Bali-based Ina Bajaj gives her tips for the island's best.
Stay
I'm a total Gu lover (Canggu) and have lived in this area since when it had an abundance of rice fields and all things green. Although the area has rapidly developed, Canggu has still retained its charm. It's now become a popular destination for surfers, yogis and trendsetters, and the fabulous eateries of Seminyak have quickly jumped on the Gu bandwagon and moved here.
Eat
Sardine: A seafood restaurant with a stunning rice-field outlook. It's a bit on the pricey side but worth it.
Kynd: A colourful plant based cafe in Seminyak with a branch opening in the Gu next month.
Bossman: Bali's version of Queenstown's Fergburger.
Merah Putih: Named after the colours of the nation's flag, this restaurant offers modern Indonesian cuisine with one of the most stunning fit outs on the island.
Locavore: One of the best meals I've ever had. This degustation restaurant is for serious foodies, pairing European cuisine with locally sourced ingredients. Locavore is a must if you're heading to Ubud.
Watch the sunset
There's a plethora of new beach clubs in Uluwatu. The newest and one gaining the most attention is Omnia, from the famed Hakkasan group.
Ku de Ta is the original of the sunset beach clubs and for me is still an oldie but a goodie. Overlooking Seminyak beach, its popularity has not waned.
The Lawn reflects the chilled out Canggu lifestyle, offering sunsets, live music and a family-friendly vibe.
Chill out
The Practice and Desa Seni remain my top picks for those in pursuit of an excellent yoga session. Ubud also has a great selection of yoga studios for all levels.
Day trip
A trip to Ubud is a must. Walk the streets and enjoy the calmness and beauty of the area. The market is okay but ridiculously expensive, taking advantage of some of the high-end tourists that Ubud attracts.
Volcanoes are in abundance around Bali, and an early-morning climb to take in the spectacular sunrises is on the cards for the fit and healthy. As I don't fall into that category, hiring a driver with good local knowledge to take you to these majestic viewpoints is a good alternative.
Shop
The strip down Batu Bolong in Canggu offers a great array of local designers, jewellery makers and local batiks.
During rainy season I gravitate towards Beachwalk Mall, which offers international brands like Zara, H&M, etc. There you can catch a Gold Class movie for only NZ$10, where they have the airconditioning on so cold they even provide you with a blanket. Sample one the best yum chas on the island at Paradise Dynasty or try one of the local fast-food chains.
For something more upmarket, the fashion offerings at Seminyak Village are excellent.
Ina Bajaj is the founder and CEO of Spring Spa and East Day Spa, with locations in Bali and New Zealand.
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