The following content is adapted from a travelogue shared by group member Yi Chen Lai:
For this Bali trip, the person I’m most grateful for is definitely our private driver, Jimmi Liu—a Taiwanese local who is not only incredibly responsible and super nice, but also very thoughtful. I highly recommend him to anyone visiting Bali for the first time!
When we arrived at the airport, we were ready to get our visa on arrival, but we accidentally got in the wrong line. Normally, you just pay at the counter at the very end of immigration (about USD$32), get a QR code, and breeze through. But we got confused by the process, took a long detour, and wasted quite a bit of time.
What actually took the longest was waiting for our luggage. Throughout this chaotic and slow process, Jimmi waited patiently outside without rushing us at all. We were a bit worried he might leave after waiting so long, but we were overthinking it—Jimmi came across as very reliable and patient. For first-timers in Bali like us, that first impression was a huge plus!
🤍 Day 1: Beach sunsets and Ubud’s highlands—here we come!
The highlight of Day 1 was enjoying a seafood feast at [Jimbaran Bay] in the evening! This spot is already a must-visit for sunset views in Bali, and Jimmi went the extra mile to get us the best seats—right by the water. We ate grilled lobster, felt the sea breeze, and watched the sun slowly dip below the horizon. It was so beautiful we didn’t want to leave! 🌅🦞
Photo by Yi Chen Lai
Further reading: 9 Seafood Restaurants in Jimbaran, Bali: No-Fail Picks
That evening, we headed straight to Ubud to check into The Ambengan Villas Ubud by Pramana Villas. I highly recommend this villa—five stars! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Featured in 20 Stunning Bali Villas in Ubud
The rooms are spacious, the surroundings serene, and the design blends Bali’s natural vibe with modern simplicity. The private pool area is especially dreamy. Choosing this as our base for the next few days in Ubud was absolutely the right call.
Check The Ambengan Villas Ubud by Pramana Villas rates & availability Trip Booking
If you’re looking for a reliable Chinese-speaking driver and want to stay in a reasonably priced, high-quality villa, you’ve got to bookmark this travel diary!
🤍 Day 2: A Day of Thrills! Whitewater Rafting, ATV Rides, and Soothing Massages 💦🛶🧖♀️
Day two was hands down the most adrenaline-packed day of the trip! We booked two of Ubud’s most popular outdoor activities—whitewater rafting and ATV off-roading—perfect for adventure lovers and anyone wanting to soak in nature’s beauty.
🔹 Whitewater Rafting Experience｜About 2 Hours on Bali’s Adventurous River 🚣♀️
Photo by Yi Chen Lai
The entire rafting trip lasts about 2 hours, winding through tropical jungles, cliffs, and waterfalls with stunning scenery. But here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- You will get completely soaked (not “maybe,” but “definitely” 😂)
- Bring a change of clothes—the venue provides towels, but it’s safest to have your own
- Wear river shoes or sturdy sandals, because you’ll need to walk down a 15-minute staircase from the meeting point to the river, and climb back up afterward—those stairs are no joke!
But the moment you jump into the cool river water after sweating is pure bliss—it feels like a natural baptism ✨
Read more: Bali Rafting Guide (FAQ for Rafting)
🔹ATV Off-Roading｜The Thrill of Racing Through Muddy Forest Trails 🛻💨
Next, we took on a one-hour ATV ride, tearing through muddy forest paths at full speed. The mud-splashing rush was incredibly satisfying! Overall, expect to get a bit wet and slightly dirty, but if you love taking photos, don’t worry—the staff know how to capture great angles, leaving you with plenty of cool shots!
Photo by Yi Chen Lai
Photo by Yi Chen Lai
🔹The Perfect Finish｜A Relaxing One-Hour Massage 🧖♀️💆♂️
After a full day of sweating it out, how could we skip a relaxing massage? We booked a local SPA on the spot to let our tired bodies truly unwind.
