The following content is adapted from a travelogue shared by group member Liu Huici:
Key Takeaways: The key to traveling during pregnancy is thorough preparation and a flexible itinerary—arrange a Chinese-speaking driver, e-visa, tourist tax, and customs declaration online in advance. On departure day, prepare health certificates and essential medications (stomach and cold medicine). This 5-day, 4-night route is Sanur → Nusa Lembongan → Ubud → Canggu, with a chill pace and no rigid schedule, so you can still enjoy your trip during pregnancy.
This Bali trip was an exciting first-time experience for me! I’m very grateful to the friends who shared their tips in the Facebook group, which helped me find an amazing Chinese-speaking driver. I’ll introduce him at the end of the article.
Pre-Departure Essentials:
- Excellent Chinese-Speaking Driver Having a Chinese-speaking driver on this trip meant I never had to worry about transportation. His Chinese was very fluent, and he not only took us to all the popular local spots but also flexibly adjusted the itinerary based on time and traffic, making the journey smoother.
- Confirm Itinerary with Driver Before departure, remember to communicate your daily schedule with the driver in advance. The driver will offer professional advice based on your needs, ensuring the best experience at each attraction.
- Exchange TWD to USD Before leaving, remember to exchange some New Taiwan Dollars to US Dollars, then exchange them for Indonesian Rupiah upon arrival in Bali. This is the most cost-effective way to exchange money.
- E-Visa Don’t forget to apply for your Indonesian e-visa in advance. This will save you time queuing at airport immigration and make the start of your trip smoother.
- Tourist Tax Bali charges a tourist tax for incoming visitors. It’s recommended to pay it online in advance to avoid cumbersome procedures upon arrival.
- Customs Declaration Form Remember to fill out the customs declaration form online three days before departure. This will save you a lot of time when entering the country.
- Health Certificate and Tickets On departure day, remember to get your tickets and fill out the health certificate to ensure all documents are in order, avoiding last-minute panic at the airport.
- Prepare Essential Medications Although this trip wasn’t long, it’s still a good idea to pack some basic medications just in case, such as stomach and cold medicine.
These preparations may seem tedious, but they all contribute to a smoother journey, allowing me to fully enjoy every moment in Bali!
Further Reading: Bali Travel Tips: A Must-Read Beginner’s Guide for First-Time Visitors to Bali
Day 1 Itinerary:
Arrive in Bali at 15:15 The plane touched down right on schedule at Bali’s international airport, kicking off an eagerly anticipated journey!
Present Completed Health Certificate After disembarking, the first step was to show the pre-filled health certificate. This process was quick and smooth, giving us a sense of Bali’s efficient pandemic protocols.
Present Completed E-Visa Next up was presenting the e-visa. Since we had it ready in advance, we skipped the queues and used facial recognition for fast clearance—super convenient and saved us a lot of hassle!
Present Customs Declaration Form The final step was showing the customs declaration form, which we also completed online beforehand. The entire entry process went incredibly smoothly.
Wait for Luggage The immigration process was so fast that waiting for our luggage ended up taking the longest! 😂 But once we had our bags, we felt much more relaxed.
Meet the Driver As soon as we exited the airport, our pre-booked driver was already waiting outside. Seeing him made the whole trip feel more grounded—ready to start Bali’s culinary adventure!
Dinner: Naughty Nuri’s Warung, Sanur (Delicious Pork Ribs)
For our first meal in Bali, we chose Naughty Nuri’s Warung in Sanur, famous for its signature pork ribs. It lived up to the hype—tender meat with a secret sauce that awakened our taste buds. Absolutely delicious! This spot is a must-visit on any Bali food list.
Check-in: Maison Aurelia Sanur, Bali by Preference
➡️ Check Maison Aurelia Sanur room rates & availability: Agoda Trip Booking
After dinner, we checked into Maison Aurelia in Sanur. The hotel had a wonderfully cozy vibe, with elegant decor and a very convenient location. Stepping into the room instantly put us in a relaxed holiday mood—perfect for a good night’s rest to recharge for the next day’s adventures.
Day 2 Itinerary (Nusa Lembongan Adventure):
Morning Hotel Pickup by Driver Early in the morning, our private driver arrived right on time at our hotel to pick us up. Today’s destination was the stunning Nusa Lembongan, and we couldn’t contain our excitement!
Buying a Nusa Lembongan Tour at the Sanur Pier Once we reached the pier in Sanur, we bought a day tour to Nusa Lembongan on the spot. There were plenty of options, and we chose one that included snorkeling and sightseeing—excellent value for money.
Thoughtful Arrangement of a Chinese-Speaking Guide The best part of the tour was that they arranged a Chinese-speaking guide to accompany us throughout the day, explaining everything along the way. This made our trip so much easier and more enriching—no language barriers, and we got deeper insights into the local landscapes and culture.
