu temple, to traditional villages and volcanic landscapes; from authentic Balinese cuisine to the warm and friendly locals. Every scene is etched deeply in our memories.
Travel Reflections 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 isn’t just its stunning natural scenery, but also its unique cultural heritage, devout religious atmosphere, diverse culinary options, and the genuine kindness of the Balinese people.
Important Reminders
⚠️ Watch Out for Monkeys!
At spots like Uluwatu Temple and the Sacred Monkey Forest where monkeys roam, be extra cautious! We witnessed tourists having their glasses snatched right off their faces. These monkeys are incredibly clever—they grab items and then “negotiate” for a trade. Recommendations:
- Secure glasses and sunglasses with a strap
- Avoid wearing shiny jewelry or carrying food
- Keep your bag zipped up tight
- Maintain a safe distance from the monkeys; don’t try to touch or feed them
⚠️ Don’t Underestimate Bali Belly! — Our Harrowing Experience
During this trip, my husband suffered a severe case of Bali Belly, and the whole ordeal was quite alarming. I’m sharing the details here as a cautionary tale for anyone planning a trip to Bali.
Night 6: Symptoms Begin
On the very first night we checked into the Movenpick hotel, my husband suddenly complained of stomach pain and needed to use the bathroom. That night, he ended up running to the toilet three times, tossing and turning all night with terrible sleep quality. At the time, we thought it was just mild digestive discomfort from the new environment—little did we know it was the calm before the storm.
Day 7 Morning: A Sudden Turn for the Worse
The next morning, my husband woke up complaining of a splitting headache. When I touched his forehead, I was shocked—he was burning up with a high fever! Soon after, his diarrhea worsened, and he couldn’t leave the room to have breakfast. I had to take our child to the restaurant alone.
But when we returned to the room after eating, the sight before me was truly alarming. My husband was sitting weakly on the toilet, his entire upper body slumped helplessly over the sink. He told me that because of the severe stomach pain and constant urge to go, he didn’t dare leave the toilet for a second. Seeing him like this, our child thought he had fainted and burst into tears. In that moment, I panicked.
I immediately grabbed the backup medicine we brought from Taiwan, gave him pain relievers, fever reducers, and anti-diarrhea medication, then let him rest. Two hours later, the fever subsided, but the diarrhea showed no sign of easing. Realizing how serious this was, 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. He was very professional, recommending two medications (shown in the photo) and explaining how to take them along with precautions. I quickly bought the medicine and returned to the hotel for my husband to take.
In the afternoon, I took our child to Krisna to buy souvenirs—partly to distract him from worrying about his dad, and partly to make the most of our limited travel time. When we got back to the hotel, seeing my husband’s spirits slightly improved, we felt a bit relieved.
A Mistaken Attempt at Dinner
That evening, we went to Bebek Bengil next to the hotel for dinner. My husband was very cautious, only having clear soup and plain rice, thinking it would be safe. But to our dismay, as soon as we returned to the room, his diarrhea started again. Now I was truly worried and didn’t know what to do, so I went online to post in a travel group for help. I’m grateful to the group admins and kind members who gave us valuable advice and warm support late into the night, helping us feel less panicked in a foreign land.
Day 8: The Grueling Journey Home
On the morning of the eighth day, I packed some plain white toast from the hotel restaurant for my husband, but he was still suffering from diarrhea. I started to worry whether he would be able to fly back to Taiwan smoothly, and my heart was full of anxiety. Fortunately, my husband said that as long as he could sit, the pain was still bearable.
And so, we made our way to the airport with trepidation. On the plane, my husband didn’t even dare to eat the in-flight meal, enduring abdominal discomfort throughout the entire flight. Finally, we landed safely in Taipei, but even after returning home, my husband continued to experience abdominal pain and diarrhea.
Medical Visit and Recovery After Returning to Taiwan
The next morning, we immediately went to the clinic. The doctor inquired in detail about the symptoms and progression, and prescribed antidiarrheal medication and probiotics. Only after taking the medication did the symptoms slowly begin to ease, though intermittent abdominal pain and diarrhea persisted.
