1. Get off the beaten path.

Tourist areas are the most expensive to stay at. Therefore, the best idea is to stay outside busy city centres, a few kilometres away from all hotspots. You will not only be able to negotiate much cheaper price for your room, but you will also have an opportunity to get to know some locals, discover local areas and see what other holiday makers will not see. If you feel like going to the city centre, rent a bike for $1 or $2 per day and go there by bike – healthy, eco-friendly and affordable.

2. Go couchsurfing, accept invitations to stay with locals or go for dorms.

Once you get to Cambodia, you will realize how hospitable locals can be. Some of them will treat you like a family member, let you stay at their place overnight and treat you with some nice food. If you don’t trust randomly met people in the street, try to use couchsurfing. There are plenty of Khmer people who will be more than happy to host you and show you around telling some interesting stories. More often than not they will want to take you to their village and introduce you to people who never or rarely have met foreigners. If you go for couchsurfing (couchsurfing.org) make sure you start looking for a host at least 7 days before your arrival so that you have enough time to find an appropriate person, and allow them to read your messages and make the necessary arrangements. If you are not a big fan of couchsurfing, try to go for dorms and share a room with at least 8-10 other people. It’s extremely cheap and you can make new friends with fellow travellers. Dorm prices can be as low as $1 per night.

3. Try local food and avoid Western style restaurants.

Cambodia, especially Siem Reap, is full of really expensive Western restaurants where you can get a cheeseburger, pizza, fries and coke. You can treat yourself with amazing Khmer food instead. It is going to save you a lot of money as Western food costs up to 5 times more than traditional Khmer dishes. Would you fancy a plate of rice and vegetables topped with spicy sauce for less than $1 or a takeaway cheeseburger and coke for $5? Besides, what kind of traveller would you be to go to Cambodia and stick to Western food?

4. Keep your partying in check.

You are on your holiday and you obviously want to have fun. However, the alcohol in Cambodia might cost an Earth especially when you are out off limits. It all starts with a $0.5 draft and by the end of the night you find yourself broke. Going clubbing every night is not the cheapest entertainment option so you should always keep your partying in check. Some locals can take advantage of you being tipsy or drunk and rip you off. If you feel like you might overspent on alcoholic, take a friend or two with you to keep an eye on your tap.

5. Avoid guided tours.

Do you want to see Angkor Wat or ride an elephant? Do it on the cheap and avoid all guided tours which are way too expensive. You can rent a bike and go to Angkor Wat on your own terms saving $20+ per day, get a local bus to take you o elephant orphanage saving at least $15. If you insist on travelling with a guide, find some other travellers happy to share the bill. Guides charge per day ($20-$25), regardless of the group size. If they say otherwise, go and look for another guide.

Moreover, in the tourist areas, make sure to haggle and not to set on the initial price. You will probably notice right away everything in Cambodia is negotiable. The first price you hear from locals is most likely up to 5 times higher than the typical price so don’t be shy and push yourself to get some bargains.

After a week you will see how much less money you have spent in comparison to other fellow backpackers and tourists you meet on the road!

Author Bio: Agness is a Polish vagabond who, after graduation, left her comfort zone and set off for a journey of her lifetime to China in 2011. She has been constantly travelling the world since then (slowly, but surely as she says), living like a local for less than $25 a day. She became a photography passionate and adventure blogger sharing her life enthusiasm and travel experience with everyone around.

Website: eTramping
Twitter: @Agnesstramp
Facebook: eTramping
 

X2K Train Malmö-Copenhagen. Photo by Hugh Llewelyn

The main train booking site in Sweden is sj.se. To get the cheapest ticket you can, a great advice is to book in low traffic days like Mondays and too book early, because last minute deals are only for retires and youngster under 26. Last minute can be bought the last 24 hours before departure.

Another alternative is to buy the tickets at Tradera.se where SJ is placing their unsold train tickets on auction with the outgoing price as 1 SEK. Book your train ticket on the internet or in the ticket automat at the station to get the lowest booking fee. Also check the different train types, very often the speed train X200 is more expensive.

Personally (and many others with me) I find SJ’s new system to buy tickets more complicated, I like the way it were before when there were normal ticket prices and last minute prices.

