top of page

Search Results

Search this site

268 results found with an empty search

  • World Schooling - Interesting facts about Thai Long Tail Boats

    Travel is one of the best ways we teach our children. Through shared experiences and feelings / emotions. As a family, we always learn as we go and create pdf learning recourses for the places we go. We plan to worldschool our 2 children for 1 year of travel then who knows, maybe more if we love that life. Read these interesting facts about Thai Long Tail Boats that will help in your schooling educating kids through travel. And you might surprise some grown ups with things they don't know too! When you go to Thailand you'll see these boats lined up along the shores of islands. They're known as Water Taxi's when you are travelling around the islands in Thailand. And you literally use them like a taxi. Hopping from one island to another. They've become synonymous with Thailand. Thai = Ruang Hang Yao Eng = Long Tail Boat These longboats always beautifully decorated & adorned with the most beautiful fresh flower garlands to please and appease a spirit - The spirit Mae Ya Nang or The Grandmother of boats. It's good fun to look at all the boats with the kids, as each one has different offerings and flowers / garlands. Thai boatman burn incense each morning on their boats and adorn with fresh flowers, food & drink to pay respects to the grandmother / goddess of the sea. The spirit Mae Ya Nang or The Grandmother of boats is an ancient Thai deity who looks after travellers. She is the guardian Goddess of boats and protector of fisherman. And by making an offering, garlands and burning incense, the boatmen are asking for her to keep them & their passengers safe each day. There is a shrine dedicated to Mae Ya Nang in Phuket Town Thailand - The Chaome Ya Nang Temple open 6am - 6pm and entrance is free. The story of Mae Ya Nang: Chaome Ya Nang was a real person that lived 1500 years ago in Fujian (China). Whilst she was alive she was believed to have magical powers. Her spirit is present in trees. When a tree is cut down and used for wood to build the boat, her energy and guardianship lives in that boat. Fisherman and boatman make offerings to welcome her onto their boat and keep them safe from harm or provide them with bountiful fish. More On This Topic:   What is Worldschooling v Homeschooling? De-Registering Your Child From UK School To Worldschool Reasons Why We're Wordlschooling 3 Months of Worldschooling - Our Homeschooling Journey 3 Months in I hoped this post helped you. Feel free to use the info on this blog to form part of your Thailand learning. I hope it's inspired and empowered you to take control of your own child's learning and education in a way that suits them and you. For some people school fits and they could never dream of taking their kids out of school to hoe school them. But for us as a family, it just didn't. For others, they are simply not aware that it's even an option. And for so long we were scared or didn't even know home schooling was even possible. It wasn't until we started educating ourselves on the truths of reality and obligations / legalities of education that we started to think really seriously about taking that leap ourselves. Embarking on this life adventure was one of the most rewarding experiences we've ever had. And 2 years in on our journey we have no desire to stop! I'm proof that you don't have to have it all figured out and to just take every step together, with your little people in a way that feels natural to you as their Mother. And I've created a kit that I wish I had when I started that can help you thrive in your own home schooling adventure. The Awesome Worldschoolers Kit What's Inside? If you want to grab The Awesome Homeschoolers Worldschoolers Kit  here's what's included: De-registration Letter Template PDF for deregistering your child from school (homeschool edition) De-registration Letter Template PDF for deregistering your child from school (worldschool edition) Follow Up Letter Template PDF - What to say if you come up against resistance from school or your local authority Kids Digital Home School Planner Digital Kids Reading Planner + Journal And more... Let me know in the comments below if you liked this post or if it helped you in your own home schooling or worldschooling journey. Let's thrive together! Don't Miss A Thing! Follow Us on YouTube  , Instagram  & Facebook . Or why not subscribe to Be Nothing Like and get financial freedom + spiritual awakening tips straight to your inbox every week?  PIN THIS POST TO READ ME LATER

  • 7 Reasons why we're Home Schooling / World Schooling

    We're selling up our old lives in the UK for a life in the sun where we plan to live a high vibe life. The move is all about raising our vibrations and frequency and living from the heart. We hope to share bits that help you live your own high vibe life too. If you follow us already, drop us a message in the comments. It's honestly so good to know our readers. If you don't follow us, hit the subscribe to our mailing list button to get updates as we go. After a series of signs from The Universe, a spiritual / awakening journey. We soon embark on our plans on home schooling / world schooling journey, full time, as we slow travel world schooling as we go. As a family that have never home schooled before, you can follow our journey as we find our feet with EVERYTHING 'move' related, living the life we dream. Why Home Schooling? There are many reasons why people want to home school. There are an estimated 50,000-100,000 children in the UK which are home schooled. A number that is rising year on year by 80% each year. The reasons are varied and many. Worldwide it’s 5 million and growing. I wrote the post that you are reading here all about our reasons for home schooling  ages ago when we were first thinking about taking the kids out of school. And it sat in my drafts folder ever since. It seemed like such a far out concept to me back then when we were thinking of doing this journey and documenting it on our blog. But it’s really not. There is a growing number of home schoolers and world schoolers. A whole tribe of them, everywhere we go. Back then we were really ‘not the sort’ of people that home schooled. It felt hippy-ish to me. The hippies in one camp, the self entitled nomad people in the other. How judgemental I was.  We had time hungry businesses with our UK life, that left us with very little time to spend with our kids, let alone any time to home school them. We were a million miles an hour of action. Actions that work towards goals and plans. Living very from the head. No time to just sit with ourselves and listen. No time to sit with the kids and just ‘be’. We lived to work. Our lives ran around the businesses. The whole move / home school journey - even though felt so right for us - was fraught with worry, complications and just not knowing. Even though intuitively we knew this life move was a must for us as a family. And we knew that it was SO right for us. The whole idea of how we were going to get there seemed uphill and full of fear. It’s the feelings of fear that so many of us live with in our day to day of rule following and abiding by a system that keeps us in our place through fear of sticking out, fear of judgement, fear of getting things wrong. Which gets labelled up as anxiety btw (a concept, a ‘thing’ that I'll explore on this blog another time) and then it's this fear that holds so many amazing dreams at bay. It’s the fear that kills you. On a natural skincare course in Ubud. Now that we are on our way with the process of de-registering the kids from mainstream school, I re-read that blog today with a view to just posting it straight away without any edits. But on re-reading it I was shocked at how much fear I was still holding onto, even though we’d made our decision. We’d been on a spiritual journey and had felt as though we had our shit together and our minds somewhat in check. What came across in that post was the total mental confusion and living from my head space that I was still in that poured out onto the page. It made me proud to see how far we’ve come with living from the heart. It’s still a journey, this whole awakening ‘thing’ but in trusting the process and trusting our intuition and the divine plan, I can speak from experience here in that once you get really clear about what you really want and start taking actions, it all falls into place. And it really does. The reasons I’d listed were not reasons that even exist for us anymore. So rather than pressing that post button, I wanted to work through the ramble and the fear. I was blaming the education system a lot and feeling very angry about how our children are not represented and shoe horned into a system that doesn’t work for all. It read quite angry and I’m just not angry and I never really was. We’ve been living lives that were just not right for us (something many can probably relate to). And that’s ok now that we’re changing them. I guess I was feeling pretty boxed in back then. In re-reading that post today, I sat with every single bullet pointed reason, for a moment, felt every single feeling of fear, anger or whatever it was, sat with it, then let it go. Like a breath. Each fear blown out of me in the air. This is the new me. The old me would have gulped those fears down. Bottled them in. Then done the thing anyway. Fear never stopped me, ever. But what we hold onto in our emotions, can manifest into our reality. And I can't have that, knowing what I now know about manifesting that dream life. And I know with every fibre of my being that what is to come for us is right for us at this time. I’m sure you’ve heard of the saying ‘thoughts become things’ (The Secret) and our Subconscious thoughts create 80% of our reality. It’s all true. It felt amis to simply press that post button from any place of fear, anger, repression. Our reasons have changed. They just ‘are’ now. And they come from the heart. A place of only good, where being boxed in or backed into a corner is not the real reasons. We’d always felt like we had to justify our reasons too. Like be prepared for a fight, with everyone. And that’s just not the case. If you feel like a home education is right for your child, you have the right to educate in whatever way you feel is right for your child. Anyone can home school. You don’t need to be qualified. You do not have to follow the National Curriculum. It’s your fundamental right as a parent to educate your child in way that you see appropriate. Your child does not have to be tested to a specific schedule nor adhere to any requirements of a traditional school.  In re-reading this post and re-writing it slightly I can see and share clearly our reasons as to why homeschooling is right for our children at this time in our lives. It’s the only choice for us right now and we come at our reasons from the heart and for what’s right for us as a family at this time. And we’ll re-assess at many points I’m sure of that. And we’ll talk it though with both kids throughout. One of the reasons we’re doing this is to give the kids a voice through choices. Children currently have no voice or say in what or how they do things. I’m not down with that. We’ve got to start letting our children listen to their intuition from early on and be guided by it instead of being guided by authority and rules for authority and rules sake. More so, we’ve got to start listening to our own intuition as mothers as to what is right for our children. If something feels off it usually is. 7 real reasons of Why we plan to homeschool our children.  So, back to the blog. There are many. Many reasons why we are taking our children out of school and homeschooling them, despite having never done it before. Here's some of the reasons why we chose to home school our kids (one is currently 15, the other 7 currently):  First up we want happiness. These faces all smiling and living their best lives. How life should be. We feel happiness comes on living life at our pace, on our terms, in a way we intuitively feel is right. Happy mum is happy children. A child's happiness is not measured by how much they are achieving or how they measure up to their peers, but in how happy the mother is. This is why self love, self care and going within are all topics I care deeply about and am going to be focusing on the blog for you ladies that have lost your way in Western life as working mothers trying to have it all and do it all. You are a Goddess and you are wonder woman, but we're pushing in all the wrong places - the places society has shoe horned us into (more on this some other time). 2. We want to have the flexibility in what, when, how they learn We work for ourselves online and have very flexible lives. Having to attend traditional school does not fit with our flexible life. We can be anywhere in the world but find ourselves feeling stuck in a place where we don’t need to be stuck. These feelings of being ‘stuck’ are not conducive to living a high vibe life. They drag us all down and we’re all about the frequency and high vibrations. We choose what subjects they learn. If the littlest is not engaged he loses interest, daydreams in space and becomes frustrated in himself. Give him something he’s engaged with and by God, he will learn all day long. The eldest is doing her GCSE’s. Does she need to sit all 10 GCSE’s all at once on set dates, to be passed by a certain date? We say no, she’ll actually get them before all of her peers but at a pace that suits her. Concentrating on one at a time, dedicating approx 200 learning hours per subject to pass at a good level. Sometimes less, sometimes more. The difference with home schooling is, that she decides her subjects and her pace. If she feels ready to sit an exam earlier, she does. This gives her confidence in knowing herself and when she’s ready instead of the anxiety and stress that our 16 year olds go through in mainstream ed. We are learning about volcanoes with the littlest right now. Instead of learning in the classroom, we go to a volcano on a sunrise trek and cook our breakfast from the steam. This is learning! We take some soil in a bottle. We then learn about all the volcanoes in the world within the ring of fire. We look at geography and plan a list of places we'd like to go next. We draw their flags and learn their capital cities. The topics flow from what we're into right now. But in real time, having just ate breakfast on one and gone for a swim in one of their hot springs afterwards to rejuvenate the spirit after having exercised our legs and determination. It takes a lot of grit for little legs to climb. A multitude of learnings from a morning out.   3. Creativity can be encouraged - our 2 kids are very creative. This is not celebrated or encouraged in traditional schooling. Making them feel less adequate and not good about themselves. Even though creativity and free thinking is more important for us as a family of entrepreneurs that set businesses up. We want to celebrate our kids creativity and promote their talents rather than box them in our kick these talents out of them. All kids are different and we feel school moulds kids to be the same. We do not want this limitation for our kids. Back to the volcano trek, The eldest gets out her watercolours that she packed and paints the sunrise, that she will submit for her ongoing Art iGCSE. The youngest talks about colours of the sunrise learning obscurities such as Coquelicot and Aureolin. Stuff no 7 year old would ever care about, until you give them an experience they can relate it to. You see how this works.... 4. More family time We use home learning as a time where we come together. Rather than fighting against each other, forcing the kids to do their home work or checking that they followed some irrelevant rules at school. We make a coffee, the kids have a smoothie and we get down to learning together after morning yoga, sungazing, and gratitude list. Learning should be beautiful. But most days in mainstream education our kids were not really wanting to go in the mornings and coming home unfulfilled and unhappy. The whole process for us is fluid and ever changing. We're not fixed by a curriculum. But our topics are vast and varied. We're engaged and have a love of learning. 5. Schedule harassment Self explanatory. Being involved in the relentless rat race of rushing around, traffic, chaos is really not our thing. Every day is like ground hog day in getting out of the house and rushing around to partake in a system that we feel is intuitively wrong. It lowers our vibe. The stress levels are not required. 6. Healthy sleep patterns and life balance The kids wake when their Circadian rhythm says. This creates balance in their hormones and emotions. Their bodies are in sync. They can flow with life and create healthy patterns. Instead of waking when they’re knackered. Life is really much more beautiful waking up when the sun wakes you up and the birds sing. Instead of the buzz of an alarm clock after a bad nights sleep. It happens and we flow with the ebb and flow of life as opposed to the rule of 8.45 start. Incidentally, we’re up much earlier when home schooling because we WANT to learn. Mostly at actual sunrise to catch the first hour of the suns light codes. We have a zest for life and we don’t want to miss a drop. I work better in an evening, where my ideas are flying, my motivation is on fire. Si works better in a morning, he gets a million things done before the world wakes up. It's all about finding what works best for you and going with that. 7. The kids learn practical skills of living in the real world. They meet other digital nomads and speak to them about their careers. This broadens their horizons in terms of what’s possible with earning and future jobs market. 80% of jobs that exist today will not exist when our kids are entering the jobs market. We should be introducing them to coding, web3, AI, digital marketing, earning online, SEO, product development, sustainability, language, decentralised finance, alternative medicine. Rather than teaching them archaic ways of following rules and learnings that haven’t changed in 100 years. If my kids are happy being worker bee’s, then I’ll be happy for them. They still get to choose to be worker bee’s, doing a varied world schooling / home schooling education. But we feel they’ll be set up and ready for the jobs market of the future that awaits them.  8. Ok I know I said 7 but there's more. Home schooling gives the child a voice through choices it empowers them to make their own choices by thinking them through and taking action. If it’s the wrong choice we can look over it and choose differently next time. Traditional schooling doesn’t give kids any choice or say in their own lives. They just have to do the work, shut up and put up. 9. It reduces negative peer pressure. Our eldest has had a lot of problems in secondary school with idiots. In fact she was very badly let down b y a system that didn't support the bullied in a way it's 'zero tollerance' approach claimed it did. Time and time again she was in class with a male bully that had kicked her to floor in a previous event. She used to shake going into class. Also, She’s an empath and doesn’t need anybody else’s negative energy on her, but has been forced to endure and put up with idiotic behaviour from kids that the school cannot exclude or deal with. The whole bullying issue that is rife in schools at the moment does not favour the bullied. With schools being tied to adhere to policies and ways of dealing with 'problem' kids. Whilst the good kids get on with it, struggle on and take on a whole load of trauma. It is not fair, it is not necessary. There is another way. 10. Finally by home schooling our kids, we are not pushed into medication that we don’t want them to have.  This is self explanatory and I'm definitely not going down the route of discussing anything V related on this blog. This blog is all about the high vibes. It's not the alternative news and I won't be sharing any stats on mrna/vaccinations. Needless to say, we maintain our right to body autonomy for ourselves or our children and home schooling allows us to be not pushed into medication through pressure or fear. And there you have it, the main reasons why we are home schooling. Some may resonate with you, some may not. Life is for living. We’re looking forward to living our life in a way where we can thrive. We home schooled on our month long visit to Bali to see how it could work for us. It worked. Life was harmonious. Of course the kids still argued. Fought. We're not the Von Trapps, but we came together and left wanting more of this beautiful new way of living. We can see how we've been doing things wrong all of our lives and we're ready to start full time. If you are thinking about home schooling your kids, but don’t know where to start, I thoroughly recommend The Centre of Excellence’s diploma on Home Schooling . We did it before embarking on our decision and it helped us when making the decision of whether Home Schooling was right for our children. Click on this link to use my refer a friend referral to sign up for account with them to get your Free Home Education course. More On This Topic:   What is Worldschooling v Homeschooling? De-Registering Your Child From UK School To Worldschool Reasons Why We're Wordlschooling 3 Months of Worldschooling - Our Homeschooling Journey 3 Months in I hoped this post helped you. I hope it's inspired and empowered you to take control of your own child's learning and education in a way that suits them and you. For some people school fits and they could never dream of taking their kids out of school to hoe school them. But for us as a family, it just didn't. For others, they are simply not aware that it's even an option. And for so long we were scared or didn't even know home schooling was even possible. It wasn't until we started educating ourselves on the truths of reality and obligations / legalities of education that we started to think really seriously about taking that leap ourselves. Update: Embarking on this life adventure was one of the most rewarding experiences we've ever had. And 2 years in on our journey we have no desire to stop! I'm proof that you don't have to have it all figured out and to just take every step together, with your little people in a way that feels natural to you as their Mother. And I've created a kit that I wish I had when I started that can help you thrive in your own home schooling adventure. The Awesome Worldschoolers Kit What's Inside? If you want to grab The Awesome Homeschoolers Worldschoolers Kit  here's what's included: De-registration Letter Template PDF for deregistering your child from school (homeschool edition) De-registration Letter Template PDF for deregistering your child from school (worldschool edition) Follow Up Letter Template PDF - What to say if you come up against resistance from school or your local authority Kids Digital Home School Planner Digital Kids Reading Planner + Journal And more... Let me know in the comments below if you liked this post or if it helped you in your own home schooling or worldschooling journey. Let's thrive together! Don't Miss A Thing! Follow Us on YouTube  , Instagram  & Facebook . Or why not subscribe to Be Nothing Like and get financial freedom + spiritual awakening tips straight to your inbox every week?  PIN THIS POST TO READ ME LATER

