There is something about Bali that transformed my outlook on life, leaving a lasting impression unlike any other place I've been. This land holds an incredible power, with a unique ability to help you dive deeper into yourself. It’s a spiritual island, home to the loveliest people who are deeply proud of their culture, spirituality, and traditions. Known as the Island of the Gods, Bali's strong connection to everything makes the veil between worlds feel remarkably thin.

The island's enchanting atmosphere is created by its majestic mountains covered in lush jungles, breathtaking waterfalls, stunning rice paddies, and picturesque coastlines—some with black sand from volcanic hills, others pristine white. Just thinking about my trip to Bali makes me emotional.

As a province of Indonesia, Bali has a culture unlike anything I've experienced before. Although it's close to predominantly Muslim Indonesia (87%), Bali is mostly Hindu, giving it a distinct and special atmosphere. Early in my trip, I learned that most Balinese believe in karma, which was evident in how they take such good care of one another and us. It warmed my heart to witness this.

I am deeply grateful for the sacredness of this place and the energetic container created by the Balinese people, which supported my journey and furthered my awakening. Thank you to the Balinese people for showing me your love, looking me in the eyes, taking your time with us, your kindness, and reminding us of the beauty in this existence. From your morning offerings to the spirit world, to the evening ceremony’s on the street and to the compassion you have for one another, you reflect the divinity in this existence. My heart will forever be appreciative of everything you taught me in the three short weeks I got to dance with you. Suksema.

This trip was a full surrender, not planned at all. I had felt the calling to visit Mama Bali for about a year, and it grew louder as time went on. Thirteen days before my birthday, spontaneously decided to book a one-way trip to Denpasar to see what magic was in store.

I wanted to share some tips and highlights from my experience to help support your journey. First, pack light. I ended up wearing almost the same black shorts and tank tops every day and didn't need any of the layers and jackets. However, I wished I had packed a poncho for the frequent but brief (about 20-30 minutes) showers. When it stops raining, the sun comes out like it never happened.

The best deal we found was through Kiwi on Philippine Airlines for $612, including taxes and fees (originally $555—definitely a sign!). With a stopover in Manila, the airline staff even walked us to our new gate. We were fortunate to have arranged an amazing driver, Agus (+62 857-3941-2174, WhatsApp), before arriving in Bali. He greeted us at the airport with a sign and helped with our massive overpacked bags, which turned into a huge inconvenience as we moved from place to place. I recommend packing light and leaving plenty of room for shopping, as Bali has some of the best and most affordable shopping in the world.

Our first two stops were in Canggu and Uluwatu, both were great. In Canguu we loved our Airbnb, which was walking distance to the beach, great shopping, and restaurants. We enjoyed morning yoga at Serenity Eco Yoga down the street and breakfast at Superfood Canguu. We got mani/pedis at Dream beauty & wellness and loved it. On our first night, magic unfolded when we got last-minute tickets from the angel named Fatima to see an artist I love, Ape Chimba. I had missed him by a few days in Guatemala and said I would see him in divine timing, not knowing it would be 3 months later. It was a night I’ll never forget, if you ever get the chance to see him live, do yourself a favor and go!! Also in this area, we a loved Potato Head Beach Club.

In Uluwatu we stayed in two different places and we loved the Inn. The Staff was so incredibly nice, we loved being so close to the beach (be prepared for some stairs to get down to the beach) We had dinner at Lucky Fish where they catch fresh fish everyday and cook it right in front of you. The morning of my birthday I walked down to the beach alone and ended up cleaning the beach and serendipitously “here comes the sun” by the Beatles started play at the restaurant on the beach and I cried like a baby, as my Dad loved the Beatles and it was a perfect embrace I received from him while I was doing what I love, taking care of Mother Earth. My special day was off to great start and then we walked to Yoga at The Space in the morning and it was my birthday that day and I told the instructor Alex McRobert that it was my special day and she had the whole class sing happy birthday while we held chair pose. It was so hilarious and literally made my birthday start off to the most special start, plus she played all my favorite songs, to the point it brought me to tears. I asked her after about the playlist and she quickly pulled it together before the class. Its lit: Birthday Playlist. Thanks universe ! Then we had a very yummy brunch at Salty Coffee after.

