The following content is adapted from a travelogue shared by group member Libra Li:
Bottom Line First: Our family of 2 adults and 2 kids spent 26 days exploring Kuala Lumpur, Bali, Lombok (including Gili T), with a total cost of about NT$180,000 (approx. USD$5,806) — covering flights, visas, insurance, SIM cards, accommodation, transportation, and meals. This proves that a long-haul multi-country Southeast Asia trip with young children can be kept within a reasonable budget.
Grateful for the invaluable resources in this group, which allowed me to learn from everyone’s experiences and knowledge. This time, I’d like to give back by sharing our family of four’s journey from July 31 to August 25, 2024, covering Kuala Lumpur, Bali, and Lombok (including Gili T). This is the first time I’ve organized a trip itinerary to share with fellow netizens, and I hope you’ll all bear with me! 😄
Itinerary Overview:
Travelers: 2 adults and 2 kids (ages 4 and 6)
Total Cost: NT$180,000 (approx. USD$5,806) for 26 days, including all flights, visas, insurance, SIM cards, accommodation, transportation, and meals. We aimed to keep the budget in check, making the trip both fulfilling and affordable.
Flights & Transportation:
Kaohsiung-Kuala Lumpur Round-Trip Flights:
- July 31 OD891 KHH-KUL 17:40-22:05
- August 25 OD890 KUL-KHH 02:40-07:25
- We chose to depart from Kaohsiung with a layover in Kuala Lumpur because direct flights from Taipei were way too expensive! Round-trip tickets for four people plus 30kg of luggage came to a total of USD$512.
Kuala Lumpur to Bali One-Way Flights:
- August 4 KUL-DPS OD193 14:00-17:00
- One-way tickets for four people plus 30kg of luggage cost a total of USD$261.
Lombok to Kuala Lumpur One-Way Flights:
- August 24 LOP-KUL OD367 19:45-23:00
- One-way tickets for four people plus 30kg of luggage cost a total of USD$384.
Bali Transportation Tips:
We originally planned to hire a private driver for our entire trip in Bali, especially thinking it would be more convenient with two kids—but reality had other plans! On the first day, we were shocked by the chaotic traffic on the island—gridlock was everywhere! 🤯 If we had stuck with a driver, all our time would have been wasted in traffic jams.
So, we quickly changed our strategy and decided to rent a scooter as our main mode of transport. For our family of four, we specifically rented a larger scooter, with two adults and two kids riding together. The kids easily fell asleep on the scooter, so we sandwiched them between us for safety. The road conditions on the island were indeed challenging, but renting a scooter gave us much more flexibility—especially when moving between different attractions, it was so much easier and more convenient! 🚴♀️🚴♂️
If we needed to go to a farther destination, no worries! We used ride-hailing services like GRAB or GO-JEK, which are well-established in Bali and super convenient—just call and they come right away.
Further reading: Complete Guide to Registering, Using, and Topping Up Gojek and GoPay in Indonesia/Bali
Itinerary Breakdown:
Part 1: July 31–August 4: Kuala Lumpur + Malacca
- During this time, we mainly stayed in Kuala Lumpur and took a three-day, two-night trip to the historic city of Malacca to explore its culture and cuisine.
Part 2: August 4–14: Bali
- Bali’s stunning scenery and diverse activities kept us captivated—this was the highlight of the entire trip. We explored numerous spots, including beaches, temples, and some lesser-known photo-worthy locations.
Part 3: August 14–25: Lombok + Gili T
- In our final days on Lombok, we completely relaxed, enjoying peaceful moments away from the hustle and bustle. The stunning sea views and simple life on Gili T provided the perfect ending to our journey.
August 4 (Sun) Arrival in Bali: Scooter Rental & Dinner
Upon arriving in Bali, our first task was to rent a scooter, our main mode of transport for the coming days. We chose a scooter because traffic in Bali is far from ideal, with severe congestion; riding a scooter allows us to navigate between attractions more flexibly and save a lot of time.
That evening, we had dinner locally, then checked into Sara Residence in the Legian/Seminyak area. The two-bedroom unit was perfect for our family of four—spacious and comfortable, giving the kids their own little space. For families traveling with children, this kind of accommodation is very convenient.
