Indonesia – what is it going to cost you

16 cafes you have to try for lunch in Canggu

Rise and shine. It’s another day in foodie paradise. After eating our bellies full in Canggu for roughly two months -we tried peculiar bars so that you won’t have to- here are a few of our absolute favourites. For breakfast, lunch or brunch.

1. The secret spot

Kick-off your day nice and quiet at the teeny tiny Secret Spot. Hidden next to our nr. 5 on this list, this small vegan café still truly remains a secret. Which is rare in Bali. Great for a coffee away from the crowds or a brekky to start the day off right with.

Instagram: @secretspotbali | Canggu area: Berawa | Best for: breakfast or lunch

2. Crate Café

Get in line. Crate has become so popular over the last few years that it is busy from morning till evening. Why? We’re guessing the excellent price-quality ratio has something to do with it. Time to line up.

Instagram: @cratecafe| Canggu area: Batu Bolong/Echo beach | best for: breakfast

3. Silk Road

Placing a restaurant on this list just for its interior? Guilty. Silk Road Whole Foods opened in 2018 and is perhaps one of the prettiest cafes in Canggu. Which is, to be honest, quite the achievement. Hop in for a coffee or go for a full out brunch in their courtyard.

www.silkroadwholefoods.com | Canggu area: Berawa| best for: breakfast & lunch

4.Nüde

Now for a personal favourite, Nüde. Bircher, pancakes, breakfast burritos. Each and every single item on the menu tastes so damn good at this Berawa Café. Much like Milk & Madu, the breakfast choices here are extensive and all tend to be equally yummy. Great spot for brunch.

Instagram page: @nudeincanggu| Canggu area: Berawa| best for: breakfast, lunch & dinner

5. Peleton

Those living in Bali for a longer period of time, freelancers and influencers that’s you, have all discovered Peleton. And with reason. Peleton is not only a great place to chill but it’s perfect to get some work done in the aircon whilst enjoying their delicious coffee or homemade kombucha. Other favourites are their smoothie bowls for breakfast and buddha bowls for lunch. All-things vegan, you won’t even know the difference. Plantbased goodness, right here.

Instagram: @peletonsupershop| Canggu area: Berawa| best for: breakfast & lunch

6. Betelnut

A staple in Canggu cuisine; Betelnut. As we’re trying to keep up with all the new restaurants popping up in and around Canggu, Betelnut is kicking back and reaping the benefits of its good name. They’ve been offering quality cuisine for years on end, and you can tell. Menu wise, Betelnut rarely misses the mark. Great value for money and good for a visit any time of day! Make sure to grab a seat upstairs.

Instagram: @betelnutcafe| Canggu area: Batu Bolong| best for: breakfast, lunch & dinner

7. The Shady Shack

Another Canggu classic; the Shady Shack. Grab yourself a seat in their playfully decorated garden and take your pick from their extensive (vegetarian) menu. Easier said than done because everything on there is equally delish. And healthy, and colourfull. Need we say more?

Instagram: @theshadyshack| Canggu area: Batu Bolong/Echo beach | best for: breakfast & lunch

8. Gypsy Kitchen + Bar

Bohemian vibes and quality cuisine, that’s what Gypsy Kitchen + Bar stands for. This restaurant lies on the border of Batu Bolong and Echo Beach and is a safe bet for a nice lunch. Can’t choose what to order? They’ve got just the thing. Opt for ‘The Undecided’. One avo toast, one baba toast. Life just got a little easier.