There are also the alternative to book with veolia-transport.se, for example between Malmö – Stockholm or Malmö – Berlin. Their ticket system is with fixed ticket rates.

Both the Resrobot at reseplanerare.resrobot.se (mobile app too) and resplus.se are very useful travel tools if you decide to take a train trip.

You can find a list with all the tracks in Sweden at www.jarnvag.net, (info in Swedish) and lots of other information. Especially interesting if you’re a train enthusiast, since they also keep a list of Museum railways (even some steam trains).

If going from Stockholm Arlanda Airport in to Stockholm City I recommend taking the express train arlandaexpress.se to/from Arlanda since the traffic is sometimes not so reliable, with the train you’re always in time. They also use to have a journey time guarantee, so if you’re not in time, check if they pay you back the ticket price.

To travel locally within Stockholm County you can go by the subway. Timetables for the Stockholm subway can be found at sl.se and it goes rather far out in the suburbs. Make sure you get the right ticket card to lower your subway ticket fee’s, because buying only one ticket at the moment, is going to be expensive for you.

There are available SL cards I recommend that’s valid from 24h up to 7 days (and beyond if you plan to stay for long), but if you’re going to do sightseeing which includes a lot of museums and other attractions, I do recommend to get the Stockholm Card from the tourist office. It’s worth it and makes things a lot easier.

©Lifecruiser Love Train Rides

Other train travel related posts at Lifecruiser:

Travel News: Arctic Circle Pass by SJ
Where to go by train from Madrid
How to find cheap holiday deals from Sweden
 

Stockholm Old Town waterfront

Stockholm don’t feel like a big capital city, more like a romantic city just like Venice with it’s old architecture and canals, except that Stockholm don’t have the gondola rides. Instead there are plenty of boats in the city, since it consists of 14 islands combined with many different bridges. It’s also both very green and clean, one of the cleanest capitals in the world.

There are several guided boat tours to take, as well as opportunites to hire a boat or kayak and paddle your own "gondola" and sing romantic songs for your beloved one to make this day perfect. If you don’t bring your love with you, there is always the chance of meeting someone (there is a high density of singles in this city!). Why not take an old steamboat cruise, if you want a more unusual boat cruise?

Stockholm is a city with surprisingly many restaurants because the Swedes are very fond of international cuisine, but I suggest that you find yourself one in the waterfront where you can sit and enjoy the sea breeze while different boats is passing by. Perhaps a romantic boat cruise in the evening where dinner is served aboard.

The city has numerous green parks, so if you want a more budget alternative, you could buy something to eat in a local grocery stores or covered markets, there are plenty of ready-made dishes, salads and delicacies to bring with you outdoors and have a picnic somewhere nice.

A very popular picnic place is out on Djurgården, where also many other attractions are located, such as museums, Kaknästornet (tower with great views), Skansen (outdoor museum), the amazing Wasa War Ship museum – and the amusement park Gröna Lund if you are up to a rollercoaster ride and other terrifying rides.

If you want some exercise that is not too exhausting, there is different walking tours in the city, like the ABBA city walk, Millennium tour, rooftop walks or ghost walks in the evening darkness. Or why not rent a bike from one of the many bike stands?

Stockholm is a wonderful city to explore by your own, very safe and not too big to get totally lost within either. Your chances to get a perfect day are big, but as usual: it’s your own choice to have fun or not and remember, if you’re coming here: don’t forget to tell me about it so I may help you to experience that perfect day!

Some special dates to visit:

• Around the 20th of April: the pink cherry tree’s in bloom in the Kungsträdgården making a fantastic flower walk path which gets many Stockholmers out of their winter hibernation to enjoy the spring sun and an icecream in the park.
• 6th of June: Sweden’s National Day, mostly in the Kings Garden with some performances and tents with food and drinks. You could also get a glimpse of the Swedish royals passing by if keeping an eye on their schedule.
• Second Wednesday in June (June 12, 2013): The Archipelago Steamboat Day (actually in the evening only), departures from Strömkajen. Check with Stockholm tourist office to verify date and available tickets out to Waxholm.
• Midsummer Eve Celebration, June 21, 2013: If not invited to a Swedish Midsummer Festive event by friends with family, the best choice would be to go to Skansen, the outdoor museum where public traditional celebration always is held as well.

