Unearthing Bali: Is it Worth it?

Sidemen Valley

This is the first place we visited, and it set the bar high for the rest. A mountainous river of rice fields only an hour drive from Denpasar with terrace trails, NO traffic, cooler weather, and tons of restaurants choices with epic views. Gembleng Waterfall was a highlight of this trip since it was a donation-based mini hike up to a series of waterfall pools. We waded, we took in the views of the rice paddies below, and we got some solid Instagram pictures (without having to wait in a line). It felt like discovering the authentic Bali that you see in pictures.

Danau Beratan Temple

Also about an hour from Denpasar, you’ll find a temple that’s slightly underwhelming and tourist-trappy with an entrance fee. However, you don’t go for the temple, you go for the stunning botanical garden that surrounds it, with random dinosaurs and sculptures at every turn. The view of the lake is simple and peaceful after embarking on a winding, scenic drive up into these mountains (making you forget about all the road rage you experienced back down south). Pro tip: Stop at “House of Tundra” on your way back down for a boujee meal and superior bathroom mirror selfies overlooking the rice terraces

Yoga

Even if yoga isn’t your thing, you can’t check Bali off your list without experiencing a class or two. Here’s three of my favorites:

• Alchemy Yoga (Ubud): I didn’t have a chance to get down to the Uluwatu branch, but this studio just has you in awe from the second you walk in via stepping stones. It’s a high-ceiling interior that makes you desperately want to take out your phone and film the entire thing to make Instagram jealous. Just go.

• Pranava Yoga (Canggu): This studio is earthy/crunchy with a gorgeous garden walk down to its center, and I loved that locals were teaching in broken English so it felt authentic. Maybe it’s just me, but I immediately lost my Zen when my quiet 8 am class finished and a surge of yogis flooded in for their 9 am. Just a heads up.

• Power of Now Oasis OR Koa Shala (both Sanur): Personally, I liked Power of Now for being right on the beach, but it was a westerner teaching who seemed annoyed to be there, so it rubbed me the wrong way. Koa Shala felt more authentic, and was in a quieter area, so I guess try both and pick your favorite!

Sanur

Once your yoga class is complete, I highly recommend taking the rest of your day to explore the Sanur region. Since it’s only about 15 minutes from Denpasar, we found ourselves here quite often. It feels like a digital nomad haven since the beaches are quiet, the traffic is at a low hum, and there’s a long boardwalk walking you from shop to restaurant without much of a tourist-trap feel. Massimo’s Italian Restaurant also has the best gelato. So if you need a break from Indonesian food...cheat here.

Batur sunrise

You can hike up or you can put Google Maps in for “Akasa Specialty Coffee” and drive about 1.45 hours up to the Batur region from Denpasar to get there by 6 am at the latest. As you get closer, you’ll find yourself amongst one of the most beautiful sunrises to sip on a coffee to. Now, Akasa only takes reservations and is super hyped up and crowded for no reason. Since there’s SO many other cafes that line this mountain view, drive towards Akasa and stop when you find your ideal spot.

Jimbaran seafood date

Now this feels like a classic Indonesian experience and you’ll leave so full, for very little money. Drive down to Jimbaran Beach by 5 pm, choose a beachside table (every vendor will be trying to sell you their seats), order as much seafood as you desire, and feast! You’ll enjoy some great people-watching over an epic sunset and landing planes as you lick your fingers clean.

Komodo cruise

Now this one’s a little off-island, but I loved it so much that I had to add it. While you can’t really start a cruise from Bali, a quick flight to Labuan Bajo will set you up for a cruise like no other. These cruise prices can start from sleeping on a mattress outside or a full catamaran ahead and a hotel room onboard. I can’t speak for the catamaran, but the top deck mattress made it all that more authentic. You’ll be snorkeling amongst manta rays and walking right past Komodo Dragons (with your only defense being a stick, so don’t get too close!). I can recommend this to anyone.

Since I will assume that you’re perfectly capable of seeking out any western restaurant, I’ll give you my favorite local favorite dishes that you can't miss out on:

• Nasi/Mie Goreng (fried rice/noodles) is a classic staple of Indonesian cuisine and you’ll find it just about anywhere. Add whatever protein you want!

• Tahu/Tempe (tofu/tempe) are my absolute favorite add-ons to any dish. Tofu is usually fried, but can be boiled for curries or soups. Tempe is fermented soybean (a vegan’s dream) and is crispy and salty and "oh so" satisfying to snack on an unhealthy amount.

• Soto is a broth-based soup served with noodles or rice, veggies, and typically chicken. It’s one of Indonesia’s most iconic comfort foods.

• Gado-gado is a peanut sauce salad with steamed veggies, tofu, tempe, and boiled egg (a go-to for many foreigners)

• Satay is popular for a side dish since it’s grilled skewered goat or chicken served with peanut sauce and rice cakes.

• Rendang is widely famous for originating on the island of Sumatra so it might not taste as good here, but it’s basically slow-cooked dry beef curry simmered in coconut milk and is so rich and tender, it's giving the “filet mignon” of Indonesia.

• If I can recommend ONE restaurant that’s worth your repeat business, it would be Red Dragon Ramen. They have a few locations across Bali, and I must say, I’m usually not a Ramen fan, but I found myself slurping to the bottom of my bowl on many occasions.