The following content is adapted from a travelogue shared by group member Libra Li:
Bottom Line First: A family of 2 adults and 2 kids spent 26 days exploring Kuala Lumpur, Bali, Lombok (including Gili T), with a total cost of approximately NT$180,000 (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.
Thanks to the invaluable resources in this group, I’ve been able to learn from everyone’s experiences and knowledge. Now I’d like to give back by sharing our own journey—a family of four traveling 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 report to share with fellow netizens, so please bear with me! 😄
Trip Overview:
Travelers: 2 adults and 2 kids (ages 4 and 6)
Total Cost: NT$180,000 (USD$5,806) for 26 days, including all flights, visas, insurance, SIM cards, accommodation, transportation, and meals. We aimed to keep the budget under control, making the trip both fulfilling and affordable.
Flights and 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! For four people, round-trip tickets plus 30kg of luggage, the total came to USD$512.
Kuala Lumpur to Bali One-Way Flights:
- August 4 KUL-DPS OD193 14:00-17:00
- For four people one-way with 30kg luggage, the total came to USD$261.
Lombok to Kuala Lumpur One-Way Flights:
- August 24 LOP-KUL OD367 19:45-23:00
- For four people one-way with 30kg luggage, the total came to USD$384.
Bali Transportation Tips:
We originally planned to hire a private driver for the entire trip in Bali, especially thinking it would be more convenient with two kids. But reality had other plans! On the first day after arriving, we were shocked by the chaotic traffic—gridlock was everywhere! 🤯 If we had stuck with a private driver, we would have wasted all our time stuck in traffic jams.
So, we quickly changed our strategy and decided to rent a scooter as our main mode of transport. Since we’re a family of four, we specifically rented a larger scooter so the two adults and two kids could ride together. The kids tend to fall asleep easily on the scooter, so we positioned them between us—one adult in front and one behind—to keep them safe. The road conditions on the island aren’t the greatest, 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 somewhere farther, no worries! We used ride-hailing services like GRAB or GO-JEK, which are well-established in Bali. They’re always available at the tap of a button and super convenient.
Read more: Complete Guide to Registering, Using, and Topping Up Gojek and GoPay in Indonesia/Bali
Trip Itinerary Breakdown:
First Leg: July 31 – August 4: Kuala Lumpur + Malacca
- During this period, we mainly stayed in Kuala Lumpur and took a three-day, two-night trip to the historic city of Malacca to explore its local culture and cuisine.
Second Leg: August 4 – August 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.
Third Leg: August 14 – August 25: Lombok + Gili T
- In the final days on Lombok, we fully relaxed and enjoyed the peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle. The beautiful seascapes and simple island life on Gili Trawangan provided the perfect ending to our journey.
August 4 (Sunday): Arrival in Bali – Scooter Rental & Dinner
Upon arriving in Bali, our first priority was to rent a scooter, which would be our main mode of transportation for the next few days. We chose scooters because traffic in Bali is notoriously bad, with heavy congestion; riding a scooter allowed us to weave through the sights more flexibly and save a lot of time.
That evening, we had dinner locally and 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 incredibly convenient.
Provided by Libra Li
Sara Residence offers 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 a separate shower.
About a 15-minute walk from the beach, this is a great value accommodation choice.
August 5 (Mon) – Arrival in Bali: The Second Day’s Itinerary Begins
Today’s itinerary was packed with activities. We set off early to explore several of Bali’s iconic spots:
- Tanah Lot Bali’s most iconic seaside temple, combining stunning ocean views with majestic architecture, left us in awe. The kids had a blast here, especially enjoying this direct connection with nature.
Further reading: Bali Travel Must-Visit: Tanah Lot Detailed Guide with Tides and Nearby Attractions
- Turtle Conservation and Education Center This conservation center is perfect for families, especially since kids can see newborn sea turtles up close! It offers not only interactive experiences with the turtles but also educational insights into marine ecology. Highly recommended for families with young children.
This is truly a must-visit with kids, and they also offer turtle release activities (reservation and fee required)!
- Uluwatu Temple (Pura Uluwatu) Perched on a dramatic cliff, Uluwatu Temple is another must-visit spot in Bali. The views here are breathtaking, with the stunning interplay of cliffs and ocean creating an unforgettable scene. We even spotted monkeys, which thrilled the kids—but you have to be careful, as they might snatch your belongings.