During the recovery period, my husband only dared to eat plain white toast. Once, he tried drinking some soup, but it triggered another bout of diarrhea, scaring him into completely avoiding any other foods. The entire illness lasted six days, and it wasn’t until the sixth day that the diarrhea finally stopped completely.
A Surprising ‘Side Effect’
This bout of Bali Belly caused my husband’s weight to drop from 78 kilograms to 73 kilograms—a total loss of 5 kilograms! While this is certainly 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 reviewed the entire trip. My child and I were perfectly fine, but my husband was the only one affected. We speculated on the possible causes as follows:
- Ice Cube Issue: At noon on the sixth day, my husband bought a freshly brewed iced coffee packed with ice cubes at Pepito Supermarket. The source of the ice in Bali is uncertain, and it was likely the culprit.
- Hand Hygiene: Men sometimes get lazy and don’t wash their hands thoroughly before meals. My child and I, however, were diligent about washing hands before eating. Coincidentally, we had pizza that night, which required eating with our hands, increasing the risk of infection.
- Protective Effect of Probiotics: Throughout the eight-day trip, my child and I took gut-health probiotics every morning. This may have helped protect our digestive health to some extent. (Note: This is purely a personal speculation, not medical advice.)
It’s worth mentioning that this is already our second encounter with Bali Belly this year. Back in January, we spent six days in Bali, and all three of us experienced varying degrees of diarrhea, with our child even running a fever. However, that episode was relatively mild, and we recovered quickly after taking medication. We never expected my husband’s symptoms to be so severe this time, giving us a true taste of Bali Belly’s power.
Advice for All Travelers
After this painful experience, I’d like to offer the following tips to those planning a trip to Bali:
- Stock up on stomach medication before you go: Include anti-diarrheal meds, fever reducers and painkillers, probiotics, and digestive aids. Don’t take chances—better to have them and not need them.
- Absolutely avoid drinks with ice: This can’t be stressed enough! Skip any beverage with ice, whether from street stalls, freshly made drinks at supermarkets, or iced drinks at restaurants. Also, make sure bottled water has a sealed cap.
- Wash your hands before meals: Use soap to thoroughly clean your hands, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Don’t skip this step just because it’s a hassle.
- Consider taking probiotics daily: Start a few days before your trip and continue throughout your journey—it may help protect your digestive system.
- Be cautious with street food: Check the hygiene conditions; if the environment looks unclean, it’s better to pass.
- Don’t tough it out if symptoms are severe: If you experience high fever, severe dehydration, or persistent diarrhea, seek help from a local pharmacy or see a doctor immediately. Don’t wait until the next day like we did.
- Travel insurance is important: Make sure your policy covers overseas medical expenses, so you’re not burdened if you need to see a doctor.
Special Thanks
I’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the administrators and all members of the Bali community group. When I was most panicked and helpless, your advice, care, and support helped us stay calm and get through the ordeal. We’ll always remember this warmth.
Practical Shopping Info
Recommended Shopping Spots:
- Grand Lucky Supermarket – Great for daily essentials, snacks, and drinks, with transparent and reasonable prices.
- Krisna – The largest souvenir chain, offering a wide selection of goods at affordable prices with no haggling needed.
- Ubud Market – The go-to place for handmade crafts and traditional clothing—just remember to bargain.
Conclusion
Over eight days in Bali, we journeyed from bustling beach areas to serene mountain rice terraces, from modern shopping malls to traditional ancient villages, and from lively markets to tranquil temples. The island’s diversity and inclusiveness mean every travel style can find its own corner here.
Despite a serious case of Bali Belly that struck my husband during this trip, leaving us quite worried for a while, it didn’t diminish our love for Bali. Instead, it taught us to be more cautious about the risks we might face while traveling and to cherish every moment of health and safety even more.
Sampai jumpa lagi, Bali! (Goodbye, Bali!) We’ll definitely be back. 🌺
Do you think Pinkey Lo’s itinerary is amazing? Go ahead and plan your own Bali trip! And feel free to share your itinerary in the group, too!
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