Bali Bound - How I spent less than S$2k on a 9-day trip!

It's been a hot minute since we got to travel, and as soon as travel bans were lifted, I found myself itching to hop on a plane. My first destination: Bali. What's even better? I managed to keep my budget well under $2k, without compromising on an epic 9-day experience.

During my trip in May 2022, it was mandatory to conduct a PCR test prior to arrival, which cost me a whopping $95. (this too, has been included in the overall budget so you can spend that money on other meaningful experiences!)

Throughout the trip, my friend and I explored many areas within Bali, such as Seminyak, Uluwatu, Ubud and Canggu - which had a unique vibe of their own! We managed to do many interesting activities and dine at great spaces. Here's a brief budget breakdown of my trip:

We found our accommodations to be well-situated, and it was really convenient to move around! Grab and Gojek were very fast and abundantly available, so we had no issues moving around the island. Alternatively, I would recommend getting a driver if you're staying for an extended period of time, and on days where you will be constantly travelling around the island. Our driver's name was Maikel, and he was really pleasant! He charged us about Rp 450,000 for 10 hours - excluding tolls and parking.

Our driver - Maikel! Contact him at +62 813-3741-3340 *tell him Jeevan recommended him!

With the sheer amount of variety Bali provides in terms of experiences and food, I'll just be covering my top highlights from each district.

SEMINYAK

Activity: Haircut at Head Most Barbers

This was actually my third time visiting this place, and I highly, highly recommend it - guys should definitely pay a visit here! With just $10SGD, you get a cut, wash, massage and styling service. The barbers were friendly and made me feel so comfortable - it was definitely one of the best haircuts and head massages I have personally experienced, and I cannot wait to be back for my next one! Given the price point, this experience is very worth the visit.

Address: Jl. Sunset Road No. 27X, Seminyak, Kerobokan Kelod, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia

Price: S$10

ULUWATU

Activity: Uluwatu Temple

The views at Uluwatu Temple were absolutely stunning!! We had to pay an entrance fee of S$5 at the entry, and we were provided with a Sarong to drape around ourselves, out of respect and modesty. There is also a very popular Indonesian folk dance called the Kecak Dance, that is held during two sessions every evening. It is highly popular, so I recommend booking your tickets on Klook in advance, and start making your way towards the performance arena a good 20 minutes before if you want to snatch up good seats with a great view!

There are also a lot of monkeys that enjoy helping themselves to tourists' items, so do be sure to keep your lose items such as sunglasses and phones in your bag. To end off the day, we headed towards the nearby Uluwatu Beach (which was a long climb down) where we were greeted with crystal clear waters and watched the sun set.

Price: S$5

UBUD

Activity: Massages at MIDAS Spa

After our tiring expedition to climb Mt Batur (you can read about it here!), we decided to treat ourselves to a massage - not once, but TWICE in the span of two days. According to my friend, he thought it was one of the best massage experience he's had so far in Bali. If you're intending to try this place, make sure to make a booking before you head down!

Address: Jl. Raya Ubud, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia

Price: S$14 for 1hr (full body), S$12 for 1hr (foot massage)

CANGGU

Activity: Surfing Lessons @ Canggu Beach

This was definitely the highlight of my trip. Our instructors were very professional, and made sure to pay full attention to us during the 2-hour lesson. I was tagged to Instructor Rahmad, who was really patient with me and I was really happy that by the end of the session, I was able to catch a wave and stand on my own!

Pro-tip: Definitely bring insect repellant along with you - the sand flies got quite attached to me (the feeling was not mutual pls)

Price: S$35 per pax

Whatsapp Rahmad at +62 813 6945 3512 if you're keen to book a session - I highly recommend him!

NUSA PENIDA

Activity: Day trip to Nusa Penida

If you're a fan of super scenic places - I'd highly recommend paying a visit to Nusa Penida! Their iconic T-Rex Shape Rock Cliffs were breathtaking. We booked the 8.30am ferry from Sanur Ferry Point with a 4.30pm return ticket, and had to book a private charter driver to take us around to visit the popular sites. Here are some tips from my trip there:

• Book a cab in advance from your mainland accommodation - we struggled to find a cab early in the morning to bring us to Sanur Ferry Point

• Be prepared to walk in water to get to your ferry, so wear something suitable (e.g. shorts)

• Apply heaps of sunblock - it's really hot

• Pack slippers for the beach, and make sure you're wearing appropriate shoes cause there's lots of trekking.

• Make sure to bring some snacks/energy bars

• Travel light (PLEASE don't bring a suitcase...)

* Our guide brought us to this restaurant called TA Restaurant - I don't recommend it because I think the food wasn't that great and it was expensive.

Do be aware that this is a full day trip and you definitely will be exhausted, so make sure to set aside minimally an entire day to explore more of the island - if I went back I would stay for 1-2 days to cover more of the island.

In all, I'd say we did a lot during out trip - and got a bang for our buck. If you'd like to know more about some of my recommended eating spots, my trip to Mt Batur and my top club recommendations in Bali, check out my posts as linked! Do let me know in the comments if you have a must-go place in Bali!