Joanna James
As Bali's party capital, Seminyak offers visitors a plethora of exciting activities. Here are ten experiences every tourist must have during a holiday in this vibrant beach paradise.
When a cafe claims to serve the best cup of coffee in Bali, tourists know it's worth their while. That's why Revolver is the most popular coffee hub on the island. Coffee enthusiasts from far and wide flock to this java hotspot where the espressos are just as irresistible as the cold brews.
Seminyak is a spa goers dream come true not only due to the large number of spas located in this part of the island but for the sheer variety of treatments and therapies available. The Bali Gift Spa is arguably the most coveted among these establishments due to its Balinese massages and western spa techniques.
As a veritable institution in Bali's dining scene, Seminyak's Ku De Ta restaurant combines an enviable beachfront location with delectable food to create the perfect venue for a night out. The bar and beach lounge of Ku De Ta are equally well loved along with the restaurant's eclectic menu and wine collection.
Get a slice of local creativity and artistic expression with a tour of the illustrious Nyaman Gallery where the works of local and international artisans are on show. Displaying everything from paintings, jewellery, sculpture and clothing to photography and glasswork, some of the main highlights of a visit are spotting the works of Evgeny Bam, Stephan Kotas and other well-known creative spirits.
When it comes to Seminyak's yoga studios, none can hold a candle to the Olop Iyengar Studio where tourists can sign up for a multi-day yoga retreat or a single two hour session to stretch those travel weary muscles and return to wholeness. Olop Iyengar, the founder of the venue is an Indonesian icon in his own right who was trained on the finer points of yoga in Europe.
Signing up for a surfing course or lessons at Santai Surf School in Seminyak is a gateway to wave riding like a pro. As one of the few accredited water sports schools in Bali, travellers can expect practical and expert guidance on navigating the choppy waters of learning to surf with the help of the school's team of seasoned surf instructors.
The Seminyak Night Market is not only one of the most vibrant dining hotspots in the area but also a shopper's Mecca in its own right. Bargain hunters will find plenty to write home about when searching for souvenirs at this market where clothing, spices, sweets and toys are sold alongside accessories and handicrafts.
As the most coveted natural attribute in Seminyak, no trip to this part of the island would be complete without spending copious amounts of time by the beach. Visitors based at Studios @ Alila Semniyak or any similar luxury hotels Seminyak will also find that many water sports activities are also accessible on the beach
Tipped to be Seminyak's finest temple, the stunning Pura Petitenget Temple is perhaps best known for its dragon shaped stairwell. As one of Bali's sea temples, paying homage to this place of worship founded by Dang Hyang Nirartha is a must.
Take a peak beneath the waves off the coast of Seminyak to find coral reefs teeming with fish of a myriad hues on a snorkelling expedition.
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A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
