Climbing Bali’s Gunung Agung is easily the most physically taxing activity I have ever done. And while this was my second attempt (the first was unsuccessful as someone in our group couldn’t go on), I still wasn’t as prepared as I could have been. Other climbers I saw on the day were not prepared at … read the full post

Gunung Agung is the tallest and most revered peak on the Indonesian island of Bali. On a clear day (billboards not withstanding) it can be seen from just about anywhere on the island. Last year as a part of the World Nomads travel writer scholarship programme, I made an attempt on the peak but we … read the full post

Flores is in general a very basic travelling experience and can be quite tough when it comes to travelling with children.  One of its key attractions is Komodo National Park, usually visited on a day trip from Labuan Bajo, Kanawa or Seraya islands, or as a stop on the Lombok-Sumbawa-Flores liveaboards. Here’s a rundown of … read the full post

Seeking out cliffside El Kabron on Bali’s Bukit might take a bit of time, but the reward of incredible views, delicious classic Spanish cuisine, a chilled swimming pool and comfy bean bags makes the journey more than worthwhile. Beanbags and umbrellas are scattered around a curved pool that looks straight out to the Indian Ocean; … read the full post

We love Bali’s wild and beautiful east coast, and we’re glad to see more places opening in out-of-the-way places to make the most of its stunning views and surf. Komune Resort and Beach Club opened just last year and offers a great, relaxed midrange choice, particularly for surfers and their partners in this neck of … read the full post

The Flores Sea is dotted with glistening tropical islands. Some are home to high-end dive resorts, others to fishing villages, others still remain blissfully devoid of civilisation. Two islands however draw a steady stream of independent travellers — perched on the rim of Komodo National Park lies Kanawa Island and north of Labuan Bajo sits … read the full post

Kali Manik is a garden-set, beachside eco-resort in the true sense of the word, on the black sands of Bali’s northern reaches, about an hour’s drive east of Pemuteran and six kilometres west of Seririt. While we love the three rooms here, what really stands out is the food — if you’re anywhere in the … read the full post

A day trip to Komodo island from Kanawa takes in more than just the famed dragons the island is named for; expect excellent snorkelling, some beachcombing and perhaps some turtle, dolphin and manta spotting if you’re lucky. Established in 1980, Komodo National Park encompasses the three main islands of Komodo, Rinca and Padar along with … read the full post

We usually try to wait for a joint to have been open for a little while before checking it out, but with bright, bold Motel Mexicola in Seminyak, Bali, we just had to stop by. Go on, you walk past the above and try to not go inside! It’s a riot of ebullient, joyful colour, … read the full post

If you’re in the mood for a perfect coffee in Bali, Revolver Boutique Coffee House, just off Jalan Laksmana, is where you need to head. Along with coffee, this urban-style cafe — yes hipster, even — serves up smoothies, delicious breakfasts and light lunches. The coffee is a house blend and it goes down smooth … read the full post