Instagram: @gypsy_bali| Canggu area: Batu Bolong/Echo beach | best for: breakfast & lunch

9. Matcha

Any matcha lovers out there? Then a quick stop at the tiny Matcha cafe cannot be left off the itinerary. Try their skinny matcha lattes or go full out and dig in on some matcha pancakes.

www.matchacafebali.com| Canggu area: Berawa | best for: breakfast or an afternoon snack stop

10. Two trees

Pretty in green and yellow: Two trees Eatery. Runner up for Silk Road for the prettiest cafe in Berawa, Canggu. This open space lights up by nightfall, which results in a cosy candlelight-esque atmosphere. With, of course, food that’s not inferior to the interior. Give their Nachos or stunning Green Bowl a go whilst you’re there!

www.twotreeseatery.com| Canggu area: Berawa | best for: lunch or dinner

11. Ruko

Planning to get your surf on today? Conveniently located on the way to the beach is Ruko. Plant yourself on the small street-facing terrace and watch others make their way to the beach while you enjoy a sweet bircher and golden chai. Don’t forget to order at the bar, or that meal is going to be a long wait.

www.rukocafe.com | Canggu area: Berawa | best for: breakfast & lunch

12. Quince

Perhaps the smallest amongst the restaurants on this list is quince cafe. Unlike most restaurants in Bali (which are open AM-PM), Quince only briefly opens for lunch and then closes its door again. With limited seating available, be there or be square.

Instagram: @Quince_bali| Canggu area: Berawa | best for: lunch

13. Motion cafe

Fitness freak? Head on down to Motion Café. This sports bar focusses on whipping up healthy meals, full of protein and other nutrients. Having one of their protein waffles is like eating a piece of heaven. Jup. That good.

www.motionfitnessbali.com| Canggu area: Batu Bolong | best for: breakfast, lunch & dinner

14. Milk & Madu

Due to its sheer size, Milk & Madu is not the cosiest place in Canggu, but nevertheless a favourite of many. With excellent and speedy service, Milk & Madu is jam-packed for brunch and dinner on the daily. Must try: their signature avo toast with poached eggs and caramelized onions ‘The Madu’. Like flipping a coin in the Trevi fountain; this guarantees an island return.

www.milkandmadu.com| Canggu area: Berawa| best for: breakfast, lunch & dinner | 2 for 1 pizza’s on Tuesday and Sunday

15. Duatiga

Duatiga; coffee place, cap re-seller, clothing printshop and restaurant. Normally that would instantly cause anxiety amongst foodies, but there is nothing to worry about here. The food is good. With a Vietnamese and Thai inspired kitchen, your menu options here are diverse. Lunch with one of their charcoal smoothie bowls or, do as the Balinese do, with a good old fashioned noodle. Big delicious lunch or brekky guaranteed.

Instagram: @duatiga.cafe | Canggu area: Berawa | best for: breakfast, lunch & dinner

16. Bahn Mi & Beans

Want to head down to the beach as quick as you can? Skip the seat and take a sandwich, fresh spring roll or bowl at the go at Bahn Mi. This small Vietnamese shop, hidden next to the Jet Black Ginger hair-salon, has some delicious menu options that are great on the go.

www.banhmiandbeans.com | Canggu area: Berawa | best for: lunch on the go

HOTEL TIP: Nyuh Resort & Spa – Ubud, Bali

Ubud Nyuh Resort & Spa

Retreat from the busy streets of Ubud to your own little sanctuary at the Nyuh Resort & Spa. The Nyuh resort is roughly a 10-minute drive from town and is a stunning setting to privately re-charge for a few days. Every villa comes with its own spacious pool, personal assistant and diverse breakfast options– delivered right to your own villa if desired. Guests are granted one upgrade to a floating breakfast during their stay to contribute to that genuine Bali experience.

Villa

At the relatively new Nyuh resort, the villas themselves are spacious and incredibly well airconditioned. They all come with their own private pool, outdoor bathtub and lounge area. The large bathroom features two sinks, one for him and one for her. But, no shower nor toilet. These can also be found outside, something to keep in mind but definitely fun for the experience. Don’t worry about privacy, you really have your own little space here. When and/if there is anything you might need during your stay, a dedicated personal assistant is at your disposal 24 hours a day. From arranging tours to figuring out the breakfast selection; they’re there to help!

Facilities

Spa

In the mood to pamper yourself or take a romantic flower bath with your partner? Then the Nyuh on-site spa is a great place to go. The spa is partially set outdoors, has a capacity of two and can be closed off for privacy. Reservations are preferred as this will allow the staff to prepare for the treatment.