The whole day went smoothly without a worry, because Jimmi not only handled the pickups and drop-offs but also watched our bags, helped with communication, and even took photos—keeping us safe and carefree the entire time! 👏
If you want to skip the hassle of comparing prices and itineraries, you can also ask Jimmi to book activities for you. He has access to local pricing, which can sometimes be much cheaper than booking through official websites!
🤍 Day 3: Chasing Sunrises, Rice Terraces, and Swings! A Classic Day Trip in the Ubud Highlands 🌄🌾🛖
On the third day, we planned a trip full of ‘Bali vibes.’ We set off early in the morning to catch the sunrise at Mount Batur, then visited a famous volcano-view café, the Instagram-famous Tegallalang Rice Terrace swing, and enjoyed a delicious crispy duck feast! The pace was tight but fulfilling, leaving us completely satisfied in body and soul ❤️
🔹 Mount Batur Sunrise Jeep Tour 🌋🚙
This tour required an early morning departure. We drove to the foot of the mountain before dawn and then transferred to a jeep for the ascent. Even though it was freezing cold, standing at the summit and watching the sun slowly rise between the volcano and the lake made it all worth it!
Photo by Yi Chen Lai
Photo by Yi Chen Lai — the one on the far left is Jimmi
Quick tip:
- Be sure to wear a thick jacket or windbreaker—it’s windy and cold up on the mountain, nothing like a tropical vibe!
- The road is rough and bumpy, but the jeep drivers are very skilled, so just relax and trust them.
The afterglow of sunrise spread across Lake Batur, as beautiful as a painting—it was one of the most touching moments of the trip.
Read more: Bali Adventure: A Complete Guide to the Batur Volcano Jeep Sunrise Tour
🔹 Montana Del Cafe: Volcano View Coffee Shop ☕️⛰️
After watching the sunrise, we headed to the super popular [Montana Del Cafe]. This coffee shop boasts stunning volcano views with a wide, open panorama. Sipping a hot latte while taking in the majestic scenery of Mount Batur was a triple treat for body, mind, and soul!
Photo courtesy of Yi Chen Lai
The cafe features a minimalist white design, and the outdoor seating is incredibly photogenic. However, it’s very popular, so it’s best to arrive early to snag a spot.
Read more: Top 12 Volcano View Cafes & Restaurants in Kintamani, Bali 🌄☕
🔹 Tegalalang Rice Terrace & Instagram-Worthy Swing 🌾💃
After eating our fill, we headed back to the Ubud area to visit the iconic [Tegalalang Rice Terrace]. The layered rice paddies are as picturesque as a poem, and one of the most popular activities here is trying out the famous ‘Bali Instagram swing’!
Photo by Yi Chen Lai
We also rented flowing maxi dresses to match, costing 370,000 IDR (about USD$12). A bit pricey, but the photos turned out absolutely stunning—especially the moment the swing launched out, with the entire rice terrace behind us. It felt like we were on the cover of a travel magazine 😍
Read more: Swinging in Ubud: The 8 Most Beautiful Swing Photo Spots in Bali | Ubud Swing & Dress Rental Guide
Read more: What Outdoor Activities to Do in Bali? 50 Most Popular Outdoor Experiences
🔹 Bebek Tebasari Resto – Crispy Duck Rice 🍗✨
At the end of the day, we headed to Bebek Tebasari Resto to enjoy Bali’s most famous local dish—crispy duck rice. Tucked away among the rice paddies, this restaurant offers an elegant dining atmosphere with refined and delicious food. We ordered the fried duck, which was crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, paired with fragrant rice and sides—absolutely finger-licking good! Highly recommended 👍👍
The day was packed yet unhurried, covering everything from stunning natural landscapes to local cuisine—an absolute must-do day trip in Ubud!
🤍 Day 4: Market Shopping, Water Palace Stroll & Sunset Beach Club Bliss 🛍️🏯🌅
On our fourth day in Ubud, we planned a relaxed and easygoing stroll—starting with market shopping and a visit to the Water Palace, then heading south to the wildly popular Finns Beach Club. From tradition to trendiness, it was an incredibly fun day!