Of course there are many other dates where special events may be hold too, but these ones above might be the most special or traditional ones.

©Lifecruiser Love Stockholm

 
This post is part of the initiative "100 cities to home swap before you die" from Knok.com.
 

Lisbon river ferry with the Cristo Rei statue in background

This ancient port city, and Portugal’s capital, has a huge amount to offer the discerning tourist coming here at the right time of year. “And when is that exactly?” I hear you ask. Well the best times to visit are just before or just after the main summer tourist season – so the ideal months are really April, May, June, September and October. At these times, the climate is usually perfect and the city isn’t as thronged with tourists as it is during July and August.

There’s so much to see and do here that you need to do your research and plan your trip wisely before you come. Lisbon is one of the few western European capitals with a river and a coastline. Its “Praça do Comércio” is the city’s main square and meeting area – and isn’t to be missed.

The Parque das Nações demonstrates how Lisbon maintains its close links with the river and its heritage and importance as a port city still today. In contrast, there are the city’s mediaeval quarters of Alfama and Mouraria, with the castle towering above – a castle which is mirrored by the Bairro Alto on the opposite hill and which leads down to the city centre known as the “Baixa pombalina”.

Meanwhile, Lisbon’s parks and nature reserves are superb whilst its golf courses and nearby beaches offer a diverse vacation for those looking for a little of everything.

So to call Lisbon a “forgotten” city may be overstating the case – but don’t make the mistake of missing out on this most diverse yet peaceful and European capital cities.

Lifecruiser Love Portugal

Other Portugal related posts at Lifecruiser:

Tips for nightlife in Algarve
Portugal Algarve Dream Stay
Portugal Trip Monte Gordo
Portugal Trip Tavira
Portugal Trip Ayamonte Spain
Enjoy a Memorable Holiday in the Sun
Top 5 All-Inclusive European Resorts
World Dogs: Portuguese Water Dog
 

Nevada Photo by João Martinho

Car rental in the USA is great value and it affords you the freedom to explore wherever you choose in your own sweet time. Today we consider the rugged landscape of Nevada, which effortlessly combines hedonistic cities with charming small towns and beautiful scenery.

Here are just a few of the highlights…

Las Vegas

It just wouldn’t be right if we didn’t start this list with Las Vegas. What better way to begin your road trip of the state than with a slow cruise down the Las Vegas strip? Don those sunglasses, get that roof down, marvel at the towering hotels, and try your best not to be blinded by the brightness of all the neon. Try your hand on the tables if you dare, and if you have time, you know this is where all the cool kids come to party – make sure you experience all that it has to offer.

Lake Tahoe

From the bright lights of Vegas, to one of the USA’s most tranquil destinations. Lake Tahoe is a 191 square mile body of the most crystal clear water located right on the border of California and Nevada. Gaze into the water and you can expect to see an almost perfect reflection of the surrounding snow-topped mountains and alpine forests. As well as its undeniable beauty, Lake Tahoe is a popular destination with lovers of the great outdoors, and is the perfect place for you to stretch your legs and get some fresh air after all of those miles behind the wheel.

If you are visiting in the summer you’ll have the chance to try a little deep water fishing, horseback riding or maybe a few holes of golf at one of the area’s many golf courses. Come here in winter and you’ll find places to ski, sled and ice skate. The area offers great accommodation options whatever time of year you visit, ranging from cosy log cabins to modern and comfortable campsites.

Ski resorts

If you time your trip right, you will have the opportunity to pop on your salopettes and hit the slopes at any one of the 18 ski resorts in Nevada. Depending on your route – a few that you might like to try include Squaw Valley, Sugar Bowl and Diamond Peak.

Reno

Back in the days when Las Vegas was merely a gleam in the developers’ eyes, Reno was satisfying the tourists’ desire to have a flutter. Affectionately dubbed the “biggest little city in the world”, Reno traditionally attracts tourists from San Francisco and Sacramento, whereas Vegas was more frequented by those hailing from Southern California and Phoenix.

