Author: tom

Our lives revolve around food and sometimes it can be scary going to a new country and trying new dishes. Well we are here to recommend all the best food to try in Bali! 

The local cuisine in Bali is amazing,  but don’t panic, western food is always available! So if you’re craving a burger, pizza or even a steak you will be able to have it! 😃

Bali is very big on clean eating, all foods are very fresh and they cater for all, with loads of options for Vegetarians and Vegans, in fact Bali is one of the top Vegan travel destinations! 😍 (Check out our Camp Vegan programme for more information!)

With so much on offer and some strange names it can be hard to know what to try! Here are a few of our personal favourite foods to try whilst you’re in Bali! 

Nasi Goreng + Mie Goreng

Nasi Goreng is a very popular Indonesian fried rice dish. It consists of rice with a little bit of meat and onion. The main element that distinguishes it from other fried rice dishes is the sauce. A sweet soy sauce (known as Kecap Manis) that stains the rice dark brown and caramelises the rice when it cooks! Traditionally it is served with a fried egg and a side of fresh cucumber and tomato! 

Mie Goreng is similar to Nasi Goreng, but with noodles instead of rice! 

A dish packed full of flavours with equal parts being sweet and salty, with vegetables and tender chicken and/or shrimp! Super delicious! 

After you have been to Bali and broadened your culinary skills, you may want to try cooking it yourself at home! 😃

Sate Lembat

Better known in the UK as Chicken Satay. Seasoned, skewered meat normally chicken or pork, barbecued over hot coals and served with a peanut sauce.

Satay Chicken did in fact originate from Indonesia, so there is no better place to eat it! You can find this in most restaurants, but it is also a popular street food, making it an easy snack to grab whilst you are on the go! 

Smoothie Bowls

A personal favourite and very popular in Bali is smoothie bowls. You can find these in nearly every restaurant and cafe. Either have them for breakfast or a healthy afternoon snack, the choice is yours.

With so many options from different fruits like bananas and strawberries, to peanut butter, chocolate and the most popular is Acai bowls, there is something for everyone!

A super tasty way to eat all your fruits and vegetables and with a mixture of toppings from granola, nuts and seeds, fresh fruit, coconut or chocolate shavings!

Packed full of flavours and goodness and guaranteed to keep you full for a few hours, giving you plenty of energy to do some yoga or maybe a surfing lesson 😝

Got a sweet tooth? Not too worry, Bali is filled with plenty of sweet treats! 

Pisang Goreng

Pisang Goreng is a favourite Malaysian tea time snack. It is a fritter made by deep frying battered plantain (banana) in hot oil. Once deep-fried, the batter turns crispy, while the banana is very sweet.  It is best served while it is still hot with a side of vanilla Ice cream…delicious! 

Typically this is sold on food stalls, so it’s very accessible and you will see them sold often! Definitely worth treating yourself to a sweet treat 😜

Dadur Galung

Dadur Galung is a very popular street food snack in Indonesia. These are delicious rolled coconut pancakes. They are very eye catching due to the green pancake colouring which is flavoured in pandan and then filled with shredded coconut sweetened with golden palm sugar.

Impress your friends and family by cooking this at home!

With so much tasty food on offer to try, you will certainly not be hungry in Bali! 😝

Much love,

The Camp Team x

The Gili Islands are a group of 3 tiny islands, Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air, located to the northwest of Lombok. They are characterised by white sandy beaches fringed with palm trees and they are well known for their amazing coral reefs, the perfect place to go snorkelling and see if you can find Nemo! 😜

The Islands are the ideal escape from the chaotic mainland, with no motor vehicles it is the dream location to explore, either on foot or by bike! You can cycle around Gili Trawangan in around 2 hours and Gili Meno in about 30 minutes (told you they were small😝)

An advantage of the Islands being small is you can see both sunrise and sunset from either side of the Islands and it is truly beautiful. So grab a couple of beers one evening to watch the sunset or brave an early rise one morning to watch the sunrise over the ocean! We can assure you, its worth it!

Gili Trawangan

Gili Trawangan is the largest of the three islands and known as a party Island and as soon as you arrive on Gili T you will immediately see why. Once you get off the ferry, you will sense the buzzing atmosphere and probably see people sipping on beers and cocktails on the beach.

