How to spend 9 days in Bali

I visit Bali regularly, so my trips are less about sightseeing and more about living like a local — soaking up the sun, chilling by the pool, and most importantly… eating!

Here’s a peek at a typical itinerary that blends relaxation, foodie finds, and a few fun nights out:

🗺️ ITINERARY SNAPSHOT
Day 1 – Checked into Villa Oliver in Berawa, Canggu. Gorgeous space, and the 8m pool is the highlight! Did a quick grocery shop at Frestive, which is super close.
Day 2 – Explored the area, then had dinner at TYGR Sushi – 10/10 recommend!
Day 3 – Headed down to Kuta for some late-night fun at Zero 4 Japanese Karaoke. We stayed ‘til they kicked us out at 3am!
Day 4 – More eating (of course). Ordered in via Gojek from our fave Sedasa Cafe – everything is so affordable and served in bamboo containers.
Day 5 – Dinner and a show at The Iron Fairies in Petitenget. Amazing cabaret vibes, great cocktails.
Day 6 – Dinner at Nostimo Greek Grill – our go-to for hearty, flavour-packed food.
Day 7 – Spent the day at Waterbom Bali in Kuta – still one of the best water parks I’ve ever been to!
Day 8 – Wrapped the day with a rib feast at Naughty Nuri’s in Seminyak.
Day 9 – Brunch at The Coffee Shop (get the crepe!) then a tattoo session at Ruko Three in Berawa before flying out.

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📣 TIPS FROM A BALI REGULAR (AUD prices)

Gut Health Musts:
• BioCeuticals Travel Bug + Florative – total game-changers for preventing traveller’s diarrhoea and keeping things moving (pun intended).
• $50 for the 120-pack (grab it at Chemist Warehouse before you go).
• Travelan – Take one right before each meal. A great backup if you’re not using Travel Bug.
• Around $30 for 30 tabs.

Mosquito Repellent:
• Soffel Cream or Spray – You’ll find it in any minimart in Bali for like 80 cents. The spray is my fave for quick coverage.

Sun Protection:
• Bring your own sunscreen! It’s super expensive over there ($15–$20 a bottle).

Hand Sanitiser:
• Trust me, you’ll want several. I prefer sprays and use it before, after, and sometimes during meals. No shame.

Hydration & Health:
• Hydralyte – In case you do catch a bug, keep these handy.
• And no, we don’t call it “Bali Belly” – it’s just your gut adjusting to new bacteria.

Money & Transport:
• Wise Card – Tap to pay almost everywhere, high exchange rates, and works seamlessly with Gojek and Grab (Bali’s Uber/Uber Eats).
• Cash – Still needed in a few places. Quick conversion trick: 10,000 IDR = ~$1 AUD. Just drop the four zeros!