Reno is located just 90 minutes drive from Lake Tahoe but just 18 miles south of the city is Washoe Lake – another great photo opportunity and popular choice with kite boarders and windsurfers.

Lifecruiser Love Roadtrips

Other US Roadtrips related posts at Lifecruiser:

Maine – The Getaway from the Getaway
Travelling The U.S. By Road This Summer
Cool routes for a driving holiday in Florida
Travel Dreams: Cruising US Coast in a Corvette Stingray
Hiking on the edge: a Grand Canyon experience
 

The idea of a Viking Ice Race popped up when visitors from the skating organisation from Holland visited Sweden after their Eleven Cities Tour (Elfstedentocht) of 1997 together with the winner of that years competition. An investigation started which later did show that the only route possible of a Swedish skate competition is just the route Uppsala-Stockholm, because it’s there the safest ices are with not so much open water.

To skate between Uppsala and Stockholm had been a classic route for all kinds of ice skaters for many years already before the Viking Run started for the first time in 1999, organized by the Friluftsfrämjandet organization and the Swedish skate association including other sponsors.

In 2013 it’s scheduled to go off at the 10th of February around 8am at Skarholmen, Uppsala and finish in Hässelby, a suburban of Stockholm. The Viking Run race is probably the worlds longest recurring ice skate race that take place on only natural ice and not on a special built up or artificial ice track.

There are actually several different races:

• The Vikingarännet 80 km start in Uppsala
• Tjejrännet (Women Race) 35 km start in Sigtuna
• A short race of 15 km start in Kungsängen

The race got it’s name from following the ancient Viking transport routes on lake Mälaren, but you don’t have to be a Viking to participate. All types of skates are allowed and I actually hope for some participants to choose similar skates as the Vikings!

Yes, even the Vikings did skate, but their skates were made of animal thigh/shin bones, had no shoe and were attached by leather strings only. At just one spot on the Swedish island Björkö, in the Viking town Birka, they found 70 skates together.

In this year’s vikingarännet there are more participants from other countries in Europe, like Great Britain, Belgium and Holland (last years winner) of course – so obviously this Swedish competition starts to be more known around Europe’s ice skaters.

If you have the opportunity to get there, there are plenty of places where you can see the ice skaters swooshing by. Or why not sign up for the race? Go to vikingarannet.com to signup or get more information.

Sign up for a distance that suits you, read the rules properly (ex. Ice prods are compulsory), prepare yourself to skate strong as a Viking, hope for great weather reports and have fun racing!

Lets hope the cold weather will continue, so there will be great ice’s for skating, you never know with the Swedish weather…

To get there:

From Europe there are low budget airlines like Norwegian.com or Ryanair.com to fly you to Stockholm, but I would try to get a Norwegian flight in the first hand, because you will arrive at Arlanda airport, which is much closer to the event than Skavsta airport where Ryanair arrives.

I also recommend that you take the arlandaexpress.com into Stockholm City Center or if you are going to Uppsala, take the special flightbus 801 between Arlanda airport and Uppsala. Also have a look at the arrivalguides.com and look up either Stockholm or Uppsala to get more start info about the two cities.

Special thanks to:

Anders Tysk, secretary-general and one of the originators of Vikingarännet for replying to my request, providing me with more information and pictures from the competition to use when writing this blog post.

©Lifecruiser Love Viking Ice Run

The Viking Run (Vikingarännet) 2013 Map, (click to see details)

Many people are also surprised to find out that the Red Sea is home to several beautiful beaches, as well as activities like scuba diving and swimming. You might want to check out special offers to visit the Red Sea on cruise deals at virginholidayscruises.co.uk.

Here are five top destinations to visit on a Red Sea Cruise…

Sharm el Sheikh, Naama Bay. Photo by Svetlana Grechkina

1. Sharm el Sheikh

One of the most popular destinations for a cruise in the Red Sea, although there is no main tourist attraction, but the beach itself attracts thousands every year.

While swimming, tanning, relaxing or exploring the beach are all great ways to pass the time, snorkelling and scuba diving make Sharm el Sheikh Egypt’s most popular beach resort.

2. Port Sokhna

Few people have heard of Port Sokhna, but it is where most cruise passengers disembark to explore capital city Cairo, which is only a few miles away.