Restaurant

Within the comfort of your own luxury villa, it is likely you don’t want to leave the premises during the day. With the high-quality food on offer at Nyuh, you don’t have to. Aside from dining in the on-site restaurant, guests can also choose to have the dish brought to the villa and set up at the kitchen table; talk about a stress-free meal. The prices of the menu items are in line with local restaurant prices, perhaps even cheaper.

Love a healthy meal? Nyuh resort highly encourages highly amongst their guests and this reflects this on their menu selection. For breakfast, guests can choose between a large range of healthy options such as cinnamon oatmeal, yogurt with fresh fruits, egg-white omelets and more. And, as mentioned previously, guests are granted one upgrade to a floating breakfast during their stay to contribute to that genuine Bali experience.

Pool

No plunge pool at your villa – the pools at Nyuh resort are large in comparison to most Bali hotels and resorts, making them perfect to hang in all day long; going from sun lounger to pool and vice versa. Need to cool off? The kitchen/lounge area is conveniently located poolside.

What is a night at Ubud Nyuh Resort & Spa going to cost you?

Ubud Nyuh Resort & Spa

Deluxe pool villa’s starting at €167 ($187) per night

Book now

For more information visit www.nyuhbalivillas.com.

Great hotels for an unforgettable trip to Bali

Planning your trip to Bali and looking for a good hotel in Seminyak, Canggu, Ubud, Sanur, Nusa Penida or Nusa Lembongan? We’ve got you covered! This handy little list of hotels is here to help you make the most out of your stay, no matter which area you wish to go. Each hotel on this list has its own unique features and charm, yet they all have on thing in common. They all have been handpicked –by the pickiest of pickiest- tried and tested. With a stamp of approval, these hotels are ready to contribute towards an unforgettable trip through Bali.

Did you know that Booking.com often allows travellers to cancel their booking up until 24 hrs in advance. Perfect for those wanting to keep their options open and remain flexible at all times!

Where do you want to go?

Seminyak
Canggu
Ubud
Sanur
Nusa Penida
Nusa Lembogan & Nusa Ceniga

Seminyak

Villa Karisa

Looking for calm Balinese bohemian vibes in the midst of lively Seminyak? Then the rather unique Villa Karisa might just be the place for you. The villa, which is actually a boutique hotel, is roughly a 12-minute walk from the beach and a stone’s throw away from loads of shops and restaurants. Read our full hotel review here!

Room prices starting at €55 ($62.50) per night

Book now

Canggu

The Kemilau Hotel & Villa

Canggu has been booming and new hotels are popping up weekly. The Kemilau is one of these recently opened hotels offering great value for money in the streets of Berawa. The Kemilau hotel is located near loads of popular restaurants -such as Nude, Duatiga and Ruko- and only a 5-minute drive from the beach. This area is especially popular with locals, freelancers and surfers as it is slightly more peaceful than Batu Bolong and Echo beach. You do need a scooter to get around here as the roads are not paved… yet.

Room prices starting from €52 ($58) per night

Book now

Ubud

Ubud Village Hotel

Whilst loads of Ubud’s dreamy resorts are set outside of town, the Ubud Village hotel is set right within the middle of it all. Due to its convenient location, staying in the Ubud village hotel means simply walking to most restaurants, the monkey forest, the night market, and other Ubud highlights. Don’t want to drive home or get a cab after a happy hour? Then this is the hotel for you! For the ultimate Ubud experience, combine the Ubud village hotel with a few nights outside of the center in a jungle-esque resort.

Room prices starting at €72 ($80) per night

Book now

Nyuh Resort & Spa

Retreat from the busy streets of Ubud to your own little sanctuary at the Nyuh Resort & Spa. The Nyuh resort is roughly a 10-minute drive from town and is a stunning setting to privately re-charge for a few days. Every villa comes with its own spacious pool, personal assistant and diversified breakfast offering – delivered right to your own villa if desired. Guests are granted one upgrade to a floating breakfast during their stay to contribute to that genuine Bali experience.