Bali Uluwatu Temple / Cliff Travel Guide: Must-See Highlights and Practical Tips
- Relaxing Massage After a day of sightseeing, how could you visit Bali without experiencing a massage? We specifically found a local massage parlor, and the whole family enjoyed a soothing session. It was the perfect way to unwind and recharge for tomorrow’s adventures.
August 6 (Tuesday) Hard Rock Hotel (Kuta) + Kuta Beach
Today’s itinerary was super relaxed. We checked into the famous Hard Rock Hotel, which has a vibrant rock ‘n’ roll vibe and tons of entertainment facilities. For families with kids, Hard Rock Hotel is a fantastic choice—especially the large pool and kids’ club, where the children had a blast. There are also plenty of activities and amenities for the whole family to enjoy, keeping us laughing and having fun all day long. 🌞
Hard Rock Bali offers welcome drinks, and the live bar performances at night are even more exciting. Hard Rock 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, famous for its golden sand and perfect surfing conditions. Even though we don’t surf, we still had a wonderful afternoon on the sand. The kids built sandcastles and dug holes, and the stunning sunset made the day even more perfect.
Kuta Beach
More Things to Do in Kuta
Kuta is Bali's most vibrant tourist hotspot, attracting travelers from around the world with its lively nightlife, bustling streets, and beginner-friendly surfing beaches. The area is packed with a wide array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, making it an excellent destination for thrill-seekers and shoppers alike. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in the energetic party scene or enjoy stunning sunset views, Kuta promises to fill your vacation with unforgettable memories!
Want to learn more about Kuta? Click here
Kuta Accommodation Themes
- 18 Selected Hotels Near Kuta Beach
- 12 Top City Hotels in Kuta
- Bali Group Free Travel: Recommended Family Villas in Kuta with 3/4/5/6+ Bedrooms
Wednesday, August 7 – Movenpick Resort & Spa Jimbaran Bali + Jimbaran Beach
Today we arrived at Movenpick Resort & Spa Jimbaran Bali, a resort renowned for its luxurious amenities and family-friendly atmosphere. After checking in, we spent the entire day enjoying the resort life, with a kids’ club and spacious pool area that kept the children thoroughly entertained. We also took the chance to relax and soak in the serene vibe of this tranquil getaway. 🌴
Movenpick Resort Jimbaran – Kids’ Club activity featuring local costume dress-up
Our stay at Mövenpick Resort Jimbaran was a delight. Originally scheduled for a 3 PM check-in, the room wasn’t ready yet, so the hotel kindly treated us to their afternoon tea set. The tea was rich and delicious, giving us a chance to unwind while we waited. Luckily, the room was ready by 3:05 PM—even faster than expected!
At 4 PM, the hotel offered a free Candy Bar that was a huge hit with the kids, featuring an array of candies and treats that had them buzzing with excitement. I highly recommend this service, especially for families with children. What’s more, even after checkout, 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 not only boasts beautiful surroundings and attentive service but is also incredibly family-friendly, allowing the whole family to enjoy a relaxed and joyful vacation.
In the afternoon, we headed to 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, savoring fresh grilled seafood while the sea breeze and golden sunset created a wonderfully romantic atmosphere. The kids ran and played on the sand, and this easygoing vibe made us feel truly 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
Thursday, August 8 – Relaxing at Movenpick Resort + Heading to Ubud
Today we continued to unwind at Movenpick Resort, making the most of the morning to enjoy the resort’s facilities. The breakfast was abundant and diverse, perfect for the whole family. We spent a pleasant morning at the pool and play areas, not checking out until around 4 PM before heading to Ubud. 🏊♀️
Located at the same spot as Mövenpick Resort Jimbaran, Samasta Bali 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, making a scooter a great choice for exploring the area. We then went to try the famous Bebek Bengil (Dirty Duck Dinner), a classic Balinese dish featuring crispy fried duck paired with local spices and sides—an unforgettable flavor. 🦆
After dinner, we headed to Bintang Supermarket Ubud to browse. As the largest and most famous supermarket in Ubud, it offers a wide selection of goods. We picked up some daily necessities and snacks to prepare for the next few days of our trip.
Xiaojie tells you what to buy at Bintang Ubud!
Tonight we checked into Puri Padma Hotel, located in a quieter area of Ubud. The environment is very comfortable, perfect for a good rest 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 children (ages 4 and 6).
- Cleaning service is excellent—not only thorough but also attentive to details. Since I did laundry every day, the cleaning staff proactively provided me with hangers and a drying rack.
