Hidden Tips

Forget being shackled to traditional accommodation choices. One of the very best ways to take in the area is to use the hotel as your base from which to explore Seminyak’s beach club scene. Instead of just going to one, ‘beach club hopping’ is a great tip. Kick back for a day by that mind-blowing infinity pool at Potato Head, feel the laidback yet stylish bohemian vibe at La Favela, and then hit either Ku De Ta or La Plancha for an amazing sunset cocktail. It’s all within a reasonable walk or a very short scooter or taxi ride from the hotel.

Interact with the very friendly and extremely helpful staff. Pick their brains – they’re excellent with local advice, whether it’s where to rent a scooter, their favorite ‘warung’ for yummy, cheap Indonesian food, or just anything else they recommend. Much better than what’s online, and gets you closer to “real” local experiences.

Another way to get around and see more of the island is to rent a scooter. They can help you at the hotel. One way to take an excellent day-trip is to drive 20-30 minutes north to Canggu. Here one can go through the rice paddies, visit the well-known Tanah Lot temple, and enjoy that surf-focused bohemian vibe. A day much further out may also head up to Bali’s spiritual and cultural heart, Ubud, a 90-minute sojourn.

Last but certainly not least, you need to experience a Balinese spa treatment for something quirky and self-indulgent. The spas in Seminyak are known for being superb and, best of all, very reasonably priced. A good piece of advice is to visit some high-quality mid-range Bodyworks or Prana Spa. ‘Luxurious’ is just a fraction of the price you’d pay at home. Tired after a long flight or a day spent sightseeing? Here’s the perfect antidote to truly unwind and feel refreshed.