Exciting Activities: Snorkeling, Devil’s Tears, Dream Beach, Mangrove Ecology We snorkeled at a spot off Nusa Lembongan, enjoying crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life—colorful tropical fish swimming all around us, absolutely breathtaking! Then we visited the famous ‘Devil’s Tears,’ where massive waves crashed against the rocks, sending spray flying—a dramatic and awe-inspiring sight. Next came Dream Beach, which truly lived up to its name with its fine white sand and brilliant blue water, perfect for total relaxation. Finally, we explored the mangrove ecological area, getting up close with this natural wonder. The whole itinerary was rich and varied.
Lunch Included, Leisurely Beach Time with Bintang Beer Lunch was thoughtfully included in the tour, and we enjoyed local flavors at a beachfront restaurant on Nusa Lembongan. Afterward, we strolled along the sand, snapped photos, and cracked open an ice-cold Bintang beer—truly soaking up this rare moment of pure relaxation.
Lembongan Island Scenery
Want to know what else there is to do on Lembongan Island? Check out our guide to the best attractions: Lembongan Island Attractions Guide
Private Driver Picks Us Up at the Hotel After a full day of fun, our private driver in Bali was right on time to pick us up and take us back to the hotel. The stunning beauty of Lembongan Island left us wanting more—this trip was truly worth it.
Exploring Sanur’s Streets Back in Sanur, we freshened up and strolled through the nearby streets. The area was lively and full of local character, and as we wandered, we discovered plenty of small shops brimming with authentic Balinese charm.
Dinner: Forketta Bali Italian Restaurant For dinner, we chose Forketta Bali, an Italian restaurant in Sanur. Known for its refined Italian cuisine, we ordered their signature handmade pasta and wood-fired pizza—both were incredibly authentic in flavor and texture, leaving us thoroughly satisfied. This delicious Italian meal was the perfect way to end a fulfilling day!
More Sanur Dining and Entertainment Guide
Sanur is a tranquil seaside town on Bali, renowned for its calm beaches, relaxed atmosphere, and stunning sunrise views. It offers family-friendly resorts, traditional markets, and a wealth of local cuisine, making it an ideal destination for enjoying a slow-paced life and exploring culture. Whether strolling along the coastline or soaking in the local vibe, Sanur promises an incredibly relaxing holiday experience! Want to learn more about Sanur? Click here
Sanur Accommodation Themes
- Bali Accommodation Recommendations: 23 Resorts/Villas in Sanur from Luxury to Budget
- Summer/Winter Bali Family Travel Guide: Comprehensive Tips for Easier Family Trips - Sanur Edition
- "2026 Indonesia's Best New Hotel" Top Honor: The Meru Sanur
- Bali Group Free Travel: Sanur Private Villas with 3/4/5/6+ Bedrooms Recommended for Family Stays
Day 3 Itinerary (Ubud Day Trip):
Whitewater Rafting Adventure Our Ubud trip kicked off with an exhilarating rafting experience. We navigated through Bali’s stunning tropical rainforest, drifting along crystal-clear rivers and feeling the thrill of the rapids—a must-do for adventure lovers. The entire journey was full of surprises and challenges, making it truly unforgettable!
Instagram-Worthy Café: Swing Photo Spot
After rafting, we visited a famous Instagram-worthy café, known for its giant swings that let you soar over breathtaking rice terraces. The locals are incredibly skilled at taking photos, and the whole vibe made every shot look like a postcard—a perfect spot for snapping and sharing memories.
Tebasari Resto, Bar & Lounge
Classic Crispy Duck Rice At lunchtime, we visited a famous crispy duck restaurant in Ubud. This dish is a classic Ubud specialty—crispy duck skin paired with tender, flavorful meat, complemented by a variety of local sauces that are absolutely mouthwatering. It’s truly one of Bali’s must-try foods.
Ubud Royal Palace After lunch, we toured the historic Ubud Royal Palace. The palace’s architecture is distinctly Balinese, with intricate carvings and elaborate decorations that are truly awe-inspiring, offering a glimpse into the local traditional culture and historical heritage.
Ubud Market Next, we strolled through the Ubud Market, which is filled with a variety of handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs. The market buzzed with lively energy, and we picked up a few locally made souvenirs to remember the trip.
Read more: Complete Guide to Ubud’s Top 5 Art Markets: Souvenirs, Gifts, and Balinese Cultural Treasures
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
Heading to Canggu After wrapping up our day in Ubud, we set off for Canggu, ready to begin the next few days of relaxation.
Day 4 Itinerary (Canggu Chill Day):
The Avocado Factory: Healthy & Delicious Breakfast Today’s itinerary kicked off at The Avocado Factory, a breakfast spot focused on healthy eating. We ordered avocado-based dishes—whether it was avocado toast or a fresh salad, everything tasted incredibly fresh and delicious, giving us plenty of energy on this sunny morning.
Gigi Susu: Trendy Coffee & Bakery Next, we visited the trendy coffee shop Gigi Susu, known for its specialty breads and coffee. The interior is stylish and perfect for photo ops, with a great atmosphere. The coffee was rich and smooth, paired with freshly baked local bread—a real treat.
