Tag Archives: Bali

Asia, Indonesia, Travel Tips

A Healthy Guide for Your Holiday in Bali

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A Healthy Guide for Your Holiday in Bali

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Exotic, alluring, romantic and appealing: These, and many other adjectives over the decades have been used to describe the island paradise that is Bali. Laying in the Indian Ocean, one of the thousands of islands that make up the Indonesian archipelago, the island has an allure, charm, and lifestyle that draws millions of visitors to its shores every year.

Bali holidays have also become increasingly popular with visitors seeking healthy holiday options. Fine dining restaurants, relaxing spas, or a stay at a Yoga or fitness retreat are becoming increasingly popular. The following are a few ideas on how to make the most of your first visit, and how to avoid the dreaded Bali-belly.

1. Bali Health Retreat Packages

A stay in a fitness retreat in Bali can provide all the attractions of a hotel holiday and more. Stunning white-sand beaches trips to visit the many attractions, and organized hiking and biking outings, are combined with fitness rooms, health clubs, saunas, Pilates and Yoga classes, and healthy dining. All designed to improve the wellbeing of mind and body.

2. Consider a Spa Hotel Break

If you’ve enjoyed one of those short spa breaks at home, you’ll have an idea of what to expect. Bali spa treatments include hot-stone massages, deep-tissue massages, sports injury massages, and the famous Thai massage. Other therapies include Ayurveda (a traditional Hindu massage using oils), mud baths, a sauna, steam room, and reflexology and hydrotherapy treatments.

3. Fasting and Detox Retreats

If you’re looking to give your spiritual and emotional well-being a bit of a boost, consider a holiday in one of Bali’s growing numbers of fasting and detox retreats. Although fasting and detoxing have become increasingly popular in the West during the last two decades, it is an Asian culture based on nature, which has been a part of Eastern life for hundreds of years. Fasting is not just about food. It can mean abstinence from smoking, alcohol, sex, speaking, and company, as well as food.

If you have recently given up overindulgence in alcohol, tobacco or other stimulants, but are struggling with the after-effects, a visit to a detox retreat will help cleanse the body of those stubborn hangers-on. A properly monitored detox fast can help reduce acidity and inflammation and remove chemical residues, contaminants, and cravings. It is a great way to reset the clock for a fitter, healthier, more active you in the future.

4. Happy Holidays

Not everyone is inclined to spa hotels and health retreats. Many just want an enjoyable holiday exploring everything Bali has to offer, free of any of those health issues that can be waiting to strike. Stomach cramps, nausea, and diarrhea are the most prevalent health problems travelers the world over suffer when visiting holiday destinations. For some, just a change of diet can bring on a period of ‘the trots’, which usually disappears in a day or two. For others, hospital stays and intravenous drips can ruin that holiday of a lifetime. Here are a few things to consider when you are out and about.

5. Choosing Where You Eat

Whether in your hotel, out sightseeing, or on the beach, only ever drink bottled water. While dining in your hotel is usually trouble-free, when out and about take care where you eat. The high temperatures mean raw fish and meat sitting in trays for long periods waiting to be cooked, are open to attack from bugs and flies. When visiting the loo, make sure hands are scrupulously washed for the same reason. Choose local cafes, bars, and restaurants that are busy. It indicates a high turnover of products and a popular eatery. Look around and note what other patrons are eating, and what dishes seem most popular. If you want to sample local dishes, do it in your hotel’s restaurant, or a local restaurant that has been recommended.

6. Steer Clear of Arak

Acting the seasoned traveler, and insisting on sampling the local cuisine, wines, spirits and, beers is fine when you’re absolutely sure what you’re doing. In Bali, the local rice wine is a case in point. Available everywhere, some Arak, poorly distilled by local businesses, has claimed the lives of tens of tourists due to contamination by methanol. If you must try it, ask for a glass in your hotel, but never in local bars or restaurants.

7. Care When Visiting Macaque Monkeys

They may look cute, cuddly and friendly, but they are wild animals. Keep your distance, their claws are sharp and teeth strong, and you are likely to get scratched or bitten if they can’t get what they want. In that event, a trip to the nearest doctor to get the wound treated and disinfected is a must, if you don’t want to risk very real health problems.

The Little Things to Take Note

Make sure your travel insurance covers you for motorcycle or scooter hire, and extreme sports such as paragliding or jet-skiing.

If you want to get a tattoo, ask around for recommendations. Finally, don’t forget to use the sunblock, and go home refreshed, relaxed and healthy, from your Bali experience.