One of my favorite experiences in Uluwatu was visiting Istana on my birthday. For $20, you get access to the sauna, steam, cold plunge, and pool, all overlooking the ocean. They take your phone at check-in, but you can sneak it in if you're clever. Alternatively, you can stay there for more affordable accommodation that includes phone access. We went during the afternoon session, showered, got ready, and watched the sunset. Dinner that evening was at Tabu, which was loud but the food was out of this world. Highly recommend it.

We also spent a day at Sundays Beach Club, which was remarkably beautiful. Although it was a journey to get there, it was worth it. We took a tram car down to the beach and opted for bean bag chairs instead of VIP tables. It was incredible, and I had one of my favorite massages in all of Bali there. Unfortunately, dinner at Cliffhouse and staying at White Monkey Motel were disappointing—the food was not good, and the motel was noisy with a raging party out front. I don't recommend these spots.

Next, we headed to Ubud, known as the heart of the island. Entering Ubud felt like stepping into a portal; the energy was vibrant and alive, with lots of traffic and people pulsing with rhythm. Our first night, we ended up at Sayuri for live music and delicious bowls, the first of many visits to this place. Ubud quickly became my favorite, and I didn't want to leave. Even as I write this, I'm dreaming about the day I get to return, maybe even permanently.

We did so many magical things in Ubud. I’m going to share my favorites in order. My most favorite thing was Bali Spirit Fest! What an incredible experience, the one day we bought tickets I got to hear one of my favorite artists perform, Nessi Gomes. It was so incredible seeing a artist I listen to all the time live and had been listening to her new song “Morning Mirrors” on repeat since it came out. So much magic ensued at this festival its hard to articulate it all, I met people I was supposed to meet and had some divine appointments that will lead to more magic to come. Of course, I ended up going to the festival again after that day and I went alone and made so many new friends, heard so many fascinating talks and amazing artists, including the Yawanawa tribe. Which was one of the most profound experiences of my trip, hearing them was an awakening of soul parts, a remembrance of sorts. Will never forget this experience.

My other favorite thing was our visit to Taman Beri Griya, our friend Fatima connected us with @bayuadityap__ via instagram. We were guided to go early to beat the crowds, we were the first people there and it was so magical having the place to ourselves. This experience was so transformative, it definitely helped that I took a micro dose this morning too. As soon as we got to this land, it felt sacred, there was a calm, peaceful energy as we got there and changed into their sarongs. We were each given a basket full of canang sari, the offerings of gratitude and respect to the gods. They are symbolically made of all the elements, woven of bamboo, with flowers, incense, rice, crackers, water and spices. We were able to make offerings to a number of different deities, Shiva, Brahma, Vishnu, Lakshmi, Mama Bali and Mother Nature. We got to pray, meditate and walk through a waterfall that was a direct connection to the Holy Spirit. We got to do water purification and scream therapy in one of the waterfall, which was in divine timing as my healing session the day before told me I need to scream. so, I let it rip :). Also we got to play with elephants at Mason Elephant Park & Lodge.

Meditating at Obyek Wisata Goa Gajah was another highlight. Arriving at 8 am, we were the first ones there and got to meditate in the caves, walk barefoot through the gardens and waterfalls, and connect deeply with the peaceful energy of the place. Also was guided to meditate on a platform in the middle of a lotus pond and the lotus consciousness came to me. It showed me we are all one and how it blossoms from the mud and blooms with no trace. The beautiful lessons we have to learn from the peace and harmony these flowers show us in how they create such beauty for us. As we can emanate the same energy. We also got to hold a snake after our visit in the meditation cave. Then in the afternoon, we visited the rice terraces, though the obligatory dress photos were not as necessary as I initially thought.

The Monkey Forest was a favorite excursion. I prayed for a monkey to climb on me, and it did! However, I also nearly got attacked by a feisty one, so proceed with caution, don’t look them in the eyes. The selfie we took with the monkey makes the cutest pictures.

Regarding healing sessions, I'll focus on the positive ones. I had a session with Phil Hunt, an osteopath and psychologist, who developed Insight Osteopathy. This modality creates a safe space for individuals to set an intention and guide them into a theta brain state, releasing emotions and bringing awareness to non-serving beliefs and patterns. The session was profound, like a plant medicine experience, allowing me to delve into my subconscious and address deep-rooted patterns. Afterward, I felt reborn. If you're in Ubud, I highly recommend a session with Phil (+44 7795 124371)

We did yoga almost every day in Ubud. My favorite was Empowerment Yoga with Byron at Yoga Barn, which included journaling and thoughtful reflection during the class. It was a beautiful experience intertwining movement and introspection. We also enjoyed Yoga at Ubud Yoga House, with its spectacular view overlooking a rice field, and Radiantly Alive.