Photo by Libra Li
Sara Residence is an aparthotel offering free private parking, fully equipped apartments with a kitchenette, flat-screen TV, and free WiFi. The property features an outdoor pool and massage services. The apartments are decorated in neutral tones and come with a washing machine, ironing facilities, and a safe. The bathroom includes a hairdryer and separate shower.
It’s about a 15-minute walk to the beach, making it a great value accommodation choice.
August 5 (Mon) The Second Day in Bali Officially Begins
Today’s itinerary was packed full of activities. We set off early to explore several famous spots in Bali:
- Tanah Lot Bali’s most iconic seaside temple, combining stunning ocean views with majestic architecture, truly opened our eyes. The kids had a great time here, especially drawn to this direct encounter with nature.
Read more: Bali Travel Must-Visit: Tanah Lot Detailed Guide with Tides and Nearby Attractions
- Turtle Conservation and Education Center This conservation center is perfect for family trips, especially as kids can see newborn baby turtles up close! It offers not only interactive opportunities with turtles but also educational value, teaching children about marine ecology. Highly recommended for families with young kids.
This is truly a must-visit with kids—they even offer turtle release activities (reservation and fee required)!
- Uluwatu Temple (Pura Uluwatu) Perched on a dramatic cliff, Uluwatu Temple is another unmissable spot in Bali. The scenery is breathtaking, with the stunning interplay of cliffs and ocean leaving a lasting impression. We also spotted monkeys here, which thrilled the kids, though you need to watch out for them snatching belongings.
Bali Uluwatu Temple Travel Guide: Must-See Highlights and Practical Tips
- Relaxing Massage After a day of sightseeing, how could we skip a massage in Bali? We found a local massage parlor, and the whole family enjoyed a soothing session. It was the perfect way to unwind and recharge for the next day’s adventures.
Tuesday, August 6 — Hard Rock Hotel (Kuta) + Kuta Beach
Today’s itinerary was super relaxed. We checked into the famous Hard Rock Hotel, which is packed with a rock ‘n’ roll vibe and tons of entertainment facilities. For families with kids, Hard Rock Hotel is a solid choice—especially with its massive pool and kids’ club that kept the little ones thoroughly entertained. There are also plenty of activities and amenities for the whole family to enjoy, making our day full of laughter and fun. 🌞
Hard Rock Bali offers welcome drinks, and the live bar performances at night are even more impressive. The hotel is a short walk from Kuta Beach, and they even provide a photo session with plenty of props.
In the afternoon, we strolled over to Kuta Beach, one of Bali’s liveliest beaches, known for its golden sands and perfect surfing conditions. Even though we don’t surf, we still had a great time on the sand. The kids built sandcastles and dug holes, while the stunning sunset made the day even more perfect.
Kuta Beach
More to Eat, Drink, and Explore in Kuta
Kuta is the most vibrant hotspot in Bali, drawing travelers from around the world with its lively nightlife, bustling streets, and beginner-friendly surf beach. It's packed with countless shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, making it a top destination for thrill-seekers and shoppers alike. Whether you're diving into the party scene or soaking up a stunning sunset, Kuta promises a vacation full of unforgettable memories!
Want more Kuta tips? Click here
Kuta Accommodation Highlights
- 18 Handpicked Hotels Near Kuta Beach
- 12 Best City Hotels in Kuta
- Bali Group Travel: Recommended Private Villas in Kuta for Families (3-Bedroom, 4-Bedroom, 5-Bedroom, 6-Bedroom and Up)
Wednesday, August 7 — Movenpick Resort & Spa Jimbaran Bali + Jimbaran Beach
Today we arrived at Movenpick Resort & Spa Jimbaran Bali, a resort famous for its luxurious amenities and family-friendly atmosphere. After checking in, we spent the whole day enjoying the resort life—there’s a kids’ club and a spacious pool area that kept the children happily occupied. We also took the chance to unwind and soak in the peaceful vibe of this serene getaway. 🌴
At Movenpick Resort Jimbaran, the kids’ club had an activity where they could try on traditional local costumes.