  • 3 Months of Home Schooling / World Schooling - from UK to Bali and SE Asia

    Home schooling for us is about flexibility and freedom in our life. We're currently in Bali, but last month we were in Vietnam and in 2 months time we plan to go back to Vietnam and so the flexibility suits us. But now that we've lived this life, I don't think we'll ever go back to traditional schooling, even if we end up being fixed in one place or if we ever return back to the UK. And this is mainly because the kids are thriving with this new way of life. They are both emotionally very happy and settled in themselves.There is no anxiety or back to school dread, worry that they used to have. They are becoming super confident in feeling as though they are capable in themselves and not needing to ask and being worried to speak up or even ask for things in a foreign language. They have both set up their own businesses! And are learning digital skills to set them up for life. The reality of the day to day of home schooling is very different from what we thought it would look like in the beginning. When we were just starting to think about home schooling / world schooling . No 2 days are the same. Some days we do no learning. Others we absolutely can't stop learning because we're engaged and in a flow. And we're literally doing it from morning til night, only stopping to eat. We do have a basic Mon-Fri plan and we take the weekends off (although when you're a home schooler, you're always learning as it becomes a way of life). We also take school holidays off because everyone else does. This 6 week holidays we spent the whole month in Vietnam and this offered learning like you wouldn't believe and so we have plenty of topics to cover over the next few months now were back to day to day home school. The world is our classroom. We have yoga and meditation in our school. And we listen to our bodies and that tells us what's right and wrong. We have a topics list that we add to when we get an idea of something that we'd like to cover. So when we're stuck for what to do, we have a list that we can go to. We choose a topic each week and we learn about it all week. We use a Learning App for Maths and English for Bertie. This is a paid for app that covers: Maths, Times Tables, Spelling and English. To make sure he's covering his basics in Maths and English. He goes on everyday (mon-fri) to complete the daily learning with goals and badges to accomplish to encourage daily use with learning streak badges. It's age appropriate and grows with your kids as they grow. And tests their abilities beforehand to make sure they start at the level that's right for them. He likes to do this first thing after breakfast to get it done. Tell me if you'd like to know more about the apps we use to learn. For our 8 year old and a 15 years old. Then we do some journalling. Where he'll pick something we've done or a day that we've had and he'll write his daily journal. First he plans it out. Then he writes it. Then sometimes he writes a finished draft if it's not neat. But not always because he's usually bored by this point. I'm happy that he's got his daily writing, comprehension, organisation, grammar done. And he gets to reflect on his days and what he's doing. Our 15 year old is doing a social media paid for course and is starting her first online business. Much of her learning is focused around honing in on her niche , business planning and starting and growing an online business - something we've got tons of experience doing . She is also doing 1 GCSE at a time via an online school. Taking time with each GCSE going at her own pace. You'll be surprised at the affordability of this. She is calmer, happier going about learning in this way. And having a business that will set her up with skills and income forever. It's all not so full on. We probably do around 1 hour per day of sit down learning. But some days none- The kids are learning more than they did in school. And most of all, they love life. This is very different to how they used to feel about life back in the UK. I'm not an expert, but I do have a lot to share on this topic. I'm also still learning and think it will always be that way. If you'd like to see what a typical home school day looks like for us, comment below as this is something I'd like to cover if anybody wants to see that. Would you like to know about? The downsides and upsides that we've encountered home schooling? Sometimes we miss the interaction with people our age - both the kids and myself and so that's something we're working on changing. But overall the experience has been a good fit for us. A typical home school day - what that looks like for us. a day at home and a day out. Best Homeschool resources - things we an't be without, we use and love, planners, tech equipment, learning apps, digital stuff How To: De-Register Your Kids From School UK - what our experience was like, template letter for the school and local authority / council How we c reate our world schooling curriculum? Costs of home School. how do we afford to do this? A World Schooling Day in Bali - Morning Sunrise Volcano Trek? Worldschool meet ups and hubs? Our monthly family travel budget - what we spend travelling the world (with kids)? More On This Topic:   What is Worldschooling v Homeschooling? De-Registering Your Child From UK School To Worldschool Reasons Why We're Wordlschooling 3 Months of Worldschooling - Our Homeschooling Journey 3 Months in I hoped this post helped you. I hope it's inspired and empowered you to take control of your own child's learning and education in a way that suits them and you. For some people school fits and they could never dream of taking their kids out of school to hoe school them. But for us as a family, it just didn't. For others, they are simply not aware that it's even an option. And for so long we were scared or didn't even know home schooling was even possible. It wasn't until we started educating ourselves on the truths of reality and obligations / legalities of education that we started to think really seriously about taking that leap ourselves. Embarking on this life adventure was one of the most rewarding experiences we've ever had. And 2 years in on our journey we have no desire to stop! I'm proof that you don't have to have it all figured out and to just take every step together, with your little people in a way that feels natural to you as their Mother. And I've created a kit that I wish I had when I started that can help you thrive in your own home schooling adventure. The Awesome Worldschoolers Kit What's Inside? If you want to grab The Awesome Homeschoolers Worldschoolers Kit  here's what's included: De-registration Letter Template PDF for deregistering your child from school (homeschool edition) De-registration Letter Template PDF for deregistering your child from school (worldschool edition) Follow Up Letter Template PDF - What to say if you come up against resistance from school or your local authority Kids Digital Home School Planner Digital Kids Reading Planner + Journal And more... Let me know in the comments below if you liked this post or if it helped you in your own home schooling or worldschooling journey. Let's thrive together! Don't Miss A Thing! Follow Us on YouTube  , Instagram  & Facebook . Or why not subscribe to Be Nothing Like and get financial freedom + spiritual awakening tips straight to your inbox every week?  PIN THIS POST TO READ ME LATER