Ecstatic Dance was amazing, here is a guided for all the Dance in Ubud: Dance Dance Dance

The food in Ubud was out of this world. Fresh, healthy, and nourishing. Although I did get Bali belly from some grilled octopus on the beach in Nusa Penida, I recommend bringing activated charcoal and probiotics to help with any stomach issues. My favorite meals were at Honey & Smoke, Hujan Locale, Donna, and Merlins. The vibes at Sayuri and Zest were the best.

Back to the food. We received this magical list from a friend of a friend and I pinned a lot of my favorite places, food and spots. Ill add that list that was sent to me at the bottom of this, gratitude to the mystery person who wrote this list. My favorite meals were at Honey & Smoke, Hujan Locale, Donna and Merlins. I loved the vibes at Sayuri and Zest the best.

Indulged in an obscene amount of massages and my first 4 hands massage, many foot rubs and one time while I got a manicure, typically $8-$35 with tip. I tried Ozone therapy, ear candling and loved it.

We did Mt. Batur sunrise hike and stayed in the cutest little glamping place that took care of everything for the hike, they picked me up and took me on the hike. The pick up was 3:30, got to the hike at 4 and got to the top by 4:50 and it was so cold, it felt like 32 degrees. I laid myself into a ball to keep myself warm. They feed ou a boiled egg sandwich, pressed banana sandwich, banana and some snack bars. The sun rose at 6 and it was magnificent, one of the most remarkable things I’ve witness. Worth the early wake up and the obscene amount of people. On the way down we got to see some wild monkey, naturally occurring hot steam and super slippery terrains on the way down. Be sure to bring grippy shoes as the terrain can be slippery. Was back to the glamp-site by 8 and napped and then they fed us a delicious breakfast (banana pancakes) and we went over to the hot spring after and soaked ourselves before heading back to Ubud.

We planned to spend 3 days in Nusa Penida and after 24 hours there were decided that was enough, we were missed the scene in Ubud. We did two tours, one through our hotel Semabu Hills, which was amazing, it took us to Goa Giri Putri, a temple inside of a cave we got to crawl through. We saw all the beautiful beaches, Diamond beach, Atuh, and Tree House. We had a wonderful dinner at Penida Colada, with live music and all the goods vibes. The next day with booked with Ojek Nusa Penida and we had so much fun with our driver Wayan, he was absolutely hilarious and let me play my own tunes on the car ride. We went to Broken beach, Angels Billabong, Klingking Beach and Temeling Beach.

Various honorable mentions: One day we did spend working and we went to this adorable pool lounge called Folk. Was the perfect quiet place for us to get work done. The best Kirtan of my life with Vijay at the Japanese Tea House. I did Lempuyang temple, leaving at 4am and got there and waited for 2 hours to take this photo, worth it ? Nope. We also went to Kanto Waterfall and was saturated with tourist, turned around as soon as we saw the line. Also we did the lotus water temple, it was cute and brief visit.

We had dinner at Michael Franti’s Place called SoulShine and it was unbelievably delicious and fresh the service was out of this world! The food was incredibly delicious, I will for sure be staying there on my next trip!

Noteworthy things to be aware of: download Gojek and Grab before you leave and put in your credit card before you leave the US. Don’t convert your money at the airport, the rate is terrible. I used just ATM, although using a bank would be better, I couldn’t find one. The water in Bali is really hard, like it dries your hair and your skin. I found myself using my hair mask once a week and did a deep conditioning treatment at a wash and blow dry place for $6. Any event you go to will not be starting on time, you don’t have to show up early :) Also highly reccomend having the Chase Sapphire Rewards card, it includes Priority pass membership, which gives you access to international airport lounges that was so nice to have!

Reflecting on this magical journey fills me with gratitude and awe. Bali's sacred energy and the warm-hearted Balinese people have left an indelible mark on my soul. From breathtaking landscapes to profound spiritual experiences, Bali has shown me the beauty of existence and deepened my connection to the divine. This is just a glimpse of the wonders of this island, and I look forward to the day I return to dance once more with the magic of Bali.

The way we felt after we got to do breath work with Marcel Hof (Wim Hof’s brother) It was epic!