Our stay at Mövenpick Resort Jimbaran was very pleasant. We were originally scheduled to check in at 3 PM, but since the room wasn’t ready yet, the hotel kindly treated us to their afternoon tea set. The tea was rich and delicious, giving us a chance to relax while waiting. Luckily, the room was ready by 3:05 PM—even earlier than expected!
At 4 PM, the hotel offers a highly popular free Candy Bar for kids, with various candies and snacks that delight children. I highly recommend this service, especially for families with kids. Additionally, even after we checked out, the hotel allowed us to continue using the facilities, so the kids could keep playing and enjoying the pool and other amenities.
▶Mövenpick Resort Jimbaran booking links: Agoda Trip Booking
Overall, Mövenpick Resort Jimbaran boasts a beautiful environment, attentive service, and is very family-friendly, allowing the whole family to enjoy a relaxing and joyful vacation.
In the afternoon, we headed to the nearby Jimbaran Beach. Unlike Kuta, this beach is quieter and most famous for its seaside seafood restaurants. As dusk fell, we dined at a beachfront restaurant, enjoying fresh grilled seafood with the sea breeze and a golden sunset—truly romantic. The kids ran and played on the sand, and this relaxed atmosphere made us feel incredibly happy. 🌅
More Jimbaran Dining and Entertainment Guide
Jimbaran is a coastal paradise on Bali renowned for its romantic ambiance and culinary delights, featuring stunning golden beaches and breathtaking sunset views. The seafood restaurants here are a must-try culinary experience, while luxurious resorts and tranquil fishing village vibes allow visitors to enjoy both indulgence and local life. Whether for family trips or romantic dates, Jimbaran will exceed your expectations! Want to learn more about Jimbaran? Click here
Jimbaran Accommodation Themes
- Bali Accommodation Recommendations: Stunning Ocean View Jimbaran Stays
- 【2026 Bali AYANA Complete Guide】Rock Bar Reservation Tips
- 18 Family-Friendly Resorts with Kids Clubs in Bali｜Best Choices for Family Vacations in Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, Jimbaran, Uluwatu, and Ubud
- Bali Family Fun: Fifteen Resorts with Water Slides and Playgrounds
- Bali Group Free Travel: Jimbaran Private Villas with 3/4/5/6+ Bedrooms Recommended for Family Stays
August 8 (Thursday) Relaxing at Movenpick Resort + Heading to Ubud
Today, we continued to unwind at Movenpick Resort, spending the morning enjoying the resort’s facilities. The breakfast was hearty with diverse options, perfect for our family. We had a pleasant morning at the pool and playground until around 4 PM, when we checked out and set off for Ubud. 🏊♀️
Samasta Bali, located at the same spot as Mövenpick Resort Jimbaran, is also worth a visit.
After arriving in Ubud, we first rented a scooter to make getting around easier. The traffic here is relatively calm, and a scooter is a great way to explore the area. Then, we went to try the famous dirty duck dinner, a classic Balinese dish featuring crispy roast duck with local spices and sides—an unforgettable flavor. 🦆
After dinner, we strolled over to Bintang Supermarket Ubud, the largest and most well-known supermarket in Ubud, offering a wide selection of goods. We picked up some daily necessities and snacks for the next few days of our trip.
Xiao Jie tells you what to buy at Bintang Ubud!
Tonight we checked into Puri Padma Hotel, a cozy retreat in a quieter part of Ubud, perfect for recharging before our upcoming adventures.
We stayed here for four consecutive nights and highly recommend this hotel for the following reasons:
- Deluxe Corner Room is spacious, comfortably accommodating two adults and two kids (ages 4 and 6).
- Housekeeping is excellent—not only thoroughly cleaning the room but also paying attention to details. Since I washed clothes daily, the staff proactively provided hangers and a drying rack.
- Front desk staff are warm, welcoming, and well-informed.
- If you sit on the second floor, you can enjoy views of the volcano. I loved this scenery during breakfast, and the rooftop view is also quite impressive.
