Bali Travel Diary: My First Time in Indonesia After Malaysia and Singapore
- May 2, 2019
- 15 min read
Bali felt like the soft ending my Southeast Asia journey needed.
After starting in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, continuing to Singapore, and seeing two very different sides of modern Southeast Asia, I finally flew to Bali, Indonesia — the last major stop of my Malaysia–Singapore–Bali DIY trip.
Malaysia gave me culture, towers, and the feeling of beginning. Singapore gave me futuristic architecture, discipline, and city perfection. Bali gave me something else entirely: warmth, temples, beaches, rice fields, spirituality, food, and the kind of calm that slowly reaches you without forcing itself.
I arrived in Bali with a heart already full from the previous stops, but the island had its own way of making space for new memories. From the moment I landed at Denpasar Airport to the final night by the beach, Bali felt less like a destination to check off and more like a place that asked me to slow down.
This Bali travel diary is my personal memory of visiting Indonesia for the first time — the arrival, the beach hotel in Sanur, the private tours, the temples, the cultural stops, the food, the landscapes, and the quiet promise I made to return.
About Bali, Indonesia
Bali is one of Indonesia’s most famous islands and one of the most visited destinations in Southeast Asia. It is known for beaches, temples, rice terraces, waterfalls, surf spots, yoga retreats, traditional arts, spiritual culture, and dramatic coastal scenery.
Bali is located in Indonesia, between Java and Lombok. The main airport is Ngurah Rai International Airport, also known as Denpasar Airport, although it is actually located near the southern part of the island.
The currency is the Indonesian rupiah. Because of the exchange rate, travelers may suddenly feel like “millionaires” after exchanging money, but it is still important to understand local prices carefully. English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, especially in hotels, restaurants, tour services, and major attractions, but learning a few simple Indonesian phrases is always useful and respectful.
Bali has a tropical climate. It is generally hot and humid, with a dry season usually considered better for outdoor travel and beach activities, and a wetter season when rain is more common. Light clothes, sandals, swimwear, sun protection, temple-appropriate clothing, and comfortable walking shoes are helpful.
Food is part of the Bali experience. Travelers can try satay, nasi goreng, mie goreng, bebek betutu, babi guling, grilled seafood, fresh juices, Balinese coffee, and local meals served in warungs or restaurants. Bali is also known for private drivers, day tours, beach clubs, villas, rice terraces, sacred temples, monkeys, and a strong connection between daily life and spiritual tradition.
For first-time travelers, Bali can feel beautiful and emotional, but it is not always as simple as photos make it look. Traffic can be heavy, attractions are spread out, entrance fees add up, and planning your route well matters. But with patience and good preparation, Bali can become one of the most memorable places in Southeast Asia.
Arriving in Bali from Singapore
My Bali journey began after Singapore.
After experiencing the clean streets, futuristic skyline, Marina Bay Sands, Sentosa, and Changi Airport, I flew to Indonesia with a completely different expectation. Singapore felt polished and precise. Bali, even before I fully understood it, felt like it would be warmer, slower, and more soulful.
On the morning of December 12, around 10:00 AM, my plane landed at Denpasar Airport.
The airport immediately caught my attention. It had a modern design, but it also carried traditional Balinese touches. That balance between contemporary structure and cultural detail felt like a preview of the island itself. Bali knows how to welcome visitors visually. Even the airport already gives you a sense that you have entered somewhere with a strong identity.
After passing through the airport, one of my first missions was finding a money exchange counter. That was when I had one of those funny beginner travel moments: after exchanging money, I suddenly had a large amount of Indonesian rupiah in my hands.
It felt amusing to become an “instant millionaire” because of the exchange rate. Of course, it did not mean I was rich. It was just one of those small travel surprises that makes you smile when you enter a new country.
First Ride to Sanur
Outside the airport, my driver was waiting to take me to Sanur.
Sanur is known for its calmer beach atmosphere, especially compared to busier parts of Bali. It felt like a good base for the kind of trip I was having. After Malaysia and Singapore, I did not want to jump immediately into chaos. I wanted somewhere that could welcome me gently.
As we drove through Bali, I started noticing the island’s character: statues, temples, motorbikes, offerings, roadside shops, tropical plants, and a different rhythm from the cities I had just visited.
