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 hotels with distinct styles—from the bustling Kuta Beach area and the tranquil rice paddies of Ubud to the laid-back Jimbaran coast—each leaving us with wonderful memories.
A special thanks to the group admins and fellow members who offered advice and care when my husband suffered from severe diarrhea during the trip, helping us get through the ordeal (I’ll share our solution for overcoming 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 hours of flying, we finally set foot on Bali’s soil. The tropical air outside the airport hit us with 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 in town are usually better.
Bali Currency Exchange Guide
- Bali USD Exchange Rate: Large Bills or Small Bills? Complete Exchange Strategy Revealed!
- 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
- Credit Card Fraud/Fees/Additional Charges: Is It Safe to Use Credit Cards in Bali?
- Bali Money Exchange Horror Stories: Fellow Travelers Share Their Experiences, Don’t Be Fooled by Small Savings!
Dinner at GOSHA x GOEMEROT
Once we settled 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 taste. On our first night in a foreign land, we savored the food while looking forward to the exciting seven days ahead.
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, choosing the Pool View Double room type, which features two comfortable double beds. While the room isn’t particularly spacious, the overall 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 finding restaurants. Additionally, it’s close to the lively JL. Poppies II street, within walking distance. The hotel’s breakfast offers a rich and delicious selection, and the staff are friendly and welcoming, giving our Bali trip a great start.
Day 2: Tanah Lot Temple Visit and Leisurely 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; at low tide, you can walk up to it, while at high tide, it’s surrounded by the sea, 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. We recommend visiting in the afternoon, as the temple at sunset is breathtakingly beautiful.
Quick Reference: Bali Travel Must-Visit: Tanah Lot Temple Detailed Guide with Tide and Nearby Attractions
Midday: Dining and Shopping at Seminyak Square
After leaving Tanah Lot, we headed to the trendy Seminyak area. This neighborhood is packed with boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes, representing a more modern side of Bali. We strolled around Seminyak Square, enjoying a leisurely shopping experience. The area is dotted with many designer boutiques where you can find unique clothing, accessories, and home decor—perfect for travelers seeking distinctive souvenirs.
Restaurant Recommendation: ENDO Seminyak
We had lunch at ENDO Seminyak, located right next to Seminyak Square, and it was a delightful surprise! What started as a random pick turned out to be unexpectedly excellent. 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 authentic Balinese-style, 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, Embracing 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. Lounging by the pool, we soaked up the sun and enjoyed Bali’s warm rays.
Midday: Check-out and Massage
After checking out around noon, we headed to a nearby spa for a traditional Balinese massage. Bali is famous for its essential oil massages, and the therapist was highly skilled with just the right pressure. After more than an hour of treatment, all the travel fatigue melted away, leaving both body and mind completely relaxed.
Afternoon: Massimo Italian Restaurant & Ice Cream
After the massage, we went to Massimo Italian Restaurant for lunch. This restaurant is well-known in Bali for serving authentic Italian cuisine. The dishes were truly genuine, especially the handmade pasta and pizza, which made us feel like we were in Italy. After the meal, don’t forget to try their ice cream—it’s smooth and creamy, the perfect dessert for a hot day.
Shopping at Grand Lucky Supermarket
Shopping Recommendation: Grand Lucky Supermarket
On the 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
In the late afternoon, 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 pulled back the curtains the next morning, we were amazed by the golden rice field view right in front of us. The breeze rustled through the rice paddies, making us feel like we were in a paradise.
The hotel’s breakfast is mainly Western-style, and while the selection isn’t huge, every dish is thoughtfully prepared and tastes great. The resort also features an infinity pool that overlooks the layered rice terraces—a breathtaking sight. What impressed us most was the service; the staff would proactively chat with guests and check on their stay, creating a warm and friendly atmosphere that made us feel less like we were at a hotel and more like we were visiting a friend’s home.
▶KAAMALA Resort & Spa Booking Link Trip Booking
Day 4: Dive Deep into Ubud and Savor 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 soaking in 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.
Lunch: Bebek Tepi Sawah
Restaurant Recommendation: Bebek Tepi Sawah
At noon, we headed to Bebek Tepi Sawah for a meal. 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 vibe. We chose an outdoor seat, enjoying the refreshing rural scenery while savoring authentic Balinese cuisine. A gentle breeze carried the scent of rice, making this lunch a truly delightful experience. The restaurant’s signature grilled duck is a must-try—tender meat with perfectly balanced spices.
Afternoon: Bali Reptile Park
Attraction Recommendation: Bali Reptile Park
After lunch, we visited Bali Reptile Park, a must-see for reptile enthusiasts! The entrance fee includes a full English-guided tour by the park staff, which is one of the biggest highlights of this attraction. The guides are highly professional and enthusiastic, providing detailed explanations of each reptile’s habits and characteristics. Their lively and engaging commentary is so infectious that even those who are initially afraid of reptiles will be won over by their passion.
