update: 2026/05/26
The following content is contributed by group member Yu Mengling
June 19 - June 23, Just Finished a Relaxing and Fun Bali Trip
Key Takeaways: This trip linked up activities like parasailing,海底漫步, rafting, and ATV—sky and sea adventures. Our real takeaway is that finding a Chinese-speaking private driver is key—not only does it solve communication issues, but they can also handle last-minute changes like rescheduling restaurant times, booking massages, or bargaining, making the packed itinerary run smoothly.
Since we decided on the departure date too late, we originally planned to join a guided tour, but in the end, we only managed to book flights and hotels for an independent trip. Still, for me, finding attractions, restaurants, and arranging the itinerary wasn’t too hard. Plus, everyone in this group has been so generous in sharing their experiences, which made me realize the most important thing is finding a reliable private driver.
Finding a Private Driver
After some research, I found Mang Loco recommended by someone in the group. He said I could call him ‘Ou-eh,’ which is the Taiwanese Hokkien for ‘Blackie.’ The best part? He speaks Chinese! Since he used to work in Taiwan, communicating in Chinese is no problem at all. While you can get by with English in Bali, I often struggle to understand the Indonesian accent, so being able to chat directly in Chinese is super convenient!
Itinerary Planning and Communication
I roughly planned the itinerary myself and asked O-E to help me refine it. He was very thoughtful and gave some great suggestions. Communication throughout the trip after arriving in Bali was also very smooth—he could not only understand our casual conversations but also joke around with us, which is really the advantage of having a Chinese-speaking driver! He also helped us solve some unexpected issues, like changing restaurant reservations, arranging last-minute massages, and bargaining with vendors. Below is the itinerary we put together after referencing many guides from Xiao Jie Indonesia on YouTube.
So, if you’re planning a family trip to Bali, feel free to reach out to O-E! His Line ID is: mangloco94. By the way, although he can speak Chinese, he can’t read or type it, so it’s best to greet him in English first. If you’re not confident in English, you can also call him directly—he says he can use translation software to help with communication.
Bali Travel Tips: 32 Essential Guides for First-Time Visitors to Bali
Trip Insights and Recommendations
Drink Choices
In Bali, it’s best to avoid drinks from small local eateries, non-chain stores, or street vendors. During this trip, a friend of ours drank something at a small food stall and ended up with diarrhea for two days. While local beverages may look tempting, it’s safer to stick with reliable options to avoid getting sick during your travels. Also, consider carrying some stomach medication just in case.
Bali Travel Health Tips: Guide to Drinking Water and Diarrhea in Bali
Pack Extra Underwear
The humidity in Bali is very high, especially if you’re doing water activities—you’ll likely need to change clothes twice a day. I initially thought I could just wash and dry my clothes, but due to the heavy humidity, they don’t dry completely. I recommend bringing extra quick-dry clothing, especially underwear, to ensure you always have clean, comfortable clothes to wear each day.
Traffic in Kuta
Traffic in the Kuta area is extremely congested. If you’re staying in Kuta, be sure to allow plenty of time to deal with the traffic jams. The roads are narrow and packed with vehicles, so it’s gridlocked every day. If your itinerary is tight, I’d suggest switching accommodations every two days to avoid spending too much time on the road heading back at night. Also, try to plan some walking or biking activities to steer clear of the heavy traffic.
Accommodation
On this Bali trip, we stayed all four nights at the Grand Istana Rama Hotel. It’s right next to the Beachwalk Shopping Center, so we’d pop over for some shopping every day as long as it was still open when we got back XD
Just cross the street and you’re at Kuta Beach, with lively nightlife nearby. While it’s not the newest hotel, the rooms are spacious and clean, and the facilities are well-equipped. The staff are friendly and warm, making you feel right at home. The seafood dinner and live band performances were especially fantastic, giving us some wonderful evenings. Our stay here was truly delightful—amazing value for money!
Grand Istana Rama Hotel: Agoda Booking Trip Booking
Currency Exchange
There are plenty of money exchange places in Bali. It’s safer to have your guide or driver take you there. Since exchanging money is so convenient, you don’t need to change a large amount at once. On this trip, I had a shared fund set up in advance, so I only exchanged USD$200 for my own pocket money over five days, and I still had some left over. I recommend carrying some US dollars with you for emergencies—it also cuts down on how often you need to exchange locally.
Rafting Experience
Before rafting in Bali, you’ll need to hike down a long mountain path (descending stairs) to reach the river. On the way back, there’s an uphill climb with stairs—though shorter, it can still be challenging for those not in great shape. If you’re bringing elderly folks or kids, be sure to assess their stamina. That said, the rafting itself is incredibly thrilling and fun, making it an unforgettable experience—definitely worth trying.
Other Activities
Photo by Yu Mengling
(Left) GWK Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park is a great spot for a stroll and photos—it won’t take long to walk around! (Lazy traveler approved 👍🏻
GWK Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park Travelogue
(Center) We even broke an ATV (by revving in neutral…)
Bali ATV Adventure: Thrills and Freedom in a Tropical Paradise (Tips + Operator Recommendations)
(Right) I have no idea why we were brave enough to let go of both hands… Next time, we’ll definitely try parasailing again
Uluwatu Guide | Paragliding in Uluwatu! Stunning Ocean Views + Tips
Photo by Yu Mengling
(Left) The cliffside pool is amazing! This is Oneeighty Dayclub—you can book online in advance!
Explore Oneeighty Day Club: Breathtaking Cliffside Pool Views in Bali
(Center) The Tanah Barak Cliff—a stunning narrow gap with beautiful views
Bali’s Batu Barak/Tanah Barak: A Scenic Journey Along the Blue Highway/Cliff Road
(Right) The seabed walk is also fantastic! Though you’ll constantly deal with ear pressure imbalance.
Popular Outdoor Activities in Bali
- Ubud Jungle Sunrise Yoga & Meditation
- Nusa Dua Beach Water Sports Guide
- GWK Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park Discount Tickets
- Paragliding Over Uluwatu's Ocean Views
- Bali ATV Adventure: Tips & FAQ
- 11 Jimbaran Seafood Restaurants: No-Fail Picks
- Lovina Dolphin Watching & Snorkeling Tour
- Super Popular: ATV Ride + Rafting (Lunch Included)
- Bali Rafting Guide: Common Questions Answered
- Sunset Jeep Tour: No Early Wake-Up Needed
These are some of my takeaways and tips from this trip. Feel free to ask any questions or share your thoughts! I plan to go again next year—Bali is truly a relaxing, comfortable, and fun place!
Think Yu Mengling’s itinerary is exciting? Start planning your own Bali trip now! Feel free to share your itinerary in the community group as well!
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