So, I just got back from Bali, and let me tell you, it was one of those trips that takes your brain on a wild ride. I mean, when you think of the best things to do in Bali, you picture paradise, right? But surprise, surprise—it's a little more messy and beautiful than that.
This spot? Total surprise.
Let's start with this little gem I stumbled upon while wandering around Ubud. I had every intention of seeing the famous rice terraces—those iconic, postcard-perfect views. But somehow, as I was trying to navigate my way there (and by navigate, I mean taking a total of three wrong turns), I ended up at this tiny, tucked-away café called the “Sari Organic.” Honestly, I wasn't expecting much; the signage was all hand-painted, and it kind of looked like something out of a Boho magazine. But the minute I stepped inside, I was hit by the aroma of fresh coffee and something sweet baking.
I sat on this wooden deck that felt like it was literally part of the forest. I watched the locals chat, kids running around, and got a glimpse of that beautiful way of life they have—slow, rhythmic, organic. As for the food? Oh man. They served this papaya salad that was mind-blowing. Each bite was like a party in my mouth, bursting with freshness and topped off with a sprinkle of crushed peanuts. I don't know why I almost dismissed it just because it wasn't on my “must-try” list.
The afternoon that changed my whole mood
Then there was this one afternoon when I felt a bit lost. The whole vibe of the trip flipped upside down. I was having one of those moments where it felt like everything was a bit overwhelming—too many tourists, too many paths leading nowhere. I was sitting at a beach bar, staring at my half-finished drink, not even sure if I wanted to continue the adventure.
But just then, this group of locals next to me started sharing stories. They were artists, and they invited me to join them for a mini yoga session right there on the beach. “Why not?” I thought. I wasn't feeling particularly zen at the moment, but as we went through the poses, feeling the sun warm my back, everything started to click.
The ocean waves crashing in sync with my breathing—it was like a reset button pressed. Who knew a random yoga class could shift my whole mood? Afterward, they shared some local food with me, and I found myself laughing and connecting with these beautiful strangers who turned a frustrating afternoon into a memorable one.
I almost missed this, no thanks to my bad sense of direction
Speaking of getting turned around, let's talk about how I almost missed the iconic Tirta Empul temple. I was seriously just a little too focused on taking artistic selfies at the rice paddies and lost track of time. I had set my Google Maps to lead me there, but somehow my sense of direction just took a nap. I drove around in circles for what felt like an eternity, my heart sinking as I realized I could utterly blow my chance of seeing this sacred site.
Finally, I accepted that my navigation skills might not be the best. I pulled over at a small roadside stall to ask for directions, and this old guy started laughing—bless him—and showed me his phone with Google Maps ready. “Just follow me,” he said with a grin. He literally hopped on his scooter and led me through the most charming backroads. I don't know how much the ride cost in gas, but it was worth every penny.
When I got to the temple, I felt like I'd arrived at a spiritual oasis. The water was crystal clear, the carvings on the stone were beautifully intricate, and the air was thick with sacred energy. I took part in the holy purification ritual, dipping my head into sacred water, and you know what? That moment of silence felt like a weight lifted off my shoulders. I almost turned back due to my bad sense of direction, but now I'm so grateful I didn't.
When food becomes a fun challenge
And oh, don't get me started about the food experiences that turned into little adventures. One evening, I decided to try “Babi Guling,” which is basically roasted suckling pig—sounds intense, I know. I found this tiny warung, and honestly, it felt a little chaotic inside with locals chatting and kids running around. I was the only foreigner.
So, I'm there, trying to remember some Indonesian words, feeling a tad self-conscious, when all of a sudden, I accidentally ordered enough food to feed a small village. They brought out platters piled high with pork that was falling apart tender, rice, a side of spicy vegetables, and these amazing, crispy cracklings. The server, noticing my bewilderment, laughed and said something like, “It's okay, it's for sharing!”
I ended up sharing my feast with this couple at a nearby table, who were super friendly and traveled all the way from Argentina. A few bites later, our conversation shifted from food to travel stories to life goals. What started as a simple meal turned into a full-on cultural exchange. Who knew that a little miscommunication could lead to a night filled with laughter and new friendships?
Wrapping it up (kinda)
So, as I sip my coffee and reflect on all these wild moments, I can't help but feel like Bali was more than just the best things to do in Bali. It wasn't about checking items off a list; it was about all these little surprises and mistakes that led to something more profound.
I think I learned more about myself during that trip than I expected. I went in thinking I had it all mapped out (literally and figuratively), but it was the missteps, the unplanned moments, and those scrappy little detours that really made it unforgettable.
For someone like me, who tends to go with the flow, I realize now that sometimes the best experiences come when you throw your itinerary out the window and just allow yourself to be. And maybe that's the best tip of all.