Editor's Picks, Indonesia

A First Time Traveler’s Guide To Indonesia

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Indonesia is known to be one of the most beautiful and diverse places on earth. Although it has many features worthy of visiting, the first thing that comes to mind when you think about Indonesia as a travel destination is Bali. Bali is an island that has everything: sandy beaches, mighty volcanoes, rainforests, beautiful rice terraces, amazing culture and friendly, smiling people that are truly happy to have you as their guests. Yes, Bali is the perfect destination to visit. But there are some things you need to know before you pack your things and go.

Choose your season carefully

indonesia

There are two seasons on Bali – dry season from April till October and a rainy season from November till March. The dry season is when most tourists visit Bali. The most crowded months are Jun, July and August (and most expensive). The rainy season has its charm as well. Although it would rain heavily most of the days it can also be perfect for enjoying the beauty of waterfalls which are exceptionally breathtaking this time of the year.

Be careful what you pay for

Although your staying in Bali will prove to be rather cheap there are still some things you have to pay attention to. Your first encounter with Bali upon arrival at the airport would be finding transportation to your residence. There will be many taxi drivers offering their services but do resist. They can charge you twice as much as normal price for the ride. Instead, go to the official taxi counter. You can pay upfront the official price at the counter. It goes for everything in Bali. Always try to use public transportation (whether it is a bus or a boat) as they have official rates and are almost twice cheaper than others.

Choosing a residence

Bali offers you a great variety of places to stay. From classy hotels, luxurious villas, cheaper hostels to private residences. A hotel can offer you many contents, but if you are more for a quiet luxury of your own place it is better to rent a villa. There are many beautiful Bali accommodation to rent that is suited at the beachfront with breathtaking swimming pools and wonderfully arranged spaces for your leisure and enjoyment. You will have an advantage of making your own plans, prepare your own food, and many other things. You can always find accommodation with your own standards in Bali.

Food

One thing is for sure – you won’t starve in Bali. There is a great choice of restaurants and variety of food you can choose from. Local cuisine is exquisite, but if you are in for something less exotic you can find great choice of western dishes, vegetarian or vegan food. Do bear in mind that all places have a certain dress code and you can’t go to a restaurant wearing only your swimming suit, your shoulders and knees have to be covered (especially if you are a woman).

Culture

Culture is everywhere in Bali, where ever you look. Religion is a very big part of the culture here and you need to be respectful when religion is in question. Be quiet bystander during ceremonies and obey rules when visiting temples. Also be careful not to step on prayer offerings to gods that can be found anywhere in form of woven baskets with flowers or banana leaves squares with small portions of rice on them. Make sure your shoulders and knees are always covered.

If you prepare your travel to Bali upfront and do your homework right, you will find your stay there an adventure of a lifetime and you may find yourself returning there many times to explore Bali some more.

Asia, Editor's Picks, Indonesia, Restaurant Reviews

The Great Taste at “Desa Wisata Bebek Mebaris” Ubud Bali

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Foodlovers, have you ever visited Ubud Bali, Indonesia? Not yet? Wow, where have you been? Just kidding! Bali is well known as the beautiful place and island. You can visit Bali anytime and you will never feel bored. Some people comments about Bali: where every day is a holiday. You can find anything from the top to toe. Bali is a lovable island that still keeps their tradition well and they want to show to the tourism that Bali is unique and culture very well. That is the reason why people in Bali always wear their traditional clothes and they still follow their religion and trust in their daily life activities. Once you visit Bali and you will never want to go away from this place. Besides the beautiful scenery, you can also find so many delicious foods.

What kind of food can you find there? Too many. “Ayam Betutu”, “Lawar Kuwir”, “Serombotan”, “Nasi Jinggo”, “Nasi Tepeng”, “Sate Lilit”, you name it. If you love to eat traditional food in Bali then you can visit Ubud. Ubud is well known as the tourism village that will show you the green and fresh air. You can find many traditional villas with nature atmosphere, no one that can stay away from this homey place. In Ubud Bali, you can also taste the delicious food such as duck and prawn. They have a good place named “Desa Wisata Bebek Mebaris” (nickname: “Dewi Bebaris”). You should visit that village and feel the taste of the best duck and the great prawn that ever been! Dewi Bebaris is the culinary spot in Ubud that really famous. Many tourists from around the world and place in Indonesia that come to Bali also visit that village just to eat.

What would you find over there? In Dewi Bebaris, you will find “Bale Udang”, “Bebek Raja” and other restaurants inside that you should not be missed. Besides that, you can also find the outdoor activities that you can enjoy together with your family or partners. If you want to update your Instagram by taking some pictures or just get your relax time, then you should go there. Too many instragramable spots that you should try. Including the duck show. You may not find the other duck show on other places in Bali or even at your hometown.