Deluxe pool villa’s starting at €167 ($187) per night

Book now

Sanur

The Alantara Sanur

Sanur has been one of Bali’s touristic hubs for many years now. Whilst it is an area we would usually stay clear of due to its slight over-tourism, it is the perfect transportation town to the Nusa islands. Therefore spending a night here ain’t bad at all, especially if it is at a dreamy resort such as the Alantara. Featuring their own gym, large swimming pool and spacious rooms with balconies, this hotel makes the perfect stopover!

Room prices starting at €43 ($48) per night

Book now

Nusa Penida

Kompyang Cottage

With all the highlights to be seen in Nusa Penida, people do not spend much time in their hotel rooms. But, coming back from a day full of adventurous sightseeing has never felt better than in the tropical huts of Kompyang Cottage. These island style cottages are located in the North of the island which makes them a good jumping off point to explore both the left and right side of the island. Keep in mind that due to the sheer size of Nusa Penida, a scooter or driver is required to get around and to make your way to dining facilities of the resort.

Room prices starting at €56 ($62) per night

Book now

Nusa Lembongan & Nusa Cengigan

D’Puncak Villas

Turquoise waters and a carefree atmosphere; Nusa Lembongan, and in extension Nusa Ceningan, is a great place to come to rest after a few days of adventure in Nusa Penida. D’Puncak villas, located right within the middle of the island, is an ideal hotel to ensure a relaxing stay. The huts are, compared to island standards, luxurious and the friendly staff is eager to help you make the most of your stay. Scooters can easily be arranged at the property for IDR100.000. Not a fan of scooters? The hotel also has a list of restaurants and beach clubs to choose from that have free pick up and drop off service, making the island easily accessible for everyone.

Room prices starting at €55 ($62) per night

Book now

All prices converted on xe.com as of 9 March ’19, in EURO and US Dollar. Subject to currency fluctuations.

HOTEL TIP: Villa Karisa – Seminyak, Bali

Seminyak, one of Bali’s trendiest hubs, is known for its many hotspots, beach clubs, and fashion boutiques. Which is exactly why it is no surprise that the lively streets of Seminyak meet the travel itinerary of most people visiting Bali. Still looking for that perfect hotel to stay on your upcoming trip to Seminyak? We might have found the place for you!

Already in Seminyak?

Villa Karisa, Seminyak

Balinese bohemian vibes in the midst of Seminyak; that is Villa Karisa. The villa, which is actually a boutique hotel, is roughly a 12-minute walk from the beach and a stone’s throw away from loads of shops and restaurants. Aside from its lovely interior, Villa Karisa was renovated early 2016 and, with rooms going for as little as €55 a night, offers great value for money for guests that are looking for a centrally located hotel in Seminyak.

Adjacent to Villa Karisa lies Villa Saffira. This luxury 4 bedroom villa features a Morrocan rooftop, swimming pool, and a stunning living area. Guests of Villa Saffira have direct access to Villa Karisa and can enjoy all the amenities of the boutique hotel. But, this also goes vice versa. Should Villa Saffira be free upon the time of arrival, guests of Villa Karisa can make use of two magnificent areas to relax and explore.

Hotel rooms

All rooms at Villa Karisa have been individually designed by the owner and furnished with hand-picked Balinese furniture. This gives each of the 10 hotel rooms a unique personality and atmosphere- having in common that they are all incredibly good looking. Some rooms feature a separate bathroom, others have the bathroom cooperated within the room. But, they all feature a rain shower, a characteristic mirror, and shielded toilet. Furthermore, all rooms are equipped with filtered water dispensers, flatscreen TV and air conditioning.

Facilities

Swimming pool

Villa Karisa boasts one large swimming pool that guests can make use of. The comfortable sun loungers make the pool area a great spot to spend an afternoon sunbathing and doing absolutely nothing. If Villa Saffira is available, there are two swimming pools for guests to enjoy. Another bonus: the pool is beneficially located and has sun for the largest part of the day.

Breakfast

Daily breakfast is included in all room rates. Between 07:00 and 10:00 guests can enjoy breakfast in the lobby area where your choice of the a la carte menu will be freshly prepared. Aside from the standard coffee, thee and fruits, guests can choose between three different set menus. Other items are available upon request and require a surcharge.

