Travel Memories #1: Bali (Part 1)

We recently went on a short 4-day trip to Bali. Being baby Aiden's first plane ride, I was just a liiittle anxious. I could already watch the drama unfurling in my head: Starring the frazzled mom apologizing to disgruntled passengers during the entire flight while wrestling down a screaming infant. Contrary to imagination, it was an overall peaceful trip though there are a few things I wish I had known beforehand.

Lets go!

Day 1: Flight to Bali

The trip started slow - with a flight delay (is it just me or are flight delays the standard these days?). By the time we landed, we only had time for check-in and dinner.

Baby Tip #1: Bring snacks. Lots of snacks. Make sure baby is snacking or drinking during take-off and landing to avoid ear pressure build-up. Also serves as great distraction during flight. If possible, deprive baby of sleep so he will experience black out and be blissfully silent during flight.

Plane-watching to kill time

Grand La Villais, Seminyak
Bali is well-known for their gorgeous villas that come with their own private pool. Rows and rows of such villas are found in Seminyak. It's a bit far to walk to partying Kuta (20-30 mins by car), but if you're looking for a private and relaxing getaway, Seminyak is the place to go.
This particular villa doesn't have a private pool but I've stayed at a another villa that does in the next picture.

Grania Bali Villais, Seminyak.
I stayed here once a few years ago and it was great. This is a private pool for you and you only. Would definitely recommend this villa over the Grand La Villais.

Outdoor shower and bath anyone? Perfect for a romantic honeymoon. Too bad I stayed here with my parents and brother. Sigh.

You don't even have to get dressed for breakfast. Breakfast comes to you! Every morning, someone will come over to cook your breakfast of choice. Can't get any lazier than this.

Breakfast is served. Nasi goreng telur mata with fresh juice. Not too shabby eh?

Day 2: Sahadewa Barong Dance, Tegalalang Rice Terrace, Mount Batur

Baby Tip #2: Don't bother bringing a stroller as the tourist attractions are normally not wheels-friendly. Baby carriers will be your best friend in Bali.

First stop: Sahadewa Barong Dance, Ubud

This is one of Bali's most iconic dance-drama. Based on a 12th century mythology of good versus evil, the Barong, a benevolent spirit in the shape of a beast serves as the protector of a kingdom and fights the vengeful witch queen, Ranga.
I don't normally appreciate plays but this surprisingly kept me entertained. I wouldn't say it's a must-see (the kecak fire dance is preferable) but if you enjoy cultural tales then it's okay.

Second stop: Tegalalang Rice Terrace, Ubud

A famous spot for beautiful slopes of green rice paddies involving the subak, the traditional Balinese cooperative irrigation system

Tegalalang is a favorite painters' hangout. If you're into paintings, Bali is a great place to source for original and unique paintings. Brush up your bargaining skills, slash the opening prices by half, and you'll score yourself a beautiful piece at a steal price.

'Draw me like one of your French girls, Jack'

Nothing like big fresh coconuts on a sizzling day. Observe the pink mesocarp (fibrous husk). According to the girl chopping it, coconuts with pink mesocarps are extra nutritious and I was lucky to get it. Not sure if there's truth in it, tasted great anyway!

Third stop: Mount Batur, Kintamani
Mount Batur is an active volcano and attracts sightseers for the gorgeous mountain ranges and crystal clear waters of Lake Batur. Unfortunately, I couldn't capture it's splendor as it was a wet day. Shortly after taking this photo, it started raining and the view was completely obscured by mist.
A word of warning on the food: standard meals here are buffet-style and they are usually uncovered and feasted on by flies galore...

Baby Tip #3: Most eateries, including higher-end restaurants, do not come equipped with baby chairs. Nothing much you can do about this except keep baby in your lap or play pass-the-baby-around and take turns eating.

Poor Aiden spent most of his time stuck and sweating inside his carrier...

That's it for Part 1. Part 2 is coming soon. Thanks for reading!

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