🔹 Ubud Market: A Paradise for Bargain Lovers 🧣👛
We kicked off the morning at the Ubud Market, where you’ll find all sorts of handicrafts, wood carvings, woven bags, sarongs, accessories, and more. It’s one of the must-visit classic spots in Ubud. Shopkeepers usually quote tourist prices, so remember: haggling is an essential skill!
I’ve heard you can cut the price in half, but my bargaining skills only get me about a 30% discount 🤣 Still, even if you don’t get the lowest price, buying something you love is what matters most!
🔹 Water Palace (Taman Saraswati Temple): A Romantic Hidden Gem Next to the Market 🌺
Right next to Ubud Market is the stunning Water Palace (Taman Saraswati Temple), one of the few temples in Bali set on a lotus pond. It used to be free to enter, but now you need to buy a ticket—60,000 Indonesian Rupiah (about USD$2) per person—and you must wear traditional attire to go inside, so keep that in mind!
Photo by Yi Chen Lai
Though the temple is small, the atmosphere is incredibly elegant, especially dreamy when the lotus flowers are in full bloom. It’s a serene spot perfect for photos, and I recommend visiting in the late afternoon when the light is softer.
More to Explore in Ubud
Ubud is the cultural and artistic heart of Bali, drawing travelers with its lush rice terraces, serene jungles, and deep-rooted traditions. It's the perfect place to unwind and recharge. Whether you're diving into local customs, soaking up natural beauty, or seeking thrilling outdoor adventures paired with stunning food and scenery, Ubud offers a truly unique experience. Want more Ubud tips? Click here
Ubud Accommodation Themes
- 【Bali Ubud Accommodation】30+ Unique Stays in Ubud: Experience a Magical Journey Amid Bali's Mountain Scenery!
- 【Ubud Accommodation Guide】Ubud Villa Pool Villas: Private Paradise – 20+ Stunning Bali Villa Recommendations
- Bali Ubud Yoga Retreats: 10 Dreamy Choices Combining Yoga Classes and Mindful Relaxation
- 18 Bali Kids Club Family Resorts: Best Family-Friendly Options in Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, Jimbaran, Uluwatu & Ubud
- Bali Group Travel: Ubud Private Villa Rentals with 3, 4, 5, 6+ Bedrooms for Family Stays
🔹Finns Beach Club: Bali’s Top Beach Party Vibe 🏖️🍹
In the afternoon, we headed to Finns Beach Club in Seminyak, one of Bali’s most famous beach party bars. It’s perfect for those who want to relax, catch the sunset, and snap some Instagram-worthy shots.
- Entry is based on seating zones with minimum spend—different seats have different minimums.
- Only card payments are accepted inside—no cash, so remember to bring your credit card.
- If you’re visiting during peak hours (like around sunset), it’s best to book in advance!
Read more: Finns Beach Club Guide
The drive south from Ubud took about 2 hours, and it was super congested. But Jimmi was thoughtful—he didn’t wait for us at a fixed spot; instead, he parked nearby and rested, ready to pick us up quickly when we called after finishing our visit. Super efficient and reassuring ❤️
🤍 Day 5: Luxury Resort Day! Staying at Dreamy Ayana & Relaxing at Rock Bar 🌴🏨🍸
As our trip neared its end, we checked into Ayana Resort & Spa, one of Bali’s most iconic five-star resorts. It’s truly a paradise for vacationers—you could easily spend the whole day enjoying the resort’s facilities without ever wanting to leave!
🏠 Ayana Resort & Spa: 14 Pools to Play in All Day 💦
Ayana is sprawling, with 14 swimming pools scattered across the entire property, each with its own vibe—whether it’s family-friendly pools for kids to splash in or infinity pools perfect for couples to relax and snap photos. Just walking around the resort feels like exploring a mini city.
We didn’t step foot outside the hotel all day, completely immersing ourselves in the facilities and truly experiencing what it means to ‘vacation.’