The ride itself became part of the arrival. Bali is not a place where the airport-to-hotel transfer feels invisible. The roads already tell a story. You see culture, movement, traffic, and daily life all happening at once.
When I reached my beach-view hotel in Sanur, the sound of the ocean and the salty air made the arrival feel complete. After days of moving from one country to another, it was comforting to finally be near the sea.
Staying in Sanur: A Calmer Side of Bali
Sanur gave me the kind of first impression I needed.
It was peaceful, coastal, and less overwhelming than I expected. My hotel had a beach view, and the atmosphere felt like a retreat. The sound of the waves, the sea breeze, and the slower movement of the area helped me settle into Bali’s mood.
For first-time visitors, choosing where to stay in Bali matters a lot because the island is not one single experience. Seminyak, Canggu, Ubud, Uluwatu, Kuta, Nusa Dua, and Sanur all feel different. Sanur felt more relaxed, which worked well for this part of my journey.
After busy cities like Kuala Lumpur and Singapore, Sanur felt like Bali telling me: you can slow down now.
My First Bali Private Tour
The next day, I started exploring Bali through a private tour.
This was one of the best ways to experience the island because Bali’s attractions are spread out. Public transport is not as simple as in Singapore, and moving between beaches, temples, cultural stops, and viewpoints can take time.
Having a driver who also acted as a guide made the trip easier. It allowed me to focus more on the places instead of worrying about directions, traffic, parking, or transport.
Our first stop was a local restaurant at 3 Princess Boutique Hotel and Spa, where I tried a regional duck dish. It was rich, flavorful, and a proper introduction to Balinese cuisine. Food in Bali is not only about eating. It often feels connected to place, setting, and tradition.
That meal set the tone for the day: cultural, local, and full of discovery.
Searching for a Local SIM Card
During the tour, we also looked for a local SIM card, but at that time, the price felt surprisingly expensive, so I decided not to continue with it.
Looking back, this was one of those travel lessons I still remember. Internet is not a luxury when you are moving around a new country. It helps with maps, translation, ride bookings, communication, checking opening hours, and staying connected with your hotel or driver.
At that time, I had to adjust. Today, I would prepare better before arrival, especially with eSIM options or a clear mobile data plan.
Garuda Wisnu Kencana: A Monumental Welcome to Bali
One of the most impressive stops was Garuda Wisnu Kencana.
The statue is massive and powerful. It depicts Lord Vishnu riding Garuda, a mythical bird, and it immediately shows the artistic and cultural scale of Indonesia. Seeing it in person made me appreciate how much symbolism and craftsmanship can be placed into one monument.
It is not just a photo stop. It feels like a statement — a reminder that Bali is deeply connected to mythology, spirituality, and art.
For a first-time visitor, Garuda Wisnu Kencana is a strong introduction to Balinese and Indonesian cultural identity. It shows that the island is not only beaches and resorts. It has stories, symbols, and traditions that are much older than tourism.
Padang Padang Beach: A Hidden Coastal Escape
From Garuda Wisnu Kencana, we continued to Padang Padang Beach.
This beach felt special because of the way you reach it. It is tucked away beyond a narrow cave-like entrance, making the arrival feel more dramatic. You do not simply walk into a wide open beach. You pass through a small passage, and then the view opens.
The beach had that tropical Bali feeling — cliffs, water, sand, and a slightly hidden atmosphere. There were also monkeys around, which added both charm and caution.
Bali’s monkeys can be entertaining, but travelers should be careful with sunglasses, phones, food, plastic bags, and loose items. They are quick, curious, and sometimes bold.
Padang Padang reminded me that Bali’s beauty often comes with personality. It is not always polished or perfectly controlled. Sometimes it is wild, funny, crowded, peaceful, and unpredictable all at once.
Uluwatu Temple: Spiritual Beauty on a Cliff
Uluwatu Temple became one of the most memorable places from my Bali trip.
Located on a dramatic cliffside, the temple offers breathtaking views of the ocean. Standing there, with the waves far below and the temple set against the edge of the land, I understood why Bali feels spiritual to so many travelers.
The place has natural beauty, cultural meaning, and a powerful sense of location. It is not just the temple itself. It is the cliff, the sea, the wind, the sky, and the feeling that you are standing somewhere ancient and sacred.