Missing the traditional feeling that full of rice field? Why don’t visit this tourism village? You can even try to feed the duck and have good interaction with them. The staff also gives the guests who come here with good hospitality as their service. If you come to Bale Udang you can try to eat Fried Flying Gourami Fish, Honey Grilled Prawn, and Fried Roll Fermented Cassava. All of those three foods are special. They give their special recipe so that the ingredients can absorb well to the inside. When you visit the Bebek Raja restaurant then you can eat Fried Crispy Duck and “Bebek Lalah Ubud“. Special menu from this restaurant is all about duck. They can cook the duck with good style and make the taste become so unique, delicious and melted on your mouth. All of the meals that they have are delicious. One is never enough to satisfy your hunger.

Fried Flying Gourami Fish

Honey Grilled Prawn

Full of meals? Then try to play some games for your refreshing childhood moment. Desa Wisata Bebek Mebaris also has traditional games originally from Indonesia. The place is located at “Kebun Pisang”. You can just ask their staff when you want to play it. They have “Enggrang”, “Bakiak” and others traditional games. You can try to play them outdoor and on the playground of Kebun Pisang.

Fried Roll Fermented Cassava

For their opening hours, you can come from 11 AM to 11 PM every day. For the big spaces then you can order first to their service so that they can prepare for the spot special for you. On Sunday they also have fun day theme. Enjoy the outdoor picnic on Kebun Pisang in between eating your meal or chit-chat with your beloved one. Don’t miss to try special package, Bebek Raja, that consist of three different menus such as Fried Duck package, Lalah Duck package and also Timbungan Duck package. Just grab every single promo that they have. If you love to stay out the door; then they also give live music performance. Enjoy the sounds of the fresh air on the green grass there.

Fried Crispy Duck

Bebek Lalah Ubud

Today, finding the green and natural place like on homey village become a rare thing but you can find all here. You don’t need to walk away to enjoy all the things you need. You can stay in the good village with choose of type. You can play on the playground with the fresh water. You can walk on the rice field and get the fresh air every single day. Your holiday will never enough at Ubud Bali. And of course, don’t forget to try their best snack for your tea time. Each of them is delicious and made with love. When you come here, do not just let anything disturb you. If you always feel busy with your job and do not have free time then you should come here for your relaxing moment. You can get back your energy. Remember that the holiday is not only about the mall and shopping only. You need to give good energy to your soul.

Desa Wisata Bebek Mebaris is such a great choice to enjoy Bali. After eating the choice of food there then you can travel around Ubud. Just make sure you bring your sweater because the weather is cold enough. You can enjoy driving the traditional boat and enjoying the natural river there. No one that can change the sophistication feeling with the money while staying there. Bali is everything that you need to visit. The best time to visit this place is in your free time. You may feel crowded at weekend but when you book first then there will always available free space for you to sit. Play the water and enjoy the relaxing moment with your beloved one will be so precious.

Location:

Desa Wisata Bebek Mebaris (Dewi Bebaris)

Jalan Raya Goa Gajah, Peliatan, Ubud, Peliatan, Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80582, Indonesia

Phone: +62 361 978754
Website: www.dewibebaris.com / www.baleudang.com
Asia, Destinations, Indonesia

Relaxing Holiday: 3 Amazing Destinations of the Far East

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Relaxing Holiday: 3 Amazing Destinations of the Far East

Exotic cities, people, and lifestyles – the Far East is a unique mixture of radically different cultures, all put together into a lively, crowded but charming melting pot. Whether you visit its large cities or rural areas untouched by the ongoing urbanization, it is one of the most astonishing areas of the globe.

Bali

Known by nicknames such as the “Island of Peace” or the “Island of the Gods”, Bali is the most popular Indonesian tourist attractions, featuring great beaches, cultural heritage, tourist resorts and scenic beauties. The best-known destinations include the town of Ubud or the Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, a water temple in the island’s interior.

Amazing Destinations of the Far East

A fabulous combination of beaches and resorts in Bali

Ubud is a great place for exploring the traditional Balinese lifestyle and customs, as well as cultural and religious traditions. A calm, tranquil town, it’s a place of many galleries and museums showcasing Balinese history, and a number of colorful local festivals takes place every year.

The Pura Ulun Danu Bratan or the Temple by the Lake, (as it is located on Lake Bratan) is an ancient Shivaite temple, surrounded by beautiful nature. Visitors can enjoy exploring the temple, learning more about Balinese history, or simply enjoy the landscape and the nearby Mount Batur, a popular climbing and hiking site.

