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Your guide to visiting Ubud: Bali, Indonesia

Hello, fellow wanderlusters! 🌍 I recently embarked on my first solo international trip to celebrate my birthday in the beautiful paradise of Bali, Indonesia. This journey was not just about exploring a new destination; it was a chance to reflect, rejuvenate, and indulge in life’s beautiful moments. This was my first time in Bali but it will not be my last. Let me take you through my unforgettable experience, complete with all the details you need for your own Bali adventure!

Traveling to Bali: The Journey

Traveling to Bali from Houston requires some serious commitment. It takes a very long time to get to Bali and that’s the only way i can put it. There is no way to get around it..if this is a place you want to visit that is the first thing to keep in mind. My flight with Qatar Airways included a layover in Doha, totaling over 20 hours of travel time. While the service was basic, they did provide an airport hotel stay during my long layover of over 8 hours, allowing me to rest and recharge before continuing my journey. If your layover is over 8 hours it’s a good idea to request the complimentary hotel on the Qatar website. It makes all the difference after being in the air for 15 hours. Also the Doha airport is stunning and honestly felt like an experience within itself, from the Fendi cafe, Ralph’s coffee and tons of stores to shop from you won’t be bored. I can’t think of a better place for a layover to be honest. It made for a simple and easy walk to my gate when it was time to board and for my first visit to Bali I had no complaints. I stayed at the ORYX garden hotel airport and it was vey clean, spacious and comfortable for my layover. 

Make sure to prepare for the flight by bringing entertainment, snacks, and staying hydrated. It can be exhausting, but the moment you set foot in Bali, all the fatigue melts away! 

Where to Stay: The Sankara Suites and Villas, Ubud

When it comes to accommodations, I chose The Sankara Suites and Villas in Ubud, and it did not disappoint. Here’s why this resort is a fantastic choice and the best place for your stay in Bali:

Affordable Luxury 

  • Suite Pool Villa: I stayed in a  suite pool villa featuring a king-sized bed, perfect for relaxation after a long journey. The private pool was an absolute highlight, allowing me to unwind while enjoying the serene surroundings. This was hands down one of the best things about my stay so I highly recommend getting a room with a private pool. It adds to making your room the perfect place to relax.  

I Purchased the Make My Day Package: This package included:

  • Airport Transfer: Hassle-free pickup from the airport.
  • Floating Breakfast: A delightful way to start my morning, served right in my private pool.
  • Spa Day: A luxurious treatment that featured a foot soak, a 60-minute Balinese massage, a body scrub, a body mask, and a flower bath.
  • Candlelight Dinner: An enchanting four-course meal with traditional Balinese dance entertainment.
  • Morning Yoga Classes: The resort offered free beginner yoga classes every morning for guest, which I eagerly attended. It was a wonderful way to start my day, connecting with my body and the beautiful environment.
  • Gym Facilities: The hotel gym allowed me to squeeze in a cardio workout to balance my indulgent meals.
  • The resort also offers a convenient shuttle service to and from central ubud and ubud art market area, making it easy to explore the vibrant local culture, shops, and markets without the hassle of transportation. It was a fantastic way to immerse myself in the local experience while having a comfortable ride back to the resort.
  • The food was excellent. Let me just say this resort is a great place to eat. The complimentary breakfast was a treat every morning! They offer a large range of tea, coffee, juice as well as fresh fruit. I mean everything was so good, the pancakes, French toast, granola, the breakfast burrito. I truly had no complaints. I ordered room service for dinner multiple times, and let me tell you—every meal at the resort was good! The culinary offerings were varied and delicious, making it hard to choose just one favorite. I loved the fact that they had vegan options. I also loved the variety of substitutions available because as someone who doesn’t eat beef or pork sometimes it can be a challenge. I didn’t have to worry at all because I was able to get chicken instead of pork sausage and even get chicken on my pizza. As a certified foodie…I approve! 
  • The hotel also offers theme nights such as BBQ steak Night with Live Acoustic Music and Taste of Nusantara every Wednesday from 7pm-9pm at the sunset pool bar or restaurant with special balinese fire dancing and a special buffet menu-priced at 399 IDR or $24 USD
  • The property also offers a large range of activities such as Balinese dance classes, cooking classes, painting classes and so much more 

Oh and did I mention all of this only cost me $250 a night…I mean what else is there to say! This was truly a great value. The Sankara Suites and Villas truly embodies affordable luxury and tranquility, making it the perfect base to explore the wonders of Bali. If affordable luxury is something that you’re looking for then Bali is where you need to be. 

