Sometimes, we just want to be spoiled. We work hard, study hard, take care of our families and sometimes all we want is to be spoiled and pampered for a little bit.

Some of my friends are soon heading off on a luxurious trip to Bali (their only requirements). They recently asked me for advice on the best way to get pampered, where to stay and what to do, so I decided to share it all with you guys too!

Pick Your Paradise

Bali is paradise. From surfing all day, to partying all night, lounging in serene spas, visiting historic temples or hiking volcanoes, the island has so much to offer for travelers of all tastes.

My friends want to book a top-end resort, to free up more time than doing it DIY style. If it’s what you’re after, having a concierge, part of the luxury resort cachet, can definitely steer you to great activities without you wasting any time.

Here are my latest top picks for the best of Bali.

• Bedugul-Munduk Lake Country: Bali isn’t all sweeping beaches, sun, and surf. Fodor’s says that the lake country has elevations above 3,000 feet offering forested vistas, Pura Ulun Danu Bratan temple, Bali’s Botanical Garden, coffee plantations, and what are said to be some of the most delicious strawberries in the world. Dress in layers as the weather can go from downright chilly to tropical swelter in a short time.
  Tip: When visiting a temple, dress modestly whether you’re a man or woman. Sarongs and temple scarves are available for a small fee at the temple. Also, the rule is no open or bleeding wounds, including menstruating women.

• Ubud Money Forest and Temple: Home to three temples from about 1350, the Ubud monkey forest is one of the top tourist attractions in Bali. Home to the crab-eating macaque or Balinese long-tailed monkey, the park sees thousands of tourists each day. Beware, some of the monkeys can be so darned cheeky – such as one who ran off with a tourist’s camera!
  Tip: The monkeys do love their food, and some of them can be very aggressive if they think that you’re taking food from them or trying to hide it. Do not ever try to pet one, as while not all of them are aggressive, these are not domestic animals and you definitely don’t want to get bitten!

• Kecak Dance: Yes, it’s touristy, but it’s also a vital and beautiful part of Bali’s culture. The dance depicts Prince Rama’s fight with King Ravana, and his victory thanks to the aid of monkey-like Vanara.
  Tip: Don’t forget the other performances of Balinese dances such as Barong, Calonarang and Legong Keraton.

• Jimbaran Beach: One of Lonely Planet’s choices for Bali’s best beach, Jimbaran is for luxury resorts like Karma Beach Villa Resort Bali. The waters of the bay muster waves for body surfing, and the beaches are clean, with perfect secluded areas for romantic just-for-twos or a beach trip with the kids. There’s also dining to appeal to every appetite and shopping for local batik, pearls, coffee, and other treats to take home. Nightlife isn’t lacking either, though it’s lower key than at some of the more crowded areas like Kuta. Top picks include the Rock Bar and Scruffy Murphy’s.
  Tip: Indonesia’s drug laws are among some of the harshest in the world. You don’t know if that guy offering you something is a dealer or an undercover police officer – so don’t take the chance.

My advice would be to ask the concierge about these as well as other activities and trips that you can take. They’ll know the perfect time to go and which tour operators to book with.

Or, you may not leave your private villa at all! With a beachfront resort, there’s a lot to be said for just being spoiled rotten, lounging in bed all day.. Bliss!

Balinese hotels are famed for the levels of comfort and service that they offer their guests, from yoga classes, to massage, and body treatments for men, women, and even kids.

For the ultimate souvenir of your time, you can even buy a whole private villa or apartment on a resort property. Imagine retiring to paradise, or island-hopping whenever you please. (I can only dream).

If you want a vacation where everything is taken care of, with no stress and no worries, Bali is a perfect place to do it. I really can’t wait to go back again and experience it with my boyfriend one day. It’ll be quite different from my last solo trip there, that’s for sure.

Feel free to email/comment if you have any questions on what to do in Bali, I’m happy to answer!