With so many lively clubs and bars available, there is never a dull moment. Gili T is filled with people who share one common emotion… Partying 😜

The most iconic spot on Gili T is the Datu swing, this is a swing that is situated in the ocean! Datu Swing is very popular among tourists and it’s a classic spot to get a good Instagram photo! The swing has become so popular, it is sometimes better known than Gili T itself!

Top Tip: Head there an hour before sunset to give yourself plenty of time to get that perfect Instagram photo that will make all your friends super jealous! 

Gili Air

Need a break from all the partying? Why not head over to Gili Air, which is a lot more laid back and relaxing compared to Gili T.

One of the best things to do is to rent a bike and explore the island! Follow the beachside and see all the best beach clubs along the way and it’s always worth stopping for a cheeky cocktail or two 😉

Gili Meno 

Gili Meno is the smallest island and just off the shore is our personal favourite snorkelling spot. There are 48 life-size human sculptures formed in a circle. The Sculptures are a project called ‘Nest’ and placed there to act as artificial reefs to ensure that corals start growing. This results in lots of fish swimming around the sculptures and it is beautiful! 

It now functions as a popular diving site and the perfect spot to get an insane photo!

You’re time visiting the Gili Islands will never have a dull moment and definitely will not disappoint! White beaches, crystal clear waters full of wonders to discover, plenty of bars and clubs to dance the night away in… What more could you want?

Lucky for you, our Camp Bali Island Hopper programme includes all of this! So what are you waiting for? 😃

Much love, 

The Camp Team x

Nusa Penida is the largest of the three Nusa Islands just off the mainland of Bali. Despite being the largest though, its one of the least built up – whilst you may not find the quirky cafe’s and snazzy restaurants that the rest of Bali boasts, Nusa Penida houses some of the most incredible photogenic sights in all of Indonesia!  Since there’s so much to see on tis beautiful island, we recommend at least a couple of nights stay – especially if you’re looking to do the amazing boat trips to nearby islands! Here’s a few of our favourite Nusa Penida hotspots: 

KelingKing ’T-Rex’ Hike and Beach

Everyone’s seen the famous picture, but in person this Instagram famous coastal cliff-line is absolutely breathtaking (and strangely alike to a T-Rex, hence the name!). Set your sights on crystal blue waters and crashing waves, and if you dare take the hike down to KelingKing beach at the bottom of the cliff. The trek down is pretty challenging, however doesn’t disappoint when you reach the secluded beach at the bottom! Just be sure to make it back to the top before sunset! (we recommend allowing at least an hour to get down and back up again). 

Angels Billabong and Broken Beach

Anglels Billabong and Broken beach are two other popular attractions in Nusa Penida. With a natural infinity pool, framed by rocks overlooking Manta Beach, Angels Billabong hosts some incredible insta-worthy shots! Swim in the warm sea pools or walk around the cliffs and gaze upon the ocean beneath you – if you’re lucky, you may even see Manta Rays passing by! Angels Billabong is located nearby to Broken Beach otherwise known as ‘Pasih Ug’, so we recommend doing both attractions in one day if possible. The naturally formed rock lagoons offer a scenic seascape, but be sure to only swim at low tide! 

Snorkelling/Boat Trips

From Turtles to Manta Rays to Dolphins and the most tropical Fish, there’s so many things to see under the sea in Bali! Here’s just a few of the best places we recommend to boat trip to (take a snorkel, for sure!) – Crystal Bay, Manta Bay, Gamat Bay and KelingKing Beach. 

Turtle Conservation

Whilst on Nusa Penida there are endless opportunities to experience Balinese sealife – hop on a boat tour and you’ll find yourself snorkelling with turtles, manta rays, dolphins etc, however there’s something really unique about performing some conservation! Nusa Penida is home to several turtle conservation centres where you can learn all about the life of a turtle, how they are affected by global warming and plastic pollution as well as clean their habitats and feed them! And of course, you can’t forget that turtle selfie! Check out the incredible CampBali programme itineraries for the work we do working with the best turtle conservation centre on Nusa Penida.

Beach Clubs

Bali is world renowned for its quirky and jazzy beach clubs, and as a new, up and coming island, Nusa Penida is very new to the party BUT we would 100% recommend a visit to Maruti beach club and AMP beach club! Soak up the rays and be waited on with cocktails and delicious cuisine – both Balinese and Western! Swim in a luxury pool and gaze out to a palm-fringed beach – bliss. 

