We’ve all heard about the Bali dream, right? Lately, the hype is off the charts! But here’s the thing – Indonesia has so much more to offer beyond just Bali. It’s like finding out your favorite ice cream shop actually has 31 flavors, not just vanilla.
Of course, it all comes down to what kind of vacation you’re after. For us, as usual, we like to shake things up and explore different spots, because, why not? We wanted to soak up as much of Indonesia as possible.
One of the best things? Indonesia is super accessible, whether you’re on a budget or looking to splurge a little. You’ll find everything from budget-friendly gems to all-out luxury in pretty much any category. Plus, it’s not just for solo travelers or couples – this place is awesome for families too.
Your little ones will have a blast, and you’ll get to kick back and enjoy the ride!
On the flip side, let me be completely honest here. Before we went to Bali, we had friends who had already visited and, of course, we did our homework too. While we were super excited to explore another Asian country, we had this gut feeling that maybe Bali wouldn’t be exactly our vibe, mainly because of the crazy number of tourists.
Depending on where you decide to stay, Bali can feel a bit overrun with Westerners. There are loads of expats, and sometimes you end up in situations where it feels more like a party hotspot, filled with resorts and fancy restaurants, rather than the exotic island escape you might have been dreaming of.
And yes, that party-crowded side is definitely part of Bali, but here’s the good news: there are plenty of other spots where you can escape the hustle. If you venture out, you’ll find peaceful corners of the island where you can really immerse yourself in nature, surrounded by wildlife and stunning waterfalls.
So, Bali is this fascinating mix of wild nightlife and serene escapes, and honestly, by the end of our trip, we learned to appreciate both sides. It’s like getting two vacations in one!
As I mentioned earlier, we had the chance to explore a few other islands, which are also popular with tourists. But here’s the thing – people often get so fixated on Bali, as if it’s the only option Indonesia has to offer. Trust me, it’s not! These other locations we visited made a huge difference to our trip, and I can’t stress enough how they added so much variety and excitement to our adventure.
Our itinerary was set for 18 days, starting with a flight from London to Bali with a layover in Dubai—our first time flying with Emirates, and let me just say, it was a great experience!
We landed in Bali and had planned to spend just one night and one day in the south of the island. The idea was to check out this part before moving on, but, as expected, it didn’t quite match what we were looking for. This area is where most of the foreigners hang out, with lots of parties and spots designed specifically for us tourists. It's buzzing with activity, but not really our scene!
On the flip side, if you're a surfer or have dreams of catching some waves, this part of Bali could be your paradise! Most, if not all, of the beaches here are perfect for surfing, and you’ll find plenty of surf communities and hangouts where you can connect with fellow surf enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, it’s a great place to ride those waves and share your passion with others.
The spots that we visited during our short stay in the south of Bali were:
But bear in mind that there are far more beautiful beach in indonesia, and even if the south of Bali is famous for is beaches we were not really convinced.
Komodo
When it comes to domestic flights in Indonesia, I have to admit they were probably some of the best I’ve experienced! Everything felt so easy and incredibly quick for every internal flight we took during our holiday. It made hopping between islands a breeze and saved us a lot of time. No long waits, no stress—just smooth travels!
Our first transfer was from Bali to Labuan Bajo, an island that’s famous for being the gateway to the incredible Komodo Islands. Labuan Bajo is on the island of Flores, and it’s the perfect base for exploring the home of the legendary Komodo dragons. It was our first domestic flight in Indonesia, and it couldn’t have been easier!
Labuan Bajo itself is a charming, welcoming island with plenty to offer. It’s not just about being the gateway to Komodo—it has a variety of amazing itineraries! You can hop on boat trips to visit Komodo Island and its famous dragons, or stay inland to explore waterfalls and soak in the island’s natural beauty.
Whether you're into marine adventures or hiking through lush landscapes, Labuan Bajo has something for everyone.
We had super high expectations for this part of the trip, and it did not disappoint! We booked a 3-day cruise across the Komodo Islands with Alexandra Tour, and let me tell you—it was absolutely spectacular. From the crystal-clear waters to the jaw-dropping landscapes, every moment felt like a postcard come to life. It was hands down one of the highlights of our entire trip!
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Honestly, calling this the highlight of our trip is no exaggeration. It was meant to be, and it absolutely lived up to the hype.
A crucial factor in making this trip truly unforgettable is which agency you choose to go with. There are tons of options—you can either book on the spot if you’re a last-minute planner or arrange everything in advance by reaching out through social media. But here’s the thing: every boat is different, and the size and number of guests on board can really make or break the experience.
