With the cost of travel and experiences in Bali being so cheap for American travelers, Indonesia is the perfect destination for travelers on every kind of budget. Your trip can be as basic or as boujie as you desire.
Uluwatu Temple
This temple is built on the edge of a 70 meter cliff right on the edge of the ocean. Try not to have anything in your pockets or carry a purse because monkeys snatch loose items. Tourists can usually bargain for the stolen goods for fruit, nuts, or candy. Flip-flops and sunglasses are also commonly robbed. If you plan to be at the temple near 6pm, you can watch the Kecak dance performance with the sunset background.
Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is home to 600+ wild Bali monkeys. Walk along paved pathways in the nutmeg forest for 1.5-2 hours and enjoy the views. The sanctuary is not a zoo, the animals are not confined or contained. The walls in the sanctuary are for containing people. Most attire is acceptable, but there are temples within the sanctuary, so try to avoid spaghetti straps. The entrance fee is just under $3 per person.
Pura Tirta Empul
Known for its holy spring water, this temple is focused on ritual purification. It was founded in 962 A.D. and divided into three sections. This is spring water, so do not swim here if you have a cut or other open wound because the water is not chlorinated or salted. A sarong and scarf are recommended attire. A sarong usually looks like a long skirt wrapped around the waist and the scarf is at the waistband. The entrance fee is $3.31 as of 2023. After your swim, stop by one of the shops outside the temple for souvenirs, food, and drink.
Kuta Beach
Kuta Beach is the ideal location for watching surfers ride the waves, reading a book in the sand, or perusing the large shopping malls nearby. Closer to evening time, you can find soccer matches, fire dances, and drumming sessions. If you are lucky, you might even get to watch a release of sea turtle hatchlings from the Sea Turtle Conservation site.
Celuk
If you are looking for some high-quality, handmade souvenirs to take home, visit Celuk. The village of silversmiths! You are sure to find a variety of intricate pieces and you can even attend some jewelry making workshops if you’d like. Check out the jewelry, spoons, forks, and other items when you have a chance. Watching the silversmithing process is unmatched.
Tanah Lot Temple
Tanah Lot Temple is an ancient Hindu temple said to be protected by venomous sea snakes at the base. In the late 1900s, the temple was said to be slowly disintegrating and becoming unsafe. The Japanese government loaned Indonesia $480 million dollars to conserve the temple and other historical sites around Bali.
Seminyak
Seminyak is known for their luxurious, relaxing array of spas. Get a manicure, pedicure, massage, facial, and more for a peaceful trip. Some spas have special packages for brides, couples, and other special occasions at a much better price than at home. Don’t be disappointed when you return to the United States!
If you are planning a trip to Bali, consider getting the Typhoid, Japanese encephalitis, and Hepatitis A vaccines. Speak with a travel health specialist at Away Clinic's newest Scottsdale location.