For more info: Over 50 Canggu restaurants recommended by travelers, check out the “Canggu Map Guide”
Exploring Tanah Lot Temple In the afternoon, we visited one of Bali’s landmarks—Tanah Lot Temple. Perched on the coast, this temple appears to float on the sea, offering a breathtaking sight and a sacred atmosphere that inspires awe. It’s also a prime spot to watch the sunset, making it an absolute must-visit in Bali.
Must-Visit Bali Attraction: Tanah Lot Temple Detailed Guide with Tides and Nearby Spots
The Lawn Canggu Beach Club Our final stop of the day was The Lawn, a popular beach club in Canggu. With sun, sand, great food, and a lively crowd, we spent a leisurely afternoon lounging in the pool, sipping chilled cocktails, and waiting for Bali’s famous sunset to slowly descend. As night fell, the beach lit up with a cozy and romantic vibe, letting us fully unwind and savor every moment of our vacation.
More Canggu Food and Fun
Canggu is a hotspot on Bali that combines a relaxed atmosphere with trendy vibes. Not only does it boast stunning beaches, but it's also home to many unique cafes, creative restaurants, and boutique shops, making it a favorite among surfers and young travelers. Whether you're seeking natural scenery or looking to explore local culture, Canggu has something for everyone! Want to learn more about Canggu? Click here.
Canggu Accommodation Themes
- Bali Accommodation Recommendations: Top 17 Canggu Stays You Can't Miss
- 16 Private Pool Villas in Canggu: Canggu Villa Recommendations You Can't Miss
- Luxury Resort in Canggu: Regent Bali Canggu
- Bali Group Travel: Canggu Private Villas with 3/4/5/6+ Bedrooms for Family Stays
Day 5 Itinerary (Getting Ready to Go Home!):
Shopping at Canggu Love Anchor Our first stop today was the popular Love Anchor market in Canggu. It offers a wide variety of accessories and souvenirs, from handmade crafts and clothing to small trinkets, all brimming with Balinese charm. Remember to haggle—prices here have plenty of wiggle room. We managed to slash prices by half on many items, scoring some amazing deals!
Back to the Villa for Final Relaxation After shopping, we returned to the villa to enjoy our last few hours of leisure. The villa’s peaceful and comfortable atmosphere, along with lounging in the pool under the warm sun, helped us fully unwind and put a perfect end to this wonderful Bali trip.
Heading to the Airport for a 4:30 PM Flight Leaving the villa, we arrived at the airport three hours early—a good habit, especially for international flights, as it prevents any last-minute rush due to paperwork or unexpected issues. With all documents ready, we waited calmly for boarding.
❤️ Reflections:
- Prepare your clearance documents in advance! During this trip, I noticed many travelers handling their paperwork on the spot, causing long lines and chaos. So be sure to prepare health certificates, e-visas, customs declarations, and other documents ahead of time to breeze through immigration smoothly.
- Bali has many attractions, but traffic is heavy—don’t overpack your itinerary! Bali’s sights are incredibly diverse, but traffic can be intense, especially during peak hours. I recommend not cramming your schedule too tightly to avoid wasting time on the road. The best experience here is simply to chill and soak in the local pace of life.
- Haggle at market stalls! When shopping at markets, always bargain! For example, I bought a coin purse at Love Anchor, haggling the price from 320,000 IDR down to 140,000 IDR, and at another stall, I even got it for 100,000 IDR. So don’t be shy—negotiate boldly! 😅
- Poor English and three months pregnant, but lucky to have a local who speaks Chinese During this trip, I was three months pregnant and worried about my English skills, but luckily I met a local driver named Kang Ge (Wayan Suantara) who speaks Chinese. His thoughtful help made the entire journey stress-free, especially with route planning and attraction recommendations.
- Souvenir recommendation: BALI BANANA banana cake Don’t forget to grab a box of BALI BANANA banana cake before heading home—it’s a signature Balinese souvenir with a soft, sweet, and delicious texture, available at the airport. You can buy one to try upon arrival, and if you like it, stock up more. They even offer free packing service for convenience.
Further reading: 【Recommended by Travelers】Six Categories, Over 20 Bali Souvenir Guide: Perfect Choices to Cherish Your Memories
Driver Recommendation
As for the amazing Chinese-speaking driver I mentioned, it’s ‘Wayan Suantara,’ also known as ‘Kang Ge.’ After adding him on Line, I quickly shared my planned itinerary. Not only did he promptly arrange everything, but he also offered plenty of professional advice, making the entire trip even more perfect. I highly recommend him! ❤️ He’s completely trustworthy 👍
This Bali trip was full of surprises and memories, from stunning scenery and delicious food to adventure and relaxation. Whether experiencing Bali’s natural beauty or enjoying its laid-back vibe, it’s truly a vacation paradise. Can’t wait to come back!
Do you think Liu Huici’s itinerary looks amazing? Start planning your own Bali free-and-easy trip now! Feel free to share your itinerary in the community group too!
Bali Travelogue Treasure Trove
Click here for more Bali travel stories
Want to write a travelogue but don't know where to start? Check out "How to Write an Amazing Bali Travelogue" to make your travelogue shine!