If this sounds like your idea of paradise, explore Nusa Penida on our 20 day Camp Bali programme next summer!

Much love,

Camp Bali Team x

We all know that taking photos isn’t everything whilst travelling but when you’re somewhere as beautiful as Bali, getting a few great snaps for the ‘gram can’t hurt right?

Bali is one of the most instafamous places on earth, famous for unique landscapes, spas, food and beaches so we’re here to show you all of the best spots to make sure your trip (and instagram feed) is next level! And don’t worry if you’re not a pro photographer, the stunning scenery does all the hard work for you!

1.  Rice Terraces

Now you might be thinking, a rice terrace? Isn’t that basically a farm? Well you’re wrong! The rice terraces in Bali are iconic and among the most beautiful places in the world. All over the Ubud region you’ll find terraced hillsides full of rice paddies surrounded by lush greenery. Many of them are open for tourists, with large jungle swings and winding paths through the terrace so you can get a view of this beautiful area from all angles! 

2. Ubud Monkey Forest 

Another great attraction in Ubud is the famous Monkey Forest. This is where all those great monkey selfies you see all over social media are taken, and now it’s your turn! 

The Monkey Forest is a sanctuary and natural habitat for the Balinese long-tailed monkey. About 1049 monkeys live in this sanctuary, so plenty there to take some great photos of. Also the forest itself is amazing to explore! Just be sure to ask one of the staff to help you if you want to take the famous monkey selfie!

3. Kelingking Beach

This is definitely up there as one of the most beautiful (and most photographed) places in Bali. The viewpoint at the top is easy to get to with a massive visitor car park next door but you’ll have to battle the crowds to get the perfect pic from up here. To really get the full experience, battle the climb down to the beach. The stunning white sand and clear water is well worth the hike down to the bottom and most of the crowd stays at the top, making it the perfect place to get those dream tropical paradise photos with no people in the background! Did someone say private beach?! 

4. Diamond Beach

Diamond Beach is possibly the most stunning beach in Bali and is up there with one of the best in the world. The contrast between the white sand and sharp blue water, nestled under limestone cliffs, is what makes this spot truly iconic. 

This is another beach that requires a bit of a walk but it’s nowhere near as difficult as Kelingking and we’d definitely recommend it! You really have to see the sand to believe it!

5. Broken Beach 

Broken Beach is a beautiful scenic coastal formation on the southwestern edge of Nusa Penida. The star landmark of the area is the rock arch formation, it is a great spot for travel photographers due to the stunning panoramic views! There are even special platforms dotted around to give you a better angle!

You can sit and watch the waves crashing in from the Indian Ocean and if you’re really lucky you may even spot the silhouettes of the giant manta rays near the surface of the clear blue water!

6. Heaven’s Gate, Lempuyang

Lempuyang Temple, or as us westerners like to call it, ‘Heaven’s Gate’, is a picturesque temple located a few hours east of  Ubud. 

Nestled in the highlands of Mount Lempuyang, sitting 1,775m above sea level these iconic gates have become so popular that the temple staff have implemented a queuing system and there are people on hand specially to help you get the best possible picture.

If you’re lucky enough to go on a clear day, you can see Mount Agung in the background. Don’t be late though as the queue can be long and may be full as early as 3pm.

7. Beach Clubs

If you’re looking for a little luxury during your time in Bali, head to one of the fantastic beach clubs dotted around the island.  Here are a few of our favourites:

•  Potato Head 

Potato Head Beach Club is the regular host for the Ultra Beach Bali EDM festival and is located right on the beach with a great infinity pool and swim up bar. With Cabanas all around, it’s easy to feel like an A list celebrity here. So put your best swim suit on, as this is a prime place for a photo shoot. Be sure to stay into the evening when a DJ arrives and watch the gorgeous sunset over the beach whilst sipping on a cocktail, the dream right? 

• Jungle Fish

Nestled in the middle of the jungle just outside of Ubud, the aptly named Jungle Fish truly is an oasis with an infinity pool looking out over the greenery. With hanging day beds and an extensive cocktail menu, you could easily spend a day lounging around. 

• Mrs Sippy 

Home to the largest salt water pool in Bali and some of the best pool parties, Mrs Sippy definitely should be on your list! With swings, large sunbeds, high diving boards and luxury bean bags to lie on in the pool, this Insta-ready beach club is one not to miss

Want to take in the best sights of Bali without the hassle? Why not join us on Camp Bali in 2021? Our itinerary is the perfect introduction to the island and takes in many of the most insta-famous spots imaginable! Application are open now!

