Get Out: Beachin' Bali

Margaux Schreurs | Aug 17, 2015 9:00 am | Add a comment | 1975 reads

A beach getaway in Indonesia may sound far from Beijing, but actually, visiting Bali is well worth the flight time if you stay put for a week or more. There definitely are enough sun rays to be soaked up, along with other activities when you can’t sit still any longer.

Visas: There is some confusion with regards to Indonesian visas. Websites and posters at the airport point to a USD 35 fee for a 30-day visa on arrival for US, PRC, and EU citizens, however nobody I spoke to paid at the airport, including yours truly. More money for the spa!

Weather: Beijing’s summer is the most pleasant time to visit Bali as temperatures hover around 28 degrees Celsius with the occasional rain shower.

Where to stay: Seminyak is extremely fashionable and one of the best places to stay if you want to experience everything the island has to offer while avoiding hordes of backpackers: varied nightlife, good shopping, beautiful beaches, amazing restaurants, and access to the rest of the island for day trips. At only 30 minutes from the airport, resorts just off the main roads are peaceful, and if you choose one on the west side of Seminyak you’ll also be close to the water. This is ideal for those who want to surf, lie by the beach, or enjoy Seminyak’s incredible sunsets from a bean bag at one of the many lively bars and restaurants. Villa Kresna Boutique Suites offers great rooms in a peaceful setting only a two-minute walk from the beach for about RMB 550 per night per room.

What to see: This may sound harsh, but if you’ve been to Indonesia before there is really no need to spend time at the temples around Seminyak. Instead, pop up north to Ubud (one and a half hours away) to visit the rice terraces, or get to Ulu Watu (one hour away) in the south for white pearly beaches. If you’d rather stay local, make sure you get to the beach around 4.30-5pm to catch the sunset: one of the perks of lodging on the west side of the island.

What to eat: Seminyak almost has too much choice when it comes to picking a restaurant for lunch or dinner. To try fine Indonesian dining, go to the Indonesian restaurant at Potato Head Beach Club, or Mama San, where the menu incorporates both Indonesian and other Asian dishes, all beautifully put together and featuring extremely friendly service.

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Email: margauxschreurs@truerun.com
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