- Front desk reception is warm, welcoming, and well-informed.
- If you sit on the second floor, you can enjoy a beautiful view of the volcano. I loved this scenery during breakfast, and the rooftop view is also quite impressive.
- The hotel’s location is excellent—just 8 to 10 minutes from Ubud Palace, with a spacious parking lot in front.
We had a wonderful family time here.
August 9 (Fri) - Tirta Empul Temple + Alas Harum Bali (Rice Terraces & Civet Coffee) + Cretya Lunch
Our first stop today was the famous Tirta Empul Temple. Known for its holy spring water, locals believe it has the power to purify both mind and body. Even though we’re not Hindu, experiencing this unique cultural ritual felt truly special. The kids were also fascinated by the mystical atmosphere and impressive architecture.
Next, we visited Alas Harum Bali, famous not only for its stunning rice terraces but also for offering a taste of the local Luwak Coffee. The terrace views were breathtaking, and we snapped plenty of photos. The kids were curious about the terraced fields, while we enjoyed a fragrant cup of Luwak coffee. With fun activities like the sky swing, we had a relaxing and joyful time.
For lunch, we chose to dine at Cretya, where the beautiful rice terrace views complemented a rich menu. Not only was the food delicious, but the restaurant’s ambiance also allowed us to soak in a peaceful atmosphere—a true feast for both the eyes and the palate.
Luxury on a Budget: Cretya Ubud Pool Club & Alas Harum Spending Guide
August 10 (Sat) Kanto Lampo Waterfall + Ubud Palace + Ubud Traditional Market
Today we visited the hidden Kanto Lampo Waterfall nestled in the jungle. The water cascades gently over rocks, creating a beautiful natural scene. The kids had a blast playing in the water, and the surrounding nature let us experience Bali’s ecological charm. The waterfall’s flow was just right, allowing visitors to get close and feel its cool mist.
Afterward, we toured Ubud Palace in the heart of Ubud. This ancient palace features intricate carvings and traditional Balinese architecture, making it a great spot to learn about local culture. Though small, its history and architectural beauty left a strong impression on us.
Next, we headed to the famous Ubud Market. While it offers a wide variety of goods, prices aren’t cheap, and the sellers generally seemed indifferent, making bargaining difficult. Our tip: if you’re just looking for souvenirs, this might not be the best choice. However, on our way back to Puri Padma Hotel, we discovered a small market with much more affordable prices, where we picked up some great handmade crafts. 🎁
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 their distance to avoid having things snatched from their hands. The forest is lush and green, dotted with ancient temple ruins, and strolling through it felt incredibly peaceful.
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 children’s interest in cooking while we picked up plenty of culinary tips. It felt truly worthwhile for the whole family.
▶Book Ketut’s Bali Cooking Class on Klook
In the afternoon, we headed to the Campuhan Ridge Walk, a trail famous for its beautiful valley views. Walking along the lush path surrounded by stunning rice paddies and mountain scenery was incredibly relaxing. The air was fresh, making it a perfect escape from the city bustle. Our family had a wonderful time here, and after completing the walk, we felt refreshed—a perfect end to the day’s itinerary.
August 12 (Mon) – Bali Bird Park + Villa Kayu Lama
Today we visited Bali Bird Park, a fantastic spot for families with kids. The park is home to a wide variety of birds, and we could not only observe them but also feed them up close—the children were thrilled. There were many interactive experiences, like having birds perch on our shoulders or feeding rainbow lorikeets in designated areas. Since our kids are very interested in animals, we decided to save Bali Reptile Park for the next day so we could fully enjoy each park.
Detailed guide: Bali Bird Park Ultimate Guide: Rare Birds, Interactive Activities, and Eco-Conservation Adventures
Tonight, we checked into Villa Kayu Lama, a two-bedroom private villa that was spacious and comfortable, perfect for the whole family. The villa’s design exuded tropical charm and came with a private pool, allowing us to enjoy a quiet and relaxing evening.
Provided by Libra Li
Villa Kayu Lama offers delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner, all of which can be delivered to your room—a very convenient touch. The environment is peaceful and beautiful, and the staff are incredibly friendly. The kids also loved staying here; the hotel thoughtfully prepared a children’s bed and toiletries, showing great attention to service. Highly recommended!