- The hotel’s location is great—just 8 to 10 minutes from Ubud Palace, with a spacious parking lot out front.
We had a wonderful family time here.
August 9 (Fri) Tirta Empul Temple + Alas Harum Bali (Rice Terraces & Luwak Coffee) + Lunch at Cretya
Our first stop today was the famous Tirta Empul Temple. This temple is renowned for its holy spring water, which local devotees believe has the power to purify the mind and body. Though we are not Hindu, experiencing this unique cultural ritual felt truly special. The kids were also fascinated by the mystical atmosphere and stunning architecture.
Next, we visited Alas Harum Bali, known not only for its breathtaking rice terraces but also for the chance to taste local Luwak Coffee. The terrace views were stunning, and we snapped plenty of photos. The kids were curious about the terraces, while we enjoyed a fragrant cup of Luwak coffee. There were also fun activities like the sky swing, making for a relaxing and joyful time.
For lunch, we chose to dine at Cretya, which offers beautiful rice terrace views and a rich menu. Not only was the food delicious, but the restaurant’s ambiance also allowed us to soak in the peaceful surroundings—a true feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.
Budget-Friendly Luxury: Cretya Ubud Pool Club & Alas Harum Spending Guide
August 10 (Sat) Kanto Lampo Waterfall + Ubud Palace + Ubud Traditional Market
Today we visited the Kanto Lampo Waterfall, hidden in the jungle. The water cascades gently down the rocks, creating a beautiful natural landscape. The kids had a blast playing in the water, and the natural surroundings let us soak in Bali’s ecological charm. The waterfall has a moderate flow, allowing visitors to get close and feel its refreshing coolness.
Afterward, we toured the Ubud Palace, located in the heart of Ubud. This ancient palace features intricate carvings and traditional Balinese architecture, making it a great place to learn about local culture. Though the palace isn’t large, its history and architectural beauty left a strong impression on us.
Next, we headed to the famous Ubud Traditional Market. While the variety of goods is vast, the prices aren’t cheap, and the sellers generally come across as indifferent, making bargaining a challenge. Tip: If you’re just looking for souvenirs, this might not be the best spot. However, on our way back to Puri Padma Hotel, we discovered a small market where prices were much more reasonable, and we picked up some affordable, quality handicrafts. 🎁
August 11 (Sun) Sacred Monkey Forest + Cooking Class + Campuhan Ridge Walk
Our first stop today was the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. It’s home to many lively monkeys, and the kids were fascinated by these adorable animals, but we reminded them to keep a safe distance to avoid having anything snatched from their hands. The forest is lush with greenery and dotted with ancient temple ruins, making for a very peaceful stroll.
At midday, we joined Ketut’s Bali Cooking Class, which was a fantastic experience. This cooking class not only taught us several traditional Balinese dishes but also allowed our two kids to participate at no extra charge. The whole process was highly interactive and educational, sparking the kids’ interest in cooking, and we picked up plenty of culinary tips along the way. The whole family felt it was well worth it.
▶Book Ketut’s Bali Cooking Class on Klook
In the afternoon, we arrived at the Campuhan Ridge Walk, a trail famous for its stunning valley views. Walking along the lush green path, surrounded by magnificent rice paddies and mountain scenery, we felt completely relaxed. The air here is fresh, making it a perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Our family enjoyed a wonderful time here, and after completing the walk, we felt refreshed and rejuvenated, marking a perfect end to the day’s itinerary.
Monday, August 12: Bali Bird Park + Villa Kayu Lama
Today we visited Bali Bird Park, a bird park that’s perfect for family fun. The park is home to a wide variety of birds, allowing us not only to observe them but also to feed them up close, which thrilled the kids. There are many interactive experiences, such as having birds perch on your shoulders or feeding rainbow lorikeets in designated areas. Since our children have a keen interest in animals, we decided to schedule Bali Reptile Park for the next day, giving us more time to fully experience each park.
Detailed guide: Bali Bird Park Ultimate Guide: Rare Bird Species, Interactive Activities, and Eco-Conservation Adventures
Tonight, we checked into Villa Kayu Lama, a two-bedroom private villa that is spacious and comfortable, perfect for the whole family. The villa’s design exudes tropical charm and features a private pool, allowing us to enjoy a peaceful and relaxing evening.