  • Bali Holiday - What You Need To Know

    The Ultimate Bali  Holiday Travel Digital Guide (By a Family that Lives here) 🌴 The Ultimate Bali Holiday Travel Guide (By Someone Who Lives There) An introduction to Bali - This guide includes all the essential must knows + must do + must see's when it comes to your holiday to beautiful Bali. Including basics, how to get there, and essential tips for your next trip. And we know because we lived there. And right now  as I write this as a family of 4 that are now full time travellers / digital nomads that are currently building our home in Bali and speak from experience not from AI generated content that many blogs churn out - we really have done all of THE BEST things in every destination that we visit. And some not so good things! So that we can share with you so you don't waste your precious time doing things that could be left off your itinerary and filling that space with amazing memories forever. If you are new to this blog, Hello & welcome (waves): We are a family that travels full time. Go check out our YouTube video here  for more about us. And please subscribe! In a nutshell our story: We ditched the rat race in June 2024 in the UK and bought one way tickets to Bali (where we are building a house) and whilst that is finished we slow travel the world full time with our kids. We spend a decent amount of time in each destination to find the best things that it has to offer. So with that said, let's jump into this Bali Travel Guide.       Contents (easy click to skip to section):      📍 Where Is Bali?    🛂 Entry Requirements visa                                        ✈️ How to Get to Bali                                 🛵 Getting Around in Bali      🚗 International Driving Permit                     ☀️ Weather in Bali    🌦️ Bali Weather Month-by-Month ☀️ Best Time to Visit   💰 Currency & Money Tips                                      🗣 Language                                                               📅 Major Festivals + Holidays in Bali 2025/2026         🏨 Where to Stay in Bali Area Guide                          🛍️   Best Markets in Bali        🛕   Best Temples in Bali    🌴 Must Do Experiences for a Bali Holiday 🍜 Food & What to Eat 💧 Can you Drink the Water in Bali? 🛜 Internet & Sim Cards 🛏️ Accommodation Tips Where to Stay   🧘‍♀️ Is Bali Good for Families? 💡 Essential Bali Holiday Tips     This post includes affiliate links that we may receive a small commission from at no extra cost to you. Thank You for supporting our blog! Planning your dream Bali holiday ? Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveller, this is your go-to guide for everything you need to know before jetting off to the Island of the Gods. From visa tips and the best areas to stay, to understanding the weather, currency, and cultural customs—this guide is written by someone who actually lives  in Bali, not just visited. We're currently building our family villa there and make itineraries for those looking to holiday in Bali. In this free guide we cover literally EVERYTHING you need to know to take your holiday to the next level. 📌 Why Choose a Bali Holiday? A Bali holiday  offers something for every kind of traveller: lush jungles, iconic rice terraces, world-class surf breaks, sacred temples, warm locals, beach clubs, waterfalls, and a unique blend of spiritual serenity and lively adventure. It’s no wonder Bali is one of the top travel destinations in the world . 📍 Where Is Bali? Bali   is an island province of Indonesia , located in Southeast Asia between Java  (to the west) and Lombok  (to the east). It sits in the heart of the Indonesian archipelago , just 8 degrees south of the equator , giving it a warm, tropical climate year-round. Despite being a small island, Bali is globally recognised for its unique culture, lush landscapes, world-famous beaches, and spiritual charm. Its central location makes it a convenient base to explore the rest of Indonesia, and it’s easily accessible from major cities like Singapore , Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok , and Sydney . 🛂 Entry Requirements: Do You Need a Visa? Yes, but it’s simple. Visa on Arrival (VOA):  Available for over 90 nationalities including the UK, USA, Australia, and most of Europe. Costs IDR 500,000 (approx. $35 USD) and is valid for 30 days , extendable once for another 30 days. Tourist Visa (B211A):  For longer stays (up to 60–180 days), available via an Indonesian sponsor or visa agent. Passport validity:  Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months  beyond your arrival date. ✅ Pro tip:  Just don’t overstay—even a single day WILL result in fines or legal trouble. Si got meningitis in Bali and was quite seriously unwell (unconscious etc), which meant that we overstayed our VOA by 1 day before he was well enough to fly. But there was no lenience given for this and a fine per person for each day overstayed had to be paid. In cash at the airport too so make sure you bring enough cash with you. There is an ATM near immigration inside the airport, but ensure your bank allows big cash withdrawals if this applies to you. ✈️ How to Get to Bali The island’s main airport is Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) , also known as Denpasar Airport . Direct flights are available from Australia, Europe, the Middle East, and much of Asia . From Jakarta, Indonesia’s capital, it's a short 1.5-hour flight. Whether you're coming for a relaxing beach holiday , a spiritual retreat , or a family adventure , Bali’s location makes it a perfect tropical escape that feels a world away, but is easy to reach. 🚗 Do You Need an International Driving Permit? Yes! To drive legally in Bali (car or scooter), you need: A valid International Driving Permit (IDP)  with the appropriate class (A for car, C for motorcycle). Your original license from your home country. 💡 You can get your IDP online affordably  before arriving. Without one, you risk fines or invalid travel insurance. But to save money, get it in your Home country before leaving. You'll save a decent amount so it's well worth it. Check out our Bali International Driving Permit blog Or Apply for your International Drivers Permit Online here You can apply for your IDP online at The International Drivers Association website . It takes around 8 mins to do at the Official IDA site here: 🛵 Getting Around Bali: How to Travel the Island Once you’ve landed in paradise, you’ll need to figure out the best way to get around Bali —and this depends on your travel style, group size, and comfort with local traffic conditions. 🛵 1. Rent a Scooter (If You're Confident!) Scooters are the most popular way to get around Bali , especially in places like Canggu, Ubud, and Uluwatu. They’re affordable, convenient, and can zip through traffic far easier than cars. Cost:  IDR 60,000–100,000/day ($4–7 USD) Fuel:  Cheap and sold in bottles at roadside stands License required:  Yes — an International Driving Permit (IDP)  with a motorcycle endorsement (Class C). Get Yours Here . Helmet:  Always wear one. Police do check. 🚨 Important:  Bali traffic can be chaotic, and accidents are common. Only rent a scooter if you're confident riding in Southeast Asian conditions. 🚖 2. Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps Bali has both traditional taxis  and ride-hailing apps  that are easy to use: Bluebird Taxi  is the most reliable meter-based service—look for the light blue cars. We use Bluebird more. in Ubud Grab  and Gojek  are the most popular ride-hailing apps (like Uber). Both offer car and scooter rides , food delivery, and even massage-on-demand. 🛑 Some areas (especially Ubud and Canggu) have local taxi monopolies  that may restrict app-based pickups, so check your location. 🚗 3. Hire a Private Driver This is the best way to get around the island in our opinion if you're visiting Bali for a holiday as the local knowledge will be what makes your holiday amazing - with those extra bits of intel that only a local knows. Shortcuts, hidden gems, must do things. Hiring a private driver for the day is surprisingly affordable  and a great choice for families or those wanting a stress-free experience. Cost:  IDR 600,000–900,000/day ($40–60 USD) for up to 10 hours Great for day trips to Ubud, waterfalls, temples, or exploring off-the-beaten-path areas Many drivers also double as tour guides and can offer insider tips ✅ This is the best option for comfort, safety, and convenience , especially if you're traveling with kids or older family members. 💰 Currency & Money Tips Currency:  Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) ATMs are widely available but be cautious—use ones attached to banks or inside convenience stores to avoid skimming. Cash is still king  in local warungs, markets, and for scooter rentals. Card payments are common in cafes, beach clubs, and hotels. Exchange money at authorized money changers only —avoid street kiosks offering higher-than-average rates. Use Wise, Revolut or Monzo for no fee international withdrawals. ☀️ Bali Weather: What to Expect Year-Round Understanding the weather in Bali  can help you plan the perfect Bali holiday—whether you're chasing sunshine, avoiding crowds, or looking for the best time to surf, hike, or just relax on the beach. The weather is often a lot dryer down the South of the Island in Uluwatu and the Bukit Peninsula. 🌴 Bali’s Tropical Climate Bali has a tropical monsoon climate , which means it’s warm and humid all year, with two distinct seasons: Dry Season:   April to October Wet Season:   November to March ☀️ Dry Season (April – October) This is the best time to visit Bali  for sunshine, beach days, and outdoor adventures. Temperature:  27–32°C (80–90°F) Humidity:  Lower and more comfortable Ideal for:  Surfing, diving, hiking Mount Batur, beach clubs, festivals Crowds:  High during July and August  (school holidays), but weather is at its best ✅ Best months for a Bali holiday:   May, June, and September  — great weather with fewer tourists and better prices. 🌧️ Wet Season (November – March) Expect short, heavy showers , mostly in the afternoons or overnight, but plenty of dry spells too. Temperature:  26–31°C (79–88°F) Humidity:  High Ideal for:  Spa days, yoga retreats, cultural experiences, fewer crowds Surfers:  Wet season is better for east coast surf spots (e.g., Nusa Dua, Sanur) 💡 Rain rarely ruins a day—just pack a poncho and embrace the lush, vibrant green landscapes that follow the showers. 🌀 Does Bali Have a Monsoon or Typhoon Season? No. Bali doesn’t experience typhoons or hurricanes. While heavy rain and thunderstorms are common in the wet season, extreme weather is rare. 🧳 What to Pack Based on the Weather Light, breathable clothing all year A light rain jacket or poncho  for wet season Reef-safe sunscreen (the UV index is high) A sarong  or scarf for temple visits and sun protection Flip-flops for the beach, sturdy shoes for hikes ✨ Final Weather Tip No matter when you visit, Bali's warm weather and welcoming atmosphere make it a year-round destination. Just choose the season that fits your travel style—and pack accordingly! 🌦️ Bali Weather Month-by-Month Month Temperature (°C) Rainfall Humidity Season Travel Tips & Highlights January 26–30°C 🌧️ High (Rainy) High Wet Season Expect tropical downpours. Great for wellness retreats, cultural tours, and lower prices. February 26–31°C 🌧️ High Very High Wet Season Rain continues but there are sunny breaks. Romantic escapes, waterfalls at their best. March 26–31°C 🌦️ Medium-High High Wet Season Rain eases toward the end. A nice shoulder season for deals and fewer crowds. April 27–32°C 🌤️ Lower Moderate Start of Dry Beginning of dry season—lush and green with improving weather. Ideal for outdoor activities. May 27–32°C 🌤️ Low Moderate Dry Season One of the best months: sunny, uncrowded, great surf. June 26–31°C ☀️ Low Lower Dry Season Comfortable weather, perfect for hiking and sightseeing. Great for family holidays. July 25–30°C ☀️ Very Low Low Peak Dry Peak tourist season—book early. Amazing beach days and festivals. August 25–30°C ☀️ Very Low Low Peak Dry Bali at its best: sunny skies, cultural events, and prime surfing in the west. September 26–31°C 🌤️ Low Moderate Dry Season Great balance: sunny, fewer crowds, lower rates. Excellent for diving and snorkeling. October 26–31°C 🌦️ Increasing Higher End of Dry Still warm and sunny early on. Start of shoulder season. November 26–31°C 🌧️ High High Wet Season Rain picks up again. Lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and better hotel deals. December 26–30°C 🌧️ Very High High Wet Season Rainy but festive—Christmas & New Year are busy. Book early if visiting over the holidays. ☀️☀️ Best Time to Visit Bali Dry season (April to October):  Best for beach days, surfing, and outdoor adventures. Wet season (November to March):  Expect humidity, rain showers, and lush landscapes—but fewer tourists and better deals. Those in the know say wet season rotates in 'heavyness' 2025's wet season was incredibly WET! Mass flooding and lot's of rain. The kind of rain that doesn't go away for days (even weeks in some cases). We found this year quite tough. Whereas 2024 was a very dry wet season (according to locals). Book accordingly, but there is still lot's to do even in wet season and there are far less crowds. 🌅 Best months for a Bali holiday:  May, June, and September—great weather, fewer crowds, and reasonable prices. 🗣️ Language in Bali: What You Need to Know While you don’t need to be fluent to enjoy your Bali holiday , understanding the local language  and a few key phrases can go a long way in enhancing your experience and connecting with Balinese culture. 🏝️ What Language is Spoken in Bali? Bali is part of Indonesia , so the official language is Indonesian (Bahasa Indonesia) . However, most locals also speak Balinese , a regional language with its own unique script and traditions. In tourist areas like Seminyak, Canggu, Ubud , and Uluwatu , many people—especially those working in hospitality—speak basic to fluent English . 💬 Commonly Used Languages: Indonesian  – official language, used in schools and government Balinese  – spoken by locals in villages and during ceremonies English  – widely spoken in tourist zones, restaurants, and hotels Other languages  – You’ll also hear some French, Russian, Chinese, and Korean , especially in popular travel hotspots 🗨️ Useful Indonesian Phrases for Travelers English Indonesian Pronunciation Hello Halo HAH-loh Thank you Terima kasih tuh-REE-mah KAH-see You're welcome Sama-sama SAH-mah SAH-mah Yes / No Ya / Tidak yah / TEE-dahk Excuse me / Sorry Maaf mah-AHF How much? Berapa harganya? ber-AH-pah HAR-gah-nyah I don’t understand Saya tidak mengerti SAH-yah TEE-dahk meng-ER-tee Delicious! Enak! EH-nahk 🧒 Bonus: “Bagus!” (BAH-goos) means “Good!”  – perfect to say to kids, food vendors, or new friends. Get Our Free Bahasa Language Guide here An easy-to-follow, beginner-friendly guide to help you start learning the language without feeling overwhelmed. With: Common Phrases for Everyday Use Basic Pronunciation Tips Essential Vocab for Travel & Relocation Cultural Insights To avoid common faux pas in Bali. 📍 Where to Stay: Best Areas in Bali for Your Holiday Bali isn’t just beaches—each area offers a totally different vibe. Many people choose to spend a few nights in each area as part of their holiday. Here’s a quick breakdown: 1. Canggu Trendy, surfy, and Instagrammable. Think smoothie bowls, beach clubs, and co-working cafes. Great for digital nomads, families, and young couples. But oh my gosh is it busy. The Canggu short cut is most definitely not a short cut and expect to be sat around in traffic for much of the day when getting around Canggu. 2. Ubud The spiritual and cultural heart of Bali. Ideal for yoga lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those looking to slow down. Don’t miss the rice terraces, waterfalls, and traditional Balinese ceremonies. 3. Seminyak Upscale and stylish, with boutique shopping, high-end dining, and beach resorts. Perfect for those who want luxury without the party scene. 4. Uluwatu Cliffside views, world-class surf, and epic sunsets. Great for surfers, honeymooners, and anyone looking for a quieter, scenic escape. And it's our home so we know a thing or two about the best things to do here as family with kids as well as a couple for date nights ! Check out The Best Things To Do In Uluwatu Guide for a more in-depth view 5. Sanur Relaxed and family-friendly, with calm beaches and a laid-back vibe. Ideal for travellers with young kids or older visitors. 6. Nusa Dua Home to luxury resorts and gated communities. Great for honeymooners or anyone looking for a fully serviced holiday. 7. Nusa Islands (Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan, Nusa Penida) Perfect for a quick island-hopping adventure. Crystal-clear water, dramatic cliffs, and some of the best snorkelling/diving in Bali. 🛍️ Best Markets in Bali: Where to Shop Like a Local Exploring Bali’s markets is one of the best ways to experience local life, support small businesses, and find unique treasures that go far beyond the typical souvenir. From vibrant art markets to hidden local gems and weekly creative pop-ups, here are the best markets in Bali  to add to your itinerary. 🎨 1. Ubud Art Market (Pasar Seni Ubud) 📍 Ubud Central The most iconic market in Bali, set in the heart of Ubud. Here you'll find handcrafted goods, sarongs, rattan bags, wood carvings , and beautiful souvenirs made by Balinese artisans. 🛎️ Best for:  Traditional Balinese crafts🕗 When to go:  Early morning for cooler temps and better deals 👗 2. Seminyak Flea Market 📍 Seminyak, near the beach A relaxed, boho-style market near Seminyak Beach selling beachwear, jewelry, decor , and fashionable souvenirs. Great for mixing shopping with a seaside stroll. 🛎️ Best for:  Trendy travelers looking for beach style and accessories 🎭 3. Sukawati Art Market 📍 Gianyar (20 mins from Ubud) One of Bali’s oldest and most affordable art markets, where locals shop for ceremonial items, textiles, and wooden carvings. Less polished but very authentic . 🛎️ Best for:  Budget-friendly, bulk souvenir shopping 🌃 4. Sanur Night Market (Pasar Malam Sindu) 📍 Sanur This local market is all about the street food . Think sizzling satay, nasi goreng, and sweet martabak pancakes at very local prices . A must-visit if you're in Sanur. 🛎️ Best for:  Foodies on a budget🕗 When to go:  After 6 PM 🛋️ 5. Tegallalang Handicraft Center 📍 Near Ubud A long stretch of roadside artisan shops selling homewares, rattan furniture, baskets, and wall hangings . Great for inspiration or shipping home something special. 🛎️ Best for:  Interior design lovers📦 Shipping available  from many vendors 🎨 6. Hatch Sunday Market (Uluwatu) 📍 Hatch Bali, Uluwatu A creative, family-friendly Sunday market  in one of Uluwatu’s coolest venues. It features local artisans, eco-friendly brands, fashion, handmade jewelry, vintage finds, art , and delicious food . There’s often live music, kids’ activities, and a community vibe that makes it a weekend highlight. 🛎️ Best for:  Conscious shopping, supporting small local brands, meeting the expat and creative community🕗 When:  Every Sunday, usually from 10 AM to 4 PM💡 Insider tip:  Come hungry and stay for brunch or chill in the garden after browsing. 🧵 7. Kuta Art Market 📍 Kuta Beachfront Touristy but convenient, the Kuta Art Market is full of budget souvenirs  like t-shirts, sarongs, and paintings. It’s a good stop if you’re staying in Kuta or Legian. 🛎️ Best for:  Quick souvenir shopping near the beach 🧺 Final Tip: Market Etiquette Cash is king —bring small notes in Indonesian Rupiah Haggling is normal  but always do it respectfully Go early  for cooler weather and better deals Keep an eye out for ceremonial offerings  on the ground Markets in Bali aren’t just about buying things—they’re about soaking up local culture, connecting with artisans , and making memories. Whether you’re treasure hunting in Ubud or chilling at Hatch with handmade kombucha and live tunes, there’s a market for every kind of traveler. 🛕 Best Temples in Bali: Sacred Sites You Can’t Miss Bali is known as the “Island of the Gods” , and for good reason. The island is home to over 20,000 temples , from cliffside shrines to jungle sanctuaries. Visiting Bali's temples offers a deep dive into its rich spiritual culture , stunning architecture , and ritual life  that’s still very much alive today. Whether you're seeking a cultural experience, photography opportunity, or moment of quiet reflection, these are the most iconic and beautiful temples in Bali . 🌊 1. Tanah Lot Temple 📍 Tabanan, West Bali One of Bali’s most famous temples, Tanah Lot  sits dramatically on a rock just offshore and is especially magical at sunset . The temple is dedicated to sea spirits and is one of seven sea temples that protect Bali's coastline. 🛎️ Best for:  Sunset views and iconic photography💡 Tip:  Arrive 1–2 hours before sunset to explore before the crowds arrive 🌅 2. Uluwatu Temple (Pura Luhur Uluwatu) 📍 Uluwatu Cliffs, South Bali Perched 70 meters above the Indian Ocean, this temple offers breathtaking cliff views  and is home to Bali’s famous sunset Kecak fire dance . Watch out for cheeky monkeys that patrol the grounds! 🛎️ Best for:  Culture meets natural beauty🎭 Don’t miss:   Kecak dance at 6 PM with ocean sunset backdrop 🌿 3. Tirta Empul Temple 📍 Tampaksiring, near Ubud This is Bali’s most important water temple , famous for its holy spring baths  where visitors come to purify themselves  in sacred water. It’s an immersive cultural and spiritual experience. 🛎️ Best for:  Spiritual rituals and authentic Balinese culture💡 What to bring:  Sarong and towel (or rent on-site) 🏞️ 4. Besakih Temple (Mother Temple) 📍 Mount Agung, East Bali The largest and holiest temple complex  in Bali, Besakih sits on the slopes of Mount Agung. It consists of over 80 temples and is a pilgrimage site for locals. The location is grand and atmospheric. 🛎️ Best for:  Temple enthusiasts and history lovers⚠️ Tip:  Dress modestly and be cautious of unofficial “guides” 💎 5. Ulun Danu Beratan Temple 📍 Lake Beratan, Bedugul This floating temple on a lake  looks like something out of a postcard. Surrounded by misty mountains and often reflected in the still water, it’s one of Bali’s most photogenic spots. 🛎️ Best for:  Nature lovers and photographers💡 Best time to visit:  Early morning for mirror-like lake reflections 🌺 6. Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave Temple) 📍 Ubud outskirts This 9th-century sanctuary is known for its mystical carvings and cave entrance , plus tranquil gardens and bathing pools. It’s small but rich in history and symbolism. 🛎️ Best for:  A quick but meaningful cultural stop💡 Family-friendly:  Flat paths and easy access 🧘 7. Lempuyang Temple (Gates of Heaven) 📍 East Bali Famous for the “Gates of Heaven” photo with Mount Agung in the background, Lempuyang Temple is actually part of a complex of several temples spread up a mountainside. The journey is long but the views are epic. 🛎️ Best for:  Instagram-worthy views and adventurous travelers ⚠️ Note:  Be prepared for a steep hike  if visiting the upper temples 🧍‍♀️Temple Etiquette & Tips Dress modestly : Sarong and sash are required (rentals usually available) Respect ceremonies : Do not enter temple inner sanctums unless invited Women on their period  are traditionally not allowed to enter temple grounds Go early or late  to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures Whether you're watching the sun dip behind Tanah Lot or cleansing in the waters of Tirta Empul, these sacred sites are essential to any Bali holiday itinerary —offering moments of peace, perspective, and awe. 🏖️ Must-Do Experiences on Your Bali Holiday Watch the sunset at Tanah Lot Temple Take a sunrise trek up Mount Batur Snorkel or dive in Amed  or Nusa Penida Visit Tegallalang Rice Terraces Swing over the jungle in Ubud Do a Water Purification Ceremony (read more about our first Melukat Water Ceremony) Catch traditional dance at Uluwatu Temple Relax with a Balinese massage at a spa Eat your way through local warungs Spend a day at a beach club  (La Brisa, Finns, Potato Head) 🌴 Must-Do Things in Bali: The Ultimate Bucket List From jungle adventures to beach bliss, Bali offers unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or as a family with kids, these must-do activities will give you a taste of the magic that makes Bali one of the world’s favourite holiday destinations. Here are just a few essentials to add to your Bali holiday itinerary: 🧖‍♀️ 1. Enjoy a Traditional Balinese Massage Relax and unwind with a soothing, full-body massage—often for less than the price of a cocktail back home! 🐒 2. Visit the Ubud Monkey Forest Walk among ancient trees, mossy temples, and curious long-tailed macaques in this sacred nature reserve. 🌅 3. Watch the Sunset in Canggu or Uluwatu Grab a beanbag, order a coconut or cocktail, and watch the sun dip into the Indian Ocean from a beach bar. 🌊 4. Try Surfing or Paddleboarding Canggu, Seminyak, and Kuta are perfect for beginners, while Uluwatu offers world-class waves for pros. 🧘 5. Take a Yoga or Wellness Class From jungle studios to oceanfront decks, Bali is a global hub for wellness and self-discovery. 🍲 6. Eat Local at a Warung Try traditional dishes like nasi campur, mie goreng, or babi guling at a local roadside eatery for a truly authentic taste. 🌋 7. Hike Mount Batur for Sunrise One of Bali’s most iconic treks, the early wake-up is worth it for panoramic views above the clouds. 🛕 8. Tour the Island’s Iconic Temples From the sea cliffs of Uluwatu to the holy springs of Tirta Empul, Bali’s temples are not to be missed. 💦 9. Chase Waterfalls in the North Trek through lush jungle to discover stunning falls like Sekumpul, Gitgit, or Tibumana. 🛍️ 10. Shop Handmade at a Local Market Pick up artisan crafts, fashion, and souvenirs at Bali’s vibrant markets in Ubud, Uluwatu , Seminyak, and beyond. 🍜 What to Eat in Bali Nasi Goreng:  Indonesia’s famous fried rice Mie Goreng:  Fried noodles with veggies and egg Nasi Campur:  Rice with assorted small sides. The best Nasi Campur (pronounced 'Champoor') we ate was at Sun Sun Warung in Ubud. Oh My Gosh you have to try this place. Satay:  Skewered grilled meat with peanut sauce Babi Guling:  Traditional Balinese roast pork (non-halal) Vegans and vegetarians will find plenty of options too—especially in Canggu and Ubud. Grab and Gojek will be your friend and you can order any type of food delivered to your accommodation via these apps. The food options are so good in Bali. You can order any type of cuisine. My Top Tip: ensure these are downloaded before you leave. 💧Can you Drink the Water in Bali? No. Drink bottled water. Brush teeth with bottled water. Wash salad with bottled water. Make ice from bottled water. Top Tip: Even for a 1 week holiday - Buy a big water for around 20,000 IDR which should last a family of 4 around 3 days. This will save having to keep picking up water every day. 🛜 Internet & SIM Cards SIM cards  with data are cheap and easy to buy at the airport or local shops. Top providers: Telkomsel , XL Axiata , Indosat Wi-Fi is widely available, but patchy in remote areas. Cafes, villas, and co-working spaces usually have decent speeds. For all of our full time travel we use an E-sim but find that data is so cheap in Bali that it's best to just buy a local sim when you land. Most shops sell them. We use the E-sim for Si's phone to just ensure that we are connected for when we land at the airport and need to book Grab or Gojek taxi and be connected straight away. But everyone else in the family waits to get to a local shop. Prices are super cheap in Bali for data. 🛏️ Bali Accommodation Tips From budget hostels to luxury villas, Bali has it all. We are currently building our own villa in Bali and hope to share a full guide on buying land in Bali and building as a foreigner, but whilst this happens we rent a 2 bed villa with pool by the month through a local lady and this is how we manage to keep our budget. But overall we really struggle to find 3 bedroom properties to rent and usually go for 2 bedrooms and the kids share (which isn't ideal but they make do until our place is built). Check out our monthly villa video rental here for a house tour and prices! For a month long rental in Uluwatu for family (with 2 bedrooms and private pool) we recommend Jobon Villas by Great Bali Villas . Or Villa Allegra - Or Villa Casa Luxury (my fave)- 3 homes where you can actually 'live' rather than just be staying as a guest. To experience life in Bali. There are many more options if you only need 1 bedroom. In fact you'll be spoilt for choice. For shorter stays we find the most beautiful looking properties are to be fond on Platforms like Airbnb. But we personally love Booking.com for the more budget friendly places and homestays. In the early days of travel we stayed in the super cheap basic homestays. Really basic and I don't recommend many of them. They were great for what we needed and really helped us with out budget. But every so often we came across a gem and we happily share these with you in our Accommodation Guide. First up in the Ubud area is The Jungle Villa for tucked away lush tropical jungle living in beautiful wooden huts, an awesome pool and serves a nice breakfast too. Downside is it's only accessible by bike so taxi will drop you at the end and staff will come collect you and your luggage on bikes. In Nusa Lembongan Harta Villas offer well priced accommodation in raised wooden Bali huts with an awesome swimming pool and beautiful lush gardens. We'll share more as we find them with you here. 🏡 Traveling with kids?  Consider a private villa with a pool and kitchen for more flexibility. 💡 Essential Bali Holiday Travel Tips Respect local customs:  Dress modestly at temples, never touch someone’s head, and always use your right hand when giving or receiving. Pack light, breathable clothing  and always bring a sarong for temple visits. Don’t drink tap water—buy bottled or use a filter. Bali Belly  is real—ease into local food, and pack probiotics or charcoal tablets just in case. 🧘‍♀️ Is Bali Good for Families? Yes! Bali is surprisingly family-friendly. From kids’ clubs and soft-play cafes to waterfalls, monkeys, beaches, and even water parks—there’s plenty to do with children of all ages. Here's My 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 10 Fun Things to Do with Kids in Bali: 🦁 1. Visit Bali Safari & Marine Park A full-on wildlife experience where kids can see lions, zebras, elephants, and tigers  from a safari bus. There are animal shows, a petting zoo, and even night safaris. 📍 Gianyar 🎟️ Great for:  Ages 2+ 🛝 2. Splash Around at Waterbom Bali Asia’s #1 water park is packed with thrill slides, lazy rivers, toddler play zones , and lush tropical gardens. It’s a hit for all ages—and parents too! 📍 Kuta 🎟️ Great for:  Toddlers to teens 🐒 3. Explore the Ubud Monkey Forest Wander through this jungle sanctuary filled with over 1,000 monkeys , ancient temples, and giant banyan trees. Educational and exciting (just hide the snacks!). 📍 Ubud 🎟️ Great for:  School-aged kids 🎨 4. Take a Balinese Art or Cooking Class Get hands-on with local culture—kids can make offerings, paint batik , or learn how to cook nasi goreng . Many workshops are family-friendly and fun. 📍 Ubud, Canggu & Seminyak 🎟️ Great for:  Ages 5+ 🏝️ 5. Spend the Day at Finns Recreation Club A kid’s paradise with trampolines, bowling, a water park, tennis courts, and indoor play zones . Perfect for when parents need a break too. 📍 Canggu 🎟️ Great for:  All ages Or another kid friendly day club such as Titi Batu (Udud) or Folk (Ubud) 🐬 6. Go Dolphin Watching in Lovina Take a boat ride at sunrise and watch wild dolphins leap out of the water . Combine it with a beach picnic or waterfall stop on the way back. 📍 North Bali 🎟️ Great for:  Nature-loving families 🐢 7. Visit Turtle Conservation Centres Kids can see baby turtles, learn about marine life , and even release hatchlings back into the sea at various conservation programs. 📍 Serangan Island or Kuta Beach 🎟️ Great for:  Ages 3+ 🚲 8. Take a Family-Friendly Bike Tour Cycle through rice paddies, local villages, and temples —many tours include child seats or small bikes for older kids. A gentle, scenic way to see the island. 📍 Ubud area 🎟️ Great for:  Ages 6+ 🧺 9. Have Breakfast with the Orangutans at Bali Zoo One of Bali’s most unique experiences! Enjoy a jungle breakfast buffet while orangutans play nearby , followed by a day of meeting animals and exploring the zoo. 📍 Sukawati, Gianyar 🎟️ Best for:  All ages💡 Tip:  Book in advance—it’s very popular! 🌋 10. Trek to a Waterfall or Volcano (Kid Version!) Choose easy-access waterfalls like Tibumana or Tegenungan , or take older kids on a sunrise trek up Mount Batur  for serious bragging rights. 📍 Various locations 🎟️ Great for:  Adventure-loving kids (age 6+ for hikes) 🧳 Bonus Tip for Parents: Bali is full of kid-friendly cafes too, family villas with pools, and babysitting services , making it easy to balance sightseeing with downtime. 📅 Major Festivals + Holidays in Bali 2025/2026 The majority of Indonesian people are Muslim. But in Bali the majority are mainly Balinese Hindu's. There are many different religious holidays in Bali and Indonesia because it's a multi-faith country and all are accorded equal respect. The dates of some of these national holidays will vary each year as they are often based on the lunar calendar or the Balinese calendar which do not align exactly with the Gregorian Calendar. Indonesian Independence Day  – Sunday, 17 August 2025 and Monday, 17 August 2026. New Year’s Day – the traditional Western New Year January 1st falls on a Wednesday in 2025 and a Thursday in 2026 International Labor Day – Thursday, May 1 2025 and Monday, September 7 2026. Pancasila Day – Sunday, June 1 2025 and Monday, June 1 2026. Galungan & Kuningan – Taking place twice a year. A celebration of the triumph of good over evil. Wednesday, 23 April 2025 and Saturday, 3 May 2025. Then Wednesday, 19 November 2025 and Saturday, 29 November 2025. In 2026 there will be only one on June 17 and June 26.  Hari Raya Nyepi (The Balinese New Year / Hindu New Year) – March 29, 2025 and then again on March 19, 2026 The “festival of silence” and hari raya  Nyepi is the most important day in Bali. A public holiday that is celebrated by people staying at home in quiet contemplation. Even the airport is closed for this one of the island’s public holidays and you should expect to spend the day in your hotel/villa/resort as you’re not allowed to go out on this day in Bali. ✨ Final Thoughts A Bali holiday  is more than just a tropical escape—it’s a chance to reconnect with nature, explore a rich culture, and create memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re surfing in Uluwatu, doing yoga in Ubud, or eating nasi goreng at a roadside warung, Bali has a way of getting under your skin—in the best possible way. And because I’ve lived here, you’re getting the inside scoop—the real Bali, beyond the brochure. Ready to plan your Bali holiday?  Stay tuned for my top guides on: Best things to do with kids How to live in Bali on a budget Hidden gems beyond the tourist path Keep up with our daily updates on social media below. And let me know if there is anything specific you would like me to cover on the blog about our Bali life. Follow us on Instagram: On YouTube: And always leave a comment below if this page has helped you.  I only write and share stuff on the blog to help you. So let me know. Does it help? Did you get something from it? And what do you want to know going forward? I am at your service, Fletchy McFletchface xx 💡 HELPFUL PLANNING TOOLS FOR YOUR BALI TRIP 💡 ✈️ - FLIGHTS -  We use this flight checker  to search cheap flight tickets for our trips and got flights from Bali to Singapore for just £33 each! Amazing. Use to check dates and flight costs for International flights and Domestic flights at our Flight Planning Page fore more 🏨   - ACCOMMODATION -  We use this hotels checker  to search hotels and accommodation for our trips. Use to check dates and costs to hotels and hostels in Bali now or go to our Accommodation Planning Page for more 🧭🗺️👣   - BALI TOURS & GUIDES -  We use Get Your Guide  for all of the trips in Bali. But we also love Klook  too. TIP: Use both to compare offerings. This post includes affiliate links that we may receive a small commission from at no extra cost to you. Thank You for supporting our blog! PIN THIS