August 13 (Tue) – Bali Reptile Park + Heading to Padang Bai
Today’s itinerary was 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, giving us a deeper understanding of these creatures. Best of all, many of the animals can be touched, allowing the kids to feel their skin textures firsthand—they were especially fascinated by this close-up interactive experience. It’s a fantastic family-friendly learning and interactive experience, and we highly recommend it.
Full details: Bali Reptile Park Guide: Get Up Close with Komodo Dragons, Interactive Python Encounters, Ticket Prices, and Family Tips
After the reptile park, we headed to Padang Bai, the main port for the Gili Islands. We chose to stay at Serangan Mimba Inn, a simple but comfortable accommodation perfect for a short stopover. We turned in early, ready to set off for Gili T the next day.
August 14 (Wed) – Padang Bai to Gili T + Cycling Around the Island
At 9 a.m., we took a speedboat to Gili T, with a journey of about two hours.
When heading to Padangbai to board the boat, I recommend staying nearby the night before, because whether coming from the south or from Ubud, traffic conditions are highly unpredictable and delays are common. The port area is chaotic and crowded, making it easy to feel overwhelmed. Around the dock, many locals will offer to help with luggage, but some may grab your bags aggressively and demand a tip. I encountered this too—my luggage was whisked away in an instant, and I felt compelled to tip to avoid any trouble. Each person typically asks for 50,000 IDR, but I chose to give only 10,000 IDR to avoid being dragged into a long negotiation. Most of the time, they’re in a hurry to help other travelers, so they won’t argue for long—this way, I avoided some hassle.
▶Fast boat tickets from Padang Bai to Gili Islands can be purchased here
After arriving on Gili T, we rented bicycles and set off on a leisurely island tour. There are no cars on Gili T—only bicycles and horse-drawn carts as the main modes of transport, which made our ride even more relaxed and enjoyable. The scenery along the way was stunning, and the kids were laughing with joy as they pedaled. We found a beachfront restaurant called Lazy Coco, ordered some drinks and snacks, and sat there watching the sunset while gazing at the distant volcano—it felt incredibly peaceful.
View from Gili T toward Bali
Spending the evening at Lazy Coco on Gili T—reasonable prices and delicious food
Lazy Coconut on Gili T: great for sunset views in the evening, with some toys nearby for kids to play with for hours. Cocktails are discounted, cheaper than in Bali.
Tonight we checked into Warna Beach Hotel, which is very conveniently located within walking distance of many restaurants and the beach. The rooms are simple but 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 just $19 USD per night.
August 15 (Thursday) Snorkeling Island Hopping + Gili T Night Market + Massage
Today’s itinerary was absolutely fantastic! We joined the Three-Island Snorkeling Tour around the Gili Islands, which took us to explore three islands in the group: Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air. While snorkeling, we saw a dazzling array of 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 an experience well worth it.
Sea turtle spotted during the Gili T island hopping tour
In the evening, we headed to Gili T Night Market, where stalls offered a wide variety of local snacks, allowing us to sample many flavors of Balinese cuisine. The market was lively and crowded, with an abundant selection of food, though the prices didn’t seem very budget-friendly.
After a satisfying dinner, we chose a local massage parlor and enjoyed a relaxing massage. By the end of the day, 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
Gili T to Bangsal by Public Boat
Today we bid farewell to beautiful Gili T and took a public boat to Bangsal. Although 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. I’d advise staying vigilant in these areas and not trusting strangers easily.
Tonight we checked into Holiday Resort Lombok in Senggigi. This hotel was impressive—spacious rooms, beautiful landscaped grounds, and a serene beach that left our whole family very satisfied. The facilities were also well-equipped, with a pool, restaurant, and family-friendly spaces, offering excellent value for money. For travelers looking to unwind, this is definitely a great choice.
Holiday Resort Lombok, only USD$81 for a weekend stay, with spacious rooms, a large pool, and a beach
Holiday Resort Lombok’s Pool Bar offers 50% off during happy hour, and the drinks are delicious
August 17 (Sat) Holiday Resort Lombok’s National Independence Day Special Event
Today happened to be Indonesia’s National Independence Day (Independence Day), and we were fortunate to join the special event held by Holiday Resort Lombok to celebrate. The resort was filled with a festive atmosphere, featuring many games and activities for kids, along with traditional music and dance performances, allowing us to experience Indonesia’s rich cultural vibe.
Highly recommended Holiday Resort Lombok — thanks to Independence Day, we got vouchers for pony rides and an in-house spa experience.