Photo by Libra Li
The breakfast, lunch, and dinner at Villa Kayu Lama were all delicious and could be delivered to the room, which was very convenient! The environment is serene and beautiful, and the staff were incredibly friendly. The kids also loved staying here, and the hotel thoughtfully provided a children’s bed and toiletries, with service that was truly attentive. Highly recommended!
Tuesday, August 13 – Bali Reptile Park + Heading to Padang Bai
Today’s itinerary includes a visit to Bali Reptile Park, which showcases a variety of reptiles, including snakes, lizards, and turtles. To our delight, the park offers professional guided tours that gave us a deeper understanding of these creatures. The best part is that many of the animals can be touched, allowing the kids to feel their skin textures up close—they were especially fascinated by this hands-on interactive experience. It’s a fantastic learning and bonding activity for families, and we highly recommend it.
Detailed guide: Bali Reptile Park Guide: Up-Close with Komodo Dragons, Giant Pythons, Ticket Prices, and Family Tips
Want to compare more attraction ticket prices? Check out the Bali Ticket Price List , which includes booking links for 49 popular spots via Klook, Agoda, and Trip.com.
After the reptile park, we headed to Padang Bai, the main port for ferries to the Gili Islands. We checked into Serangan Mimba Inn, a simple yet comfortable spot perfect for a short stay. We turned in early that evening to rest up for our trip to Gili T the next day.
Wednesday, August 14 – Padang Bai to Gili T + Cycling Around the Island
At 9 a.m., we took a speedboat to Gili Trawangan, with a journey of about two hours.
When heading to Padangbai to board, I recommend staying nearby the night before, as traffic from either the south or Ubud can be unpredictable and cause delays. The port area is quite chaotic and crowded, making it a bit overwhelming. Around the dock, many locals will offer to help carry your luggage, but some may grab your bags aggressively and demand a tip. I experienced this too—my luggage was whisked away in an instant, and I felt compelled to tip to avoid any trouble. They usually ask for around 50,000 IDR, but I gave just 10,000 IDR to avoid being hassled too long. Most of the time, they’re in a hurry to help other travelers, so they won’t argue for long—it’s a small way to sidestep the hassle.
After arriving on Gili T, we rented bicycles and set off on a leisurely island tour. There are no cars on Gili T—only bikes and horse-drawn carts—making our ride even more relaxed and enjoyable. The scenery along the way was stunning, and the kids were all smiles as they pedaled along. We stopped at a beachfront restaurant called Lazy Coco, ordered some drinks and snacks, and sat there watching the sunset while gazing at the distant volcano. It was pure bliss.
View of Bali from Gili T
Spending the evening at Lazy CoCo on Gili T—reasonable prices and delicious food
At Lazy Coconut on Gili T, you can catch the sunset in the late afternoon. There are some toys nearby for kids to play with, so they can keep busy for a long time. Cocktails are all discounted, cheaper than in Bali.
Tonight we checked into Warna Beach Hotel. The location is very convenient, with many restaurants and the beach within walking distance. Although the room facilities are basic, they are clean and tidy—more than satisfactory for short-term travelers like us.
Warna Beach Hotel offers a garden-view room for two adults and two children starting at USD$19 per night.
Thursday, August 15: Snorkeling Island Hopping + Gili T Night Market + Massage
Today’s itinerary was absolutely fantastic! We joined the Three-Island Snorkeling Tour on Gili Trawangan, which took us to explore three islands in the Gili archipelago: Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air. During snorkeling, we saw many colorful tropical fish and beautiful coral reefs, and even had the chance to spot sea turtles! The kids were especially thrilled by this underwater adventure—it was a truly worthwhile experience.
Sea turtle spotted during Gili T island hopping
In the evening, we headed to the Gili T Night Market, where stalls offer a wide variety of local snacks, allowing us to sample many Balinese-style dishes. The market has a lively atmosphere with lots of people, and the food choices are abundant, though the prices didn’t seem very affordable.