In the taxi on the way to airport right in front of me, is it a sign?! ;)

Also here was a guided that was shared from Bruce: Ubud Guide

Here is the list from mystery angel of their reccomendations:

Food:

⁃ you gotta try fresh durian fruit when in season (starts October… but really is november through February). Always TRY BEFORE YOU BUY, and negotiate prices down, always always.

⁃ Usada, hands down best restaurant for all occasions, it’s healthy organic delicious Balinese Hindu food, get the mung bean thoran, shakshuka, nasi campur, the banana blossom stew, and the shilajit truffle for dessert,

⁃ Mother, also for healthy worldly food, love the veggie stack and calming blend tea, dinner menu different, I like the holy moly chicken special

⁃ Bali Buda, simple food, right next to radiantly alive: dollar whole coconuts, omelettes are amazing, great for breakfast (get the banana bread passionfruit stack), and the grocery is next door

⁃ Gaya Gelato : seriously good gelato, I go a lot, so many amazing flavors that change every day

⁃ Hujan Locale on Sri Wedari Street, my absolute favorite restaurant, a bit pricier and high end but so worth it, authentic Indonesian cuisine, the best in town, start with tuna betel leaf appetizer, and Oseng oseng (smoked fish and green beans) with nasi kuning (yellow rice), I always get the bebek goreng (crispy duck), the soft shell crab is amazing, and the desserts a bit underwhelming. Still favorite restaurant though!

⁃ Honey and Smoke, also by same chef as Hujan, it’s incredible, the lamb shoulder is the best thing ever. So is the roasted pumpkin dish.

⁃ Locavore to Go, come here for any meat needs, the burger a la ray is best burger ever, the fries are exceptional

⁃ La Baracca Pizza - burrata pizza is to die for, can’t get enough. Such. Good. Pizza. That or Osteria pizza near monkey forest, can’t seem to decide who has better burrata pizza.

⁃ Muse for Indian food, we always get the pumpkin spinach dosa or the butter chicken, and they have a great view

⁃ Zest, amazing place design wise, all plant based, seemed like only two dishes are amazing though: the Bangkok Bang bowl and the Jackfruit Pizza. The sushi is good too. Great smoothies though, and local ingredients - must get the cacao ceremony hot cup of chocolate!

⁃ Mudra, best for breakfast, great design, the dribbly eggs dishes (Rosti dishes) are awesome, and so are the Jacos (Japanese tacos). They have the best match lattes, and great coffee.

⁃ Old friends Cafe for a cute hole in the wall coffee place, I get the affogato, it’s addicting. Ubud coffee roastery also great, and Seniman Coffee.

⁃ Room4Dessert, takes 2+hrs, but only get one 9course tasting for everyone to share or else it’s sugar overload! Been once… it’s an experience.

⁃ Locavore, 20course meal was amazing, totally worth it, super adventurous, takes 2-3 hrs.

⁃ Casa Curandera, great location in an all bamboo building, plant based and delicious Colombian food. Close to a magical river you can walk down to, recommend getting the arepas

⁃ Pulau Kelapa for some authentic Indonesian cuisine and a nice garden.

⁃ Honorable mentions: Sayuri, Sage, 9 Angels Warung, Elephant, Dumbo, Moksa

Experiences:

⁃ Rent a scooter, it’s the best way to get around and feel free. Wear a helmet!

⁃ Temples, make a day of hopping around them cus they’re pretty, Tirta Empul is the best experience with water cleansing, it’s by far the most unique temple experience, a MUST DO and essential for really understanding the culture, you can get a monk there to help you understand how it all works

⁃ Shopping is best when not on the main streets, if they give you a price, BARTER, offer 30% of their initial quote, I always try to get half off their initial quotes

⁃ Monkey Forest is a one time thing, kinda have to do it, very pretty, ancient, overgrown and magical with all the monkeys

⁃ Bambu Indah, for the bamboo architecture, it’s beautiful and unique, make it a natural pool day, spend a good 3 hrs there. If you can - stay a night

⁃ Akasha, great bamboo architecture, cacao ceremonies are a bit weird, but kinda cool experience there, conscious full moon party afterward is fun with no alcohol

⁃ Ecstatic Dance - located at yoga barn every Sunday, great place to let loose, and dance for an 11am DJ set, no alcohol and no talking

⁃ Ubud Float Garden, Sensory deprivation tank experience, unique way to meditate for an hour or 90min. Best to do multiple times, I find it way better than pyramids of chi in terms of self exploration. Comes with whole coconut and great meal at end.