In Cairo itself, there are countless attractions to explore like the Museum of Cairo and the Coptic Museum, but the Sphinx and Pyramids of Giza are the most impressive of all.

3. Luxor

Located on the banks of the Nile, Luxor was once the capital of ancient Egypt. Today, it is a top destination for travellers wanting an insight into its long history.

Passengers will usually disembark at Port Safaga and travel 45 minutes to Luxor to explore the Valley of the Kings.

Here, visitors can see the Tomb of Tutankhamen, the Tomb of Ramesses VI and countless other ancient historic landmarks.

4. Petra, Jordan

Parts of the Red Sea border the scenic country of Jordan, and there is nowhere more remarkable to visit than Petra.

Petra is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, and boasts several different structures carved from the famous pink-tinted rocks.

5. Hurghada

Although Hurghada may not be as big or popular as Sharm el Sheikh, it’s every bit as beautiful.

This coastal destination in Egypt is a stopping point for some of the cheapest cruises in the Red Sea. It offers great opportunities for scuba diving, swimming, snorkelling and horseback riding on the beach.

Going on a cruise on the Red Sea, you can visit historic landmarks, relaxing beaches and more.

Lifecruiser Love Cruise Holidays

Some other cruise related posts at Lifecruiser:

Broaden your horizons when there are cruise deals to be had
Fabulous Cruise Alternatives
Cruising is the Perfect Gift
Top 5 Pacific Cruises For Your Next Getaway!
Mediterranean Dream Cruises
Top 5 Cruises for family’s on a budget
Luxury Dream Cruises
The Worlds Oldest Gun Ship: A Medieval Cog Ship
Bargain Cruise Ships Tips
 

No photography or video footage can do it justice – the only way one can truly appreciate its awesome beauty is to experience it in person.

NPS photo by Michael Quinn

The exhilaration of seeing the Grand Canyon from the rim is unlike anything else. However, hiking down to the base of the canyon is an even more unique and exciting experience. Because the canyon runs more than 277 miles in length, over 18 miles wide and more than a mile deep, hiking it takes plenty of preparation. While it is best suited for experienced hikers, even novices can hike the Grand Canyon.

With so many ways to explore the Grand Canyon, it can be hard to choose which route to take. So, it doesn’t really matter which of the many Grand Canyon hotels one stays in as long as the hike is planned out accordingly. One of the best hiking routes is to start at the South Rim and head to the northern part of the canyon, which includes crossing the Colorado River.

Hiking the Grand Canyon is different from any other backpacking experiences one can have – it is virtually the opposite of every other hike because the trail starts by going down the canyon and working back up.

NPS photo by Michael Quinn

In an effort to make the Grand Canyon hike one of the best and most successful of any hiker’s life, here are some tips to keep in mind.

Proper speed

A good rule of thumb is that if an individual can talk while walking, then the speed is about right. When a person huffs and puffs while hiking, he or she isn’t getting enough oxygen into the body for proper functions. This uses up energy reserves and can cause nausea, fatigue and muscle cramps. Making sure the body is properly oxygenated makes for a much more enjoyable hike. Take a ten-minute break every hour.

Avoiding dehydration

Most hikers are used to hiking in the mountains, not the desert, which is what the Grand Canyon is. The dry, hot environment can cause a lot of stress on the body, especially during the warm summer months. This can lead to overexertion and heat exhaustion, so it is essential that hikers remember to bring plenty of water and stay hydrated – it is also smart to avoid hiking during the warmest part of the day. Symptoms of heat exhaustion and dehydration include minimal urination, loss of thirst and appetite, headache, nausea, vomiting and fatigue.

Hiking smart

As with any hike, it is important to hike smart. Wear comfortable hiking clothes and shoes. Hikers should also carry a first aid kit that includes materials for treating minor scrapes and cuts, heat exhaustion, blisters and sprains. Other supplies that should be in everyone’s pack include a flashlight and the right foods. The correct hiking foods include crackers, salty foods (to promote water absorption), trail mix, hard candy and electrolyte powder.

And remember, pay attention to flash flood warnings and weather advisories!