What made it truly special was that during the guided tour, we had the chance to gently touch several docile reptiles, including pythons and lizards. The staff ensured safety first and taught us the proper way to handle them. This close encounter gave us a whole new appreciation 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 most comprehensive collection 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 a close-to-nature animal viewing experience, featuring a variety of creatures from Indonesia and around the world, ideal for a family day trip (Klook discount ticket)
- 🦁 Bali Safari & Marine Park:
- Embark on a safari adventure and encounter a wide range of animals, including endangered species. Ride the safari bus to see lions and zebras up close (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. It features captivating bird shows and interactive experiences, perfect for families (Klook discount ticket)
- 🛍️ Mason Elephant Park: Discover 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 ticket)
Evening: Stroll Through Ubud Market
After leaving the reptile park, we headed to Ubud Market. This is the liveliest area in Ubud and the best place to shop for Balinese handicrafts. The market is packed with all kinds of goods, from traditional clothing, wood carvings, silver jewelry, woven bags, to paintings. Prices here are negotiable—it’s recommended to start bargaining at about one-third of the asking price. Enjoying the haggling is part of the market experience. Tucked away in the alleys are also many cafes and small eateries, so when you get tired, you can sit down for a cup of Balinese coffee and soak in Ubud’s laid-back vibe.
Dinner: Taman Dedari
In the evening, we had dinner at Taman Dedari, a perfect way to end a fulfilling day.
Quick Reference: 【Ubud Food + Scenery Guide】Taman Dedari Fairy Park
Day 5: Exploring Mount Batur Volcano and Traditional Villages
Morning: Kintamani & Ritatkala Café
Attraction & Restaurant Recommendation: Kintamani & Ritatkala Café
Today we drove to one of Bali’s most famous volcanic landscapes—Kintamani. Here, you can take in the breathtaking views of Mount Batur and Lake Batur, making it a must-visit natural attraction on the island.
We chose to dine at Ritatkala Café, a scenic coffee shop with unbeatable views. I highly recommend grabbing an outdoor seat facing the volcano and lake, where you can enjoy delicious food while soaking in nature’s masterpiece. The chicken wings here are a standout—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and perfectly paired with a special dipping sauce. Sipping hot coffee in the cool mountain air while gazing at the distant volcano is an indescribably refreshing experience.
Quick Reference: 12 Best Volcano View Cafés in Kintamani, Bali 🌄☕
Afternoon: Penglipuran Village
Attraction Recommendation: Penglipuran Village
After leaving Kintamani, we headed to Penglipuran Village, a beautifully preserved traditional Balinese settlement. The village features uniform architecture that perfectly showcases Bali’s traditional building aesthetics and cultural heritage. What makes this place truly special is that visitors can step inside local homes—a dream come true for anyone curious about the interior of traditional Balinese houses!
The village streets are spotless and lined with bamboo groves, creating a serene atmosphere as you stroll through. Some homes 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 a traditional Balinese compound, feeling the gentle breeze and soaking in the tranquility, we felt so relaxed we didn’t want to leave. The slow pace of life here, filled with genuine hospitality, makes it an ideal spot to experience Bali’s traditional culture.
Quick Reference: A Journey Through Time at Penglipuran Village: Experience Bali’s Ancient Charm
Rice Terrace Swing Experience
After visiting the village, we headed to a nearby rice terrace swing spot. Swinging in front of layered green rice terraces has become one of the most popular activities in Bali in recent years. The moment the swing takes off, you’re greeted by a lush expanse of rice paddies and distant jungle—it feels like flying through nature. That sense of freedom and beauty became one of the most unforgettable memories of the trip.
Quick Reference: Swinging in Ubud: The 8 Most Beautiful Swing Photo Spots in Bali | Ubud Swing & Dress Rental Guide
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
Day 6: Southern Coastline Exploration & Cliff Views
Morning: Hotel Pool Time
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 at the pastoral scenery, my heart was filled with 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 majestic views opened up our hearts. This stretch of road is considered one of Bali’s most beautiful coastlines, with several viewpoints along the way where you can stop for photos—don’t miss them.
Afternoon: Pandawa Beach Roosterfish Afternoon Tea
We enjoyed an afternoon tea at Roosterfish Restaurant on Pandawa Beach. Located right by the beach, this restaurant offers stunning ocean views. Sipping a cold drink with light bites on the breezy terrace, watching the waves crash onto the sand—it’s a simple yet beautiful way to spend the afternoon. With its crystal-clear waters and pristine white sand, Pandawa Beach is one of Bali’s quieter beaches, perfect for travelers looking to escape the crowds.
