Bali Day 4 + Tips

THE DRIVER: For our first full day in Bali, I engaged a private driver to get us around many places, mostly beaches. I got my driver from Made Dodi, a recommended driver listed on TripAdvisor. Our driver, Dennis, was a good driver who could speak decent English and recommended us places to go. Also, he's honest enough to let us know in advance that there will be entry fees for certain attractions, such as the Padang Padang Beach (S$5/pax) He also recommended the Dreamland Beach, but told us that he would drop us off at an area as we have to board a shuttle bus to the beach itself. Seeing that it's troublesome, we rejected the idea and he was cool with it. 

Per day, inclusive of toll fees, parking and fuel charges, it costed us S$60 for an 8-hr drive for 2. A cancellation fee of 50% would be charged if not informed 1 day in advance. We managed to bargain and paid only S$20 on our 2nd day.

TIPS FOR YOUR TRIP IN BALI

THE TIPS: At tourists' attractions, don't expect to receive any small change back as they'll think you're tipping them. Best to give exact amount, not big notes!

THE TRANSPORT: For those feeling a tad more adventurous, try renting a motorbike or car! Otherwise, taxis are extremely cheap in Bali; the starting fare was only SGD 0.70 (in Singapore, flag-down will cost you $3.50 already). Take only the BLUE BIRD TAXI as it's always going by meter, just make sure it's authentic. You can check out this link on how to identify the real Blue Bird.

NOTE: Uber & Grab are not well-liked by hotels etc., so try not to engage one.

Photo credit: Zafigo

THE SHOPPING: There isn't much things to shop for, except some souvenirs that we got from Seminyak Square (newly-opened mall). Most of the shops were beach-related which doesn't apply to us. Also, the clothing were really expensive! A local-branded/non-branded denim shorts could cost S$93! Tops could also cost around S$40 or more. You can definitely find some cheap clothing, you just gotta search real hard for it.

THE DINING: For breakfast, we settled in our hotel. For lunch and dinner, we spent mostly on cafes. In Bali, need not worry that you can't find a cafe. Jalan Kayu Ave is THE area for cafes. 

For coffee lovers, Revolver is a must-go. I haven't been to Monsieur Spoon, but I've heard good reviews so check it out for some decent pastries. For good dinner options, try Mamasan or The Livingstone Cafe!

Our dinner at The Livingstone Cafe

Other cafes/dining places with good reviews:

- La Favela

- Sea Circus Bali

- Sisterfields Cafe

- Bo & Bun

THE MAKE-UP: Simplicity is the way to go. Opt for sweat-proof, waterproof makeup and that "no make-up" make-up look. But the best would be no make-up at all! You'll be all sweaty from all the walking and beach activities anyway!

THE SKINCARE: Always moisturise, or prepare to moisturise. We got sunburn just by spending half a day at beaches! Thank god for aloe vera gel for stopping our skin from getting worse. Pack your fave moisturizer, sunscreen or even sheet masks! I love the hydrating masks from Innisfree & Leaders' Insolution

Photo credit: Sorabelle

Photo credit: Innisfree Singapore

THE OUTFITS: BE COMFY. Classic white top with denim shorts/jeans and sneakers are the best! Most of the time I wear slippers as I don't want to get sand into my shoes, but I believe covered shoes are great for any hiking or walking on rocky roads. Alternatively, you can dress according to the places of interest that you intend to go, or go to Pinterest for outfit ideas!

THE PACKING: PACK LIGHT. We're always on the go, so grab a simple sling bag and throw in only your valuables (wallet/phone/money), necessities (sunscreen/sunblock/moisturizer/Dettol wipes/tissues) and ALWAYS a bottle of water! Not only do you need to hydrate on the outer, your body needs to stay hydrated too!

As for our luggage, both of us shared 1 cabin-sized luggage as we've our own backpacks to store most of our items. 

There're definitely so much more to explore, so share with me if you've any good recommendations! I'll revisit Bali someday~