When visiting temples in Bali, respect matters. Travelers should dress properly, wear a sarong when required, follow local rules, and remember that these are not only attractions. They are spiritual places.
For me, Uluwatu was one of those stops where travel becomes quieter. You take photos, yes. But you also pause.
Beachside Dinner and the First Night Feeling
After the tour, my guide brought me back to the hotel.
That evening, I had a buffet dinner by the beach. The sound of the waves, the breeze, the lights, and the calm atmosphere made the night feel almost cinematic. After a full day of temples, monuments, beaches, and local food, it was the kind of ending that made me understand why people fall in love with Bali.
The island had already started to leave a mark on me.
Some places impress you quickly. Bali slowly settles into you.
Morning Walk Along Sanur Beach
The next morning began with a quiet walk along Sanur Beach.
This was one of my favorite simple moments. No big attraction. No entrance fee. No rushing. Just the shoreline, the morning air, and the calm sound of the water.
After days of flights, airports, and tours, that walk felt grounding.
Travel diaries are often built around famous places, but some of the strongest memories come from the quieter parts. A morning walk. A view from a hotel. A meal by the beach. A moment when you are not doing much, but you feel fully present.
Sanur gave me that kind of memory.
UC Silver Gold and Balinese Craftsmanship
On another tour day, our first stop was UC Silver Gold.
The place showcased Bali’s jewelry and precious metal craftsmanship. It felt like stepping into a world of detail — silver, gold, patterns, design, and handmade artistry.
Bali has a strong craft culture, and stops like this help travelers see that the island’s beauty is not only natural. It is also created by people: artisans, makers, carvers, cooks, dancers, and temple builders.
As someone who appreciates design, I enjoyed seeing the level of detail in the work. It reminded me that culture is often preserved through craft, not only through monuments.
Tirta Empul: A Sacred Water Temple
Tirta Empul was one of the most culturally meaningful stops of my Bali trip.
Before entering, I was asked to wear traditional Balinese attire, which immediately reminded me that I was entering a sacred place. The temple is known for its holy spring water and purification pools, where rituals are performed by locals and visitors.
The atmosphere felt calm, spiritual, and deeply connected to Balinese belief. There were fountains, water pools, carvings, temple structures, and a sense of ritual that made the place feel alive.
I remember noticing how Bali’s spirituality is visible everywhere — not just inside temples, but in offerings, statues, clothing, ceremonies, and daily gestures.
Tirta Empul helped me understand that Bali is not simply a tropical vacation destination. It is a living cultural and spiritual landscape.
Statues Wrapped in Sarongs
As we moved around the island, I noticed many statues wrapped in sarongs.
This detail stayed with me because it showed how deeply culture and belief are woven into everyday life. To a visitor, it may look decorative at first. But in Bali, these cloths often carry spiritual and cultural meaning.
Seeing them again and again reminded me that Bali’s identity is not hidden. It is visible on roadsides, temples, entrances, homes, and public spaces.
That is one of the beautiful things about the island. Culture is not separated from daily life. It is part of the environment.
Pangkon Bali: Dining Among Rice Fields
One of my most memorable meals was at Pangkon Bali, a restaurant set among rice fields.
The food was served on banana leaves, which made the meal feel even more connected to the place. Around us were green fields, farmers, tourists, and a peaceful rural atmosphere.
It was more than lunch. It was a full visual and cultural experience.
Eating traditional food in a setting like that reminded me how powerful simple travel moments can be. The meal, the landscape, the people working in the distance, and the warm air all became part of the memory.
Bali knows how to combine food and scenery in a way that feels effortless.
Cretya Ubud and the Kopi Luwak Experience
Another stop was Cretya Ubud by Hala Arum, where I learned about Bali’s famous kopi luwak.
Kopi luwak is known for its unusual production process involving coffee cherries eaten and passed by civet cats. It is one of those travel experiences that is both curious and memorable. The taste was rich and different from regular coffee, and I decided to bring some home.
But Cretya Ubud was not only about coffee. The surrounding rice terraces were beautiful. The green landscape stretched around us, creating the kind of scenery many travelers imagine when they think of Bali.
