Bali Adventure: A Traveler's Tale (3-9)
Bali is buzzing! The crowds are still there, and the good vibes are flowing. Here's a quick recap of a recent trip.
Day 1: Singapore Stopover and Bali Bound
The journey began with a flight from Singapore to Bali. Round trip tickets cost around 4 million VND per person, including a 12-hour layover in Singapore. The airport procedures were a breeze, taking just a couple of minutes.
Singapore Transit
Having explored Chinatown, Little India, and other areas on previous trips, the focus this time was on outlet shopping at IMM. It's a bit of a trek from the airport, about an hour's journey. Arriving around 9 pm, the stores were already starting to close. You'll find big brands like Nike, Levi's, Adidas, and Cotton On. Discounts ranged from 20-50%, with some brands like Coach offering 70-80% off, though prices were still in the range of 5-7 million VND after the discount. Cotton On is worth checking out.
Back to the airport at 11:30 pm. The train ride, using Visa for payment, cost a mere 0.1 SGD for both trips! The rest of the time was spent relaxing in the waiting area. Then, it was time for a final stroll for some duty-free shopping before flying to Bali at 6:40 am.
Bali Vibes
Upon arrival in Bali, a Grab ride to Kuta Beach cost about 94,000 IDR + 12,000 IDR airport fee. The beach itself wasn't particularly striking, and the beachside bars were quiet. However, the beach was cleaner than expected. Beachwalk Mall had limited shops, but there was a large Vietnamese restaurant on the 3rd floor, with prices ranging from 60,000 to 120,000 IDR, though it wasn't very busy.
Day 2: Nusa Penida Exploration
A motorbike rental for 125,000 IDR per day was the way to explore. The ferry to Nusa Penida cost 130,000 IDR per person (booked via Klook). Another motorbike rental on Nusa Penida cost 130,000 IDR for a 150cc bike (negotiated from 150,000 IDR). Gas cost 30,000 IDR per tank. Kelingking Beach was packed with tourists, but photo services were available for 15,000 IDR per photo. Crystal Bay had clear water, perfect for swimming, but it was a bit crowded. A 30-minute hike across the hill to Pandan Bay revealed an incredibly beautiful and less crowded beach, a definite highlight.
The evening ended at Sanur port, where you can enjoy delicious snacks for cheap. A milk tea for 8,000 IDR, rice for 20,000 IDR. After a satisfying meal, it was back to the main island. The night was for exploring the beach and enjoying bakso (25,000 IDR), grilled corn (25,000 IDR), and some items from a convenience store (around 50,000 IDR).
Day 3: Cultural Gems and Scenic Views
A visit to GWK (Garuda Wisnu Kencana) was an unexpected treat. Tickets purchased through Klook were around 120,000 IDR, including a free shuttle service. The Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue, depicting Vishnu riding Garuda, is an impressive sight. It stands 121 meters tall and took 28 years to build, with 4000 tons of copper - an amazing experience.
Melastic Beach was next, with its crystal-clear waters and stunning views. It's a popular spot for couples, with bars, pools, and mini-heaven gates perfect for taking photos. Parking was 33,000 IDR. On the way back, we stopped at a local eatery. The rice cost 6,000 IDR, water 3,000 IDR, milk tea 12,000 IDR, mochi 2,000 IDR/piece, and palm sugar 20,000 IDR/L. The prices were surprisingly affordable!
The evening was capped off with a sunset view along Bali Mandara Toll Road (Sea Link), a toll road stretching over Benoa Bay, at about 8.3 km. The views were amazing.
Day 4: Changi Stopover and Departure
Breakfast at the hotel then a taxi to the airport 57,000 IDR + 12,000 IDR for fees. A two-hour layover in Changi Airport allowed for a taste of a Michelin-starred rice meal for 10 SGD per person, enough for a good filling meal. Returning to Ho Chi Minh City around 5 pm concluded this amazing 4-day trip.
#bali #indonesia #nusapenida #kelingking #crystal #pandanbay #melastic
