Where to go in Bali for a more authentic experience away from the crowds
As a travel agent, I'm fortunate enough to have the whole world at my fingertips. But when Melbourne's winter rolls around and I'm dreaming of sunshine, there's one destination I return to time and time again, Bali.
For some people, Bali has developed a certain reputation. It's often associated with beach clubs, busy streets and crowds of Australians enjoying a quick getaway. But if you're willing to venture just a little further, you'll discover a completely different side of the island, one that's peaceful, authentic and incredibly rewarding.
That's the Bali I love.
Even after visiting more than ten times, I still find new places to explore. Whether it's a quiet village tucked into the hills, a hidden café overlooking rice terraces or an untouched stretch of coastline, Bali continues to surprise me.
One thing I always tell clients is to embrace the journey. Bali isn't always the easiest place to navigate. Footpaths can be uneven, traffic can be slow and travelling between destinations often takes longer than you expect. Rather than trying to rush from one place to another, I recommend planning for a slower pace. Stop for lunch at a local warung, wander through a village or discover somewhere unexpected along the way. Those little detours often become the most memorable parts of the trip.
If you're looking to experience a different side of Bali, I'd encourage you to venture further north through Ubud, explore the unspoilt coastline around Candidasa or Amed, spend time on the beautiful Gili Islands or choose accommodation tucked away in a quieter part of Uluwatu. These areas offer a more relaxed pace while still showcasing everything that makes Bali so special.
There are also opportunities to get into local villages, to experience local life and to truly get into the heart of this magical country.
Top recommendations: Venture further north in Ubud, visit the vastly undeveloped coastline such as Candi Dasa, Amed or the Gili Islands and stay a little bit out of the way in Uluwatu.
I would recommend this trip to everyone! Families, couples, friends, solo travellers, food lovers, coffee lovers, hikers, cyclists, snorkellers, divers, yoga lovers and everyone in between.
