A Weekend in Kuta, Bali
Gailene Manning
10/5/20245 min read
A Weekend in Kuta, Bali
Arriving at Denpasar Airport (Ngurah Rai International Airport) Bali 9.30pm from New Zealand I booked a guest house close to the airport. First things first I had to sort a SIM card, and there are plenty of retailers at the airport that can arrange this for you. I did not have to call a Grab or hail a taxi as there are many taxis waiting. A short drive to The Kutaya, which was modest but made up for it with an early morning swim in the amazing pool, beautiful courtyard and garden complete with temple, and of course the staff and provided breakfast were fabulous. The temperature was 31 degrees Celsius but not humid, and thankfully air conditioning in the room. The Kutaya was where I first saw the Canang Sari offerings given each morning to the Gods. It was enlightening and special, and the aroma of the incense was uplifting.
Next morning I set off on my two-week volunteering mission at the Sea Turtle Sanctuary on Nusa Penida, which I will share about soon. I had the first weekend off in between where I explored Ubud (see my Ubud adventures here), and now I am back in Kuta for my final weekend in Bali before flying back to New Zealand.
Exploring Local Attractions:
On your first day in Kuta, a visit to the stunning Pandawa Beach, Uluwatu should be near the top of your itinerary and only a short drive away. This picturesque location is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. The beach is tucked away behind limestone cliffs which provide a unique entrance driving to the beach. Here you can sunbath on the soft white sands, swim in the gentle waves, or partake in water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding. There is an entrance fee as you drive to the beach of 15,000 IDR (NZD1.50) which may be for parking. Another stop, Jimbaran Beach, with seafood cafes dotted along the beach while enjoying lunch we were serenaded by a local group, which was a bit of fun and they chose a song I might know 'Don't Worry Be Happy! I tipped the group to show my enjoyment. I know tipping is not expected but always graciously accepted, but it is hard to know how much to give.
Back in Kuta central, the Hard Rock Shop and Cafe were on my list of go to places (Have to have the T-shirt or it didn't happen!) Hard Rock Cafe did not disappoint, plenty of iconic memorabilia and decor to appreciate, complete with a sunken bar. Best of all being the perfect time of day we were able to unwind with one of the amazing cocktails on the top floor veranda to watch the sunset at Kuta Beach, showcasing the vibrant skies Bali is renowned for. A perfect end to the day. Also a sneak peak of the Hard Rock Hotel, which was booked out, but have already checked it out for next year's return visit!
Accommodation:
If you are seeking luxury and convenience for your stay in Kuta definitely book at the ZIA Hotel Kuta. It is situated in the heart of Kuta, walking distance to Kuta Square, market, beach, and only a short drive to the airport. The rooms are modern and beautiful, the service is great, and the rooftop pool is magnificent. I got a great deal, with buffet breakfast included. The restaurant is available for lunches and dinners also, which I can vouch for the lunch being delicious. Also because of my late flight home I was able to pay only a tiny bit extra for a 6pm checkout.
Last Day In Bali:
The atmosphere in Kuta is quite lively at all times of the day and night. I felt quite safe walking down the crowded streets, although trying to cross the roads in the heavy traffic was a bit of a juggle. Because I saw the Horse and Cart rides the evening before at Kuta Beach, I returned next morning to have a ride along Kuta beachfront. I thoroughly enjoyed the short trek, the horse 'Pakalulu' seemed very healthy and well cared for, and you could pick up the love when I asked his owner about him.
For my final day in Bali I decided to take it easy, stroll around the shops one last time, wander around the markets on Kuta Beach to get a couple of last gifts to take home to family. But first I started the day off with a Reflexology Massage at the ZIA Hotel, which was amazing by the way, and then found a spa to get a pedicure as my feet had done a fair bit of walking while I was volunteering on Nusa Penida. A leisurely lunch at ZIA Hotel and off to pack my suitcase and chill in my lovely room for a couple more hours. My Kuta experience had been more 'local' than the spiritual experience I had in Ubud, but enriching all the same. I had arranged a driver to take me to the airport, and it was bye to Bali for now, see you next year!!
sunny@destinytravel.blog
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