update: 2026/05/26
The following content is provided by group member Yu Mengling
June 19–23: A Relaxed and Enjoyable Bali Trip Just Ended
Key Takeaway: This trip linked up activities like parasailing, sea walking, rafting, and ATV—truly covering both sky and sea. Our real takeaway is that finding a Chinese-speaking private driver is key—not only does it solve communication issues, but they can also help with last-minute changes like adjusting restaurant times, booking massages, and bargaining, making a packed itinerary run smoothly.
Since we decided on the departure date too late, we originally planned to join a guided tour with a travel agency, but in the end, we only managed to book flights and a hotel for a free-and-easy trip. That said, finding attractions and restaurants and arranging the itinerary wasn’t too hard for me, and with everyone in this group sharing their experiences so enthusiastically, I felt the most important thing was to find a reliable private driver.
Finding a Private Driver
After some research, I came across a recommendation in the group for Mang Loco, who goes by the nickname ‘Ou-eh’ (the Taiwanese Hokkien term for ‘dark one’). The key point is that he speaks Chinese! He used to work in Taiwan, so communicating in Chinese is no problem at all. While you can get by with English in Bali, I often struggle to understand Indonesian-accented English, so being able to chat directly in Chinese was incredibly convenient.
Itinerary Planning and Communication
I first drafted a rough itinerary and then asked Ou-eh to help me refine it. He was very thoughtful and offered some great suggestions. Once we arrived in Bali, communication throughout the trip was seamless—he could even follow our casual conversations and joke around with us, which is one of the perks of having a Chinese-speaking driver! He also helped us handle unexpected issues, like changing restaurant times, 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 to bring your family 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 at first. If your English isn’t great, you can also call him directly—he says he can use translation software to help communicate.
Bali Travel Tips: 32 Must-Know Tips for First-Time Visitors to Bali
Trip Insights and Recommendations
Choosing Your Drinks
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 medication for stomach issues, just in case.
Bali Travel Health Tips: A Guide to Drinking Water and Diarrhea in Bali
Pack Extra Underwear
Bali’s humidity is intense, especially if you’re doing water activities—you’ll likely need to change clothes twice a day. I thought I could just wash and air-dry my clothes, but the humidity makes it hard for them to fully dry. It’s best to bring extra quick-dry clothing, especially underwear, so you always have clean, comfortable clothes to wear.
Traffic in Kuta
Traffic in the Kuta area is notoriously congested. If you’re staying in Kuta, be sure to allow plenty of extra time for traffic jams. The roads are narrow and packed with vehicles, so you’ll encounter gridlock daily. If your itinerary is tight, consider 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 cycling activities to steer clear of the heavy traffic.
Accommodation
During this Bali trip, we stayed at the Grand Istana Rama Hotel for all four nights. It’s right next to the Beachwalk Shopping Center, so we’d hit the mall every evening before it closed on our way back to the hotel. 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, clean, and well-equipped. The staff are friendly and welcoming, making you feel right at home. The seafood dinners and live band performances were especially fantastic, giving us some wonderful evenings. Our stay here was excellent—incredible value for money!
Grand Istana Rama Hotel: Agoda Booking Trip Booking
Currency Exchange
There are plenty of money changers in Bali. It’s safer to have your guide or driver take you to one. Since exchanging money is so convenient, there’s no need to change too much at once. For this trip, I set aside a common fund first, so I only exchanged USD$200 for my own pocket money over five days—and I still had some left. I recommend carrying some US dollars for emergencies, which also reduces the number of times you need to exchange locally.
White Water Rafting
Before rafting in Bali, you’ll need to hike down a long mountain path (descending stairs) to reach the river. On the way back, you’ll climb a shorter uphill staircase, but it can still be challenging for those who aren’t very fit. If you’re traveling with elderly folks or children, be sure to assess their stamina. That said, the rafting itself is incredibly thrilling and fun—an unforgettable experience. I highly recommend giving it a try.
Bali Rafting Guide (Rafting FAQ)
More Fun Activities
Photo by Yu Mengling
(Left) GWK Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park is a great spot for a quick photo walk—won’t take long! (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 the Tropical Paradise (Tips + Operator Recommendations)
(Right) Not sure why we were brave enough to let go of both hands… Next time we’ll try parasailing again
Uluwatu Guide | Soaring Over Uluwatu! Stunning Ocean Views + Tips to Share
Photo by Yu Mengling
(Left photo) The cliffside pool is amazing! This is Oneeighty Dayclub — you can book online in advance!
Explore Oneeighty Day Club: Stunning Cliffside Pool Views in Bali
(Center photo) The narrow gap at Tanah Barak Cliff is breathtakingly beautiful.
Bali’s Batu Barak/Tanah Barak: A Stunning Journey Along the Blue Highway and Cliff Road
(Right photo) The underwater walk is also fantastic! Just be prepared for constant ear pressure issues.
Popular Outdoor Activities in Bali
- Bali River Rafting Guide: Ayung & Telaga Waja FAQ
- Nusa Dua Beach Watersports: Complete Activity Guide
- 4 Top Snorkeling Spots in Nusa Penida Without the Hassle
- Bali UNESCO Heritage Day Tour: Taman Ayun, Jatiluwih & Tanah Lot
- Ubud Jungle Sunrise Yoga & Meditation Experience
- Mount Batur Sunrise: Hike or Jeep Ride Guide
- Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park Admission Ticket
- 40,000+ Reviews: Bali Instagram Hotspot Tour
- Waterbom Bali: Asia's #1 Water Park Admission Ticket
- Tanah Lot Sunset Tour (Optional Chinese-Speaking Guide)
These are some of my takeaways and tips from this trip. Feel free to ask any questions or share your thoughts! I’m planning to go again next year — Bali truly is a relaxing, comfortable, and incredibly fun place!
Do you think Yu Mengling’s itinerary looks exciting? Go ahead and plan your own Bali trip! And feel free to share your itinerary in the community group too!
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