TravelWhiz by Wendy Orr
Bali Indonesia Tegalalang rice terraces Ubud green

Bali Vacations — The Island of the Gods

Indonesia

Best Time to Visit: April through October
Climate: Tropical with a dry season (April–October) and a wet season (November–March). Temperatures are warm year-round (27–32°C).

Bali is one of the world's most extraordinary travel destinations — a small Indonesian island with a unique Hindu culture, extraordinary terraced rice paddies, ancient temples perched on clifftops, world-class surfing, and some of Southeast Asia's finest luxury resorts. Ubud, Seminyak, Canggu, and Uluwatu each offer a completely different Bali experience.

Why Visit Bali?

  • Tegallalang Rice Terraces — the most iconic landscape in Bali
  • Uluwatu Temple — an extraordinary clifftop temple with sunset Kecak fire dance
  • Ubud — the cultural heart of Bali, with extraordinary art, yoga, and cuisine
  • Seminyak — Bali's most sophisticated beach area, with world-class restaurants and beach clubs
  • Mount Batur — an active volcano with extraordinary sunrise trekking

Things to Do in Bali

Wendy can arrange any of these experiences as part of your personalised itinerary.

Tegallalang Rice Terraces

Walk through the extraordinary Tegallalang Rice Terraces — the most iconic landscape in Bali, with extraordinary views of the terraced paddies.

Uluwatu Temple Sunset & Kecak Dance

Watch the extraordinary Kecak fire dance at Uluwatu Temple at sunset — one of Bali's most magical experiences.

Ubud Art & Culture Tour

Explore the extraordinary cultural heart of Bali — the Ubud Palace, the Monkey Forest, the art markets, and the extraordinary Balinese cuisine.

Mount Batur Sunrise Trek

Trek to the summit of Mount Batur for an extraordinary sunrise — an active volcano with extraordinary views over the caldera lake.

Surfing at Kuta or Canggu

Surf the extraordinary waves of Kuta or Canggu — Bali is one of the world's great surfing destinations, with waves for all ability levels.

Balinese Cooking Class

Take a Balinese cooking class — learn to make nasi goreng, satay, and other extraordinary Balinese dishes.

Ready to book your Bali trip?

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Where to Eat in Bali

Wendy's recommended restaurants — from fine dining to authentic local cuisine.

Fine Dining

Locavore, Ubud

One of Asia's most celebrated restaurants — extraordinary modern Indonesian cuisine using only local Balinese ingredients.

Indonesian Fine Dining

Merah Putih, Seminyak

Bali's most beautiful restaurant — extraordinary Indonesian cuisine in a stunning open-air pavilion.

Balinese Cuisine

Warung Babi Guling Ibu Oka, Ubud

Ubud's most celebrated warung — extraordinary babi guling (suckling pig), the most iconic dish in Balinese cuisine.

Where to Stay in Bali

Wendy has personal relationships with these properties and can often secure upgrades and exclusive rates.

Como Uma Ubud

Luxury

Ubud's most celebrated luxury resort — extraordinary jungle setting, world-class spa, and exceptional Balinese design.

Potato Head Studios, Seminyak

Luxury

Bali's most design-forward hotel — extraordinary architecture, exceptional beach club, and world-class service.

Alaya Resort Ubud

Mid-Range

A beautiful mid-range resort in Ubud — excellent pool, good restaurant, and a perfect location in the cultural heart of Bali.

Planning Your Bali Trip

📅 Best Time to Visit

April through October — the dry season with the best weather for outdoor activities and beach holidays. November through March is the wet season.

🌤️ Climate

Tropical with a dry season (April–October) and a wet season (November–March). Temperatures are warm year-round (27–32°C).

✈️ Getting There

Connecting flights from Calgary to Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Denpasar via Tokyo, Singapore, or Doha. Total travel time approximately 18–22 hours.

W

Wendy's Take on Bali

35+ years of travel expertise

After 35+ years of helping travelers discover their dream destinations, Bali remains one of those truly magical places that holds a special spot in my heart. Known as 'The Island of the Gods,' Bali is an enchanting tapestry of vibrant culture, serene spirituality, and breathtaking natural beauty. It's a destination that truly offers something for everyone, whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deep dive into unique traditions.

For those who crave tranquility and spiritual rejuvenation, Bali's ancient temples, like the iconic Tanah Lot, perched on a rock formation amidst crashing waves, offer moments of profound peace. The lush, emerald-green rice terraces of Ubud, with their intricate irrigation systems, are a testament to the island's harmonious relationship with nature and are perfect for mindful walks or cycling tours. If you're an avid surfer, the southern coasts boast world-class breaks that draw enthusiasts from across the globe. Families will find joy in the island's gentle beaches and welcoming resorts, while couples can indulge in romantic sunsets and exquisite dining experiences.

The best time to visit Bali is generally during the dry season, from April to October, when the weather is sunny and pleasant, ideal for exploring all the island has to offer. My personal favorite thing about Bali is the warmth and genuine hospitality of its people. Their smiles are infectious, and their dedication to their spiritual practices creates an atmosphere of grace and beauty that is truly captivating.

When planning your Balinese escape, here's a booking tip from my 35+ years of experience: consider booking a combination of stays. Start with a few days in the cultural heartland of Ubud to immerse yourself in art, yoga, and traditional ceremonies, then move to a coastal area like Seminyak or Canggu for beach relaxation and vibrant nightlife. This approach allows you to experience the diverse facets of Bali without feeling rushed. Remember, Bali is more than just a destination; it's an experience that will enrich your soul and create memories to last a lifetime.

Insider Tips — Bali

1.

Always carry small denominations of Indonesian Rupiah for local purchases and tips, as many smaller vendors don't accept cards.

2.

Consider hiring a private driver for day trips; it's surprisingly affordable and offers flexibility to explore off-the-beaten-path gems.

3.

Pack a sarong or scarf for temple visits; it's a sign of respect and often required for entry.

4.

Download an offline map and a local ride-sharing app like Gojek or Grab for convenient and fairly priced transportation.

5.

Be mindful of the local customs and traditions, especially during religious ceremonies, and always ask for permission before taking photos of people.

Frequently Asked Questions — Bali

Do Canadians need a visa for Bali?

Canadian citizens can obtain a Visa on Arrival (VoA) at Bali airport for a 30-day stay. The fee is approximately USD $35. An e-VOA can also be obtained online before travel.

What is the best area to stay in Bali?

Ubud is best for culture, yoga, and nature; Seminyak and Canggu are best for beach clubs, dining, and nightlife; Uluwatu is best for surfing and clifftop views; Nusa Dua is best for families and luxury resorts.

Is Bali good for families?

Bali is excellent for families — the beaches, the rice terraces, the temples, and the extraordinary Balinese culture are wonderful for children.

Book Your Bali Trip with Wendy

As your trusted travel consultant, Wendy handles every detail of your Bali vacation — from flights and hotels to transfers and experiences. Get in touch for a free, no-obligation quote.

Book Your Bali Trip with Wendy

Tell Wendy about your Bali travel plans and she'll respond within 24 hours with personalised options and pricing.

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