Rooftop (Villa Saffira)

When and if guests are lucky enough to have Villa Saffira available for usage, there is a stunning Morrocan rooftop to enjoy. The all white rooftop is the perfect spot for afternoon drinks and chats under the open sky.

What is a night at Villa Karisa going to cost you?

Villa Karisa

Room prices starting from €55 ($62.50) per night

More information

Guests that book 3 nights or more at the hotel get extra privileges by booking directly. For more information on Villa Karisa, its facilities and the promotional offer; please visit www.villakarisabali.com.

All prices converted on xe.com as of 28 February ’19, in EURO and US Dollar. Subject to currency fluctuations.

BALI DAY-TRIP INSPIRATION: Where to go and what to visit

Hanging out all day at your luxury Bali resort, sipping Mai Tai’s by the pool and only moving from room to restaurant sounds like a tropical fantasy right? Well, indeed, for some. But for those that are fully re-charged from their day-to-day life after a few days of doing absolutely nothing, there is an island adventure that awaits! Hit the road by renting a private taxi driver for the day and explore all the known and unknown that Bali has to offer. Here is some inspiration to help you, and your driver, along the way!

Want to know what to pay for a full day private taxi?

These trips have been mapped from the Canggu/Seminyak area. If you are planning on taking one of these trips whilst located near Uluwatu (trip 2) or Ubud (trip 1), check the travel distances on Google maps and see if you can possibly do the tour yourself by scooter.

Bali day trip 1:

Ready to explore hidden waterfalls and hike through lush rice paddies? Discover the beauty of Bali’s inland on roundtrip no. 1. This trip will take you to some of the lesser known waterfalls on the island, past the famous rice terraces, and last but not least, seat you directly at the table of a Balinese family.

Summarized day tour:

Tukad Cepung waterfall
Tegallalang rice terraces
Lunch: Balinese Home Cooking
Tibumana waterfall

Tukad Cepung waterfall

Now here is a secret we don’t like sharing. The Tukad Cepung waterfall is amongst the prettiest waterfalls on the island. Not due to its size or crystal clear waters, but due to its magnificent light rays. Light rays? Yes, stay with us, we’re still talking about a waterfall here. What makes Tukad Cepung so unique, is its underground location. The waterfall is set between rock formations, of which the top has been largely covered by natural plantation. When the sun hits the top of the cave just right, light rays turn the waterfall into something majestic.

It takes a little adventure to get to Tukad Cepung, but that’s half the fun! Expect a short trekking through the jungle (paved, but steep), going into a cave, wiggling under a rock, and passing through streaming water. Yes, the feet will get wet.

Usually, we would say save the best for last on a road trip, but this waterfall is too magical in the morning to miss. Arriving here before 09:30 will likely mean you get to chance to experience this hidden gem all by yourself. Hang around for a bit longer to get a glimpse of the light beams, they start making their way through the waterfall a little later on the day. Let’s keep this beauty a secret between us, for now, shall we.

Entrance fee for the Tukad Cepung waterfall is 10.000 IDR.

Tegallalang rice terraces

If you’ve seen pictures of Ubud, you’ve seen pictures of the Tellegan rice terraces. These rice terraces have become quite the phenomenon, which unfortunately also means the area is now hurdled with tourist orientated shops, restaurants, and the latest hype, the Bali swings. That said, the rice fields are still, without a doubt, worth a visit whilst in the area. The area is quite large and once you make your way through past the chaos, it is easy to find yourself a nice quiet area to enjoy the immenseness of the green paddies.

Lunch: Balinese Home Cooking

Support the local community by dining in the backyard of a lovely Balinese family. Balinese Home Cooking is a small family run restaurant which operates from their own backyard. The entire family lives on the premises and visitors are happily allowed to take a walk around their homes so that they can get a sense of local habits and culture.