After a satisfying dinner, we chose a local massage parlor and enjoyed a relaxing massage. As the day came to an end, we all felt both physically and mentally recharged, ready for the journey ahead.
August 16 (Fri) Gili T to Bangsal + Stay at Holiday Resort Lombok
Taking a public boat from Gili T to Bangsal
Today we bid farewell to beautiful Gili T and took a public boat to Bangsal. Though the journey was relatively short, we had to be extra cautious—both at the Gili T pier and upon arriving in Bangsal, as these places are rife with scammers. We encountered several people trying to sell us fake services, but luckily we had done our homework and avoided being tricked. We recommend staying alert in these areas and not trusting strangers easily.
Tonight we checked into Holiday Resort Lombok in Senggigi. This hotel left a strong impression on us—spacious rooms, beautiful landscaped grounds, and a peaceful beach that made the whole family very happy. The facilities were also quite complete, with a pool, restaurant, and family-friendly spaces. Overall, it offered excellent value for money. For travelers looking to relax and unwind, this is definitely a great choice.
Holiday Resort Lombok: only USD$81 per night on a holiday, with spacious rooms, a large pool, and a beach.
The Pool Bar at Holiday Resort Lombok offers 50% off during Happy Hour, and the drinks are delicious.
August 17 (Sat) Holiday Resort Lombok – Indonesian Independence Day Special Event
Today happened to be Indonesia’s National Independence Day (Hari Kemerdekaan), and we were fortunate to join the special event held by Holiday Resort Lombok to celebrate the occasion. The hotel was filled with a festive atmosphere, featuring many games and activities suitable for children, as well as traditional music and dance performances, allowing us to experience Indonesia’s rich cultural ambiance.
Highly recommend Holiday Resort Lombok—thanks to Independence Day, we received complimentary pony ride tickets and in-house spa vouchers.
National Day activities at Holiday Resort Lombok (provided by Libra Li)
Our family also joined a few games, and the kids had a blast. This kind of celebration, rich in local character, is truly special—it lets visitors feel the joy of the holiday while giving us a deeper understanding of Indonesia’s history and culture.
August 18 (Sunday): Exploring Mataram City + Staying at Lombok Raya Hotel
Today we headed from Holiday Resort Lombok to Mataram, the capital of Lombok, to start a day of city exploration. To make getting around easier, we rented a scooter locally—the best way to explore downtown Lombok.
Ampenan, a local hidden gem in Mataram, perfect for those who want to skip the tourist trail
Ampenan: a seaside restaurant for locals, finally experiencing real Indonesian prices—super cheap
Ampenan: fresh juice with Indonesian dishes, under USD$3
We first visited Kota Tua Ampenan, once a major port in Lombok and now a historic old town full of nostalgic charm. It’s also home to many locally-run seaside restaurants with unique character, letting us enjoy delicious food while taking in the ocean views.
Kota Tua Ampenan Old Town
Next, we visited the Islamic Center Mosque, the largest mosque on Lombok Island. Its grand architecture and exquisite design left a deep impression on us—a great place to learn about local religious culture.
Islamic Center Mosque
As evening fell, we headed to Taman Sangkareang, one of the locals’ favorite night markets. The market features various amusement rides, perfect for kids to enjoy. We also sampled several local snacks, adding delicious memories to the day’s journey.
Tonight, we checked into Lombok Raya Hotel, a cozy hotel in the heart of Mataram. The rooms are spacious and clean, with convenient amenities nearby, making it an ideal base for exploring Mataram.
August 19 (Monday) — Benang Stokel & Kelambu Waterfall Trip + Mataram Exploration
Benang Stokel & Kelambu Waterfall
Today, we originally planned to visit the famous Benang Stokel & Kelambu Waterfall. But before setting off, we checked reviews and found many travelers complaining about unclear ticket prices and unreasonable charges. We decided to go and see for ourselves anyway, only to find that upon arrival, there were indeed no clear price signs. Locals directly asked us for 240K IDR per person as an entrance fee, which we found exorbitant, so we chose to head back.