Evening: Uluwatu Temple
Attraction Recommendation: Uluwatu Temple ⚠️ Beware of Monkeys!
As evening falls, we head to Uluwatu Temple, a cliffside temple that is one of Bali’s most important religious sites and one of the best spots to watch the sunset. Perched on a 70-meter-high cliff overlooking the vast Indian Ocean, the temple exudes a majestic aura.
Important Reminder: The monkeys here are incredibly mischievous and bold! We witnessed a tourist’s glasses being snatched by a monkey. 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 / Cliffside Travel Guide: Must-See Highlights & Practical Tips
Despite the need to watch out for monkeys, the views at Uluwatu Temple are truly breathtaking. As the sun sets, golden light spills across the sea, creating a shimmering effect, and the temple appears even more sacred and solemn in silhouette. If time permits, stay for the traditional Kecak Fire Dance performance—a cultural feast blending dance, music, and drama against the backdrop of the sunset.
Quick Reference: Kecak Fire Dance: A Must-See Spectacular Performance in Bali (with Ticket Info)
Dinner: Ulu Cliffhouse
In the evening, we dine at Ulu Cliffhouse, another cliffside restaurant with stunning ocean views. Under the stars, with the sound of waves in the background, we savor exquisite cuisine—a perfect end to a wonderful day’s 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 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 the balcony—a convenience that felt truly luxurious.
The resort boasts multiple pool facilities, including a children’s splash area and a water volleyball court, and regularly hosts various water activities, making it ideal for families. The breakfast buffet is rich and diverse, offering everything from Asian dishes to Western fare, all of excellent quality. The most delightful surprise is the 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 provides convenient access to amenities. This shopping center also houses an amazing pork rib specialty restaurant! Check out Xiao Jie’s introduction:
This resort caters to 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 has a dedicated children’s pool equipped with a waterslide, ensuring endless fun for the whole family under the sun.
For older children and teenagers, the resort offers a range of entertainment options. They can enjoy the latest gaming consoles, board games, movies, and video games in the game room. Additionally, the resort has a fitness center and spa, allowing parents to unwind and rejuvenate while the kids have fun.
▶ 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 one last 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, so no haggling is needed. It’s one of the best places to buy souvenirs.
We stocked up on 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 best to set aside at least 1–2 hours for shopping.
Dinner: Bebek Bengil (Dirty Duck Restaurant)
In the evening, we dined at Bebek Bengil, located right next to the hotel. This restaurant is famous for its dirty duck (Bebek Betutu), a Balinese chain specialty. 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. As the night marked the end of our trip, enjoying this delicious Balinese meal filled us with both reluctance and contentment.
Day 8: Farewell to Bali, Looking Forward to the Next Reunion
Checkout 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 to catch our flight 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 is not 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
⚠️ Beware of Monkeys!
At attractions like Uluwatu Temple and the Sacred Monkey Forest, where monkeys roam freely, be extra cautious! We witnessed tourists having their glasses snatched away by monkeys. These clever creatures know how to grab items and then “negotiate” for their return. Recommendations:
- Secure glasses and sunglasses with a strap
- Avoid bringing shiny accessories or food
- Make sure your bag zippers are fully closed
- Keep a safe distance from monkeys; do not attempt to touch or feed them
⚠️ Don’t Underestimate Bali Belly! — Our Harrowing Personal Experience
During this trip, my husband unfortunately suffered a severe case of Bali Belly. The whole ordeal was truly alarming, and I want to share the details so that anyone planning a trip to Bali can learn from our mistake.
Night of Day 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 went to the toilet three times, tossing and turning all night with very poor sleep. At the time, we thought it was just mild digestive discomfort from the change in environment—little did we know it was the calm before the storm.
Morning of Day 7: Condition Takes a Turn for the Worse
The next morning, my husband woke up saying he had a splitting headache. I reached out and touched his forehead—it was burning up! He had a high fever. Soon after, the diarrhea 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 scene before me was utterly shocking. My husband was sitting weakly on the toilet, his entire upper body slumped over the sink. He told me that because of the intense 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. At that moment, I was truly panicked.
I immediately grabbed the backup medication we brought from Taiwan, gave him pain relievers, fever reducers, and anti-diarrhea medicine, then let him rest. Two hours later, the fever subsided, but the diarrhea showed no sign of relief. Realizing the severity of the situation, I decided to go to a local pharmacy for help.
Seeking Help at the Pharmacy
At the pharmacy, I described my husband’s symptoms to the pharmacist. The pharmacist was very professional and recommended two medications (shown in the photo), explaining the dosage and precautions in detail. 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 the child and ease their worry about Dad, and partly because I didn’t want to waste our precious travel time. When we got back to the hotel, we saw that my husband’s condition had slightly improved, which brought us some relief.