Tibumana waterfall

We started the day with a waterfall, so it only feels right to end it on the same note; with a visit to the Tibumana waterfall. The Tibumana waterfall might not be the biggest on the island, nor is it the smallest, but it is a lovely one to experience in an intimate jungle setting. The walk down to the waterfall takes roughly 10-minutes and is an amusing tropical track. Don’t forget to pack your swimming gear!

Bali day trip 2:

This beach orientated day trip is guaranteed to take you past some of the most incredible beaches on Bali’s mainland. Expect to see all shades of turquoise and plenty of surf action. Best thing is; although insanely beautiful, these beaches are not as crowded as one would expect because they are hard to reach without a driver.

Summarized day tour:

Belagan beach
Bingin beach
Lunch: the Cashew Tree
Dreamland beach
Uluwatu Tempel/Pura Luhur Uluwatu

Keen on going for a surf? Keep in mind that waves and currents in the Uluwatu area are extremely strong. This is therefore not the place for anyone just starting out. There are loads of surfers in the water but these are at an expert level.

Balangan Beach

Starting off, yet again, with a good one; Balangan Beach. Aside from being a popular beach amongst local surfers, Balangan features a limestone cliff with an incredible view. The viewing point is actually super easy to access from the parking lot, making it a popular pitstop for daytrippers like yourselves. Make sure to make your way down for a dip in the waters, as they’re just as blue from beneath as they’re from above.

Bingin beach

Bingin beach, a quiet little surf hub that can only be entered via an alley, followed by a steep stair down. This hidden beach is surrounded by limestone cliffs and has a stretch of sand that lends itself perfectly for some sunbathing. Cool off with a drink at Kelly’s Warung, or any other of the other beach shacks, and enjoy Bingin’s splendid coastline.

Lunch: the Cashew Tree

Stop for lunch at the Cashew Tree. The restaurant is playfully set-up on a small square and focusses on serving healthy meals that are just as good for you as they are for your taste buds.

Dreamland beach

Another beach, another baby blue shoreline. The last beach of the day is perfect for a dip in, yet again, crystal clear waters or, if you’re done swimming, to do some bodyboarding! More a pool lover than an ocean fanatic? Make your way upwards to the Klupa New Kuta resort for a pool overlooking the sea. The resort allows outside visitors to use the pool for 60.000 IDR. Disclaimer: this place does get crazy busy with Asian hotel guests. Some days worse than others, but it’s definitely something to consider before paying.

Parking fee for Dreamland Beach is 20.000 IDR. This includes usage of a minivan that will bring you towards the actual beach.

Uluwatu Temple / Pura Luhur Uluwatu

Finish off the day with a visit to a temple rising 70 meters above sea level; the Pura Luhur Uluwatu, commonly known as the Uluwatu temple. Whilst the temple itself might not be very impressive, the cliff views that accompany the premises are nothing short of spectacular. This spot is one of Uluwatu’s touristic highlights, so do expect a lot of people here. A walk along the grounds surrounding the temple will not take more than 30 minutes of your time.

Note: Watch out for the monkeys here. Whilst they may look incredibly cute, they’re more than eager to get a hold of a pair of sunnies or, worst case scenario, your camera or phone.

The entrance fee for the Uluwatu Temple is 30.000 IDR. This includes free usage of a sarong, which is required as it is considered holy ground.

What you should pay for a full day private taxi

A fair price pay for a full day private taxi in Bali would be anywhere between 500.000 and 600.000 IDR, equal to €37,- and $42,- Keep in mind that a lot of the sights on this list also ask a small parking and/or entrance fee, which has to be paid by yourself as well. This is usually fairly cheap -think anywhere between 2.000 until 20.000- but make sure to bring some spare change for this.

All prices as of 25 January 2019, in US dollar and EURO, converted on http://www.xe.com.

Here is why you’ll want to rent a Scooter in Bali

Yes, traffic in Bali is crazy, there is no arguing that. And while it may seem like an excess necessity to rent a scooter with taxis everywhere -that will take you across the island for just a few dollars- exploring the island on your own truly does contribute to the overall Bali experience. To give you a feel of what we’re talking about, here are 6 reasons why you will want to rent a scooter on your trip to Bali.