We specifically wanted to avoid a big boat because, let’s be real, more people means less peace and space. And, sorry, not sorry—we love our space and tranquility!
So, for us, a smaller, more intimate boat was the way to go, and it made a huge difference.
If, like us, you’re after peace and space, you’ve got two options. First, if budget isn’t a big concern, you can go all out and book a private tour. Obviously, it’s more expensive, but hey—it’s private, so you get the boat all to yourself!
If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly but still want a great experience, I highly recommend checking out with Alexandra the agency we used. Alexandra and her crew went above and beyond to make our trip even more special. It was the perfect balance of comfort and personal attention.
The boat was spotless, and we had everything we needed for a comfortable trip. The crew was incredibly attentive—even making sure there was always a gluten-free option for us! The food, in general, was fresh, tasty, and more than we could’ve hoped for on a boat.
To top it all off, there was a photographer as part of the crew, armed with a GoPro and a drone.
So, if you don’t have your own gear, no worries—you’ll still leave with amazing photos and videos from all the incredible angles! It was such a nice touch and really added to the whole experience.
On our 3-day cruise, we hopped from island to island, including gems like Kanawa Island
and Pulau Kalong
The whole adventure was the perfect mix of relaxation and excitement—imagine lounging in paradise one moment, then diving into awesome activities the next!
Expect some easy-peasy hikes that anyone can handle, even if you’re new to trekking (think strolls with a view!). And if you’re up for it, there’s plenty of snorkeling and diving, too—crystal-clear waters and colorful fish are basically guaranteed.
We were blown away by how much sea life we spotted! We swam alongside so many different fish and vibrant corals—and seeing sea turtles and dolphins just doing their thing in their natural habitat? Pure magic.
The best part? We didn’t even need a special tour to catch these amazing sights! Just being out there, watching dolphins leap and turtles glide by, made each moment unforgettable.
If you're lucky, you might even spot majestic manta rays gliding through the water! Sadly, we didn’t get to see any this time around—but hey, it just gives us another reason to come back!
We loved the Pink Beach! Honestly, we didn’t expect it to be as stunning as it was. Even better, it wasn’t too crowded, so we got to soak up the dreamy pink sand and crystal-clear water in peace. Pure bliss!
Another major highlight? Padar Island! This place is famous for a reason—when you hike to the top, you’re treated to a mind-blowing view of three beaches, each with a different color of sand: black, white, and pink.
We did the hike right before sunrise, and even with a few fellow travelers around, the view was totally worth it. An unforgettable moment!
We were super excited to finally see Komodo dragons up close! But, to be honest, the experience didn’t quite live up to the hype. Don’t get us wrong—these creatures are incredible, and seeing them in real life was still pretty cool.
But the whole setup felt... a bit off. The dragons we saw seemed almost domesticated, just lounging around, looking sleepy and a bit too relaxed.
Now, we didn’t notice anything that seemed harmful to the animals, but the overall vibe left us feeling kind of... ehh. Not exactly the wild encounter we had in mind!
After our three-day island-hopping adventure, we sailed back to Labuan Bajo, then hopped on a plane back to Bali, where we spent a cozy night. But the fun didn’t stop there!
The very next morning, we were off again, this time catching a ferry to Gili T. Talk about an exciting next chapter in our journey!
Gili Islands
When it comes to the Gili Islands, there are three unique spots to explore: Gili Trawangan (Gili T), Gili Air, and Gili Meno. Each has its own vibe and offers a different kind of experience.
Gili T is the largest and often labeled as the “party island” online. But here’s the real scoop: yes, one part of Gili T is lively with bars and beach parties, but if you venture to the other side, you’ll find a quieter atmosphere with cozy restaurants and intimate bars. It’s a bit more touristy overall, but it also has a great variety of accommodations to fit every budget. Plus, Gili T is a perfect base for island-hopping, with easy access to both Gili Air and Gili Meno!
Gili T is incredibly easy to explore! Most accommodations hook you up with bikes, making it a breeze to roam around the whole island at your own pace.
Sure, there’s another transport option—horse-drawn carriages—but let’s be real, bikes are the way to go! They’re not only more ethical, but also a fun and eco-friendly way to soak up the island vibe.
No matter which Gili island you choose to stay on, hopping over to the nearby islands is a breeze!
There’s no need to book ferries in advance—you can grab tickets once you arrive and even shop around for the best fare.
So, island-hopping made easy and stress-free!
Little tip, the best Happy Hour in the whole islands happens at the Cocana Resort, just head there before 6pm for the best pool overlooking into the ocean of the whole Gili T.