▶Highly-rated Benang Stokel & Kelambu Waterfall tour on Klook
Next, we considered switching to the highly recommended Sade Village online, but after checking Google Reviews again, we found many reports of scams there, so we decided not to risk it. While exploring Mataram that day, we also encountered several so-called “locals” asking us for parking fees, making us feel like “lambs to the slaughter.” Since there are fewer tourists here, this kind of situation is more common.
A bit disappointed, we ended up at Lombok Epicentrum Mall, but the mall itself was quite ordinary with nothing special to offer, so it’s not really worth recommending.
August 20 (Tuesday) Coffee Shops, Traditional Markets, and Batuidung Hill Views
Today’s itinerary was all about relaxation. We started at a stylish, artsy coffee shop called Konyu Coffee & Space, whose unique decor and serene atmosphere instantly won us over. The brunch here was delicious, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a coffee break in a cozy corner during our travels. Whether you’re a coffee lover or a brunch enthusiast, this place is well worth a visit.
Next, we headed to two local traditional markets: Sindu Traditional Market and Cakranegara Traditional Market. These markets are very authentic, with hardly any tourists, and they’re filled with the daily life of Lombok’s residents. The prices here are very affordable, making them ideal for buying local fruits, vegetables, or handmade crafts. We discovered many interesting little items and enjoyed the fun of bargaining with locals, which felt genuine and close to everyday life.
In the afternoon, we took on the challenge of reaching the legendary Batuidung Hill. The journey was tough, requiring a winding mountain road to get there, but once we stood at the top, the view made all the effort worthwhile. This hidden hill offers breathtaking scenery with an excellent vantage point overlooking the vast natural landscape. The tranquility and beauty here provided a perfect ending to our day’s adventure.
Batuidung, a very hard-to-reach hill that Google Maps can’t guide you to—you have to ask the locals in the village to find it, but the climb rewards you with stunning views.
Batuidung, a very hard-to-reach hill, but once you’re up, you can see the mountains and sea of all Lombok, and it’s especially beautiful at sunset.
August 21 (Wednesday) to August 24 (Saturday) Relaxing Getaway at Novotel Lombok Resort
Our original itinerary was disrupted by a flight cancellation, so we decided to stay an extra night, turning our trip into a four-day, three-night getaway at Novotel Lombok Resort. This resort not only boasts stunning scenery but also offers a variety of fun activities for guests. Every morning and evening, we joined sunrise and sunset hikes, and also tried hands-on crafts and cooking classes—the kids had a blast.
The Novotel resort’s kids’ cooking class costs just USD$3 per person, offering children a chance to experience an English-language cooking lesson—well worth it.
Left: Sunset hike at Novotel Lombok Resort, led by a guide / Right: Tide pool treasure hunt.
What impressed us most was the tide pool exploration near the hotel. Every day at low tide, we took the kids to observe the creatures in the tide pools, discovering many fascinating marine animals like starfish, crabs, and various small fish. This exploration sparked a strong interest in natural ecology in the children, and the whole family cherished this time of close connection with nature.
▶Novotel Lombok Resort Booking Link
Novotel Lombok Resort features traditional Sasak-style architecture from Lombok—definitely worth experiencing!
Novotel Resort also has a Kid’s Club. Though small, it offers free childcare, and we saw many foreign guests leaving their kids there to play, with different activities each day.
August 24 (Saturday) Lombok to Kuala Lumpur
On our final day, we packed our bags, ready to end this 26-day journey. At 19:45, we boarded flight OD367 from Lombok, and after about three hours of flying, we arrived smoothly in Kuala Lumpur at 23:00.
August 25 (Sunday) Kuala Lumpur back to Kaohsiung
We transferred in Kuala Lumpur and boarded flight OD890 at 03:20, finally arriving back in Kaohsiung at 07:55, bringing this wonderful vacation to a close. This trip was filled with unforgettable memories and experiences for both the adults and the kids. From urban exploration to natural wonders, this family journey through Kuala Lumpur, Bali, and Lombok was rich and fulfilling, allowing us to soak in the diverse charms of Southeast Asia—and we’re already looking forward to more travel adventures ahead!
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