1. There is ALWAYS traffic

Bluebird taxis indeed get you across Bali for as little as some spare change, but when there is traffic, and for some reason there always is, a short distance might turn in to the longest ride of your life. Being stuck for hours at a time is nothing uncommon. With a scooter, you can do as the locals do, wiggle yourself through the traffic jam and off to enjoy your day you go.

2. Freedom

Go where ever you want to go, whenever you want to go. Make your way to this colorful sunset spot or get up early to discover the best breakfast bowls on the island. All on your own pace, simple as that.

3. It’s cheap

As cheap as taxis might be, so is driving and renting the scooter. Filling it up is done at one of many gasoline stops alongside the road. Bet you were already wondering what is in those vodka bottles right? Well, it’s gasoline, for one liter expect to pay around IDR 10.000/ US$0.75,-.

4. No pick-up wait

It is great that the hotels, resorts and even hostels for that matter, are always willing to call you taxis at all times. What is less great, however, is the wait… In Bali there is no such thing as “be there in ten”, it is more like “I am on my way now, might take 2 minutes, might take 20, might take an hour”. Great if you have the patience of an angel, we, unfortunately, do not.

5. Discover hidden spots

While out and about, the chances are you might stumble upon a gorgeous rice field or a cute coffee bar that you would have never noticed otherwise. The hidden spots along the way make renting a scooter well worth the adventure.

6. Work on your tan

Do you get a tan while sitting the car? We don’t think so. Enjoy the sun, with the fresh air blowing in your face instead of the air con.

Where to rent a scooter in Bali

Scooters are rented throughout the island. Prices will most certainly vary per rental, if you want to avoid unnecessary long price negotiations, the best thing to do is to let the hotel arrange it for you. They can even offer you special deals on many occasions.

Keep in mind that the ‘prettiest’ scooters are also the ones likely to cost you the biggest bucks when and if an accident might occur. Whether it is your fault or not.

What you should pay for a scooter

A good price for a scooter would around 50.000 IDR (€3.10 / $3.50) per day. The common rule that usually applies is, the longer you decide to rent one, the cheaper it will become. We paid roughly 35.000 Rupiah per day, which is equal to US$2.60. We’ve heard cheaper and we’ve heard more expensive, but it is safe to say that these amounts are common ground.

*All prices as of 7 January 2018 at xe.com

SMOOTHIE BOWLS – Where to find the best in Bali

These fruit packed vitamins bombs, commonly known as breakfast bowls, are quite the phenomenon in Bali. Swirled with tropical fruits and topped off with so-called superfoods, these heavenly bowls are as delicious as they are good for you. Here is where to find the best smoothie bowls in Bali:

1. Betelnut Cafe

Right within the center of popular surf area Canggu, you’ll find Betelnut Cafe. A tree-house styled cafe which offers bright bowls filled with fresh and healthy ingredients. With the beach within 10-minutes walking distance, the cafe boasts a relaxed surfer vibe, which also happens to be the main customer pool. For the best seats, make your way up to the rooftop. The Betelnut Cafe is opened daily from 11:30 till 22:00 and this Tropics Bowl will cost you $4.43.

2. The Spicy Coconut

Dragon fruit, papaya, and banana swirled with coconut water and topped off with freshly baked granola. If that doesn’t sound like a delight I don’t know what does. The Dragon Delight bowl at Spicy Coconut was not the first bowl I’ve ever tried, but -because of the overload of tropical fruit flavors which you simply cannot find in the Netherlands- it might very well have been. Cannot get enough toppings? For a surcharge, they’ll let you add as much of each as you’d like, prices ranging from $0.35 to $0.70 cents. Whichever bowl you prefer, costs will be 55K IDR – $4.04

Find out more on www.thespicycoconut.com

3.Nalu Bowls Shelter Cafe

Offering their bountiful bowls at four different locations in Bali, Nalu bowls has become a household name on the Island. And for a reason.. the large selection of yummy goodness overloaded with tropical fruits is simply a menu that few can resist. I especially like their location, underneath Shelter cafe, which is kind of a beach shack, not on the beach. Sit down on a bar stool and watch your tasty bowl being prepared right in front of you. Or choose to have a comprehensive breakfast within the relaxed atmosphere of the upstairs, covered in green and bamboo, Shelter cafe.