Gili Air is the middle-sized gem of the three islands—and it’s full of surprises! This is the spot to see adorable baby turtles and the famous underwater statues. Getting around is a breeze, too; even if you’re just visiting for the day, you can easily rent a bike or simply walk to explore all its nooks and crannies.
Gili Air has a mix of luxury resorts, cool bars, and cozy restaurants.
And the best part? Sea turtles love this island too! You’ll often spot them swimming close to the shore. We absolutely loved our time on Gili Air!
Gili Meno, the smallest of the three islands, is pure paradise for anyone looking to relax and connect with nature.
Despite its size, Meno has a charming selection of restaurants, cafes, and little shops to explore. Surprisingly, the island has a delightful French influence, with several spots offering French cuisine—a nice little twist in this tropical setting!
Take a moment to unwind at BASK in Gili Meno, where you can experience true luxury at an unbeatable price. This hidden gem offers the perfect blend of comfort, elegance, and relaxation, all while staying within your budget.
We spent a night there, and it was pure bliss. The property features a stunning pool that overlooks the crystal-clear ocean, providing the perfect spot to relax and take in the breathtaking views. The food was equally impressive, with delicious dishes served right on the beach, allowing us to savor every bite while enjoying the soothing sound of the waves. From the serene atmosphere to the top-notch service, our stay at BASK was an unforgettable experience.
The Gili Islands are packed with activities! Start your day with a 2-hour boat tour—an easy, fun way to explore the crystal-clear waters. If you’re into wellness, Gili T has amazing yoga spots nestled in nature, perfect for a peaceful stretch.
And for a laid-back evening, head to the quieter side of Gili T, where you’ll find unique bar activities like movie nights under the stars—watching a film by the sea is pure magic!
Plus, there are fire shows and endless options for memorable dinners. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, the Gilis have it all!
There are numerous restaurants to choose from, both along the beach and in the heart of the island. While some are quite touristy, especially around the harbor area, venturing a bit further will lead you to a wide variety of dining options to suit every taste.
We spent our stay in a beautiful villa named The Haven which we can't recommend enough, the host was amazing and the place itself was stunning, and as well at good price.
The Gili Islands are incredibly accessible, making it just as easy to reach other nearby destinations like Nusa Penida!
Tickets for these boat trips are simple to snag right at the port—just keep in mind that they can get busy, so it’s a good idea to check availability a few days before you plan to go. Travel made easy and spontaneous!
Nusa Penida
The trip from Gili to Nusa Penida takes around 2 hours, with a few stops along the way. We’d heard mixed reviews online, but honestly, it wasn’t as rough as we expected!
That said, if you’re prone to seasickness... well, pack some ginger candies and cross your fingers!
Nusa Penida is an absolute gem and definitely worth the visit! We spent two nights there, which gave us just enough time to hit all the must-see spots. Of course, if you have more time and a flexible schedule, you could really soak up even more of the island’s beauty and hidden gems. But for a short trip, two nights felt just right!
The best way to explore Nusa Penida is probably by scooter—it gives you the freedom to roam and discover at your own pace.
But heads up: the roads are pretty challenging, with lots of ups and downs, and the asphalt isn’t always in the best shape. So, if you’re riding, take it slow and stay cautious!
If scootering isn’t your thing, no worries! Grab and other taxi services are available, and most hotels offer transfer options, so you’ll have no trouble finding a ride around the island.
Nusa Penida is a peaceful escape, without much in the way of nightlife or parties—but it more than makes up for it with breathtaking views and charming spots perfect for a cozy dinner or happy hour. Beyond the great restaurants and luxury hangouts, the island has some natural gems that completely stole our hearts.
Of course, Kelingking Viewpoint is a must-see! It’s probably one of the first images you’ll find when searching for Indonesia—and for good reason. Is it worth it? Absolutely!
Here’s a tip: get there early, ideally before 8 a.m. The earlier, the better! You’ll have a chance to take in the stunning view with fewer people around, experiencing this iconic spot in all its natural beauty.
The hike to Kelingking Viewpoint is straightforward and well-maintained, making it accessible for most visitors. If you’re up for an adventure, you can hike down to the beach itself! Just a heads up—the path to the beach gets a bit tricky and can be unsafe in parts, so take caution and decide if it’s right for you before heading down.
Another absolute gem to add to your must-visit list is the natural pools called Tembeling.
We totally lucked out with our timing—arriving smack in the middle of a local holiday! Instead of a tourist-packed spot, we got to hang out with local families who were just soaking up the sun and the sea. Picture this: splashing around in the crystal-clear pools with giggling kids, while the grown-ups took on the huge waves crashing at the shore, laughing like they'd never seen water before. It felt like we were honorary locals for the day, sharing in their joy and watching everyone just revel in the simple pleasures of sun, sea, and sand. It was pure, unfiltered magic!