Lifecruiser Love Grand Canyon

Other hiking related posts at Lifecruiser:

Spanish Pilgrimage hike – Departure La Coruna
The Best Things to do on a Cruise in Hawaii
Family Holidays in Africa
 

Greece is also about lovely, sun drenched islands set like jewels in the Aegean and Ionian Seas, a warm climate, a care-free lifestyle, good food and wine. It is idyllic for vacations. The only problem when you consider Greece as a destination for incredible holidays is not which place to visit but the rather select one from the bewildering array of choices.

You can have Greece holidays in the North; holidays in the islands by the seashore; explore the ancient sites or troll through the lanes and marketplaces, living life like a Greek.

The Greek Islands

If you wish for a complete getaway, a peaceful sojourn in a tranquil, unspoilt place, head for the Greek Islands. The islands are perfect for a romantic holiday or for a quiet break from a busy schedule. There are hundreds of islands but the most popular are Mykonos, Paros, Corfu, Zakynthos, Alonissos, Skiathos, Crete, Rhodes and others. You can choose Ionian Islands or Saronic islands in the Aegean sea or the Dodecanese group of isles.

The Ionian Islands are made up of Zakynthos, Ithaca, Corfu, Lefkada, Paxi and Kefalonia as the largest with many smaller islands dotting the sea. The deep blue seas, verdant landscape and the rich heritage will keep you enchanted for the duration of your stay. You can go deep sea diving, windsurfing, climb perilous mountains, laze on the beach, have your fill of Greek delicacies, attend cultural events or explore monuments in the region. Greeks are hospitable and cheerful and it will not be surprising if you make friends with the locals—one of the best ways to have incredible Greece holidays.

The gorgeous Cyclades in the Aegean are just as attractive as the Ionian Islands. Made up of a group of 39 islands, the well known isles are Naxos, Mykonos, Santorini, Tinos, to name only a few. If nightlife is what you seek, the -Cyclades give you more than your fill. Legend has it that Poseidon, infuriated at the Cyclades nymphs, turned them into islands. Apart from the nightlife you have all the opportunities to explore the deep blue waters, the charming olive groves, gurgling streams and picture postcard scenery. According to legends, the pearl of Cyclades, the Anafi Island, rose from the sea to shelter the Argonauts. If legends interest you Delos will; it is said to be the birthplace of Artemis and Apollo.

Some might prefer the Dodecanese in the South-Eastern Aegean Sea, made up of Rhodes, Kos, Leros and Pserimos islands. Rhodes, undoubtedly, should be on your list for its medieval walls and gates, a legacy of the Knights. Kos has the usual Greek attractions in addition to being home to the plane tree under which Hippocrates used to teach. If you love nature, Karpathos has everything by way of caves, forests, streams and lush landscapes to keep you entranced.

Why not pick a particular group of islands and visit a few for your Grecian holiday? It will be hard to tear yourself away when it is time to go home.

Travelling in Greece

If you have made the islands the choice destination for your holidays, travelling inside the country does not present any problems. You can land in Greece at any of its 15 international airports. You can travel by trains or buses to the nearest ports that will get you a ferry to the islands. If you like you can travel by domestic airlines and have a view of the breathtaking scenery as you arrive at the island of your choice. Motoring does have its charms; you can travel across the longest cable suspension bridge in Europe. Just take care to book in advance if you plan your Greece holidays in summer.

If you belong to the EU, all you need to travel to Greece is your police ID or passport. Visitors from other countries, except those on the notified list, need to follow visa procedures.

Accommodation and Eating in Greece

Greece has a well developed infrastructure in place or tourism. This means you have access to accommodating ranging from budget to the priciest in most islands. There are hotels, bungalows to rent, campsites, apartments and rooms.

Gastronomes, however, will focus on the variety of Greek cuisines. Greek cuisine makes use of fruits, vegetables, cheeses, wine, fish, wheat, barley and a whole lot of fresh herbs. Move from one island to the other and enjoy typical dishes. The Ios offers cuisine based on wheat, pulses, vegetables and dairy products. On Mykonos you sample dishes based on pork, herbs, cheese, fish and sausages. In Naxos it is vegetables, red meat and red wine. Over to Syros and you have roasted fish, tomatoes and octopus waiting for you.