Holiday Resort Lombok’s National Day event (provided by Libra Li)
Our family also joined a few games, and the kids had a blast. This kind of celebration, full of 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 (Sun) Exploring Mataram City + Staying at Lombok Raya Hotel
Today we headed from Holiday Resort Lombok to Mataram, the capital of Lombok, for a day of urban exploration. To get around easily, we rented a scooter locally — the best way to explore Lombok’s city center.
Ampenan, a local hidden gem in Mataram — perfect if you want to skip the tourist trail
Ampenan, a seaside restaurant loved by locals — finally found real Indonesian prices, incredibly cheap
Ampenan, fresh juice plus Indonesian meal, under USD$3
We first arrived at Kota Tua Ampenan, once a vital port on Lombok Island, now a nostalgic historic district. Here, many local-run seaside restaurants offer a unique experience, allowing us to 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. Its grand architecture and exquisite design left a deep impression on us, making it 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 a variety of amusement rides, perfect for kids to enjoy. We also sampled several local snacks, adding a wealth of delicious memories to our day’s journey.
Tonight, we checked into Lombok Raya Hotel, a comfortable 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 (Mon) – Benang Stokel & Kelambu Waterfall Trip + Mataram Exploration
Benang Stokel & Kelambu Waterfall
Today, we originally planned to visit the famous Benang Stokel & Kelambu Waterfall, but after checking reviews before departure, we found many travelers complaining about unclear ticket pricing and unfair charges. We decided to go and see for ourselves, only to find that upon arrival, there were 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 turn back.
▶Benang Stokel & Kelambu Waterfalls: Highly Rated on Klook
Next, we considered switching to the highly recommended Sade Village, but after checking Google reviews again, we found many reports of tourist traps 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, and not really worth recommending.
August 20 (Tue): Coffee Shops, Traditional Markets, and Batuidung Hill Views
Today’s itinerary was all about relaxation. We started at a stylish, artsy coffee shop, Konyu Coffee & Space, whose unique decor and serene atmosphere instantly won us over. The brunch here was delicious, making it the 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 a must-visit.
Next, we headed to two local traditional markets: Sindu Traditional Market and Cakranegara Traditional Market. These markets are very local, with almost no tourists in sight, brimming with the everyday life of Lombok’s residents. The prices were incredibly affordable, making them perfect for buying local fruits, vegetables, or handmade crafts. We discovered many interesting trinkets and enjoyed the fun of bargaining with the locals, which felt authentic and close to daily life.
In the afternoon, we took on the challenge of reaching the notoriously difficult Batuidung Hill. The journey was tough, requiring a winding mountain road to get there, but when we stood at the summit, the view made every bit of effort worthwhile. This hidden hill offers breathtaking scenery and an incredible vantage point, overlooking the majestic beauty of nature. The tranquility and stunning views provided the perfect ending to our day’s adventure.
Batuidung, a very hard-to-reach hill. Google Maps can’t guide you there; you have to ask the local villagers. But the climb is worth it for the view.
Batuidung, a very hard-to-reach hill, but once you’re up, you can see the mountains and sea of all Lombok, especially beautiful at sunset.
August 21 (Wed) to August 24 (Sat) – A Relaxing Getaway at Novotel Lombok Resort
Our original itinerary was disrupted by a flight cancellation, so we decided to extend our stay and spent a four-day, three-night vacation 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 the sunrise and sunset hiking excursions, and we also tried hands-on workshops and cooking classes. The kids had a wonderful time.
The Novotel resort’s kids’ cooking class costs only USD$3 per person, giving children a chance to experience an English-language cooking lesson—truly worthwhile.
Left: Sunset hike at Novotel Lombok Resort, guided by a staff member / Right: Tide pool treasure hunt
What impressed us most was the tide pool exploration activity 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 intimate time with nature.
Novotel Lombok Resort features traditional Sasak architecture, which is definitely worth experiencing!
Novotel Resort also has a Kid’s Club. Although it’s small, childcare is free of charge. We saw many foreign guests leaving their kids there to play, with different activities offered every day.
August 24 (Sat) – Lombok to Kuala Lumpur
On our final day, we packed our bags, ready to conclude 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) – Return from Kuala Lumpur to Kaohsiung
We transferred in Kuala Lumpur and boarded flight OD890, departing at 03:20 and 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 experience the diverse charms of Southeast Asia. We’re already looking forward to more travel adventures ahead!
Do you find Libra Li’s itinerary exciting? Plan your own Bali free-and-easy trip now! Feel free to share your itinerary in the community as well!
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