Jess Buchan

We all know Bali is the ultimate budget holiday destination. Just an international flight from New Zealand and you’ve landed in the island of cheap beers and never-ending nights. While this can give the impression that Bali is only for those looking for a beaches and Bintangs, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the trendy and luxurious options that Bali has the offer.

bali sunset

Watch the famous Bali sunset from the popular beach club Ku De Ta.

If you head further north to Seminyak, you’ll find yourself a whole world away from the young ravers and bucks parties that take over Kuta Beach. Seminyak has always been the stylish and modern alternative to Kuta, yet was always deemed more of a honeymoon destination. However, now people wanting brunch and boutique shopping with a Balinese flair have replaced the honeymooners and morphed Seminyak into the ultimate ‘it’ destination.

Brunch Haven

First things first, breakfast. Or brunch, because you are on holidays after all! If there is one thing the Balinese have done really well, it’s perfecting the ultimate brunch menu. The food options are endless and the health conscious will love the beautifully made meals that taste as good as they look. Some great places to visit are Shelter Café, Earth Café, Sea Circus and Revolver Espresso. However there are new cafes popping up all the time, so there is no shortage of places to eat at!

bali coffee

Revolver Espresso  is easily the best coffee in Bali. 

Food and Stores Galore 

When it’s time to burn off the calories you just consumed over brunch and burn a hole through your wallet, have a wander down Jalan Kayu Aya where it’s shopping galore!  Here you will find unique buys that you’ll appreciate a lot more than a Bintang singlet. This street meets Seminyak Square, where you’ll almost forget you’re in Bali with its modern shopping centre layout and Western retail feel.

When hunger strikes again, why not try a modern twist on Indonesian food at Chez Gado Gado or get lost in the many different worlds at La Favela. If you’re looking for a more casual scene, visit the colourful Motel Mexicola or La Plancha where you can chill out in beanbags on the beach.

motel mexicola

Colourful Motel Mexicola has so many things to look at!

Nightlife

Nightlife in Seminyak is a step ahead of the crowd at Kuta. With sleek bars and exclusive beach clubs, you’ll feel like you’re living the high life. While the classic places like Ku De Ta and Potato Head Beach Club are always popular, newer places such as Mrs Sippy are just as fun without the massive crowds.

mrs sippy bali

The best part about Mrs Sippy is the huge diving platform!

Rest and Relaxation

Of course, a trip to Bali is incomplete without totally pampering yourself! If you’re on a budget, Spa Bali has a few different salons around Seminyak and they offer the best prices for treatments - you can even have a chocolate spa! If you’re looking to splurge then Prana Spa is for you. Surround yourself in decadence and come out a completely new person.

Explore More

If you do find yourself wanting to explore more of Bali, you can usually hire your very own driver to take you around for a great price. The hip area of Canggu is next door to Seminyak and the cultural centre of Ubud is about an hour away. If you’re looking to explore a more authentic part of Bali, head north where there are less tourists and beautiful lakes and open spaces.

rice paddies

Discover beautiful spots in Bali by scooter or car.

So if you’re looking to book a holiday to Bali but unsure where to base yourself, definitely go for Seminyak. With a buzzing café culture, fun nightlife and Balinese culture right at your doorstep, Seminyak has the best of everything to offer.   

Top Tips

  • It's definitely worthwhile getting a driver for the day so you can venture out to the surrounding areas and see more of Bali.
  • Make sure you visit Uluwatu, check out the temple there and watch the sunset as a group of locals perform traditional Balinese dances. Uluwatu is also one of the top surfing destinations in the world if that's more your scene! 
  • Add Ubud to your must-see list to experience nature with endless rice fields and a glimpse into local life. 
  • Check out the famous Rock Bar for a cold drink in an uber cool setting. 

 

Jess Buchan is an Aussie travel blogger who has lived in Europe and loves to share her travel stories on her blog, Instagram @ablondeandherpassport and Twitter @ablondeandher.

The views, opinions and positions expressed by the author and those providing comments are theirs alone, and are meant as travel inspiration only. They do not reflect the opinions of Cover-More Insurance. You should always read the Policy Documents available from your travel insurance provider to understand the limits, exclusions and conditions of your policy and to ensure any activities you undertake are covered by your policy.