G’day from Nusa Dua, Bali…
So great to be back. Whether you’re looking for the ultimate relaxation or some exciting water sports activities, Nusa Dua has something for everyone. So grab a tropical drink, put on your sunglasses, and join me as we dive in!
Oh and by the way, I know “G’day” is a bit culturally inappropriate, but the reality is the place is mostly crawling with Aussies. But nothing like it was pre covid with locals suggesting current numbers are down to about 25-30%. So, a great time to visit.
#SpaLife:
No trip to Bali could ever be complete without a massage. It would be like going to a restaurant and not eating the meal. And let me tell you, after a loooong threeeee and a half hour Jetstar flight (only joking, it wasn’t that bad), regardless, a massage is just what the doctor ordered.
A mere ten dollars for a one-hour relaxing massage, or thirteen dollars for a more civil ambience and surroundings in a resort. Well, say no more… 🙂
PS – Sorry nearby massagees about the odd bouts of snoring. I was really trying hard though to stay focused on the soothing head-to-toe and an oh-so-delightful back massage experience!
#BeachVibes:
Another no trip to Nusa Dua is complete without experience is some beach time. Whether that’s enjoying the view from under the shade of your poolside deck chair looking out towards the ocean, or an evening stroll along the Nusa Dua Beach front. A balmy night’s walk along the boardwalk lined with lights glimmering through the trees along with a soothing gentle breeze as you meander your way through the resort beachfront cafes, all makes for a pretty special experience.
#SurfingSensation:
Up for catching some gnarly waves? To be honest I’m still relishing my five seconds of fame when I just managed to stand up on a board around the other side of the globe in Nicaragua. But if you’re into the surf or want to give it a crack… where there’s non of those nasty man-eating sharks, this is the place. But look out towards the beach from your Nusa Dua resort, watching the water gently lap the serene beach, you could be excused for thinking, what surf?”
If the number of surfboards for hire near the end of the Peninsular on Nusa Dua Beach is any guide, there’s plenty on offer. Whether a beginner or a seasoned pro, this beach has great spots to catch some waves. You can rent a board and get some lessons from a local surf school.
#DivingDelight:
My last diving experience in Bali was one my son-in-law never ceases to stop reminding me of, even twenty years later. I did however appreciate his diplomacy at the time as he politely pointed out to me that I not only had my wetsuit on inside out, but it was back to front!
Nusa Dua offers the ultimate underwater scuba diving adventure. This area is home to some of the most diverse and vibrant underwater ecosystems in the world, with plenty of dive sites to choose from. Whether a beginner or an experienced diver, the colourful corals, schools of fish, and even shipwrecks that lie beneath the surface make this an exciting experience.
#FoodieFaves:
Let’s not forget about the food! Nusa Dua has many amazing restaurants to choose from. I would have said heaps of restaurants, but many are closed after taking a fatal hit from Covid.
I think one of the traps of Bali is choosing the safe haven of a western resort restaurant. For a start, a beer can cost as much as a pint in a Western Australian pub. But slip into a locals restaurant, even the ones a bit touristy and enjoy a beer for just four bucks… Oz dollars. Same with meals. Why choose to eat western meals… at close-to-home prices, when a local restaurant, closer to a more authentic experience, will be half the cost… and you get to enjoy the local cuisine. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you. And the steaks, schnittys and burgers will still be there when you get home! In the meantime a Balinese restaurant, the Raja Bali Nusa Dua and Ketut’s BBQ Kitchen, ranks as one of our favourites.
#ShopTillYouDrop:
If you’re looking for some leisurely activities instead of a sun soaking book reading chill out on a poolside deck chair sipping cocktails all day, check out the Bali Collection Shopping Centre. This outdoor mall has loads of shops, restaurants, and cafes to explore. And the best part? They often have live music and cultural performances, so you can get a taste of Bali’s rich arts and culture scene while you shop. It’s a great way to spend a low-key afternoon.
But keep in mind another Bali Trap. The thing with Bali is it can be easy to get caught up with the everything-is-cheap mentality. You end up buying heaps and heaps of cheap stuff but end up going home with a cheap holiday that’s cost a fortune.
#IndulgingInCulturalExperiences:
Nusa Dua is rich in culture. Even just many of the shops can offer a fascinating look into the unique arts and crafts culture made by the local artisans. A stroll through the fishing village at the northern tip of the Peninsular, just a step away from the Novotel resort, taking in some of the laneways lined with traditional Balinese homes, offers a totally authentic Balinese cultural experience.
Nusa Dua has something for everyone. From peaceful relaxation and exciting adventures, to its rich culture, and range of activities make it an ideal destination for the ultimate tropical escape!
But to me, Bali is an extra special destination. It was our first overseas destination when our kids were young. Three decades and forty-six countries later, it provided a safe springboard into a world of adventure I never would have dreamed of at the time. And now after the door to the world had suddenly slammed shut, I find once again Bali as a post covid first overseas destination is again opening the reality of a world waiting with so much yet to be explored.
If you’re like us, maybe you still have more post covid plans to finish exploring locally as we are still to do in Oz. But if you’ve ever dreamt about living your adventurous travel dreams, now’s the time to start planning. Check out youthfulmidlifetravel.com. There are links to some great resources I’ve provided to help you do just that…
#NusaDuaRelaxation #FindingInnerPeace
#SpaTreatments #WaterSportsAdventures
#ExploringTheUnderwaterWorld #CulturalExperiences
#LuxuryTravel #TropicalParadise #TravelGoals
#youthfulmidlifetravel
Also, check the facebook page for regular updates.