Without a doubt, one of the best-known travel destinations in Indonesia is Bali. From rice paddies and mountains to beaches and reefs, Bali has something for everyone.
Kuta, Legian and Seminyak are some of the main tourist areas where you will find an abundance of restaurants, bars, and some great shopping. Be sure to bring an empty suitcase with you so you can shop up a storm. You cannot go home without buying a sarong or two. Some of the easiest shopping you will do is while you’re soaking up the sun on the beach, with a cocktail in hand…the vendors come straight to you!
With Bali’s western-facing beaches, this is the perfect spot to watch the sunset. Make sure you visit one of the local beach restaurants for a sunset cocktail or dinner.
The local cuisine is exceptional. After indulging in all the delectable delights on offer, you will want to learn how to cook them yourself and better still, share your new-found culinary skills with your friends and family once you return home. Gifting Owl has several food tours to choose from where you can learn all about the local cuisine and how to cook some of their most delicious dishes. Your stomach will thank you for it later!
With Hinduism as the main religion, you will have the opportunity to visit some spectacular temples and palaces set amid the most beautiful parkland and nature preserves. Tanah Lot and Uluwatu temple are two of Bali’s most renowned and are built on rock formations over the ocean. Both are impressive sites that you shouldn’t be missed when visiting.
It is almost a given that your trip to Indonesia will include a visit to a temple or palace of some sort, so make sure you pack the appropriate clothing to visit these temples. A long sarong (below the knee) and shirt with covered shoulders are required.
Although it is tough heading away from the beautiful beaches and coastline of Bali, it is absolutely recommended. Indonesia’s rice terraces are an inspiring sight. One of the most famous is the Tegallalang Rice Terraces located at Ubud about a one-hour drive from Kuta, although, with Bali traffic, you can never be sure. The Tegallalang Rice Terraces are along the main road of Jalan Raya Tegallalang. As you go, the roadside is almost wall to wall with stalls selling arts, crafts, woodworks, macramé and so much more. We would recommend hiring a driver for the day so you can explore this beautiful region but also have somewhere to store all those irresistible goodies you just have to take home with you.
A close second behind Bali when it comes to Indonesia’s most popular destination is Lombok. Lombok is a beautiful destination and perfect for those who want to get away from the form it all and escape the crowds that are found in Bali. Lombok is an island to the east of Bali and is accessed via a short ferry ride.
One of the biggest drawcards of Lombok is the Gili Islands. The Gili Islands are a group of three tiny atolls famous for their sandy beaches, relaxed atmosphere, coral reefs, and no motor vehicles. On arrival to the Gili Islands, your luggage can be carried to your accommodation with the assistance of a donkey and cart.
If you’re a Scuba Diver or even a keen snorkeler, you will want to make sure you get out on the water here. The visibility is excellent year-round. However, the best time to dive in Indonesia is the drier months, generally from April – November.
The list of things to do in Lombok is endless. Beaches, waterfalls, hot springs and an abundance of hikes and mountain climbs come to mind. One of the most famous hikes is Mount Rinjani. Mount Rinjani is still an active Volcano and the second largest in Indonesia. You can trek to the crater of Mount Rinjani at the summit giving you some of the best views over Lombok.
If you have time on your visit to Lombok, another great experience is visiting one of the local villages that still partake in what is Lombok’s biggest industry – textiles and weaving. Seeing the locals perform this skill will leave you in awe. It is also a great spot to pick up some souvenirs.
No matter what you or your giftee plan to do in Indonesia, Gifting Owl has more than one experience that will be the perfect fit.