Find out more on www.nalubowls.com

4. Sea Circus

Serving thick and creamy textures, Sea Circus in Seminyak is definitely worth the breakfast visit. We’ll leave its colorful and vibrant exterior out of it for now, as that deserves an article on its own. 😉 The açai bowl itself is not one of prettiest bowls you’ll ever see- not that there is anything wrong with its appearance but hey, look at the competition above- flavor-wise, however, it sure is on top of the list. What is this bowl at sea circus going to cost you? Well, 95K IDR so $6.99 to be exact, that also makes it the most expensive bowl on the menu, probably related to the perceived health benefits the açai berry offers.

Find out more on http://www.seacircus-bali.com

*All prices as of 19 December 2017, converted on xe.com

Sunset Magic at La Plancha – Bali Hotspot

Restaurant La Plancha, Bali

Bright cocktails, fresh food, and pink-isch sunsets; a magical combination. La Plancha, located on the Double Six beach between Dhyanapura & 66 road in Seminyak, is a Spanish beach bar with an abundance of colorful bean bags and tasseled parasols.

More yummy Bali restaurants?

This place is superb to watch the sun sink into the ocean, not only for its vivid appearance. The waiters are super friendly, as the Balinese mostly are, and your food and drinks will be on the table in no time. The whole place aids good vibes and is jam-packed every sunset, so be sure to get there on time to steal a seat and nestle in. Sit back, dig your feet into the sand, watch one of Bali’s fairly like sunsets and stay awhile.

Food La Plancha Bali — Chipirones a la plancha 56K IDR/ 4.12 USD

Drinks La Plancha Bali — White sangria 95K/6.99 USD- Bintang 30K IDR/2.21 USD

The Menu

As for the food, as the name implicates, the Spanish beach bar serves all sorts of menu items a la plancha – which means prepared on the grill. And what is a Spanish bar without some tapas… La Plancha offers all the classics one would expect, varying between $3,30 and $4.40. For those keen on burgers, salads, and fries to watch away the sunset, that can be ordered as well.

Price of an evening at La Plancha

So what is this evening of sunset gazing going to cost you? La Plancha is one the cheaper beach bars and the tiny inexpensive bites are a perfect light meal or complimentary snack. For three tapas dishes, which were quite large, we paid $11,78. The drinking is what makes a bit more expensive, with cocktails priced roughly $7.40 Beers are, as always, the cheapest option, a Bintang will only cost you $2.20

La Plancha is open daily from 12:00 till 22:00.

*All prices as of 17’December 2017, converted on xe.com

TACO HEAVEN (v)- Bali Hotspot

Vegan or not, this place is definitely worth the detour. The Spicy Coconut is a vegan warung located in Seminyak and my-oh-my, do they know how to make a killer lunch here.

Upon arrival, the warung does Bali’s tropical vibes justice with turquoise painted walls and palm lined roofing. On the inside however you can expect a more basic interior, with hints of colour here and there. Nothing to get really enthusiastic about but hey, you are here for the food and not the interior design.

Jl. Batu Belig No. 81, Seminyak Utara, Kerobokan Kelod, Kuta Utara, Seminyak

Once inside, pick your spot at let the feast begin. As with many tropical restaurants, the simple plastic menu doesn’t prepare you enough for excitement yet to come but don’t let that fool you. From smoothie bowls to tacos, the friendly staff knows how to make you a plate that will not only your tummy will love, your camera will as well. Talking about making eating healthy easy.

Fruit platter $3.37 Dragon fruit smoothie bowl $4.13

Open daily from 08.00 till 15.00 – except from Sundays- The Spicy Coconut is definitely worth a stop, or even the detour for that matter. Don’t forget to to try the taco’s and to thank us later!

For more information click here.

All prices are in USD, as of 19’May-17, converted at xe.com