2022
Kuta Chronicles: Part 1 - Arrival and Appetites
Day 1 in Bali
Bali Bliss: From Mumbai to Kuta's Culinary Delights and Footy Paradise!
Our trip to Denpasar, Bali began with a bit of a surprise! While our flight originated in Mumbai, we had a layover in Vietnam, where unfortunately, our luggage decided to take a vacation of its own.
After waiting for our bags to arrive, we finally reached our hotel, SOL HOUSE BALI KUTA, in Kuta by evening.
Feeling weary from the 12-hour journey, we ventured out for dinner at PUNJAB GRILL, a delightful Indian restaurant just a short walk away (around 800 meters). We savored a delicious plate of paneer tikka masala with wheat bread, the perfect way to end a long travel day. To truly unwind after dinner, we treated ourselves to a relaxing foot massage, melting away any lingering stress and setting the stage for an unforgettable Balinese adventure!
Day 2 in Bali
We woke up to a beautiful scene from our window at Sol House Bali Kuta. The best part about staying at this hotel was definitely the location! There was a street shopping market right outside the hotel entrance, which made it very convenient to shop for souvenirs and other goodies throughout our stay. We fueled up for a day of exploring Kuta with a delicious breakfast at the hotel.
Nusa Dua Bliss and Soaring High: An Unforgettable Bali Day.
Our first full day in Bali kicked off with a scenic scooty ride to Nusa Dua beach, conveniently located near our hotel. The pristine sands and turquoise waters made for the perfect backdrop for capturing stunning photos. The idyllic beach vibes were just the beginning, though!
Next, we embarked on an exhilarating adventure – my first ever attempt at paragliding! The location, situated close to the beach slide, offered stunning launch points. The pre-flight jitters were quickly replaced by pure exhilaration as I took off in tandem with a certified pilot.
Soaring high above the breathtaking landscape of Bali was an unforgettable experience. The feeling of weightlessness and freedom as you glided through the air.
This incredible experience added a whole new dimension to our Balinese adventure, leaving us with memories that will last a lifetime.
Paradise Beaches, Delicious Detours, and Monkey Mischief: Our Bali Adventure Continues.
With adrenaline pumping and excitement buzzing, we continued our journey to Pandawa Beach. This hidden gem, tucked away in a secluded cove, offered a serene contrast to Nusa Dua's vibrancy. The crystal-clear waters and soft, white sand provided the perfect backdrop for another round of amazing pictures.
As the sun climbed higher, hunger pangs started setting in. Fortunately, a delightful surprise awaited us – Utsav Indian Cuisine at Garasi Restaurant. Initially seeking a taste of home after all the excitement, we were blown away by the biryani. Flavors exploded with every bite, surpassing even our favorite Indian restaurants back home. You perfectly described it as "water mothering delicious"! The accompanying raita added the perfect finishing touch to an absolutely heavenly lunch.
Refueled and ready to explore further, we set off for Karang Bom Cliff. However, a heads-up from locals revealed the presence of mischievous monkeys with a reputation for snatching belongings. This unexpected detour added a touch of adventure (and perhaps a healthy dose of caution!) to our day.
Uluwatu's Enchantment: Sunset, Sarongs, and a Touch of Culture.
Our Balinese adventure continued with a journey to Uluwatu Temple, a captivating cliffside sanctuary bathed in the island's mystical aura. Here, respect for the local customs is key. Sarongs are provided for visitors to ensure proper attire for entering the temple grounds. While the inner sanctum is reserved for Balinese worshippers, the surrounding areas offer stunning vistas and opportunities for capturing unforgettable pictures.
Though we opted to skip the long queue for the renowned Kecak dance performance (famous for its captivating fire and chanting), the promise of an awe-inspiring sunset after 6 pm was enough to keep us captivated. As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in a kaleidoscope of colors, we witnessed a spectacle that truly lived up to its reputation – one of the most amazing sunsets in Bali.
Exiting the temple grounds, a refreshing treat awaited us – chilled coconut water straight from the fridge. Unlike the ones back home, these coconuts were giants, easily satiating two thirsty souls!
To cap off this incredible day, we indulged in another delicious Indian cuisine dinner, followed by a relaxing foot massage. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day filled with cultural exploration and breathtaking sights.
Tips and Recommendations for Your Stay in Kuta, Bali:
Accommodation:
- Variety is the spice of life: Kuta offers a wide range of accommodation options. Budget-conscious travelers can find hostels and guesthouses.
- Haggling is an art form: While some prices may be fixed, don't be afraid to politely negotiate, especially for longer stays or during the off-season.
Exploring Beyond the Beach:
- Markets and Shopping: Kuta offers a shopper's paradise! Explore the bustling Kuta Art Market for souvenirs, handicrafts, and local textiles. Hone your bargaining skills and be prepared for a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells.
Food and Drink:
- Warungs are your friend: Warungs are small, family-run restaurants serving delicious and affordable Indonesian fare. Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try new things!
- Nightlife: Kuta is known for its vibrant nightlife scene. From stylish beach bars to lively nightclubs.
General Tips:
- Respect the culture.
- Bargaining is expected.
- Beware of scams.
- Carry small change.
Google maps location link:
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