A Dinner Mistake
In the evening, we went to Bebek Bengil, a restaurant next to the hotel, for dinner. My husband was very cautious, only drinking clear soup and eating plain white rice, thinking that would be safe. But unexpectedly, after returning to the room, he started having diarrhea again. At this point, I was really 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 care late at night, helping us not feel too panicked in a foreign country.
Day 8: The Tough Journey Home
On the morning of the eighth day, I brought some plain white toast from the hotel restaurant for my husband, but he still had persistent diarrhea. I began to worry whether he could make it through the flight back to Taiwan, feeling very anxious. Fortunately, my husband said that as long as he could sit, the pain was still bearable.
So, we nervously headed to the airport. On the plane, my husband didn’t dare eat any of the in-flight meals and endured abdominal discomfort throughout the entire flight. Finally, we landed safely in Taipei, but after returning home, he still had ongoing abdominal pain and diarrhea.
Medical Care and Recovery After Returning Home
The next morning, we immediately went to the clinic. The doctor asked in detail about the symptoms and progression, and prescribed anti-diarrhea medication and probiotics. After taking the medicine, the symptoms slowly began to ease, but there were still intermittent bouts of abdominal pain and diarrhea.
During recovery, my husband only dared to eat plain white toast. Once, he tried drinking some soup, but it triggered diarrhea again, scaring him into avoiding any other food entirely. The whole illness lasted 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 full 5 kg loss! While it’s certainly not a healthy way to lose weight, it was a silver lining, right? He joked, ‘When the stomach cramps hit, I felt like I was giving birth!’
Cause Analysis and Reflection
Afterward, we carefully reviewed the entire trip. My child and I were fine, but my husband got hit. Here are our possible reasons:
- Ice Issue: On day 6 at noon, my husband bought a freshly brewed iced coffee packed with ice from Pepito supermarket. The source of ice in Bali is questionable, and it’s likely the culprit.
- Hand Hygiene: Guys sometimes slack off and don’t wash their hands properly before meals. My child and I are diligent about it. That night, we ate pizza with our hands, increasing the risk of infection.
- Probiotic Protection: During the 8-day trip, my child and I took gut-friendly probiotics every morning, which might have helped protect our digestive health. (Note: This is just personal speculation, not medical advice.)
Worth noting, this is our second encounter with Bali Belly this year. During our 6-day trip to Bali in January, all three of us had varying degrees of diarrhea, and our child even had a fever. But those symptoms were mild and resolved quickly with medication. We never expected my husband’s case to be so severe, giving us a real taste of Bali Belly’s power.
Advice for All Travelers
After this painful experience, I’d like to offer the following tips to friends planning a trip to Bali:
- Stock up on stomach medications before departure: Include anti-diarrheal meds, fever reducers, pain relievers, 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 beverages with ice from street stalls, supermarket fresh drinks, or restaurant iced drinks. Also, ensure bottled water has a sealed cap.
- Practice hand hygiene before meals: Wash hands thoroughly with soap or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Don’t skip this step out of laziness.
- Consider daily probiotics: Start taking them a few days before departure and continue during the trip—they may help protect your gut.
- Choose street food wisely: Pay attention to hygiene; if the environment looks unclean, skip it.
- 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 crucial: Ensure your policy covers overseas medical expenses to ease the financial burden if you need treatment.
Special Thanks
I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the administrators and all members of the Bali community. When I was at my most panicked and helpless, your advice, care, and support helped us stay calm, handle the situation, and get through it smoothly. We will always remember this warmth.
Practical Shopping Tips
Recommended Shopping Spots:
- Grand Lucky Supermarket – Great for daily necessities, snacks, and drinks, with transparent and reasonable prices.
- Krisna – The largest souvenir chain store with a wide selection, affordable prices, and no haggling needed.
- Ubud Market – The top choice for handmade crafts and traditional clothing—remember to bargain.
Conclusion
Over eight days in Bali, we journeyed from bustling beach areas to serene mountain rice paddies, from modern shopping malls to traditional ancient villages, and from lively markets to tranquil temples. The island’s diversity and inclusiveness ensure that every travel style can find its own corner.
Although this trip included a serious case of Bali Belly for my husband, which worried us greatly, it didn’t diminish our love for Bali. Instead, it taught us to be more cautious about potential travel risks and to cherish every moment of safety and health.
Sampai jumpa lagi, Bali! (Goodbye, Bali!) We will definitely come back. 🌺
Think Pinkey Lo’s itinerary is amazing? Go ahead and plan your own Bali free-and-easy trip! Feel free to submit your itinerary to the community too!
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