This stop combined coffee, culture, nature, and photo-worthy views. It felt like one of those places where Bali gives you several experiences in one setting.
Rice Terraces and the Beauty of Ubud
The rice terraces around Ubud showed me another side of Bali.
While the beaches offer calm and coastal beauty, Ubud and its surrounding areas feel more connected to fields, crafts, temples, and traditional life. The green terraces had a peaceful rhythm to them. They made the landscape feel alive and carefully shaped by generations of work.
For first-time visitors, I think Ubud deserves time. Even though I only saw part of it, I could already understand why many travelers stay longer there. It feels slower, more cultural, and more connected to nature.
Bali is not only one destination. South Bali, Sanur, Uluwatu, Ubud, and the northern areas can feel like different chapters of the same island.
Taman Ayun Temple: Traditional Balinese Architecture
Another day brought me to Taman Ayun Temple.
This temple stood out because of its traditional Balinese architecture, gardens, moat, and peaceful atmosphere. The meru towers, stone carvings, and landscaped surroundings made it visually beautiful.
As someone who notices buildings, structure, and design, I appreciated the balance of architecture and landscape. The temple did not feel isolated from nature. It felt placed within it.
That is something I noticed many times in Bali. Architecture, spirituality, and nature often feel connected. Temples are not just buildings. They are part of a larger setting.
Taman Ayun was quieter compared to some of the more dramatic attractions, but it had its own calm beauty.
Wanagiri: A Cloudy View, but Still a Memory
From Taman Ayun, we continued toward Wanagiri.
This area is known for viewpoints over Lake Buyan and Lake Tamblingan. Unfortunately, it was cloudy during my visit, so the view was not as clear as I had hoped.
But that is also part of travel.
Not every viewpoint gives you the perfect photo. Not every day has perfect weather. Sometimes clouds cover what you came to see. Sometimes you leave with an unfinished feeling.
Still, the experience mattered. The drive, the landscape, the expectation, and even the cloudy disappointment became part of the Bali story.
Travel is not only about perfect conditions. It is about being there.
Places I Still Want to See in Bali
As my time in Bali started running out, I realized how much of the island I had not seen.
There were still places calling me back: the Sacred Monkey Forest, Heaven’s Gate, The Edge, the famous T-rex-shaped cliff in Nusa Penida, and so many more.
That is the thing about Bali. Even after several days, it can still feel unfinished. The island has beaches, temples, rice fields, waterfalls, cliffs, islands, cafes, cultural shows, and spiritual places. You can visit once and still feel like you only touched the surface.
By the end of the trip, I knew I was not done with Bali.
I had only begun the story.
Final Night in Bali: Local Beer, Sate, and the Sound of Waves
On my final evening, I allowed myself a small personal celebration at the beachside hotel.
I had a local beer, enjoyed the peaceful setting, and reflected on everything I had experienced. The waves moved in the background, the sea breeze softened the night, and the island felt calm around me.
One of the highlights was sate, a traditional Indonesian dish of grilled skewered meat served with peanut sauce. The smoky flavor, the sauce, and the setting made it a beautiful final meal.
It was not a grand ending. It was better than that.
It was simple, local, peaceful, and real.
Practical Travel Notes for First-Time Visitors to Bali
Bali is beautiful, but first-time travelers should plan carefully.
The island is larger and more spread out than many people expect. Attractions may look close on a map, but traffic and road conditions can make travel times longer. Hiring a private driver or joining organized tours can make sightseeing easier, especially for places like Uluwatu, Ubud, Tirta Empul, and Wanagiri.
Entrance fees are common at temples, beaches, viewpoints, and attractions, so carrying some cash is useful. It is also important to dress respectfully for temples. Sarongs may be provided or required, but it is good to prepare modest clothing when visiting sacred sites.
Bali is hot and humid, so bring sun protection, water, comfortable shoes, and light clothes. For beach days, pack swimwear and sandals. For temple visits, avoid overly revealing clothing.
Respect local customs. Bali is spiritual, and many places are sacred to the local community. Be mindful when taking photos, walking near offerings, entering temples, and interacting with monkeys.
Bali as the Final Stop of My Malaysia–Singapore–Bali DIY Trip
Bali completed my Southeast Asia DIY route.