⁃ Pyramids of Chi, sound healing, lie next to the gongs and the center, not the outskirts like I did (I didn’t feel much because of that detail), you’ll want to be by all the vibration. It’s a glorified napping experience basically.

⁃ Paradiso movie theater is pretty nice, great deal too, $5 for a movie and a drink!

⁃ Campuan Ridge walk, takes about 15/20min, goes straight from a temple to Karsa Spa

⁃ If you want beach time, drive east 30-40min to White Sands Beach, it’s beautiful and not too far from Ubud

⁃ need a tattoo? Karma House in Ubud is where I’ve gotten 3 tattoos, it’s professional and the artists are very well practiced

⁃ For a good hike in the mountains, go to Mt Abang, it’s 3 hours up and 2 down, beautiful views and mostly covered by forest so you won’t get sunburnt, great way to experience nature. Only 1hr away from Ubud by scooter

⁃ “Secret” waterfall for the most local waterfall experience

⁃ 30min south of Ubud is a place called Hidden Canyon for some really cool river hike experience with beautifully water carved rock formations

Yoga:

⁃ Radiantly Alive for smaller classes, favorite teachers: Amira, Sana, Persia Juliet, Geoff Brooks

⁃ Yoga Barn, only took one class here, beautiful place yet lots of people

Spa:

⁃ tjampujan spa near Zest, in a hotel, it’s 100k rupiah for a great sauna, steam room, cold and hot plunge experience, and located in a cool carved grotto

⁃ golden hands in Ubud with Dewa, absolutely my favorite, $13 for 2hr massage (190k rupiah). I visit Dewa multiple times a week :)

⁃ Karsa Spa, amazing place, just beautiful, book in advance! Very booked, get 90min, a body scrub, and flower bath :) truly a full body massage, ask for Gusti or Nadi.

⁃ Maria Curau for mani pedi, they use natural products

⁃ Putri Bali spa, try the ayuryoga massage, stretching and bending type of massage that was totally new for me

⁃ Ida’s body work, ask for Ida if you want a massage that HURTS

Gym/Pool:

⁃ TitiBatu, great pool, community, gym, and spa.

⁃ Parq, biggest gym and very long pool (100m), also have sauna, steam, and cold plunge

Destination Munduk

⁃ 1hr from Ubud, stay a night or two at Ekommunity, it’s the BEST. From there you can hike four waterfalls, they’re spectacular. The restaurant at Ekommunity is delicious and the whole place is just so so special.

Destination Batukaru

Batukaru Coffee Estate is a great place to go and spend a night or two, about an hour from Ubud. Located in Jatiluwih, a world heritage area with the most beautiful rice fields and great walks, avoid midday sun. There’s an amazing waterfall that the local drivers know about

Destination Uluwatu

⁃ stay at Bandidos for the coolest architecture, concrete and bamboo mix, very beautifully done

⁃ The istana spa is MUST, great steam and sauna and pool overlooking on a cliff side. Absolutely the best spa in Bali

⁃ Drifters for food. Very good food all around

⁃ Ulus bakery for the best croissants on the whole island

⁃ La Baracca, pizza again! Great Italian all around

⁃ Cella (chela?), great spot, bamboo architecture, delicious food

⁃ Ours, probably best food in Uluwatu, such good quality, variety of options

⁃ Dreamland beach was best place to swim, way better than Bingin. Nyangnyang beach also good, just need to walk a bit before getting to a good swim spot.

Destination Canggu:

⁃ I honestly don’t know canggu too well yet sorry

⁃ the Lawn, it’s a blast at night, great music, great view of the beach

⁃ Stayed there one night and went straight back to Ubud cus it’s more magical

Adventures:

⁃ Lempuyang temple, temple with volcano backdrop, very magical if you go for sunrise since it’s high up. Go early or else it’s too touristy

⁃ Gili islands (did it this last trip, get the biggest boat possible to go, otherwise it’s scary as hell). Only went to Gili Air, it’s good for snorkeling and diving. Don’t think I’d go again though honestly

⁃ Go to waterfalls, they’re all magical

⁃ Nusa Penida island (haven’t been but hear it’s nice)

⁃ Lembongan for diving and snorkeling, also good if you want to experience Bali like what it was 30 years ago

⁃ Go to Amed if you’re looking to get certified for scuba diving

⁃ Balian is a good spot for beaches west of Canggu, more for a beach vibe, no real town there or restaurant options.

Bali

Aniwa

Guatemala