Just pack your bags and set out and explore Greece on your own. You might come across the Pleiades.

Lifecruiser Love Greece

Other Greece travel related posts at Lifecruiser:

5 Top Beaches of Greek Islands
Mediterranean Dream Cruises
Travel Sales Trend: Increased in Sweden
Driving in the mountains – scary experiences
Luxury Dream Cruises
5 Tip Top Beaches of Lifecruiser
Monday Memories Honeymoon
When hubby was rally Harry
Love Trips Snips
 

Here’s a sneak-peek at beaches in Bali and what activities they are best for.

Best Beach in Bali for Surfing: Kuta

Image courtesy of eGuide Travel/ Flickr.com

Found on the western side of Bali’s narrow isthmus, Kuta Beach is one of the world’s most famous surf hot spots. On a good day, you can look forward to average wave lengths of 50 meters. On a great day, they can grow to thrice that. It’s such a popular location that surfers will make the trip from all over the island to hit these waves.

Kuta is primo for great adventures, shopping and dining. You can take in the Bali Bombing Memorial Monument or discover one of the many temples throughout Kuta that contain brilliant designs and pieces of art. If you fancy shopping head to the Discovery Shopping Mall Esplanade where you may also find live DJs, parades and concerts.

Best Beach in Bali for Swimming: Padang Bai

Image courtesy of shanghaifoodie/ Flickr.com

Padang Bai is one of the quieter beaches in Bali. It’s warm climates, silver sand, crystal azure waters and wondrous cliff formations, makes for a perfect day swimming or lounging in the comforting rays of the sun. Stretching for 120 meters, it’s only accessible through a passage sitting between two cliffs. In the evening, join the gawkers to witness some of the most incredible sunsets.

Swimming, cold beers, cocktails and building sand castles aren’t all the area has. There are beautiful villas that sit on the rocks, striking guest houses and bungalows that actually start under $100 per night.

Best Beach in Bali for Sunbathing: Jimbaran Beach

Image courtesy of shanghaifoodie/ Flickr.com

Located on the south-western coast, this beach gets to take full advantage of the sun. The beach and bay are filled with little secluded areas, promising peace and tranquillity. The beach is surrounded by tropical forests and celebrity hideaways. Stay close enough to society so you can still enjoy fruity drinks under umbrellas or find your spot and lay there in seclusion with only the sounds of the waves to keep you company.

Jimbaran Beach is the spot for dining. It has a three kilometre patch of international restaurants and cafes. As one of Bali’s most easy going beaches, the nightlife on this part of the island tends to be serene. You’ll more likely find romantic dinners and cliff-side rendezvous.

Best Beach in Bali for Snorkelling: Sanur

Purists argue Amed Beach is the standout for snorkelling, however, Sanur takes the edge for its additional attractions. Sanur was Bali’s first beach resort, offering serene coastal ambiance. It’s where you can find the unique Bali Seawalker, which is a snorkelling device that requires minimum equipment. However, there is still plenty of traditional snorkelling. Schedule to go out during high tide when the underwater creatures are truly animated.

Sanur is small, so if you want to golf, you’ll have to settle for nine holes. It’s said the Bali Beach Course is a challenge with its hibiscus trees and shady pines. There’s also great sailing as Sanur is one of Bali’s premier boating points. The beach is perfect for kite flying too and there is an annual festival held here each year.

Best Beach in Bali for Being Alone: Geger Beach

If you’re not into the surf and crowds, Geger Beach is wonderful for many relaxing hours. The calm, sparkling water is of a tranquil blue-green colour and the sands are soft yet thick, great for a nice run or a game of volleyball or Ultimate Frisbee. The waves roll smoothly, and watching them can send you to a quiet place. You’ll likely glimpse farmers harvesting seaweed.

Geger Beach is excellent for young kids with its quieter waves. There are water sport activities for the family, including beach games. There are also plenty of cafes serving everything from great fish to burgers and fries for the little ones.

If you are going to get away from it all, do it right! Get out to Bali and explore these beautiful beaches. This Indonesian paradise is filled with adventure and relaxation. You won’t have any problems finding great rates on flights to Bali with a little research.

Lifecruiser Love Bali Beaches