We highly recommend checking out this spot! It’s got not one, but two natural pools, and one of them is right by the sea with a view that will take your breath away.
Plus, there are two cozy little beaches where you can sit back, admire the powerful waves crashing in, and soak in all the stunning natural beauty around you. We’re absolutely obsessed with this place—it's a perfect mix of chill vibes and awe-inspiring scenery!
Do not expect the best beaches in Indonesia here as they are very rocky, Nusa Penida is more for explore and hiking, so bare that in mind :)
This time we splet in a very goergous villa surrounded by nature, only two villas are there and you are surrounded by serenity and the name was Anana
We do recoomend to hire a powerful scooter at least 1500cc as most of the road are uphill and you need that horse power to move around the island
If you fancy food you must ate at the Aroha which is a bit on the pricy side, but is stunning for sunset and cocktail (with happy hour too)
After our Nusa adventure, we headed back to Bali—yep, round two! This time, we were determined to make the most of this extraordinary island. Our first stop? Munduk.
Munduk
Munduk sits on the opposite side of the island, nestled high in the mountains, and let me tell you—the climate here is a total curveball! We were honestly shocked at how different it felt from the rest of Bali. Imagine our surprise when the nights turned out to be downright chilly, and even during the day, we were reaching for an extra layer. We definitely didn’t expect to be bundling up in Bali, but the cool mountain air was a refreshing change of pace!
From the port in Sanur in Bali, we grabbed a taxi for what turned out to be a three-hour drive. And, oh boy, let’s just say it was an adventure all on its own!
We traveled at night, which meant navigating through Bali’s famously crowded roads—bumper-to-bumper traffic pretty much the whole way.
To top it off, the route is packed with twists and turns, so if you’re prone to car sickness, consider this your warning: buckle up and maybe pop a motion sickness pill before you hit the road!
Munduk was a pleasant surprise in the best way possible!
For starters, it was blissfully free of crowds—honestly, we couldn't believe our luck! The peace and quiet were a total win for us.
First tip: as always, get yourself a scooter or a car because you'll want the freedom to explore at your own pace.
And trust me, in Munduk, you’ll definitely want to explore! This place is all about waterfalls and trekking, and it's the perfect combo for adventure lovers.
The best part? The waterfall trails are super accessible. Sure, there's some walking involved, but even the most famous ones are easy enough for anyone to enjoy without breaking a sweat! It's the kind of place where nature does all the hard work, and you get to just soak it all in.
Munduk also gave us a fantastic opportunity to connect with the locals, which made our visit even more special.
One of the highlights was a day-long trekking adventure with a local guide who was incredibly friendly and full of fascinating facts about the local plants and fruits.
Just to name a few that are a must-visit, Banyumala, Wanagiri, and Banyu Wana are all located close to each other and were by far the best waterfalls we explored during our trip.
If you have some extra time, be sure to check out the Golden Valley Waterfall. It’s a pleasant 4-hour hike, a bit more touristy, but still worth the effort for its beauty and the rewarding experience.
That said, it’s best to avoid other waterfalls in the area, as they tend to be overcrowded and overpriced, offering less of the serene, natural experience you might be looking for.
To be fair, you don’t really need a guide if you’re only worried about the difficulty level—most of the trails are pretty straightforward. But having someone who knows the area like the back of their hand made the whole experience way more engaging. Plus, learning about the region's flora and picking up a few fun facts along the way turned a simple hike into an unforgettable adventure!
We spent three nights in a charming resort in Munduk that you have to check out if you’re still searching for the perfect place to stay—it's called Shankara Munduk
They've got a great range of rooms and villas to suit any budget, so whether you're looking for a cozy stay or a splash of luxury, they've got you covered. The staff there is incredibly friendly and always ready to help with a smile. Plus, the on-site restaurant serves up a delicious variety of dishes that are sure to satisfy after a day of exploring. Highly recommend!
In Munduk, we went a little overboard and ended up with enough cocoa beans, vanilla beans, and coffee to open our own mini-market. A quick tip: keep your bargaining hat on—some sellers might think you're there to fund their retirement! But overall, the quality was top-notch, and now we’re stocked up like caffeinated pirates with a stash of delicious treasures.
Another highlight was obviously Lovina which is only 1H drive from Munduk with the scooter
In Lovina, we had an unforgettable dolphin-watching experience with Rian that we can't reccomend enough that left us in awe of nature's beauty.
Early in the morning, we set out on a traditional boat, the cool breeze refreshing our faces as we eagerly anticipated the sight of dolphins.