Read more: 【Bali Ayana】Ayana Bali Accommodation Guide
🔹 Rock Bar: Bali’s Most Iconic Sunset Bar 🌇🍹
One of the biggest perks of staying at Ayana is the ‘smooth entry’ to Rock Bar—no waiting in line, plus priority booking for prime sunset seats!
Perched on a cliff edge, Rock Bar is accessed via a special elevator, making you feel like you’ve stepped into a secret movie hideaway. Sip a cocktail as waves crash against the rocks and the sun slowly sets—this scene will linger in your memory long after you leave, making it one of Bali’s most unforgettable experiences!
Read more: How to Book Bali’s Jimbaran Rock Bar? Complete Experience Guide!
🤍 Day 6: Soaring Over Uluwatu’s Skies—Paragliding, Massage, Food, and Shopping Full Guide 🪂💆♀️🍖🛍️
On the sixth day, we went straight for some high-altitude action! Starting with paragliding in Uluwatu, followed by a relaxing massage, feasting on pork ribs, and finally squeezing in a bit of shopping—a perfect blend of thrill and relaxation, truly the dream vacation rhythm!
🔹RIUG Paragliding Uluwatu 🪂🌊
This time, we experienced [RIUG Paragliding] in Uluwatu. Taking off from a cliff edge, gliding under the blue sky and over the turquoise sea, with the stunning coastline and luxury villas below, the entire 15-minute flight is an absolute must-try in a lifetime!
- Cost is 1,000,000 Indonesian Rupiah (about USD$65), including a tandem instructor, GoPro recording, and on-site file transfer
- Guests weighing over 100 kg may not be able to participate, so be sure to check before you go!
Further reading: Bali Paragliding Experience: Soaring Over Uluwatu! Stunning Ocean Views + Tips
Jimmi will assist you with check-in and handle all communication with the instructor, so you can fully focus on enjoying the flight. He’ll also take photos and videos of you, capturing every thrilling and awe-inspiring moment 📸
🔹ZEN Family Spa (Nusa Dua): Deep Relaxation Massage 💆♀️🕯️
After the exhilarating paragliding, we immediately treated ourselves to a relaxing massage at [ZEN Family Spa]. This family-run massage center in the Nusa Dua area offers a clean, comfortable environment and professional service—a well-reputed spot even among locals.
The entire massage was incredibly relaxing; despite the affordable price, there was no compromise on quality. The pressure was just right, and after it was over, I felt completely refreshed, like I had been rebooted!
- ZEN Family Spa: A mid-range family spa that creates a serene and comfortable atmosphere, designed to deliver a delightful experience for the whole family.
Other highly-rated mid-range spas in Nusa Dua:
- Royal Orchid Spa Bali: One of Bali’s top picks, blending rich Balinese massages with a comfortable setting.
- Nusa Bali Spa: A 2023 Travelers’ Choice gem in the mid-range, offering diverse healing treatments that let you experience the beauty of Balinese culture.
- Rumah Spa Spa House: A private mid-range sanctuary, crafting a regal spa experience with a simple yet elegant style.
- Sekar Jepun Spa: A mid-range floral healing retreat, focusing on natural elements to bring you comfort and tranquility.
- Zahra Spa: A mid-range garden-like spa offering high-quality treatments, immersing you in the fragrance of botanicals.
- M Spa is also a popular spot among travelers, with high ratings on TripAdvisor.
🔹Wahaha Pork Ribs & Pork Knuckle: Super Popular Local Food 🍖✨
For dinner, we headed to the famously popular 【Wahaha】 among tourists, known for its pork ribs and crispy fried pork knuckle. Every dish is incredibly flavorful with tender meat! The pork knuckle, in particular, is crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, not greasy at all—perfect paired with beer, making it hard to stop at just one bite~
If you’re a meat lover, this place is an absolute must-visit in Bali, offering great value for money and a relaxed atmosphere.
🔹Shopping Time in Bali 🛍️
We wrapped up the trip with some shopping, picking up souvenirs, gifts, and local skincare products. This is where Jimmi truly shined again! He helped us with communication, payments, and confirming details every step of the way, so we never had to worry about language barriers. He even assisted with storing items and finding restrooms!
