Bali is one of those places that hits different—the kind of destination that feeds your soul, whether you’re chasing adventure, culture, or just a little slice of paradise. From lush jungles to dramatic cliffs and iconic beach clubs, this island is pure magic. And if you’re going to do Bali right, you might as well do it in style—starting with The Apurva Kempinski Bali, a resort that defines luxury meets Balinese artistry. https://www.kempinski.com/en/the-apurva-kempinski-bali

Why Bali Should Be on Your Bucket List
Bali isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience. Whether you’re diving into its vibrant culture, soaking in world-class beaches, or chasing waterfalls in the jungle, every moment feels straight out of a dream.

Top Things to Do in Bali
Chill at Bali’s Best Beach Clubs – If there’s one thing Bali knows how to do, it’s beach clubs with a serious vibe. Head to Savaya for dramatic cliffside views, Sundays Beach Club for crystal-clear waters, or Oneeighty° for an infinity pool that literally hangs over the edge of the ocean.
Explore Ubud’s Rice Terraces & Monkey Forest – The heart of Bali is lush, green, and spiritual. Walk through the stunning Tegalalang Rice Terraces, visit the famous Monkey Forest, and get lost in the bohemian vibes of Ubud’s cafes and markets.

Day Trip to Nusa Penida – Want to feel like you’ve stepped into a real-life screensaver? Take a boat to Nusa Penida, where you’ll find jaw-dropping cliffs, Kelingking Beach’s T-Rex-shaped rock formation, and the unreal blue waters of Angel’s Billabong and Broken Beach.

Watch the Uluwatu Kecak Fire Dance – One of the most legendary cultural experiences in Bali, this dance takes place at Uluwatu Temple, perched high above the crashing waves. As the sun sets, dancers perform a mesmerizing ritual, making it one of the most unforgettable sights on the island.

Indulge in a Balinese Spa Day – Let’s be real—a Bali trip isn’t complete without a spa day. Think flower baths, deep-tissue massages, and centuries-old healing rituals that will leave you floating.

Must-Try Traditional Balinese Dishes

Bali’s food is all about rich flavors, fresh ingredients, and deep cultural roots. Here are some must-try dishes while you’re on the island:
Babi Guling (Balinese Roast Suckling Pig) – One of Bali’s most famous dishes, babi guling is a roast pig stuffed with turmeric, lemongrass, and local spices, slow-cooked until crispy on the outside and juicy inside. You’ll find the best at Ibu Oka in Ubud.

Ayam Betutu (Balinese Slow-Cooked Chicken) – A flavorful dish where chicken is rubbed with turmeric, garlic, and Balinese spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and slow-roasted for hours. Try it at Warung Nasi Ayam Kedewatan in Ubud.
Bebek Bengil (Crispy Duck) – This legendary dish features a marinated duck that’s deep-fried until golden and crispy. The best place to try it? The famous Bebek Bengil “Dirty Duck” Diner in Ubud.

Nasi Goreng (Indonesian Fried Rice) – A classic that you’ll find everywhere, nasi goreng is stir-fried rice mixed with eggs, vegetables, shrimp, or chicken, topped with crispy shallots and served with a fried egg.
Lawar (Balinese Mixed Salad) – A traditional side dish made with minced meat, grated coconut, and Balinese spices, often served with rice and grilled meats.
Jaje Laklak (Balinese Pancakes) – A delicious Balinese dessert made from rice flour, coconut, and palm sugar, often served with grated coconut.

The Apurva Kempinski Bali: Where Luxury Meets Balinese Artistry
If you’re looking for next-level luxury in Bali, The Apurva Kempinski is the place to be. Perched dramatically on the cliffs of Nusa Dua, this resort is breathtaking from the moment you arrive—a true masterpiece that took five years to create.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with The Apurva Kempinski
Jaw-Dropping Design – Think traditional Balinese craftsmanship meets sleek modern luxury. The entire resort is designed to immerse you in Balinese culture, from its ornate wood carvings and temple-inspired architecture to its dramatic tiered infinity pool that cascades toward the ocean.

Oceanfront Suites & Villas – Whether you’re waking up in a luxurious suite with a private balcony or lounging in your own villa with a private pool, every stay here feels like a dream.
World-Class Dining – Foodies, get ready. The Apurva Kempinski’s restaurants are on another level. Experience Koral, Bali’s first underwater restaurant, where you dine surrounded by marine life, or indulge in authentic Indonesian flavors at Pala Restaurant. Every meal is an experience in itself.
That Infinity Pool – One of the most iconic pools in Bali, this multi-tiered infinity pool offers front-row seats to the Indian Ocean. Whether you’re sipping cocktails or just floating in the sun, it’s pure bliss.
Next-Level Spa & Wellness – The Apurva Spa is all about balance and healing, offering Javanese and Balinese wellness rituals that tap into centuries-old traditions. It’s the perfect place to unwind after exploring the island.

Close to Bali’s Best Attractions – Located in Nusa Dua, you’re just a short drive from Uluwatu’s dramatic cliffs, Ubud’s cultural heart, and Bali’s most stunning beaches.

Bali’s Best Fine Dining & Unique Culinary Experiences
Bali isn’t just about street food—it’s home to some of the best fine dining restaurants and innovative culinary experiences in the world.

Locavore (Ubud) – A Michelin-worthy experience, Locavore is all about sustainable, locally sourced ingredients transformed into mind-blowing dishes. Expect a multi-course tasting menu that fuses Indonesian flavors with modern gastronomy.

Koral Restaurant (Nusa Dua) – Located at The Apurva Kempinski Bali, Koral is Bali’s first underwater restaurant, where you can dine surrounded by exotic marine life. The seafood-focused menu is just as stunning as the views.

La Lucciola (Seminyak) – An elegant beachfront restaurant known for its fresh pasta, grilled seafood, and romantic sunset vibes.

Sangsaka (Seminyak) – A modern take on Indonesian cuisine, Sangsaka blends traditional flavors with fine dining techniques and an open-kitchen experience.
Potato Head Beach Club (Seminyak) – Not just a beach club, but a culinary hotspot offering an array of dishes inspired by Balinese and international flavors. Try their signature tuna tataki or crispy pork belly while sipping on a coconut cocktail.

Sundays Beach Club (Uluwatu) – Famous for its oceanfront dining experience, Sundays serves grilled seafood, tropical fruit platters, and some of the best cocktails on the island.
If you want to experience Bali like a local, head to these iconic street food spots:

Gianyar Night Market – Just outside Ubud, this market is the best place to sample sate lilit (Balinese satay), grilled corn, and fresh tropical fruit juices.

Sanur Night Market – A street food paradise offering everything from mie goreng (fried noodles) to sweet martabak (Indonesian stuffed pancakes).

Jimbaran Fish Market – The ultimate spot for fresh seafood straight off the boat. Pick your fish and have it grilled with Balinese sambal.

 

Words by Elena Vasilevsky