Malaysia was the opening chapter. Kuala Lumpur gave me Petronas Towers, Batu Caves, city trains, and the feeling of starting the journey.
Singapore was the futuristic middle chapter. It gave me Marina Bay Sands, Changi Airport, Sentosa, clean streets, strong architecture, and a vision of what a planned city can become.
Bali was the emotional ending. It gave me beaches, temples, rice fields, food, spirituality, and the calmness I did not know I needed.
Together, Malaysia, Singapore, and Bali created a beautiful contrast. The route showed me that Southeast Asia is not one single travel style. It can be modern, cultural, tropical, spiritual, affordable, luxurious, simple, and deeply memorable all in one journey.
What Bali Taught Me
Bali taught me that not every destination needs to impress you loudly.
Some places stay with you through quiet details: a morning walk on the beach, a temple sarong, a cloudy viewpoint, a meal on banana leaves, the sound of waves at dinner, or the feeling of rice fields stretching into the distance.
Bali also reminded me that travel does not need to be perfect to be meaningful. I did not see everything. I missed places I still wanted to visit. Some views were cloudy. Some things were expensive. Some plans had to adjust.
But the trip still became unforgettable.
Sometimes an unfinished trip is not a failure. Sometimes it is an invitation to return.
Final Thoughts: Bali Was Only the Beginning
Bali was the final destination of my Malaysia–Singapore–Bali DIY trip, but it did not feel like an ending.
It felt like a promise.
I left with memories of Denpasar Airport, Sanur Beach, Garuda Wisnu Kencana, Padang Padang Beach, Uluwatu Temple, Tirta Empul, Pangkon Bali, Cretya Ubud, Taman Ayun, Wanagiri, local beer, sate, and quiet beachside nights.
But I also left with a list of places I still wanted to see.
The Sacred Monkey Forest. Heaven’s Gate. Nusa Penida. The Edge. More temples. More beaches. More rice fields. More time.
Bali made me feel that one visit was not enough.
And maybe that is the beauty of the island. It does not give everything away at once. It leaves you with enough wonder to come back.
For me, Bali was not just another stop in Indonesia. It was a soft, spiritual, and unforgettable ending to a Southeast Asia journey that began in Malaysia, passed through Singapore, and ended with the sea breeze of Sanur.
One day, I hope to return — not just to complete the places I missed, but to listen more closely to what Bali still has to say.
FAQs About Visiting Bali for the First Time
Is Bali good for first-time travelers?
Yes. Bali is good for first-time travelers because it has many hotels, tours, restaurants, drivers, and tourist-friendly services. However, travelers should still plan carefully because traffic can be heavy and attractions are spread out.
What is Bali known for?
Bali is known for beaches, temples, rice terraces, waterfalls, surfing, yoga retreats, traditional arts, spiritual culture, Balinese food, beach clubs, and scenic viewpoints.
How many days should you spend in Bali?
For a first visit, at least 5 to 7 days is better if you want to experience beaches, temples, Ubud, rice terraces, and cultural attractions without rushing too much. Shorter trips are possible, but you may only see one side of the island.
Where should first-time visitors stay in Bali?
It depends on your travel style. Sanur is calmer and good for a relaxed beach base. Ubud is better for culture, rice fields, and nature. Seminyak and Canggu are popular for restaurants, nightlife, cafes, and beach clubs. Uluwatu is good for cliffs, beaches, and sunsets.
Is Bali expensive?
Bali can be budget-friendly or expensive depending on your choices. Local food, simple guesthouses, and private drivers can be affordable, but beach clubs, luxury villas, popular restaurants, and frequent tours can increase your costs.
Do you need a private driver in Bali?
A private driver is very helpful, especially for first-time visitors. Bali’s attractions are spread out, and public transport is limited for tourists. A driver can make temple visits, beach stops, Ubud trips, and viewpoint routes much easier.
What should you wear when visiting temples in Bali?
Wear respectful clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Many temples require a sarong, which may be provided or rented at the entrance. Always follow local rules and be respectful because temples are sacred places.
Is internet important in Bali?
Yes. Internet helps with maps, hotel communication, driver coordination, translation, bookings, and checking routes. An eSIM, roaming plan, or local SIM can make travel around Bali much easier.
