10 things to do in Bali – with bonus saving tips

Indonesia Trips & Tricks

I was avoiding visiting Bali for decades, because chasing the crowds is just not my cup of tea. However, the island is known for its beautiful nature and is conveniently located near Java, which had been on my bucket list for a while. So, in September 2022 we combined a trip to Bali with the highlights of Java and thanks to the post-pandemic period we got quite lucky. In this post I will share top 10 things to do in Bali with tips and alternatives that will help you save money*. I’ll also write a few travel hacks to help you avoid crowds in popular places.

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Resort Review: Cinnamon Velifushi (Vaavu Atoll, Maldives)

Hotel reviews Maldives

cinnamon velifushi maldives review

For my 6th visit to Maldives I chose Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa resort due to very good reviews and fantastic photos. However, I wasn’t aware that “one of the largest shallow lagoons in the Maldives” means no swimming during winter. Although the resort facilities, as well as its staff are wonderful, I did come to Maldives to swim. The management of Hakuraa was very helpful with relocating us to their sister island Cinnamon Velifushi. To cut things short, this resort has it all and here is my Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives honest review.

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Maldives on a budget: 10 tips for saving money

Asia Maldives Trips & Tricks

With its white beaches, turquoise waters, a wealth of marine life, and exotic overwater villas, Maldives is a luxury bucket list destination. Boasting with some of the most incredible 5-star hotels in the world, Maldives is also a popular location for honeymooners and anniversaries. However, with over 1.190 islands,Maldives can also be enjoyed in a more budget friendly option. In this post I will share 10 useful tips for visiting Maldives on a budget, without selling a kidney.

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East Java Trip – From Jakarta to Ijen

Asia Destinations Indonesia

Indonesia enchanted us 4 years ago, when we were one of the few tourists in Lombok just days after the then devastating earthquake. As soon as the pandemic situation calmed down, I started planning our new trip to Indonesia. Java was on my bucket list for a while so we decided to combine a trip to East Java with vacation in Bali. In this post I will tell you about our East Java trip from Jakarta to Ijen, including a 5-day itinerary. Day by day, I will take you from Jakarta to Yogyakarta, Bromo, Ijen and finally Banjuwangi, where we took a ferry to Bali.

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5 things about Turkey you didn’t already know

Trips & Tricks

Sitting on the border of Europe and Asia, Turkey has always possessed a unique charm which is hard to find anywhere else in the world. This amalgamation of cultures sees the Eurasian nation stand out as a holiday destination unmatched by any other. It’s little wonder that as many as 41 million people travelled there in the year prior to the pandemic. But while we all know about its beautiful beaches, delicious food and unparalleled blend of old and new, how many of us can say we’re experts on the country? In this short blog, let’s explore 5 things about Turkey you didn’t already know.

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10 bad things about Bali you should know before you start packing

Asia Indonesia Trips & Tricks

Bali is the most famous Indonesian island when it comes to tourism. It is full waterfalls, rice paddies, temples and affordable villas with private pools. While popular with backpackers and digital nomads, it is also a desired destination for families and honeymooners. But is Bali really worth the hype? Are there any bad things about Bali you should know before you book your “dream vacation”?

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