Activities: Exploring Ubud and Beyond

Bali is rich in culture and beauty, and I made sure to experience as much as I could during my stay. Here’s a breakdown of the activities I enjoyed:

Ubud Tour

I booked an Ubud tour through Viator, which was packed with cultural experiences:

  1. Traditional Balinese House: I visited the iconic location where “Eat Pray Love” was filmed, gaining insight into local architecture and culture.
  2. Tegenungan Waterfall: A breathtaking sight, perfect for photos and a refreshing dip.
  3. Holy Tirta Empul Temple: A serene place with holy water and beautiful landscapes that offered a glimpse into Balinese spirituality.
  4. Tegallalang Rice Terraces: A visit to the lush rice fields of Ubud was a highlight of my tour. The iconic Rice Fields offered stunning views and a chance to learn about the traditional subak irrigation system.
  5. Bali Swing at D’Atlas: An exhilarating experience that left me feeling on top of the world.

Also it must be noted that the Ubud travel guide was amazing and went above and beyond to get all of my videos and photos!  

Beach Hopping

I did a day trip to Uluwatu and this private tour that was dedicated to beach hopping. I also booked this through Viator and the local guide was very helpful and friendly. I visited:

  • Gerger Beach: Known for its stunning views and crystal-clear waters.
  • Padang Padang Beach: Famous for its unique rock formations and vibrant atmosphere.
  • Uluwatu: A must-see for its breathtaking cliffs and spectacular sunsets.

Spa Day

My spa day was the cherry on top of this incredible birthday getaway. The treatments left me feeling refreshed and relaxed, with the serene ambiance enhancing the experience.

Spa Experience at Radha Spa

One of the most memorable parts of my stay was the spa day at Radha Spa, located within the resort. Here’s what my treatment included:

  1. Foot Soak: The experience began with a relaxing foot soak, infused with aromatic herbs that set the tone for the indulgent treatments to follow.
  2. 60-Minute Balinese Massage: This traditional massage focused on relieving tension and promoting relaxation. The skilled therapists used a combination of techniques, making it a truly rejuvenating experience.
  3. Body Scrub: Following the massage, a refreshing body scrub was applied, using natural ingredients to exfoliate the skin and leave it feeling silky smooth.
  4. Body Mask: Next was a nourishing body mask that provided hydration and revitalization, perfect for recovering from the sun.
  5. Flower Bath: The treatment concluded with a luxurious flower bath, where I soaked in a tub filled with fragrant petals, enhancing the sense of serenity and relaxation.

Overall, the spa day was a blissful escape that left me feeling completely rejuvenated.

Tips for Your Bali Adventure

  • Book in Advance: Secure your accommodations and tours ahead of time for the best experiences.
  • Stay Hydrated: Bali can be hot, so drink plenty of water.
  • Immerse Yourself in the Culture: Participate in local traditions and practices to enrich your experience.
  • Plan Your Travel: Prepare for a lengthy journey, and consider overnight layovers to break up the trip.

Bali offered me everything I hoped for. It was a peaceful escape and so relaxing. It is worth visiting. From affordable luxury at The Sankara Suites to exhilarating adventures, this trip was a celebration of life and a great experience. Whether you’re planning a solo trip or a getaway with friends, Bali is a destination that deserves a spot on your travel bucket list. If you’re ready to make your own Bali memories, don’t hesitate to book that flight! 

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