You’ve heard about the beach clubs and the hot stone massages of Bali. And perhaps you’ve even been to some opulent pools and outstanding Italian restaurants in the Indonesian hot spot. But if you want to explore some of the off-the-beaten-path offerings of the dreamy destination, we’ve got you covered.
Get ready for local food, one-of-a-kind clothing and even meet-ups with royalty. These are the unique Bali gems that you will cherish long after the public finally uncovers them.
Sample Amazing Dishes
You haven’t experienced Bali until you try its most famous cuisine, babi guling (spit-roasted suckling pig). The best babi guling on the island is served at Warung Babi Guling Pande Egi in Gianyar. This warung (local restaurant) is a spacious outdoor dining experience in the rice fields. The beloved dish comes with rice, vegetables and a selection of roasted pork: crispy skin, white meat and crackling. Local spices and sauces allow you to season to taste.
Chicken, vegetable dishes and Bali’s homegrown coffee and tropical cocktails are also served here. A healthy favorite on the beverage menu is daluman, which is made from cincau plant jelly, brown sugar and coconut milk, and is high in fiber and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Have a Royal Experience
Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star Jimbaran Puri, A Belmond Hotel, Bali offers a uniquely Balinese experience: a chance to meet members of the royal family. Nine families belong to Bali’s royalty and they are all descendants of the ancient Klungkung Kingdom. Once rulers of the island, they now serve important religious and cultural roles. The hotel’s Nine Kingdoms of Bali experience includes luxurious accommodations, a tour of Klungkung Palace and lunch with one of the royals. And that’s on top of regal perks such as a beachfront dinner for two and sunset cocktails.
Purchase Rare Balinese Clothing and Textiles
Manik Bali is not widely advertised, making it much more exciting when you stumble upon it. This small store is owned by a family of expert weavers who excel in the increasingly rare art of creating the Balinese cotton ikat. You’ll see other ikat clothing in Bali, but none rival Manik, a family who has been weaving fine cotton creations for generations.
The Manik method starts with raw cotton, which is then hand-dyed and woven into beautiful fabrics. The fabrics feature traditional patterns and plain colors, some even have monkey designs. The finished cotton product shimmers like silk. Many items are available off the rack, like certain clothes, bags, cushion covers and scarves. Other things can be made to order upon request.Look for this gem at Jl. Raya Pengosekan, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia.
