Bakso is probably my favorite Indonesian dish. Depending on where you are, you will get different kinds of Bakso dishes (e.g. different meat, different taste of the broth, and even different condiments in one bowl). If I had to choose, I'd go for Bakso Malang, a dish originally from Malang, East Java. If you would like to taste the best Bakso in Bali, try to find one that is originally from Bandung, West Java. This city of Indonesia is widely known for its Bakso dishes. You can go to Bakso Boedjangan in Sunset Road, Kuta, Bali. As someone who grew up in Bandung, I vouch for this Bakso restaurant!

I lived for more than 4 years in Bali, yet I have never found one food stall selling the same Jaja Bali from one another. The components and ingredients may be the same, but they serve this sweet snack in their own way. However, they never disappoint me. Needless to say, you should go to the Balinese eatery for the best Jaja Bali. I like the one made of "Tape" or fermented sticky rice. It is less sweet but as delicious!

Since Tanah Lot Temple is literally located on a rock in a body of water, your visit relies on the weather and time of the year. During the rainy season or when the seawater rises, you can only see the temple from afar as the path towards the temple is completely underwater and it is too dangerous to cross. Please check with your guide prior to booking your trip. I highly recommend you to go when the path is accessible and you can actually see the temple from up close. Because only then you can experience an actual Balinese blessing ritual from a Balinese priest inside a small cave underneath the temple.

Whenever my friends and family visit, I would take them to Uluwatu Temple. First and foremost, it is one of Bali's most important temples. Needless to say, the view from the top of the cliff is just breathtaking. Mind the monkeys, though, they can be pretty naughty. Usually, I just walk past and ignore them, and they will not disturb me. If you don't want to risk it, you can hire an on-site guide to clear your path from these little rascals. I suggest you visit around 3 p.m. as the sun starts to go down and the monkeys are usually taking their naps!

I have been to many temples in Bali, and I recommend Taman Ayun Temple near Denpasar if you want to experience the genuine vibe without having to travel too far from the city. From my own experience, this temple has never been so packed with tourists as they prefer other more popular temples such as Tanah Lot and Uluwatu. By itself, it is an architectural gem. And my main reason to keep coming back here is the tranquility of this temple. I like having a picnic with my family in one of their gazebos next to the river. 

Definitely go here for the sunset. What's good about Kuta Beach is that it is only a few steps away from malls, restaurants, bars, and stores. In fact, there are bars right at the beach area. Grab yourself a cold beer or a glass of fancy cocktail, pick a beanbag with the best, unobstructed view of the ocean, and just enjoy your afternoon. It doesn't even have to be a full day at the beach either. You can make Kuta Beach a quick stop on your shopping day.

I love Ubud's peaceful vibe. I usually pick a cafe by the rice terraces, order one fresh young coconut, and just sit there with my laptop to work. These rice terraces are owned by locals and are authentic, so you would occasionally see cows and ducks roaming around. Better not forget to bring your camera!

I have tried many seafood dishes in Indonesia, yet Jimbaran seafood is just like no other. My favorite is the grilled oysters, with special seasoning which distinguishes their taste. This area is so popular and always packed with tourists. If you want to dine at the beach area, you should come as early as 4 p.m. to save a spot, that is if the restaurant is not fully booked by an arranged tour. Even so, the taste of Jimbaran seafood itself is worth a visit.

Balinese food is nothing like any other cuisine in Indonesia. I highly recommend tasting homemade traditional Balinese dishes. The water spinach-based dish is one of my favorites. Think of it as salad, but with a unique taste of Bali. Ask if they have "Bulung" which is similar to the water spinach salad but it is made of seaweed-like plants. This dish is usually savory and spicy, but a great appetizer or snack for the locals.

Jimbaran seafood is popular among tourists mostly because of the experience of dining at the beach accompanied by the majestic sunset. However, the taste itself is worth a visit. I recommend you try the grilled oyster dish. The seasoning is like no other I have ever tasted and I always come back for more. Keep in mind, Jimbaran seafood restaurants are mostly packed around sunset time. You need to come as early as 4 p.m. to get a good spot.

Living in Bali, I would go for a massage at least twice a month. While affordable, every treatment is handled by a professional. Choosing a spa parlor owned and run by Balinese is a must. They know what they are doing and you will not be disappointed. I would go for the traditional Balinese massage with aromatherapy oil (my favorite is "frangipani" oil) and rejuvenating foot reflexology. They should not cost you more than 150.000 IDR per one-hour session.