Taking the Indonesian relatives to East Bali

My relatives from Central Java are in town and have requested I take them on a road trip. East Bali is one of my favorite parts of the island so that’s where we’re heading.

The 2 main places in my are Amed and Candi Dasa, simply because there is a selection of accommodation and cool scenery close by. Candi Dasa will win out as it can be reached in under 2 hours from Kuta. Organizing this trip will be super easy, starting with renting a cheap SUV from Bali Puspa on Jl. Dhyana Pura. I’ll probably get a car for 150,000rp, fill up with petrol at the station on Jl. Kunti and be off like a dirty shirt.

Candi Dasa is kid friendly, in that is has many eating options, small beach areas including the section of beach at the end of Forest Rd. and great range of accommodation, ranging from budget bamboo guest houses to 5 star luxury to the south in Manggis. We will probably end up in a mid-range place such as Pondok Bumbu (on the main street 300,000rp), enabling the relos to enjoy their quick trip to Bali and us to walk away without spending a ton.

During our 2 day trip we won’t be doing a ton of driving, but may hit a few of the interest points in the area, including, the Bali Aga village at Tenganan, the white sand beach at Pasir Putih, the waterpalace at Tirtaganga. The scenic route through Sideman and Iseh is an option on the way back as is a trip to Danau Batur. One thing I’ve learned since living in Bali is short trips on the map can take an age. People generally do not like to spend over 2 hours in a car and plentiful rest stops and food are a must. When you’re the driver the key is making it easy on yourself, easy access, minimal mileage, plenty of free time.

Internet in East Bali is poor unfortunately, so any typing that gets done will have to wait until later to get published. Ika’s family are from a city, so the tropical nature of East Bali and the small Balinese village seen will be of interest to them. Maybe we’ll get them learning a few words in Basa Bali.