  • The Best Beach in Bali - Melasti Beach | What You Need to Know | Best Family Friendly Beach Bali

    Some links are affiliate links that if you click we may receive a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks! Discovering Melasti Beach, Bali: A Hidden Gem of Natural Beauty We moved to Bali for the beach life and so far Bali has been a mixed bag in terms of beautiful beaches. We're on the hunt for the best beaches in Bali with a family, with kids and as a couple... and we found it. This one is a gem! As a family of beach bums we LOVE a beautiful beach. And love having sandy toes and salty hair, sipping a coconut on soft white sand with all shades of blue oceans. And Melasti Beach is this families all time favourite and most beautiful beach in Bali. In fact, it deserves a spot as one of the Worlds most beautiful beaches because of it's sheer breathtaking beauty. Pantai Melasti  has it's own website. Pantai means beach in Bahasa and of course Pantai Melasti wins our award for Bali's best beach. We've tried a lot and we feel so lucky that this world class beach is right on our doorstep. We're based in the south of Bali, for this very reason. To hunt out the best beaches and best things Uluwatu has to offer . Follow the blog to see the beaches of Bali and find out, (very honestly and in my real non-instagrammy style) - what beaches we love and all the ins and outs for that beach - to make your next trip to Bali a bit easier. If you are short on time, we highly recommend this beach day trip with personal guide on Klook where you will visit 3 of the best beaches in the South of the Island including Melasti beach, Padang Padang and Pandawa Beach (3 of the islands most beautiful beaches) in a single day. Followed by a sunset meal on the vibey Jimberan Beach. People that have done this day trip said it was the highlight of their holiday. Check out my Melasti Beach vid on youtube. It's not edited with filters just very honest view of Melasti beach so you can see the true colours and nature. This is our favourite beach in Bali. Melasti Beach - Location Nestled on the southern coast of Bali, in the Bukit (the blob at the bottom of Bali), Melasti Beach is a serene escape that offers a unique blend of breathtaking scenery and tranquil relaxation. It's known for its dramatic cliffs, powdery white sand, and crystal-clear waters, so you read on the internet. But we've found this isn't always the case for beach reviews and so we wanted to suss it out for ourselves to see whether Melasti had a place in our top 5, top ten beaches of Bali. Turns out it's world class and deserving of that accolade on a world stage - which you can't always say when in Bali. You don't need to read on: It's beautiful, a must visit. Go go go. But if you want to find out more..... whether this beach is the one of our faves for the best family friendly beach bali ... entry costs, location, things to do there, beach clubs, then read on.... We think that Melasti beach is a great beach fit for a family, mainly because it feels safe. Bali can feel chaotic at times and it's high energy can feel intense for children and empaths, sensitive to energy. For us as parents, it's difficult to switch off. But in our opinion, Melasti is one of the best family friendly beach bali - an ideal destination for those seeking both adventure and peace. It has it all in our opinion. In this blog post, we'll delve into the geographical location of Melasti Beach, explore the myriad of activities you can enjoy there, discuss the entrance fees, and highlight some of the popular day clubs nearby. Melasti Beach Location Melasti Beach is situated in the Ungasan, Uluwatu region of Bali, Indonesia (where we live! Pinch me!!). It’s part of the Badung Regency, which is renowned for its stunning coastal landscapes. The beach is approximately a 30-minute drive from the bustling areas of Seminyak and Kuta. So if you are based there, it's not too far to take a day trip out there. You won't regret that. Because whilst Kuta and Seminyak has ok beaches, they literally do not compare to the beauty of Melasti. If you've ever been to Virgin beach up north in Bali, then this is more of a comparison. As a family of beach lovers, we're quite underwhelmed by the beaches in Bali overall. Especially if you compare them to Thailand or other SE Asian Countries. And that makes me sad to say. They really do suffer from trash issues. And if you are Australian with pristine beaches, you'll understand what I'm saying here. But this is not to poo poo Bali, because Bali does have some breathtakingly rugged and pristine beaches (you just have to know where to look). Plus Bali has a vibe. We came for the energy of the place and if only we could find a beautiful tropical beach... well guys, Melasti is it. What makes Melasti Beach particularly good is its unique breathtaking beauty. The drive down on the scooter blows my mind every time we visit. It's like being in a movie - get your phone ready because you're going to want to film the drive down. It's up there with one of the worlds most iconic beach drives. And we head to Melasti twice a week but I am still blown away. The beach is framed by towering limestone cliffs that create a dramatic backdrop and offer spectacular views of the Indian Ocean. The road winds and weaves to open up to palm lined view of the stunning turquoise coastline. It's very tropical. Very pretty. And so photogenic. And it's right at the very bottom of Bali - you can't get any further down (a great little factual topic to add to your world learning or home schooling projects if you're world schooling the kids - like we are - or you just love to know facts about the place you're in - like we do!) Things to Do at Melasti Beach Relax and Sunbathe on soft white sand against turquoise (clean) waters With its soft white sand and clear blue waters, Melasti Beach is perfect for unwinding. The sand is nice and white. Soft. The beach in September was clean and not full of trash, like some places. There was the odd lost washed out old flip flop washed in from the ocean and the odd lighter, but honestly, we pick that up (because that's what we do) and the rest - no trash. Rainy season brings some trash in but not on the level that see in other places. Also the entry fee seems to be helping towards keeping the beach clean. The beach's relatively secluded nature means it's less crowded compared to other Bali beaches, providing a peaceful atmosphere where you can soak up the sun or enjoy a leisurely swim in the tranquil waters. But still lot's of people to people wartch and provide an atmosphere. The ticket booth is at the very top, then you drive down to a big entrance that can get quite busy with locals taking shade etc, and literally EVERYONE bustling to get that all important insta picture at the entrance gates. Think traditional Bali style walls. If you're keen on ticking the insta list, then there's loads of famous spots at Melasti to take that 'Wish You were here picture'. Once you get onto the beach, it's spacious, non-crowded, very beautiful with more locals to tourist ratio, which makes a beach more special for us. Because Balinese people are beautiful, friendly and their smile comes from a place of truth. Photography and Scenic Views The striking cliffs on the drive down to Melasti Beach are breathtaking. Then the expansive ocean views really does make Melasti Beach a haven for photographers. I couldn't stop taking photos on my first visit. And we come twice a week and I still take so many vids and photos it's breathtakingly beautiful here. It's one of those places that everywhere you look, you want to take a photo. If every blink could take a photo I'd be more than happy with that. The beach offers stunning vantage points for capturing the natural beauty of Bali. Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical times to visit, as the changing light creates a spectacular array of colours and you do get both sunrise and sunset - all be it towards the side and behind cliffs. It still feels special. Beachfront Walks Bali is a hard place to walk. It's difficult getting the daily steps in or getting anywhere on foot. But with Melasti beach you can park up at the entrance and walk and walk. You can park at the top and enjoy a scenic downhill walk - which is breathtaking btw. But beware you'll have to walk back up if you do this. It's worth it to do once, becaue of how beautiful the road down is. It's also not crazy busy with traffic and quite often there will be a bridal shoot on the road where you can see the happy couple pose for photos which is always quite nice to see. But a word of warning if you do walk down - that hill can get a lot a in the heat after a long day walking back up. Melasti is a long sandy beach with gentle waters. Take a stroll along the pristine shoreline and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding cliffs and ocean. From the Pirate ship end to Karma beach section, it's a beautiful walk. The sand is dry and soft. You don't feel sticky and wet there. There is often a breeze too. TIP: Go after 3pm when it's cooler. The walk along the beach can be a meditative experience, with the soothing sound of very gentle waves crashing against the shore enhancing your sense of relaxation. So calm that the kids can paddle without getting totalled in the crashing waves (of Dreamland Beach et al) All in all it's laid back and chilled, with a welcome beat from the day clubs set back on the beach (depending on where you decide to base yourselves). But don't worry, it's definitely not pumping. And there are plenty of areas with no sound of music. 3. Snorkeling and Swimming at Melasti Beach While Melasti Beach is not as famous for snorkelling as other Bali locations, the crystal clear waters provide decent visibility for casual snorkelling. You'll see some beautiful tropical fish. There are rocks too that you can walk out to when the tide is out and poke around. Swimming is also a popular activity at Melasti, with the gentle waves making it suitable for all skill levels. The waves break further out against the rocks and so when they get to the shore line, they are merely a tickle on the sand, which is very nice for children and adults that don't want to get turned upside down, legs in the air (If you love the thrill of this - Dreamland is the beach for you). A bikini ripper beach - as I call it. I've seen many bums and bits n bobs at Dreamland through an unexpected wave skittling anyone that thinks the strong waves have passed and that these ones will be ok. LOL, big mistake. But not at Melasti - overall weather dependant, Melasti is mostly calm and beautiful. To my mind Melasti gives us Ibiza Vibes (and Ibiza being our Spiritual home - we've been 14 times - and looked to live there at one point but needed to win the lottery to even think about that!) We always have a soft spot for the Bougainvillea, cliffs, coves, crystal water Ibizan vibes. Balearic beats in the background. 4. Explore the Surrounding Cliffs getting down to Melasti Beach The imposing limestone cliffs that surround the beach offer opportunities for exploration and adventure. Although climbing the cliffs can be risky, the paths around the base provide fantastic vantage points for taking in the panoramic views. On our very first visit, back in the day when we didn't have our own scooter because we're a family. We took a taxi to Melasti. Because our Grab taxi on the way home couldn't pick us up from the bottom near the beach (because of some rule) and we hadn't took the scooter (because there's 4 of us and that's not happening on the roads of Bali - even though the locals do) and so we took a taxi in, that dropped us at the entrance, but come home time, we couldn't get the taxi to pick us back up at the beach and they would only pick us up from the ticket booth entrance. The taxi driver found it very comical watching us get to his car with heads like beetroots and a pulse in our cheeks. We got some beauts photos on the walk up though! Now we ride down like pro's and park round the back near White Rock Beach Club. Just something to be aware of if you are taxi-ing it to Melasti. It was a great work out although very stressful and hot! Experience Balinese Culture with a Kecak Dance Performance Every night you can watch a traditional Kecak dance overlooking Melasti beach, offering visitors a glimpse into the island’s rich cultural heritage with a stunning place to watch. It's less busier here than other places or the temple in Uluwatu but you'll still need to book tickets. Grab your Melasti Beach Kecak Dance Tickets from Klook here . For more info be sure to check out the official Melasti Kecak Dance website here . Occasionally, these traditional Balinese performances  take place on the beach!. Entrance Fee Melasti Beach, Bali As of the latest updates, the entrance fee to Melasti Beach is generally affordable. It typically costs us 33,000 IDR for the bike and 1 kid, 2 adults. However, fees can vary slightly depending on the time of year and any additional amenities or services you may use. It’s always a good idea to check for the most current information before your visit. Best Time to Visit Melasti Beach The best time to visit Melasti is during the dry season (April – October) when the skies are clear and the ocean is calm. But as we live very close by, we go all year round and honestly we're never disappointed. Early mornings are perfect for a peaceful beach walk, while late afternoons get busy with locals due to the sunset and golden glowing cliffs. Because Melasti is big it never feels crowded. Monkeys at Melasti Are their monkeys at Melasti Beach? We visit Melasti beach around 2 times per week and for 1 year saw no monkeys ever. We're not huge fans and liked Melasti for that reason. But recently these last few weeks we've seen monkeys. And on one occasion one nicked our bag of crisps that we had laying by the side of us and we hadn't noticed. And was sat next to us munching away. Because we were not expecting monkeys at Melasti, we were not hiding away all of our valuables and perishables. That might need to change if monkeys are now a thing at Melasti. I'll keep you updated on the blog! Melasti Day Clubs and Nearby Attractions, Ungasan, Uluwatu, Bali - Our 2 favourites but there are many more across the stretch. White Rock Beach Club Check out their various Day Passes & Bed prices and book White Rock via Klook here . Located in the centre of Melasti Beach, but set back so the music isn't blurring. White Rock Beach Club is a popular destination for those looking to combine beach time with a touch of luxury. On Saturdays and Sundays around 4pm they have a foam party there, which is great for the kids. You can book a be there where food is credited. We mostly spend our day at the beach and then walk up the steps to have a drink and the kids go for a swim in the pool at White Rock, before heading home on the bike. You can enjoy beautiful views of the sun setting here and the day closing. Karma Beach Bali Karma Beach, right on the beach in Melasti at the very far right end is another nearby option, located in the neighbouring area of Karma Kandara. It offers a laid-back vibe with its own private beach, beachside dining, and various activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. The clear waters and picturesque setting make it a great spot for a relaxing day out. We recently had a date night here to Watch DJ Danny Rampling (more on that soon - a great day - a great beach club) (There are many more beach clubs than listed here. Along the whole coast of Melasti, there are many spots to grab a drink and cool off. Beds to hire on the beaches and umbrellas. We mostly love to be on the sand because we love to ground to the Earth' magnetic energy and so love to be on the sand, but beds are dotted in front of restaurants to hire for the day and order your drinks and food from.) Other Beach Clubs we've not visited yet include: Tropical Temptation (Adults Only) Last thoughts on Melasti Bali Melasti Beach, with its enchanting natural beauty and serene environment, provides a perfect retreat from the more tourist-heavy areas of Bali. Whether you're looking to relax on the sand, explore the surrounding cliffs, or enjoy nearby luxury day clubs, Melasti Beach offers something for every traveler. With its relatively low entrance fee and a range of activities and amenities, it’s an excellent choice for anyone seeking a memorable Balinese experience. Make sure to visit Melasti Beach during your Bali adventure, and let the tranquil setting and stunning views create lasting memories. For us Melasti definitely is in our TOP Beaches in Bali list as a family. You cannot be disappointed by this beach. Join us as we explore more beaches to officially rank Melasti's position in our fave family beaches of Bali (it's a hard life, but I'll do it for you guys!) In the meantime keep up with our daily updates on social media below. And let me know if there is anything specific you would like to know. More On This Topic:   Bali Local Food Shop What we're paying for rent in this villa Luwak Coffee - Our Experience of a plantation visit Visa on Arrival for Bali Learn Basic Bahasa I hoped this post helped you. Let me know in the comments below if you liked this post or if it helped you. I hope you've never had Bali Belly, but if you have, please share your best methods for dealing with it. I hope this has inspired you to apply common sense caution to stay healthy but don't go overkill and avoid missing out on Bali life. And please just trust me on those probiotics before you head out. Your gut will thank you for it. Don't Miss A Thing! Follow Us on YouTube  , Instagram  & Facebook . Or why not subscribe to Be Nothing Like and get financial freedom + spiritual awakening tips straight to your inbox every week?  PIN THIS POST TO READ ME LATER   💡 HELPFUL PLANNING TOOLS FOR YOUR BALI TRIP 💡 ✈️ - FLIGHTS -  We use this flight checker  to search cheap flight tickets for our trips and got flights from Bali to Singapore for just £33 each! Amazing. Use to check dates and flight costs for International flights and Domestic flights at our Flight Planning Page fore more 🏨   - ACCOMMODATION -  We use this hotels checker  to search hotels and accommodation for our trips. Use to check dates and costs to hotels and hostels in Bali now or go to our Accommodation Planning Page for more 🧭🗺️👣   - BALI TOURS & GUIDES -  We use Get Your Guide  for all of the trips in Bali. But we also love Klook  too. TIP: Use both to compare offerings. This post includes affiliate links that we may receive a small commission from at no extra cost to you. Thank You for supporting our blog! Follow us on Instagram: On YouTube:

  • What You Need To Know About Padang Padang Beach Bali - The One with the steps and the Monkeys

    Everything YOU need to know about one of our favourite beaches in Uluwatu Bali - Padang Padang. This post includes affiliate links that we may receive a small commission from at no extra cost to you. Thank You for supporting our blog! Join us as we explore our way around Bali. Raising our vibration , decalcifying our pineal glands , opening our third eye... oh and discovering all the best beaches of the world with our small family that decided to leave our old lives behind in search of a more fulfilled life. All the deep hard hitting subjects for another today. Today we're on the lookout for Bali's best beach. And we're at Padang Padang Beach, Bali! If you're new here, hello. I'm Fletch and we're almost 1 year in on our epic move to Bali ... loving every minute obvs (read more about our journey here ). We're a family of beach bums that loves a good beach. We adore Caribbean white sands, shades of blue seas and amazing diving. In fact, the kind of beaches that we really adore are in the Maldives and we cannot compare apples with pears here. We didn't choose Bali for it's beaches. But Fear not, we're finding THE Best that Bali has to offer (and she has plenty btw!). It's definitely not doom and gloom in the beach department! They can be very very beautiful, but you have to know where to go. And are not to be compared to the Caribbean, Maldives, Thailand (which have better beaches imho). Because we have such crazy high standards when it comes to our beaches, we like to scour the best and on this blog we share our favourites. We're currently living in the South of the island of Bali in the Uluwatu area, known for having some of the best beaches in Bali (and it does btw). Also known as The Bukit (the bottom bit of Bali), this area has some of the most rugged and beautiful beaches in Bali, with soft white sands and turquoise blue waters, amazing waves and stunning rugged cliffs. This part of Bali definitely has island vibes and we're sussing all the beaches as a family to give you the low down to hit that save button for your next trip to Bali. For more on all things Ulu check out our ultimate and comprehensive Top Things To Do In Uluwatu Guide Bali has so much beauty. And the breathtaking cliffs are a sight to behold in the South of Bali, often leading down to a dramatic beach. But did you know that Bali also has black sand beaches too? This is for another day. Today we're at Padang Padang Bali Beach, Uluwatu area of Bali - specifically Pecatu. Known as Labuan Sait Beach by locals. Come with us as we head down the 120 steps to the amazing beach, Pantai Padang Padang. As we head down through the skinny dark cliff rocks to come out onto Padang Padang. A sheltered cove awaits. This in itself makes this beach pretty cool tbf. With beautiful soft white sand and gentle lapping waves along the shore line. Read on to find out everything that you must know about Padang Padang Beach Bali to make you next trip an unforgettable one. Must Knows about Padang Padang (click to go to that section): Best Time To Visit Padang Padang Beach? It's a pay in Beach so bring Money/Change. There are Steps to get down. Water Quality + The waves are gentle but watch out. The sand type. Opening Times. Can you get food and drinks on Padang Padang? Are there Shops and Hire at Padang Padang Beach? Monkeys - Hati Hati Other Things You Should know about Padang Padang Beach Bali But before you do... check out our video to see just how beautiful Padang Padang really is And don't forget to Subscribe to support our channel. Little Time We feel so lucky to live close by this beautiful beach where we can visit super early, or just for sundown, or can lounge their all day. And let me tell you guys, we do not take any of this for granted. We touch the walls as we walk down the steps. We give our gratitude and thanks to Mother Nature every time we're there. But if you are stuck for time and want to visit Padang Padang beach and fit lot's of sights into your day. We recommend this trip where you'll get to visit Padang Padang to see it's beauty, but move onto other sights in the area ( GWK cultural park, Spend time at Padang Padang Beach and then visit Uluwatu temple to see a Kecak dance) all with a local guide that knows the best routes and will give you so much more info than we can give you here. The best way to see Bali is with a local and this is something we still do now. But if you have time to spend a day at Padang Padang, you can head down there like any other beach and make a day of it (no guide needed) Best Time To Visit Padang Padang Beach? There is no “best time” to visit Padang Padang in terms of the time of year you visit. As Bali has year round sunshine. While the dry season will be a little cooler, it doesn’t rain all day in the wet season, and you can expect around 9 hours of sunshine a day. However, you do want to visit this beach at low tide as the tide is going out and then leave before high tide. This is because the unique hollow rock entrance of the cave here can be hard to access when the water levels are high. Every time we've visited we've been just fine and dandy. Padang Padang Bali Opening Times The beach opens at 7am and closes at 7pm. The beach is quite small so during busy times be prepared for someone to sit on your head. Or have their feet in your face. We're a family so need a family sized spot and struggled to get a spot at one time. Single towel people you're fine on busy times if you don't mind being close to people. We just need to get our big picnic blanket sized sheet out so need a decent amount of space. In terms of vibe, it kind of reminds us of a small Balearic beach. Is there an Entry Fee to get into Padang Padang Beach? Yes. Padang Padang Bali is a pay in Beach. Entry costs Adults: 15,000 IDR Children: 10,000 IDR - and it's well worth it as the Beach is kept well. Bring cash as they don't accept card. Once you’ve paid, you can climb down the narrow staircase and make your way through the cave and onto the beach, which is exciting in itself (did you see my vid? Go watch and give me a sub if you liked it too please as I'm growing my channel to 1k subs ). We live in the Uluwatu area where there is so much choice for beaches and Padang Padang is a cute little day out for us. I'd say we go there once per month (and only because we live right by Balangan and for ease mostly hop there). Padang Padang is our chosen beach if we fancy a day out too - a little shopping in the village, maybe Hatch Markets on a Sunday and definitely always Bali Blue ice creams for the kids (which is opposite the entrance to Padang Padang so if you almost died from the walk back up those steps, you can stop by Bali Blue and will not be disappointed with their ice creams (although it's on the main road so very noisy and not very relaxing! This is Bali!!) There are Cliffside Steps to get down to Padang Padang Getting to the beach is beautiful as you go down through rocks to open up to a beautiful island paradise beach. There are 120 steps to get down to Padang Padang Beach, but don't worry, even though this sounds a lot, it's a moderate and do-able descent (the ascent is harder of course - see my fat red face on the video when I thought the camera wasn't recording!!!) There are plenty of places to stop for breath along the way up. Expect to get a little out of breath but nothing a few short sharp breaths in at the top won't sort. We've got an 8 year old and he was absolutely fine. You definitely wouldn't want to attempt this beach with a pram though. Unless you want to give Dad a pumping heart attack. Although this is something Si would do as he's never been put off from lugging a pram everywhere, determined that having kids won't stop us from doing anything. I don't recommend the pram though - this goes for all of Bali tbf. What's the Sand Like at Pedang Pedang? The sand is beautiful white soft sand. I'm not talking fine powdery white like Mexico or the Caribbean, Maldives, which is insane. But we are talking beautiful white soft sand that you come to expect in the Tropical island paradise south of Bali. Free of litter as this beach is a pay in beach and is kept clean and tidy. Although because the bay is sheltered and the water calm, the water can bring in a fair bit of seaweed and debris. During Rainy Season, this can be quite dirty. We visited a few times in February and March 2024 and the water quality was poor. So much so we didn't go in. It was very disappointing and sad to see. Lot's of litter floating around, and because it was so calm, it was a little bit like a swamp where you brushed the litter and oily residue to move past it. There was too much to pick out (which we always do as we LOVE our oceans). But when we visited Padang Padang beach in July and again in September 2024 (the other 2 times we visited, the water was crystal clear and beautifully cold) completely different experience and a big thumbs up. I believe that the rainy season brings litter in from the ocean and the calmer bays bear the brunt. See more about this at the Water Quality section. All of South East Asia suffers pretty badly in rainy season with a sever plastic and litter problem. It broke our hearts the first time we saw this and we now volunteer on beach cleans etc. We've all got to do more. Can you get food and drinks on Padang Padang? Yes. There are many sellers dotted around the edge of the beach selling Dingin Bintang (cold Beer), Klappa Dingin (cold coconut) and BBQ'd corn, Satay which is really cheap. More expensive than local local prices but cheap for tourists. And there are Warungs set further back to take some shade too. We've never eaten at these as we mostly have a corn and save ourselves for Disco pizza (kids favourite) in the village afterwards. Are there shops and Hire items at Padang Padang Beach? Yes. Surf hire and water sports hire equipment. Monkeys - Hati Hati Yes. And they can be quite grabby little turds. I've seen tourists stopping on the steps on the way down to the beach to take a photo only to get their sunglasses swiped from their head and then look shocked. These monkeys will steal to get a reward from you (food) to give you your stuff back. Not always - not like Monkey Forest in Ubud, but these guys are chancers. We stay well back and just get down the bloody steps. Monkeys are wild animals. We look. Dont touch. Top Tip: as the sun get's cooler later on, the monkeys come down from the cliff side. If you are sunbathing near the side. Move! The monkeys come onto the beach and pinch things from peoples bags or things just laying around on towels. The usual Bali dog will come to mans aid, and bark to scare the monkey's away, but the monkeys are wise to these dogs and just wait til the dogs are knackered and then commit their crimes in groups. Outsmarting mans best friend. My advice, be away from the rocks so you can chill and watch others fall prey to these criminals. LOL. The kids find all this hilarious however. But as Mum, nurse, watcher, keeper of little humans I prefer to stay on the cautious side with these little crims. This is their beach and we are guests so let's remember that. They're still little turds though. Water Quality + The waves are gentle but watch out. Padang Padang bay is sheltered and the waves are calm, the coral-fringed beach is ideal for swimming as it forms a natural lagoon, meaning it's ideal for kids. If you know Bali, you'll know many of the beaches like to skittle people over with their super powerful waves (Dreamland Beach). There are one or two rocks under foot but not so that you would need water shoes. The water is beautiful and cold (in dry season) and unlike many beaches in Bali you can fully get into the water and swim as the waves are gentle and break a way back. Which is beautifully refreshing. But be aware the odd wave can take you off guard for the very little ones. My 8 year old loves Padang Padang because it's one of few where he can go in on his own and be left to his devices. The water can bring in a fair bit of seaweed and debris even in dry season. Nothing terrible, but a bit of seaweed slapping around the legs and sea greenery stuck to the arm. During Rainy Season, however, we found the water to be quite dirty. We visited a few times in February and March 2024 and the water quality was poor. So much so we didn't go in. It was very disappointing and sad to see. Lot's of litter floating around, and because it was so calm, it was a little bit like a swamp where you brushed the litter to move past it. There was too much to pick out (which we always do as we LOVE our oceans). But when we visited Padang Padang in July and September 2024 (the other 2 times we visited, the water was clean and cold and very beautiful) a completely different experience and a big thumbs up. I believe that the rainy season brings litter in from the ocean and the calmer bays bear the brunt. Other Things You Should know about Padang Padang Beach Bali It's not accessible for wheelchair users. There are toilets and showers up the steps before the exit. There is a sand wash off area at the exit of the beach before the steps for the feet. And sinks at the top to wash hands etc. There are the usual sun umbrella's to hire. I don't think I saw sun loungers though. We don't ever get them as we like to earth and ground on the sand. There is plenty of parking outside the beach. There are lifeguards at Padang Padang Beach. There are beach sellers selling the usual Bali made beach stuff. They are very nice and do not pester each time we've been we've noticed how much less pressured they are compared to other beaches (which is nice). They are locally made stuff thought and not imported China stuff, so it is good to support the local community by buying something whilst there. The Rip Curl Cup Padang Padang surf event is held at this beach, with world renowned surfers displaying their talents. It’s an amazing time to visit, although obviously very busy. Final Tip with visiting Padang Padang with Kids: As well as the usual ice cream sellers on the beach, there is a Bali Blue ice cream and coffee bar opposite the beach entrance. So you can bribe the kids to leave the beach and walk the steps for an ice cream, if bribery is your thing, to get yourself an easy life. Bali Blue Ice Cream is up there with one of the best ice cream places in the whole of Bali so you won't be disappointed. There is one other place that trumps them all, but this is not in The Bukit. Final Final Tip with visiting Padang Padang for the adults: Turn left as you leave the beach and walk up the hill to discover Pecatu Village. Lot's of shops, bars and restaurants with a very cool decor and aesthetics. This is a tourist area so be prepared to pay tourist prices, although there are also some local warungs. We often visit Disco Pizza when we're with the kids for a good quality sour dough pizza with a disco vibe. And without kids, the world is your oyster. Lot's of beautiful people, doing beautiful things. We visited Ours - which is a visually beautiful restaurant perfect for couples and date nights when you just want a bit of kid free sophistication. I hope you found this guide helpful. Save for your next visit. Don't forget to watch the video and subscribe to my YouTube Channel for more Bali life videos. In the meantime keep up with our daily updates on social media below. And let me know if there is anything specific you would like me to cover on the blog about our Bali life. Follow us on Instagram: On YouTube: And always leave a comment below if this page has helped you.  I only write and share stuff on the blog to help you. So let me know. Does it help? Did you get something from it? And what do you want to know going forward? I am at your service, Fletchy McFletchface xx 💡 HELPFUL PLANNING TOOLS FOR YOUR BALI TRIP 💡 ✈️ - FLIGHTS -  We use this flight checker  to search cheap flight tickets for our trips and got flights from Bali to Singapore for just £33 each! Amazing. Use to check dates and flight costs for International flights and Domestic flights at our Flight Planning Page fore more 🏨   - ACCOMMODATION -  We use this hotels checker  to search hotels and accommodation for our trips. Use to check dates and costs to hotels and hostels in Bali now or go to our Accommodation Planning Page for more 🧭🗺️👣   - BALI TOURS & GUIDES -  We use Get Your Guide  for all of the trips in Bali. But we also love Klook  too. TIP: Use both to compare offerings. This post includes affiliate links that we may receive a small commission from at no extra cost to you. Thank You for supporting our blog!