Having him by our side made everything so stress-free and efficient~
🤍 Day 7: Snorkeling Adventure on Nusa Penida! Turtles, Fish, and a Hilarious Shower Scene 🐢🌊🚿
On the seventh day of our trip, we couldn’t miss the super popular island excursion—we booked a Nusa Penida snorkeling day trip through Klook. The whole package included transfers, ferry tickets, and gear rental, making it a relatively hassle-free and convenient choice.
Photo by Yi Chen Lai
Klook offers various options, including tours to Nusa Penida’s famous attractions and same-day return trips to Bali. You can choose your preferred plan via the link below:
Nusa Penida Deals
- Discovery Tour - Departing from Bali (Meet at Sanur Port)
- Nusa Penida Private Car Charter
- Nusa Penida Instagram Spots & Snorkeling Tour
- Nusa Penida Snorkeling Experience
- Nusa Penida Multi-Day Tour
- Nusa Penida Fast Boat Ticket
- Nusa Penida & Lembongan Private Boat Charter
- Nusa Penida Scooter Rental
🔹 Nusa Penida Snorkeling Tour 🐠🐚
Early in the morning, a shuttle picked us up from the hotel. After taking the ferry to Nusa Penida, we hopped between three snorkeling spots. The visibility was incredible, with crystal-clear blue water, and if you’re lucky, you might spot sea turtles and schools of fish!
Quick Tips:
- I recommend ‘taking photos first, then playing in the water!’ Because after snorkeling, you’ll be wet + have messy hair + a mask pressed into your face, making photos look a bit rough 🤣
- The changing rooms on the island are open-air, basic spaces with no full partitions or hot water. It feels like ‘they sort of offer a shower but don’t really intend for you to wash properly’ 🤣 So bring extra clean towels and wet wipes, and just mentally prepare yourself!
This Nusa Penida trip, despite the blazing sun and a bit of rushing around, offered incredibly healing ocean views—it’s an unmissable snorkeling paradise in Bali!
Nusa Penida Travel Guide
- 🏝️ [Nusa Penida Attractions Guide
- 🍽️ [Nusa Penida Dining with a View Guide
- 🤿 [Nusa Penida Snorkeling Spots Guide
- 🏨 [Nusa Penida Accommodation Guide
🏁 Perfect Ending: Find the Right Driver, and the Whole Trip Goes Smoothly! 💯
One of the most crucial elements of this Bali trip was definitely our private driver, Jimmi Liu!
The first image is provided by Jimmi Yi Chen Lai
From airport pickup, itinerary planning, check-in assistance, currency exchange, booking activities, watching our luggage, to helping take photos and handling unexpected situations—he truly took care of everything down to the smallest detail. Without exaggeration, it was six-star professional service!
👉 Language skills: Fluent in Mandarin, Taiwanese, English, and Indonesian
👉 Local expertise: Knows every attraction, restaurant, traffic route, and time-of-day conditions like the back of his hand
👉 Super reliable: Our eSIM barely worked in Bali, and he immediately helped us sort it out, getting us back online and navigating life again (laughs)
👉 Currency exchange buddy: We exchanged US dollars in Taiwan beforehand, and he took us to safe, fair-rate money changers locally, keeping an eye on everything around us—super reassuring!
Jimmi doesn’t ask for a deposit—it’s a ‘mutual trust system’. But because of that, his schedule fills up fast! If you want to book him, please reserve well in advance, and never stand him up~
To contact Jimmi, add him on Line by scanning the QR code
Although there were still many spots we didn’t get to on this trip—Bali is truly huge, plus traffic jams are common, so we had to make trade-offs between time, energy, and travel quality—we treasure even more the kindness and beauty we encountered along the way ❤️
Thank you to everyone who helped us, thank you for the gentleness of this land, and thank you for my own choices—this trip has been incredibly rewarding.
Bali, see you next time! 🌴🌞 Wishing everyone smooth and joyful journeys ahead 🥳🥳🥳
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