Much love, Camp Bali Team x

The town of Ubud, in the uplands of Bali has quickly become one of Indonesia’s biggest hotspots for young travellers, and with good reason! From its incredible rice paddies and waterfalls to its exhilarating volcano hikes, yoga and meditation classes – Ubud really does have that famous Balinese quirk and flare. Known as the ‘cultural capital’ of Bali, there’s endless things to do within Ubud, that’s why we’ve put together a short list of Ubud’s best bits and must-sees!

Tegalalang Rice Terraces 

The Tegalalang Rice Terraces in Ubud are some of the most important spots to visit in Bali. Famous for beautiful rice paddies, tiered high in an innovative irrigation system, this expression of greenery shouldn’t be missed by nature lovers! Take a full blown tour of the rice terraces, or just turn up and have a wander at your own pace – the locals here are extremely friendly and welcoming. 

The Bali Swing 

We’ve all seen this one on Instagram…the infamous Bali-Swing! Due to its ‘insta-worthy’ nature many a travellers head to this tourist hotspot upon arrival to Ubud to swing high over the rice terraces and lush Balinese jungle. These days, an authentic Bali experience wouldn’t be complete without a swing – and the Ubud swing certainly doesn’t disappoint as one of the eldest original swings with the most incredible views of local villages scattered within the overlooking jungle. 

Cat-Poo-Chino 

Located just a few minutes walk away from the Ubud Bali-Swing, Cat-Poo-Chino is certainly a unique Balinese attraction. Producers of the famous ‘Luwak Coffee’ (which is possibly the best coffee we’ve ever tasted!), Cat-Poo-Chino takes you on a tour of how their wacky business works. Luwak coffee is created by using coffee ‘berries’ that have been eaten and excreted by a Balinese native cat-like animal, the Palm Civet. Prepare to see these amazing animal up close and learn about the process of how the ‘Cat-Poo-Chino’ is finessed. You’ll also get to try an array of different flavoured coffee and tea’s whilst overlooking the Bali-Swing – might as well tick 2 of the bucket list at once, right? 

Mount Batur 

Mount Batur, otherwise known as Gunung Batur is an inactive volcano located just outside of Ubud. Due to its incredible views from the top, this extraordinary hike has become especially popular with adventurous tourists looking for a magical start to their day with a sunrise hike. Whilst the hike is pretty challenging, the panoramic sunrise views from the peak will leave you lost for words and in total awe. And if that’s not enough to persuade you to jump out of bed for the hike, there’s also a set of hot springs on the decent down from the top that people tend to stop off at and rejuvenate! Did someone say Mountain Spa Day?! 

Monkey Forest 

The Ubud Monkey Forest is home to over 1000 grey-tailed macaque monkeys, making it a hotspot for animal lovers keen to have a close encounter with these cheeky animals! Roam the Balinese Forest as monkeys swing from branch to branch above you, watch them feed and be prepared for one of them to even climb on you – perfect picture moment! Be sure to get rid of any food, water bottles or valuables before entering the Monkey Forest though, as the monkeys have been known to be pretty good thieves! 

Food Food Food 

Bali is an ultimate foodies paradise! With quirky cafe’s, traditional Balinese restaurants and street food available on almost every winding street, there’s always somewhere to indulge in ‘Insta-Worthy’ cuisine! Looking for foodie inspo? Check out ‘KYND Community’, ‘Bali-Buda’, ‘Earth Cafe’, ‘ZEST Ubud’, and ‘The Secret Spot’. If you’re looking to eat cheap, we recommend eating local – Nasi-Goreng and Mi Goreng (balinese rice/noodle dishes) are always a safe option and 100% delicious! 

Yoga, Meditation and Massages 

Lets face it, you’ve not been to Bali if you didn’t take part in a Yoga or Meditation class. Bali’s fitness vibe is peaking at the moment, and we’re totally here for it! We’re talking sunset and hot yoga to full body meditation overlooking a rice field! Why not top off the experience with a traditional Balinese massage too? Ubud is renowned for it’s impressive array of fitness classes and massage parlours, so there’s really no better place to revive and rejuvenate! 

Our Camp Bali dates for 2021 have just been announced so apply today to explore Ubud with us next summer!

Much love,

Camp Bali Team x