  • Everything You Need to Know About Waterbom Bali: The Ultimate Waterpark in Kuta, Indonesia

    We had been in Bali for 4, coming on 5 months and we still hadn't visited Waterbom . Bad parents apparently. Because according to my kids "Waterbom is only THE BEST THING TO DO in Bali, and we've not even been yet... Lamo's". As masters of misery we thought they'd suffered quite enough living in paradise, worldschooling , ice creams every day, beaches, having mum and dad all to themselves instead of rushing here, there, everywhere with our stressed out UK life. But no. Enough was enough and I booked tickets. Online from Klook here I might add (book them online to save money!) You can get them at Waterbom on the day though, but they are actually more expensive) Read on.... Of course this post is NOT sponsored. I'm a Mum of 2 that writes a blog to record our Bali and full time travel journey and shares THE BEST STUFF to do in Bali and South East Asia. Because, believe it of not, not everything is that great, with kids! But hey, if you're reading Waterbom (heyyyy waves). I'd like to come again and this time I promise I will go on ALL Extreme rides (because I was a bit of a scaredy cat last time)!!! If you’re looking for a thrilling and unforgettable experience in Kuta, Indonesia, Waterbom Bali is the place to be! Known as one of the best waterparks in Asia, Waterbom offers a perfect mix of excitement, relaxation, and family fun. It's the island's most well-known waterpark , for sure, spanning 3.8 hectares of fun. With 15 rides and attractions ranging from the relaxing Lazy River ride. Which we went on first to ease ourselves in (because secretly I was bobbing my pants). Kids pool and slides, many pools with lifeguards and float jackets for kids on hand all the time to put on, hand back, put on, a swim-up bar, a number of eateries (that are actually quite good) and 15 attractions. In the height of peak season, we found the queue times to be a matter of minutes per ride. Nothing like Alton Towers 45 min wait for each! Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your visit. Waterbom has won loads of awards (and you can see why) and it won the prestigious award in 2024 of being The Best Waterpark in South East Asia. Something that we'll be putting to the test on our travels around SE Asia with the kids. They're going for the World Title right now, nominations are open. What is Waterbom Bali? Waterbom Bali is a world-class waterpark located in the heart of Kuta, Indonesia. Spanning over 3.8 hectares of beautifully landscaped tropical gardens, it features a variety of water attractions suitable for all ages. From high-speed slides to lazy rivers, there’s something for everyone at this amazing destination. Key Attractions Watch my quick YouTube video of our day at Waterbom Bali: 1. Thrilling Water Slides Waterbom Bali boasts some of the most exciting water slides in Asia. Here are a few must-try attractions: The Climax : A near-vertical drop that will get your adrenaline pumping. Boomerang : Experience a unique ride that sends you flying up and down in a giant U-shaped slide. Lazy River : For those looking to relax, float along the 500-meter lazy river surrounded by lush gardens. 2. Kid-Friendly Areas Waterbom is family-friendly, offering several attractions for younger visitors: Funtopia : A colourful play area with mini slides and water features designed for kids. Kid’s Pool : A shallow pool where younger children can safely splash around and play. 3. Relaxation Spots After a day of excitement, unwind in one of the many relaxation areas: Cabanas : Rent a private cabana for the day and enjoy a tranquil space to relax and recharge. Spa Services : Treat yourself to a massage or spa treatment to enhance your waterpark experience. Tips for Visiting Waterbom Bali 1. Buy Tickets in Advance Book in advance in high season, to avoid long queues, but also a big tip: consider purchasing your tickets online before your visit. This not only saves time but we got 10% discount. We got ours from Klook here 2. Arrive Early Get to Waterbom Bali early to maximise your day. Arriving when the park opens allows you to enjoy popular attractions before the crowds arrive. We arrived at noon as we always struggle to get out of the door early with kids, BUT this meant no sun beds were available. This didn't matter, because we weren't planning to sunbathe, but it would have been nice to have a base to come back to. You get lockers so can leave all your bags etc so no beds isn't ging to ruin your day. But Next time, we would get there earlier and book a Gazebo (if there was more than just the 4, so when friends visit, just so everyone is together for food and has that space where we can meet). Just something to think about if you plan to visit. 3. Stay Hydrated and Use Sunscreen This goes without saying really. With all the fun in the sun, it’s essential to stay hydrated. Bring a refillable water bottle and apply sunscreen regularly to protect your skin. 4. Plan Your Meals Waterbom offers various dining options, that are actually quite good! We were expecting absolute turd (as is usually the case in theme park type places), but it was varied, good quality, and ok prices. But you can also bring your own snacks. If you’re on a budget, consider packing a picnic lunch to enjoy in the designated picnic areas. We didn't realise we could do these and as the avid fan of the egg + cress mayo butty, we'd have definitely done this if: a) we were more organised people, b) didn't mind the farty waft of eggs following us around. Yes, we are that family! I try to keep life as real as possible for the kids. Don't want them thinking it's all water slides and pizza! Which today of course was because I didn't force my egg mayo's on everyone. Getting to Waterbom Bali Located in Kuta, Waterbom is easily accessible from most hotels in the area. And beyond. Bali isn't a big island so even if you're far away yo can always make a day of it and get a taxi or driver. You can take a short taxi ride or arrange for a shuttle service through your hotel. We got a taxi from Uluwatu up to Kuta, which took around 35 mins (traffic was good). Sadly there is no public transport options in Bali yet. Waterbom Kuta Location Opening Times: 9am - 6pm. Copy and paste this address if booking a Gojek - Waterbom, Jl. Kartika Plaza, Tuban, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361 Common Questions about Waterbom, Kuta, Bali Do you need to take towels? No, they have them to hire at the locker area. That you can hand back when leaving. Towels cost each. And you can use the free changing rooms and showers to freshen up at the end of the day. I'll add to this section - if you have a question, just ask in the comments. Conclusion Waterbom Bali is more than just a waterpark; it’s an unforgettable experience that caters to all ages. Whether you’re looking for thrilling rides, family-friendly activities, or a relaxing day in the sun, this waterpark has it all. Make sure to add Waterbom Bali to your itinerary when visiting Kuta, Indonesia! More On This Topic:   Bali Local Food Shop The Best Things To Do In Uluwatu What we're paying for rent in this villa Luwak Coffee - Our Experience of a plantation visit Visa on Arrival for Bali Learn Basic Bahasa Don't Miss A Thing! Follow Us on YouTube  , Instagram  & Facebook . Or why not subscribe to Be Nothing Like and get financial freedom + spiritual awakening tips straight to your inbox every week?  PIN THIS POST TO READ ME LATER   💡 HELPFUL PLANNING TOOLS FOR YOUR BALI TRIP 💡 ✈️ - FLIGHTS -  We use this flight checker  to search cheap flight tickets for our trips and got flights from Bali to Singapore for just £33 each! Amazing. Use to check dates and flight costs for International flights and Domestic flights at our Flight Planning Page fore more 🏨   - ACCOMMODATION -  We use this hotels checker  to search hotels and accommodation for our trips. Use to check dates and costs to hotels and hostels in Bali now or go to our Accommodation Planning Page for more 🧭🗺️👣   - BALI TOURS & GUIDES -  We use Get Your Guide  for all of the trips in Bali. But we also love Klook  too. TIP: Use both to compare offerings. This post includes affiliate links that we may receive a small commission from at no extra cost to you. Thank You for supporting our blog! Follow us on Instagram: On YouTube:

  • Hatch, Uluwatu Bali - Everything You Need to Know

    This post contains affiliate links that if you click and book through, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you. Everything you need to know about Hatch Uluwatu, Bali . Whether it's the latest lowdown on their hip Sunday Market "Sundaze at Hatch' or for evening drinks or food you're in the right place. We've lived Uluwatu for 2 years and are now building our family home there. Whilst we do we share THE best things to do there and on the Island of Bali to help you experience the best spots on your next holiday. And We've comprised The Best Things To Do In Uluwatu Guide to help you plan your next Ulu trip. And btw, We're not paid by any of the places that we blog about or even given free food (ha ha) we can't be bought! So you can only expect honesty and down to earth truths. This blog covers everything that you'll need to know about Hatch, as well as their up to date contact and reservation / map links to help. We're currently living in the South of the island of Bali in the Uluwatu area, known for having some of the best cafe's, bars and cool artisan markets in Bali. As well as the best beaches in the whole of Bali. Also known as The Bukit (the bottom blob of Bali), This part of Bali definitely has island vibes, with cows in the road, palm trees, the best beaches Bali has to offer and we've sussed all the hot spots as a family (with our 2 kids) and also as a couple that enjoys a date night and a good cocktail to give you the low down to hit that save button for your next trip to Bali. Btw, If you're interested in Our Story  of how we went from living a Depressed and Disconnected life in the UK  to living the life of our dreams travelling the world , worldschooling our kids  and building our dream home in Bali  then I've linked some blog posts above that you may like. And if not, Let's jump in to todays blog: The lowdown on all things Hatch Bali - Everything (plus some) that you need to know for your next visit to Hatch Uluwatu in Bali. Including our recent visit to the Hatch Sunday Market Bali (jeez it was busy!!). Table of Contents Intro to Hatch The Decor and Vibe The Legendary Hatch Sunday Market - Sundaze Things To Do in Pecatu, Uluwatu, Near Hatch How To Get There Our Conclusions on Hatch Ulu - Is it worth visiting FAQ's What is Hatch Uluwatu A beautifully decorated laid back bar, cafe and market spot in Uluwatu Bali with awesome flyer artwork (if that's your thing). Growing up in Manchester Englands Manchester Club Scene, and as Graphic Designers we always appreciate a well designed flyer. We've visited Hatch many times as a family with kids for their artisan Sunday Market as well as for food as a family and also for drinks without the kids for a date night in Uluwatu. It offers a wide range of events, a diverse menu and a decent cocktail. It's a fun place with a relaxed vibe during the day and as the sun goes down it get's quite lively. Hatch Bali Decor and Vibe We love the decor of this place, feels like being in a festival with it's beautiful big vibrant psychedelic wall murals and trees inside with bridges, different platforms, multi-levels and laid back seating areas. It kind of feels like being in an Aztec inspired Treehouse jungle. That's the best way we can describe it. Visit in the day time so you can really appreciate the beauty of the decor in it's full glory, when it's light, so be sure to hit their day time market to appreciate how pretty the inside of this place is. And at night as the sun goes down and the lights come on, disco balls twinkle and live music and Dj's playing different types of music depending on their events itinerary make it a place that people love. Check out the Hatch instagram venue highlight here for venue photos. The nightlife at Hatch is really quite varied. We find that with many places in Bali that it caters to all but in doing so doesn't really then have a vibe. Because Si was a DJ in Europe and has DJ'd in some of the worlds most amazing clubs in UK: Pacha, Sankeys, Ibiza: Space, Pacha, etc, Berlin: Watergate and Sisyphos etc, we have difficulty when comparing nightlife worldwide and then Bali. And really we just can't do this with most places in Bali. We find the nightlife in Bali very difficult to compare against a European style, catering for a tourist crowd. And so, people seem to enjoy Hatch but we would say it's wise to check out the Hatch website to see whats on. For example you might find one night something is perfect for you and the next that it's a R&B night that you're not into. Very varied and themed - so for that reason we defo recommend checking out their events guide. The Sunday Market Vibe Hatch Market is a pop up fun community market in Uluwatu that runs every Sunday from 11am to 6pm , offering a mix of amazing handcrafted goods, stalls, jewellery and artwork from regional Balinese vendors. With live music from talented local musicians, a kids corner for the little ones and a BBQ and other tasty bites, drinks and nooks and crannies to look around. We last visited Hatch market in the height of high season and by God was it busy. There was hardly any room to move or get anywhere and we struggled to get near to any stalls. It was pretty harassing to be fair. Our Top Tip: Go early if in busy season to avoid the crowds. Check out our quick YouTube video of Hatch Market here on a super busy day. Things To Do Nearby Hatch is based in Pecatu in Uluwatu, which is a really popular spot for tourists so there is a lot to do nearby. You can mostly walk the whole stretch of the main road that goes all the way through the town but take care as it's a really busy road and take extra care when walking because not all spots have paved sidewalks and the ones that do, in true Bali style often have massive holes and hazards. But it is walkable unlike many areas of Ulu and Bali in general. I'm never sure how parents with strollers do Bali at all, and we've never had a pram here as our kids are older, but much of this area is not pram friendly. Along this road theres loads and loads of eateries, cafes, clothes stores, shops, bars, shops to look in. As well as some very nice upmarket instagrammable restaurants. We've visited most of them at some point and we like Gooseberry and can recommend if you are looking for a Western Style Restaurant with really beautiful decor for a date night: Ours (but Si took me here for my birthday recently though, still as beautiful as ever, good food, but pricey for Bali, comparable for Western prices, BUT we had really bad service on this night with rude staff which we've never experienced in Bali. Ever. So it's put us off). For good sourdough Pizza with the kids: Disco Pizza. For amazing Mac n Cheese when you fancy a cheese hit (cheese being one of the main things we miss from home, that and good wine): The Rolling Fork. For a super sweet treat and coffee: Sinamon Rolls (which we're very naughty with and order these in once a week via Gojek). For good gelato: Bali Blue (many roadside stands). Plus Padang Padang Beach isn't too far away if you're making the day of it by planning a day at the beach, followed by an evening in Pecatu - there are many Grab bikes just grab whenever the walk feels too much. We walked on Sunday from Hatch to Pedang Pedang Beach. It got quite hot around 10 mins - but it's do-able. How To Get To Hatch Hatch Bali Address: Jl. Labuansait No.54, Pecatu, Kec. Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361 Click to find Hatch Bali location on Google Maps here to plan your route Check out Hatch Uluwatu's Instagram for their latest event info and up to date news. FAQ's for Hatch Check out some of the most commonly asked Questions for Hatch. And if we don't answer yours here, drop us a comment below and we can usually help. What time is the hatch Market in Uluwatu? 11 AM to 6 PM Sunday More On This Topic:   Visas for Bali Is This The Best Beach in Uluwatu Bali? YES!!! Why you Must Visit - Melasti Beach Our First Water Purification Ceremony In Bali Renting a Scooter in Bali Best Waterpark in Bali Shopping Like a Local in Bali Very Cheap Monthly Rental in Uluwatu Conclusions. We would definitely recommend a trip to Hatch Uluwatu, especially with kids for their Sunday Market for something to do. And also for the decor because it is really beautiful. And it's always been lively at an evening whenever we've visited just as just a couple. The decor is swoonsville and they do decent cocktails too (which is always a win for me). But we recommend checking their what's on guide to make sure you visit on a night that suits your tastes as music can be very varied and not always to ones taste. Let me know in the comments below if you liked this post or if it helped you plan your next Bali trip. If you've visited Hatch before what did you think? Don't Miss A Thing! Follow Us on YouTube  , Instagram  & Facebook . Or why not subscribe to Be Nothing Like and get financial freedom + spiritual awakening tips straight to your inbox every week?  PIN THIS POST TO READ ME LATER   💡 HELPFUL PLANNING TOOLS FOR YOUR BALI TRIP 💡 ✈️ - FLIGHTS -  We use this flight checker  to search cheap flight tickets for our trips and got flights from Bali to Singapore for just £33 each! Amazing. Use to check dates and flight costs for International flights and Domestic flights at our Flight Planning Page fore more 🏨   - ACCOMMODATION -  We use this hotels checker  to search hotels and accommodation for our trips. Use to check dates and costs to hotels and hostels in Bali now or go to our Accommodation Planning Page for more 🧭🗺️👣   - BALI TOURS & GUIDES -  We use Get Your Guide  for all of the trips in Bali. But we also love Klook  too. TIP: Use both to compare offerings. Follow us on Instagram: On YouTube:

  • Bali Belly: What It Is, How Long It Lasts & How We Avoided It for 2 Years in Bali

    This post includes affiliate links that we may receive a small commission from at no extra cost to you. Thank You for supporting our blog! Avoiding getting Bali belly is the best way to well, you guessed it, avoid getting Bali belly on your next trip. We've lived in Bali for almost 2 years and so far, have avoided getting the dreaded stomach sickness - with 2 kids also. We're share all the ways we avoid getting sick and stay healthy in Bali. If You're Looking for ways to stay healthy and safe when in Bali. You're in the right place... This post explains the preventative methods we take to avoid tummy and toilet troubles when in Bali and travelling South East Asia. As well as emergency numbers in case. And if you're interested in Our Story  of how we went from living a Depressed and Disconnected life in the UK  to living the life of our dreams travelling the world , worldschooling our kids  and building our dream home in Bali  then I've linked some blog posts above. And if not, Let's jump in to todays blog. Table of Contents Avoiding Bali Belly What is Bali Belly? The Symptoms of Bali Belly Is it Contagious How Long Does Bali Belly Last? Ways We Avoid Bali Belly Bali Belly Treatment Hospitals and Medical Centres Useful Medical Numbers Avoiding Bali Belly (From a family who’s lived here long term) If you're planning a trip to Bali, you’ve probably heard the term “Bali Belly”  whispered in travel groups or mentioned with a half-laugh, half-serious warning. It’s one of the most common concerns travellers have — especially if you're travelling with kids. As a family who has lived in Bali for almost two years , travelled all over the island, as well as many South East Asian Countries during this time with our Visa Runs etc, eaten in warungs, cafés, restaurants, hotels, beach clubs, and street stalls — we have never once had Bali Belly. Not once. And it’s not because we’re lucky. It’s because we’re careful, mindful, and have learned what actually causes it (and what doesn’t). Here is everything you need to know plus the prevention habits we follow as a full-time travelling family. Because we truly believe some of these techniques have really toughened our tummy biome and helped prevent getting it. And honestly, we have seen Bali Belly first hand with friends that have got it and it's no joke. It's something we'd really prefer to keep far away. What is Bali Belly? Bali Belly  is not actually specific to Bali, but more a general term for traveller’s diarrhoea  that can happen when your stomach reacts to unfamiliar bacteria in food or water. You can actually get this ANYWHERE. Including back home. It’s not unique to Bali, you can get it anywhere in the world where the bacteria differs from the bacteria that your gut is used to. Some Common causes of travellers diarrhoea include: • eating contaminated food • drinking unsafe water (including ice in some cases) • touching surfaces then eating without washing hands • sudden changes in gut flora • food left out too long in the heat In most cases, it’s not dangerous — just very uncomfortable and inconvenient, especially on holiday. But severe cases of it can be awful. The worst we've ever been was on a 1 week holiday to Egypt where we were all extremely poorly. Oh my God we were so sick. We've all never been so sick in our lives, with severe crampings and extreme toilet proximity requirements. And even when we got back home to the UK, our gut health was terrible for the next 6 months. So we know what 'Bali belly' is just not in Bali. Egypt wins the award! The Symptoms of Bali Belly With Bali belly, most people experience: • nausea • stomach cramps • diarrhoea • vomiting • bloating • loss of appetite • low energy • mild fever (sometimes) Symptoms usually come on quickly — often within hours of eating something your body reacts to. And the above symptoms can be violent. And quite shocking as one friend told us. Is it Contagious Technically, no — Bali Belly itself isn’t contagious. You don’t “catch” Bali Belly from someone else just by being near them. BUT… It can  spread within a family if: • the same contaminated food was eaten • hands aren’t washed properly after going to the toilet • surfaces aren’t cleaned • towels, cutlery, or bottles are shared And this is why quite often when one person in a travel party gets it, everybody seems to. So while it's not contagious like a cold, good hygiene prevents it from passing around. How Long Does Bali Belly Last For most travellers, Bali Belly lasts 24–48 hours . At worst, 3–4 days. How long it lasts depends on: • your hydration • your gut health • and how quickly you treat symptoms • also whether the cause was bacterial, viral, or simply food sensitivity will determine what lives inside your body longer. The majority of cases resolve on their own with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies. Ways We Avoid Bali Belly (How we lived in Bali for nearly two years with kids — and avoided it completely) This section comes from real lived experience. 1. We are strict about hand hygiene This is honestly the biggest one. Kids = hands everywhere. Bali = warm climate = bacteria multiplies faster. So we always: • wash hands before every meal • carry sanitiser • sanitise after touching menus, railings, handles • never let the kids eat after playing unless hands are washed It sounds basic — but this alone prevents most cases. We're not completely anal about it but we do it by habit. And honestly after going out, your hands kind of feel so grubby any way that this is all totally common sense. We don't even stroke our kitten until we've washed our hands. Just with soap and tap water. 2. We drink filtered or bottled water only Every villa we’ve lived in has had: • a water dispenser • filtered drinking water • no tap water for brushing teeth We also never refill reusable bottles from random dispensers unless we trust the source. 3. We’re selective about where we eat We eat at: • clean warungs • reputable cafés • busy places where food turnover is high We avoid: • buffets sitting out in heat • salads washed in unknown water • ice from small shops that don’t use purified water (For reference: most cafés and restaurants in Bali do use filtered ice — but street shops may not.) 4. We ease into local food when we arrive at a place Not so much in Bali now, but when we travel to a new country. Because your gut needs a few days to adjust. And then during the first week back in Bali: • we eat simple meals • nothing too spicy • cooked foods over raw foods • no street fruit that’s been cut and left out By week two, everything settles and you can enjoy more variety. 5. We support our gut health intentionally This was the best advice we got from fellow expats who told us about probiotics and electrolytes. So We all now take: • a daily probiotics. And especially a series of them before travelling • electrolytes (daily in the heat). A coconut offers great natural electrolytes and we also carry sachets. But failing that a cold water, with a little sea salt and lemon is excellent. • lots of water • coconut water is sold in most stores / shops cartoned (but watch out for added sugar varieties that SE Asian countries seem to love adding to everything) • simple whole foods. We love Bali Budda for this. Your stomach handles new environments better when your gut is strong. 6. We avoid reheated food at small warungs + use our nose Fresh is always best. If a place looks quiet and food is sitting out, we skip it. We recently ate at Jimberan beach and the prawns smelled funny, so we avoided them. It's the most basic in terms of using our senses, but if something smells off, don't go near it. Our friends got sick btw. 7. We don’t let the kids swallow pool water This is a surprisingly common cause of stomach upset — not the food. Same with shower water - we shower in the tap water BUT never have mouths open and let the water in how sometimes you would back home. 8. We use our intuition If something feels “off,” smells strange, or looks questionable … we just don’t eat it. This simple rule has served us well. Bali Belly Treatment (What to do if you get it) Most cases are mild and can be treated at home. ✔ Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate Use: electrolytes, coconut water, Hydralyte / ORS Avoid dehydration — Bali heat makes it worse. ✔ Rest Your body heals faster when you slow down. ✔ Activated charcoal (optional) We carry a bag of charcoal to whiten our teeth and many travellers swear by this within the first hours of symptoms, as it can bind toxins. When I did a parasite cleanse in Ubud I used the charcoal then to pass parasites which worked wonders and so I can vouch for the same for if I ever have a stomach bug. Not recommended for children unless advised. ✔ Probiotics Helps rebalance your gut flora. Amazing stuff. ✔ Over-the-counter meds Such as: Imodium (for diarrhoea — not recommended if fever is present), Paracetamol (for discomfort) ✔ When to see a doctor See a doctor if: • symptoms last more than 3 days • you can’t keep fluids down • there is blood in stool • fever is high or persistent • it’s a young child • dehydration signs appear Hospitals and Clinics in Bali Bali actually has excellent private medical clinics with quick service where the Doctor will actually come to your house. We have never known healthcare like this being from England with the NHS, that everybody says is amazing, but if you need to see a doctor you'll be lucky to get an appointment in 6 weeks. Make sure you have medical insurance so if you ever are caught out you can call out a doctor and get the care you need. 1. BIMC Hospital (in Kuta & 1 in Nusa Dua) - Open 24 hours 📍 Locations: Kuta & Nusa Dua 🏥 Type: International Hospital 🌍 Website: bimcbali.com BIMC is Bali’s most recognised international hospital, offering Western-standard medical care. They have a 24/7 accident and emergency department. English-speaking paediatricians and have one in Kuta and one in the South Nusa Dua. Why we recommend it:  They have a dedicated children’s wing making it great for families. 2. Siloam Hospitals (in Denpasar) - Open 24 hours 📍 Location: Denpasar, near Kuta 🏥 Type: Private Hospital 🌍 Website: siloamhospitals.com Siloam is a nationwide healthcare chain in Indonesia. It has excellent facilities with a good pediatric department. 3. Kasih Ibu Hospital (Denpasar, Saba, and Kedonganan) - Open 24 hours 📍 Locations: Multiple across Bali 🏥 Type: Private Hospital 🌍 Website: kasihibuhospital.com Not as internationally recognized as BIMC but provides quality healthcare at a slightly more affordable price point. Why we recommend it:  There are usually shorter waiting times. 4. UbudCare Clinic (Ubud) typically open 8am-10pm 📍 Location: Central Ubud 🏥 Type: Clinic 🌍 Website: ubudcareclinic.com UbudCare is a reliable walk-in clinic right in Bali's cultrual heart Ubud. With experienced doctors comfortable treating children. Not equipped for emergencies however, but great for fever, stomach bugs, minor injuries. Why we recommend it:  Great if you need a quick check-up or prescription. 5. Prime Plus Medical (Canggu & Seminyak) - Open 24 hours 📍 Locations: Canggu & Seminyak 🏥 Type: General Clinic 🌍 Website: primeplusmedical.com Why we recommend it: They offer affordable house calls, which is a win if you can’t get out of bed. Useful Emergency Numbers in Bali Keep these numbers handy in case of any emergency especially important while you're traveling with children: 🚑 BIMC Emergency: +62 361 761263 📞 Medical Emergency (General): 112 🚔 Bali Police: 110 🚒 Fire Department: 113 More On This Topic:   Bali Local Food Shop What we're paying for rent in this villa Luwak Coffee - Our Experience of a plantation visit Visa on Arrival for Bali Learn Basic Bahasa The Best Things To Do In Uluwatu I hoped this post helped you. Let me know in the comments below if you liked this post or if it helped you. I hope you've never had Bali Belly, but if you have, please share your best methods for dealing with it. I hope this has inspired you to apply common sense caution to stay healthy but don't go overkill and avoid missing out on Bali life. And please just trust me on those probiotics before you head out. Your gut will thank you for it. Don't Miss A Thing! Follow Us on YouTube  , Instagram  & Facebook . Or why not subscribe to Be Nothing Like and get financial freedom + spiritual awakening tips straight to your inbox every week?  PIN THIS POST TO READ ME LATER   💡 HELPFUL PLANNING TOOLS FOR YOUR BALI TRIP 💡 ✈️ - FLIGHTS -  We use this flight checker  to search cheap flight tickets for our trips and got flights from Bali to Singapore for just £33 each! Amazing. Use to check dates and flight costs for International flights and Domestic flights at our Flight Planning Page fore more 🏨   - ACCOMMODATION -  We use this hotels checker  to search hotels and accommodation for our trips. Use to check dates and costs to hotels and hostels in Bali now or go to our Accommodation Planning Page for more 🧭🗺️👣   - BALI TOURS & GUIDES -  We use Get Your Guide  for all of the trips in Bali. But we also love Klook  too. TIP: Use both to compare offerings. This post includes affiliate links that we may receive a small commission from at no extra cost to you. Thank You for supporting our blog! Follow us on Instagram: On YouTube:

  • Best Things To Do In Bali

    21 Must-Do Things in Bali  Split into key regions — Ubud , Canggu , Seminyak , Uluwatu , Nusa Islands , and North/East Bali  — to help you explore Bali’s diverse experiences. 21 Must-Do Things in Bali, Indonesia A Region-by-Region Guide to the Best Experiences on the Island of the Gods Bali is more than a tropical escape — it’s a rich tapestry of spirituality, surf, culture, and nature. Whether you're visiting for wellness, adventure, or Instagram-worthy views, this guide will take you through 21 unforgettable things to do across Bali , organised by region. Ubud – Culture, Nature & Wellness 1. Walk the Campuhan Ridge at Sunrise Start your day with a serene nature walk along this scenic path overlooking rice fields and jungle valleys. 2. Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary Meet cheeky long-tailed macaques and explore ancient temple ruins nestled in the jungle. 3. Take a Balinese Cooking Class Shop at a local market, then learn to cook traditional dishes like sate lilit and lawar in a lush garden kitchen. 4. Bathe in the Holy Waters of Tirta Empul Temple Join locals in a spiritual purification ritual in the sacred spring pools at this ancient temple. 5. Experience a Traditional Balinese Dance at Ubud Palace Catch a mesmerising Legong or Barong dance performance in a historic setting. 6. Take a Rice Field Walk An easy rice field walk trail that's an easy loop to do with kids too is the Sweet Orange Warung Walk with a delicious organic warung at the end. The Sweet Orange. 7. Take a Yoga Class 8. Take a Silver Jewellery Making Class Canggu – Surf, Cafés & Creative Vibes 8. Catch Waves at Batu Bolong or Echo Beach Canggu is a surfer’s paradise — perfect for beginners and intermediate wave chasers. 9. Café-Hop Through Canggu’s Boho Scene Fuel up at iconic cafés like Crate, The Shady Shack, and Copenhagen. Vegan, gluten-free, and smoothie bowls galore! 10. Watch Sunset at The Lawn or La Brisa Sip cocktails and lounge on bean bags as the sun dips over the Indian Ocean. Seminyak – Style, Shopping & Sunsets 9. Shop Local Boutiques & Designer Brands Browse fashion, jewelry, and homewares from Bali-based designers along Oberoi and Petitenget streets. 10. Enjoy a Sunset Dinner at Potato Head or Ku De Ta These beachfront institutions offer incredible food, drinks, and views — ideal for a night out in style. 11. Get a Beach Massage or Spa Treatment Affordable luxury awaits — indulge in a Balinese massage or flower bath at a chic day spa. Uluwatu – Cliffs, Temples & Surf Culture 12. Visit Uluwatu Temple & Watch the Kecak Fire Dance Perched on a cliff, this sea temple offers spectacular views and a dramatic sunset dance show. 13. Lounge at Melasti Beach or Thomas Beach Find turquoise waters and hidden coves away from the crowds — ideal for sunbathing and swimming. 14. Have Sundowners at Single Fin or White Rock Bar Epic cliffside venues where you can enjoy a cold drink and watch surfers tackle legendary breaks. Nusa Islands – Adventure & Island Escapes 15. Snap Photos at Kelingking Beach, Nusa Penida This T-Rex-shaped cliff is one of Bali’s most iconic (and Instagrammed) spots — worth the boat ride! 16. Swim with Manta Rays Join a snorkeling or diving trip to Manta Point off Nusa Penida for an up-close experience with these graceful giants. 17. Cliff Jump at Blue Lagoon or Mahana Point For adrenaline junkies, the Nusa Islands offer some of Bali’s best (and safest) cliff-jumping spots. North & East Bali – Volcanoes, Waterfalls & Tradition 18. Chase Waterfalls in Munduk or Sekumpul Northern Bali is home to dramatic waterfalls, misty jungle treks, and cooler temperatures. 19. Climb Mount Batur at Sunrise Hike through the early morning darkness to reach the summit of this active volcano in time for a magical sunrise view. 20. Snorkel the Coral Gardens at Amed or Tulamben Explore Bali’s underwater world — including a USAT Liberty shipwreck — along the east coast’s black-sand beaches. 21. Visit Lempuyang Temple (“Gates of Heaven”) Pose at this iconic viewpoint framed by Mt. Agung — be prepared for long lines, but the photo is worth it. Bonus Tips: When to Visit : Dry season (April–October) is best for weather, but Bali is beautiful year-round. Transport : Hire a driver for day trips or rent a scooter (if confident). Traffic can be hectic! Etiquette : Dress modestly at temples, and always wear a sarong (most temples provide them). See our Top 10 Things to Do in Ubud Guide and Best Beaches in Uluwatu More On This Topic:   Bali Local Food Shop What we're paying for rent in this villa Luwak Coffee - Our Experience of a plantation visit Visa on Arrival for Bali Learn Basic Bahasa Don't Miss A Thing! Follow Us on YouTube  , Instagram  & Facebook . Or why not subscribe to Be Nothing Like and get financial freedom + spiritual awakening tips straight to your inbox every week?  PIN THIS POST TO READ ME LATER   💡 HELPFUL PLANNING TOOLS FOR YOUR BALI TRIP 💡 ✈️ - FLIGHTS -  We use this flight checker  to search cheap flight tickets for our trips and got flights from Bali to Singapore for just £33 each! Amazing. Use to check dates and flight costs for International flights and Domestic flights at our Flight Planning Page fore more 🏨   - ACCOMMODATION -  We use this hotels checker  to search hotels and accommodation for our trips. Use to check dates and costs to hotels and hostels in Bali now or go to our Accommodation Planning Page for more 🧭🗺️👣   - BALI TOURS & GUIDES -  We use Get Your Guide  for all of the trips in Bali. But we also love Klook  too. TIP: Use both to compare offerings. This post includes affiliate links that we may receive a small commission from at no extra cost to you. Thank You for supporting our blog! Follow us on Instagram: On YouTube:

  • Avoiding Hefty Bills when Taking your Mobile Phone to Bali

    When visiting Bali you will most likely want to take your mobile phone with you. And use it. We're not big on making calls on our phones, but we definitely want to be able to use our phones to connect online whilst out and about. Wifi and internet is pretty good on Bali and most places have Wifi so you can pretty much get connected no matter where you are. But if you like to be connected 24/7 and don't want to scrabble around for free wifi signals and passwords, then this handy blog will help with best options and costs. When taking your mobile phone to Bali there are some things to consider before you travel. You can take great quality professional photo's on your smart phone cutting out the need to take unnecessary bulky equipment. We're photographers, but choose our smart phones over our bulky SLR every time for family travel. We have some great handy guides to share soon on getting picture perfect shots on your smart phone (stay tuned for this you won't want to miss it). If you do use your phone to take pictures there are couple of things to do to avoid hefty phone bills and roaming charges. You can still encounter costs even when you're not 'using' your phone to make calls / message / or browse online, but simply using it as a camera, so make sure you follow the below tips to avoid these extra costs before landing in Bali: Download Whatsapp & Messenger Before you go  - Everybody in Bali uses Whatsapp. It is helpful to download apps such as Whatsapp & Messenger before you leave for Bali if you haven't got them on your phone already. You can make calls and send messages back home for free whilst accessing free wifi whilst in Bali and everywhere has Wifi. We work remotely and take advantage of the free wifi in all places in Bali wherever we can. What's more, pretty much everybody on the island uses Whatsapp and it's the main way you will contact local people for all the things you'll need during your stay: drivers, hotel communication, services etc. This can be helpful to have to communicate with your driver and other service providers, without needing wifi. Turn Off Data Roaming - Make sure your “mobile data roaming” is turned off before you land in Bali to avoid coming home with a large data bill. Be aware that if you have international roaming activated on your mobile remember that you will be charged for phone calls you answer + also calls you make. For SMS you can actually read them without being charged, but messages you send will be charged at a higher rate. Each service provider has different data roaming charges for international travel so check before you leave. I'm with Vodafone and at last check they charge me £6.50 per day on top of my usual monthly bill to switch my data on (whether I use it or not). Download an Airlo eSIM digital data pack to get instant connectivity from the moment you land. Airlo offer different packages depending on your usage, but they are way cheaper than using your own providers data. So if you think you'll need data from the second you land in Bali - download your Airlo eSIM. The Cheapest option: Get a local SIM card - By far the cheapest and best method to get connected in Bali and stay connected cheaply for the duration of your stay is to get a local SIM. You will need to make sure your phone is “unlocked” from your service provider before you travel for this but most newer smart phones come unlocked as standard. Phone credit and data is inexpensive in Bali and by far the cheapest option for getting connected. You can get a local sim at the airport when you land, one of the first shops you'll encounter at the airport on the left hand side is a sim card shop. This allows you to get connected whilst in the airport. Simply pop into one of these stores and they will do the whole thing for you. Costs are good and you will be connected straight away and can use your original phone number when giving this out to new contacts during your stay. You can choose your duration of stay and choose data according to this. It is even cheaper if you can wait to head out of the airport and go to a local shop. This is a matter of a few pounds cost wise however so we just do ours at the airport for peace of mind as we have kids and want to be instantly connected. If we were solo travellers we would definitely get to our destination and go to any sim shop in that village / city. Or stop off at any we see on the road when on the journey purely to save a meals worth of savings. For an easy life - the airport will see you right. To make this process even faster, you can also use a service like Klook like we did to organise it all before you go for quick collection at the airport or even delivery at your hotel. By using Klook, you can choose your level of sim and book your chosen shop for collection. When you are at the airport you simply go into the shop you chose and they will have your booking ready. You literally hand them your phone (and you will need your passport for legislation purposes) and they will do everything for you. The whole process takes a few mins and you're ready to go. We paid £35 for the month and used this phone heavily for daily google maps whilst out finding beaches etc. When we got home we still had loaddddds of data left. Your mobile provider will offer International Travel Packs and offers for international roaming, that are part of your contract or can be added on to your contract. Be sure to check out your provider to see the costs involved for these. Costs can be quite high and for stays longer than a day or so you may want to look at local providers for more cost effective ways to stay connected. And that's where AIRALO come in. For anything longer than 1 week, we recommend getting an Indonesian eSIM from Airalo to avoid unexpected or high roaming bills and keep you connected literally from the moment you land. An eSIM will allow you to install a digital data pack for your phone before you leave for Bali - meaning you'll be instantly connected when you land in Bali. Not just Bali, Airlo cover 200 countries too. All managed from an easy to use App. Sounds like an ad.... It's not. Airalo is just an easy cost effective fix for people wanting instant connectivity and to be able to use their phones like a local, rather than scrabbling around for free WIFI or having to wait until you get back to the room to do anything online. And that's peace of mind for us with kids. Once you have your AIRLO account you can use this for all places all over the world too. We hope you found this post helpful. We recently travelled to Bali for 1 month and only one of us needed a local sim. Bali is very connected and offers free wifi in most places (your accommodation / bars / restaurants etc). We are now building our house in Bali and spend much longer each time we are there. But This is all the kids and one adult needed for that 1 month visit. The other adult needed the sim for staying connected whilst out and about and in more rural places (such as for google maps etc). More On This Topic:   Bali Local Food Shop What we're paying for rent in this villa Luwak Coffee - Our Experience of a plantation visit Visa on Arrival for Bali Learn Basic Bahasa Don't Miss A Thing! Follow Us on YouTube  , Instagram  & Facebook . Or why not subscribe to Be Nothing Like and get financial freedom + spiritual awakening tips straight to your inbox every week?  PIN THIS POST TO READ ME LATER   💡 HELPFUL PLANNING TOOLS FOR YOUR BALI TRIP 💡 ✈️ - FLIGHTS -  We use this flight checker  to search cheap flight tickets for our trips and got flights from Bali to Singapore for just £33 each! Amazing. Use to check dates and flight costs for International flights and Domestic flights at our Flight Planning Page fore more 🏨   - ACCOMMODATION -  We use this hotels checker  to search hotels and accommodation for our trips. Use to check dates and costs to hotels and hostels in Bali now or go to our Accommodation Planning Page for more 🧭🗺️👣   - BALI TOURS & GUIDES -  We use Get Your Guide  for all of the trips in Bali. But we also love Klook  too. TIP: Use both to compare offerings. This post includes affiliate links that we may receive a small commission from at no extra cost to you. Thank You for supporting our blog! Follow us on Instagram: On YouTube:

  • Our First Water Purification Ceremony Bali - Melukat Ritual

    A water purification ceremony (Melukat) is a Balinese ceremony for the physical and spiritual cleansing ritual to wash away bad spirits to purify the body and soul . If you have experienced a bad situation recently, have anxiety / worries or have been feeling out of sorts recently, the Melukat ceremony is a recommended ritual to perform. Balinese people do a Melukat ritual around a full moon, after being poorly, or whenever they feel called to do it. Since we had some huge life changes ahead of us, it seemed the perfect timing to do our first ever Water Purification at the end of our trial month of living in Bali - to see whether the move to Bali could work for us as a family - and as we came to the end of that month long trial and things were starting to make sense for us - we felt pulled to the Melukat. And what an experience it was. And now 1 year in on our Bali adventure with no regrets and only looking ahead, we're feeling the call to do our next water purification ceremony. And that's what our priest said. He told us that we'd know when it was the right time to do another, sometimes this coincides with when the bracelet that you receive naturally falls off - this hasn't happened yet - we are still wearing our bracelets but the pull is there. Like a magnet we are feeling yet again pulled to the temple. I'll be sure to write when we go to our second Melukat. But back to our first time... We'd had an amazing time exploring Bali for over 1 month, but the trip itself hadn't been the smoothest. My 7yo had fallen off his bike 2 weeks in after getting his foot caught in the spokes of the back wheel (getting a peggy off Dad) on Gili Air. The ankle was pretty gruesome and resulted in a fast visit to a Medical Centre during a Tropical storm (rainy season), flooding, electricity black out. Myself using my phone torch to help staff see whilst they cleaned and bandaged his foot. With us having to get a boat off the Island to visit a hospital on the main island of Lombok for an Xray. It wasn't broken thankfully but severely swollen and Boo was out of action unable to walk for the rest of the trip and having to avoid all swimming which was very tough for him and us having to carry him everywhere. Next up Si had been poorly a few days prior. But after Boo's accident he got very very sick and was bed ridden for 4 days (this was out of character for him) we knew something was wrong and left him to sleep. This meant I was having to do my best to get Bertie around by carrying him and to try and keep those plates spinning. It turned out Si had caught meningitis and was quite seriously ill. We'd finally got back to Ubud (Bali) after all plans had had to be changed until Si was well enough to get on a boat. Once back in Ubud, the purification ceremony that we'd so been looking forward to to mark then end of the trip and set us on our way to get home to all the planning to make the big move happen. Seemed like just an after thought, as so much had happened. Si wasn't back to even being 60% health but he insisted that we must go. It was something we must do. It felt like we needed to go. There are many purification temples across the whole of Bali and many in and around Ubud. Some of the temples are absolute tourist traps and for me, this was just not appealing. Bali itself is insanely busy if you follow to tourist trail. After seeing queues of 100's of tourists lining up for hours to get 'purified', it had tainted, what to me seemed like such a special ceremony. I think Usher was in Bali at the time and had posted about his Melukat ceremony and so the mayhem continued. Luckily for us, we had met a beautiful Balinese family earlier on in the trip that lived in a quite village outside of Ubud. They had offered to take us to their temple in their village if we wanted to go to our first ceremony and experience it the authentic way. It was an amazing experience for us. Peaceful, quiet, surrounded by Balinese families going about their rituals, one or two respectful foreigners. It felt very pure and very special. I can't say for sure that a purification ceremony at one of the main temples wouldn't be a good experience. But there's a process to the Melukat ceremony. There's the giving of your offering to the gods. A high priest blessing of the palms. Giving prayer. We had to focus, concentrate our busy western minds and be guided in a way that I feel would get lost at a touristy place. There's an element of meditation and presence of moment that's needed and I need peace and calm to get into this meditative space. So pick your Melukat wisely and read the reviews before booking as you want your first one to be as special as possible and I do recommend a guided tour like this one or a local guide because there's a process or 'things to do' in order and your guide will explain and talk you through the scared nature. Feeling purified after our first water purification ceremony. We will perform a Melukat ritual with the kids on our return visit now we know what to expect. Melukat ceremony The Melukat ceremony in Bali is performed on the beach or river, as well as in places of worship. The water purification is believed to be able to purify a person physically and mentally, eliminate negative forces in the body to bring about healing. We connect to source, set intentions, give thanks and by doing the ritual, we get closer to God through them. From my experience of my first ever Melukat Ceremony, It's a chance to let go of a lot. To let yourself let go. To soothe and clean the energy. I can imagine that each ritual would be different to each other in terms of what you take from the experience. But I can assure you that each will be a wonderful experience and it's a must for those on a spiritual journey at any stage in their journey. Book your Water Purification Ceremony here with a local guide who will guide you through this most beautiful process and a must do when in Bali. Posts coming soon: Melukat Etiquette / What happens during a water purification ceremony / making an offering to the Gods / Balinese traditional clothing. More On This Topic:   Bali Local Food Shop What we're paying for rent in this villa Luwak Coffee - Our Experience of a plantation visit Visa on Arrival for Bali Learn Basic Bahasa Don't Miss A Thing! Follow Us on YouTube  , Instagram  & Facebook . Or why not subscribe to Be Nothing Like and get financial freedom + spiritual awakening tips straight to your inbox every week?  PIN THIS POST TO READ ME LATER   💡 HELPFUL PLANNING TOOLS FOR YOUR BALI TRIP 💡 ✈️ - FLIGHTS -  We use this flight checker  to search cheap flight tickets for our trips and got flights from Bali to Singapore for just £33 each! Amazing. Use to check dates and flight costs for International flights and Domestic flights at our Flight Planning Page fore more 🏨   - ACCOMMODATION -  We use this hotels checker  to search hotels and accommodation for our trips. Use to check dates and costs to hotels and hostels in Bali now or go to our Accommodation Planning Page for more 🧭🗺️👣   - BALI TOURS & GUIDES -  We use Get Your Guide  for all of the trips in Bali. But we also love Klook  too. TIP: Use both to compare offerings. This post includes affiliate links that we may receive a small commission from at no extra cost to you. Thank You for supporting our blog! Follow us on Instagram: On YouTube:

Fletch sound healing.png

Be Nothing Like
An invitation to remember who you are beneath everything you were taught.

I'm Clare, and I created Be Nothing Like as a space to explore consciousness, self-discovery and the strange, beautiful experience of being human. Because somewhere along the way, many of us learn who we're supposed to be — what to believe, how to behave, what success looks like, who we're allowed to become. But what if you questioned it all?

Be Nothing Like is an invitation to unlearn before you learn. To become more aware of the patterns, beliefs and identities you've inherited, meet the parts of yourself you've pushed away, become more present, explore energy and consciousness, and ultimately choose how you want to live.

I've created a map for that exploration — from Awareness, Healing and Shadow, through Presence, Energy and Identity & Creation, into Embodiment.

 

It isn't a path you have to follow in order. There is no finish line and no version of you that you need to become.

Take what you need. Explore what calls you. Come back when life takes you somewhere new.

 

Because the deeper you go, the less you're becoming someone else...

and the more you're remembering who you already are.

 

Come explore the map →

© 2026

Be Nothing Like - conscious evolution, consciousness and spiritual awakenings. Tools to help those on a healing, awakening journey to remember .

bottom of page