Amazing Destinations of the Far East

Pura Bratan, one of Bali’s most iconic temples

Thailand

A jewel of Southeast Asia, Thailand’s tourism is developed enough to provide cozy tourist resorts, yet still wild enough for an off-the-beaten path wild adventure. Whether you explore its fine beaches in the south, or the mountain areas in the north, Thailand has plenty to offer. It’s cheap and delicious food, often sold on streets, will satisfy your craving for spicy food. Street vendors are everywhere, selling goods such as natural soaps, hand-dyed textiles, essential oils and even musical instruments.

Amazing Destinations of the Far East

A breath-taking view of Phi Phi islands

Thailand’s cities, such as Chiang Mai or Bangkok, are vibrant hives known for commerce, but the essence of Thai culture lies in its rural areas, where you can witness its rich wildlife from close range. For example, the Phi Phi islands, one of the country’s most popular resort areas, are a place where you can meet face to face with animals such as elephants or monkeys; especially on fun spots such as Monkey Beach or Maya Bay, offering a plethora of tourist entertainment facilities.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a multicultural metropolis, a city so vast that it’s a clashing point of different cultures, lifestyles and religions. A business center of Asia, airlines – who use it as a connection point – made it a popular stopover duty-free destination. It’s also a major health resort, offering a variety of treatments such as acupressure, aromatherapy, reflexology and various massages. Although it features some of the most impressive buildings in the world – such as the 118-storey International Commerce Center or the Central Plaza – there are plenty of parks, green spaces, and quiet areas to escape the crowded streets.

Amazing Destinations of the Far East

Hong Kong sunset cityscape

The best way to witness its amazing skyline is to head to Victoria Peak, a mountain in the western half of Hong Kong Island. One of the city’s most famous attractions, visitors can enjoy the cityscape looking through telescopes. Large shopping centers such as the Peak Tower and the Peak Galleria are also located there.

Destinations, Indonesia, Theme and Amusement Park

Pandawa Beach Bali – Peace in Seclusion

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Bali comes with endless options when it comes to tourist attractions. One more new mesmerizing site, Pandawa Beach has recently opened to public, with its amazing natural beauty and beautiful landscape that stretches along the blue coast. The tropical surrounding of Bali attracts millions of people every year and allows the tourists to sit back and relax, escape from their busy routines.

Pandawa Beach View

Most people are probably only familiar with Kuta beach, or Seminyak, but Pandawa Beach now offers wider option for you to get peace in seclusion and enjoy your exclusive time alone or with your romantic encounter. Pandawa beach quickly becomes a favorite among local people and visitors due to its relaxing features.

Pandawa Beach and Mahabharata’s characters

Previously, this beach was named Secret Beach before famously known as Pandawa Beach because of its hidden location behind high cliffs. Its exclusive location in the village of Kutuh, South Kuta District, Pandawa beach is actually near from Nusa Dua and Uluwatu areas. The difficult access to this beach makes this hotspot relatively empty, only few people with the waves sound, so that makes Pandawa Beach a perfect gateway for both domestic and international tourists. However, the local authority has finally recognized the potential of this beach, resulted in better access and introduction of this beach as one of mainstay attractions.

Pandawa beach got its name not without reason. As your journey come near to the location, you will be greeted by famous wayang statues; the Panca Pandawa, characters of Mahabarata, namely Yudhistira, Bima, Arjuna, Nakula, and Sadewa. There will not much to see during your way to the beach, as your view will be mostly dominated with high cliffs and hills view, until it finally reaches the beach side, outstanding panorama unquestionably unfolds right in front of your eyes. Pure white sand with blue water, light breeze and clear blue sky unite in harmony and hypnotizing anyone who saw.

Well preserved environment of Pandawa Beach

The majestic hills will serve as your private walls. They conceal you from the familiar crowd and usual activity. Pandawa beach still preserves its quiet atmosphere and clean environment. Maybe, that is because there are still few people who visit this place. Taking the road to Pandawa Beach from Ngurah Rai International airport is only 1 hour, with domination of high coastal view along the road. However, the carved statues of Mahabharata’s characters become distinct fascinations for the tourists when you finally enter the area.

Just like any other beaches, there are various activities, which you can do at Pandawa Beach. Water sport is provided for those who love outdoor activities such as canoeing and paragliding. You can ask for local’s assistance when the wind is quite strong, usually started from Timbis Hill near Pandawa Beach and enjoy the beautiful panorama from the height.

Take a swim and get sunburn from the warm sun during the day. If you prefer sitting back and relaxing along the beachside, roll out the mats and simply sit under the trees or umbrella to enjoy fresh coconut water. Other option is you can observe the culture and custom of seaweed farmers along the coast.