As we cruised through the calm, clear waters, we hung off the side of the boat, our eyes scanning the horizon. Soon, we were rewarded with the sight of dolphins swimming effortlessly on the surface, their sleek bodies cutting through the water with grace.
The entire experience felt like a dream, surrounded by the serene beauty of Lovina's coastline and the magic of these intelligent creatures in their natural habitat. It was a truly mesmerizing moment, one that we'll remember for years to come.
Ubud
After Munduk, we set our sights on Ubud—the Bali superstar that’s all over the internet and social media feeds. This place is tourist central, so get ready for a lot of hustle and bustle. Because of all the visitors, the area is filled with swanky, new resorts boasting massive infinity pools overlooking the jungle, each one more jaw-dropping than the last.
Even though Ubud is inland, you can still channel your inner jungle explorer for a couple of days, lounging at jungle bars with surprisingly affordable prices. It’s the perfect way to spend the day in full relaxation mode, cocktail in hand, pretending you're Tarzan (but with Wi-Fi).
However, word of advice: skip the super famous jungle bars that you see plastered all over Instagram.
They’re less “chill paradise” and more “jungle theme park,” complete with crowds arriving by the busload from dawn till dusk.
Not exactly the zen vibe you’re probably picturing!
Ubud and its surrounding areas are a must-visit, and the best way to explore is by scooter, which allows you the freedom to visit some of the region’s most stunning spots. Don’t miss the breathtaking Tegalalang Rice Terraces, (quite touristic but still beautiful) as well as Sidemen Rice Terraces, (Less crowded version) where you’ll find a collection of beautiful waterfalls tucked away in the lush landscape.
While the waterfalls in Ubud are worth a visit, keep in mind that they tend to be more crowded and less scenic compared to the waterfalls in Munduk. However, they still offer a great experience and are definitely worth exploring if you're in the area.
Probably our favourite waterfall was Grudugan where we found no people and it was completely different from all the others, with a narrow path through rocks which lead to a beautiful and powerful waterfall, a must see if you are in the area.
On the flip side, Ubud isn't all about the crowds and cocktails. It's also home to some truly breathtaking natural scenery. Don’t miss the stunning rice fields—they’re like stepping into a living postcard, peaceful and perfect for that "I’m one with nature" moment. Then, there are the natural waterfalls, which are basically Mother Nature’s spa.
Ubud doesn’t just do nature and zen vibes—it also knows how to have a good time after dark. The city center lights up with night markets and shops buzzing with energy, perfect for evening strolls and maybe a little shopping spree you didn’t plan for.
The Art Market, though, is best visited during the day—it wraps up around 8 PM. This place is a fascinating blend of contrasts: one moment, you’re admiring traditional, handcrafted local products, and the next, you’re spotting something that looks like it wandered in from a trendy Western boutique. It’s like Bali meets Brooklyn, and it’s a treasure hunt you won’t want to miss.
For all the wellness and yoga enthusiasts out there, Ubud is a dream come true. It’s packed with amazing spots to practice your daily yoga flow, many of which are nestled deep in nature, surrounded by lush greenery and the soothing sounds of the wild. If downward dog with a jungle view isn’t on your bucket list, it should be.
We also dabbled in sound bath therapy at three different spots. While Ubud has plenty of fantastic options for this, we’d recommend choosing a location where you’re truly immersed in nature, our favourite was the Pyramid of Chi Avoid the more crowded or chaotic venues, as the last thing you want during your soul journey is to have it interrupted by chatter or traffic sounds. A little peace and quiet go a long way.
And finally, let’s talk about the cherry on top of Ubud’s wellness scene: the spas. You’ll find some truly incredible options offering daily packages with a mix of massages and therapies that will have you feeling like a whole new person by the end.
Whether you’re in the mood for a traditional Balinese massage or something a little more indulgent, it’s definitely worth carving out some time to treat yourself. Relaxation goals achieved.
We have spent our stay in Ubud in a brand new villa, Uma Sari, we were the first custmore and the host Yoga has been just wonderful with us, we definitely recoomend that for location and price as well, and as many other villas in Indonesia they tend to offer you the breakfast right in your room, like a proper In Room Dining experience of a luxury hotel.
Indonesia is a country of immense beauty and diversity, offering stunning natural landscapes and a rich cultural heritage.
From lush jungles and serene beaches to towering mountains and vibrant coral reefs, its scenery is breathtaking.
The nation's cultural diversity is equally remarkable, with a harmonious blend of traditions, languages, and arts that reflect its deep and varied history. Indonesia’s charm lies in its ability to offer both tranquility and adventure, making it a truly captivating destination.
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