Off The Beaten Path | Tagged Posts
2019
9
November
How to Plan a Family-Friendly Trip to Bali and Japan with a Toddler?
9
November
Question:
Humans say...
Ed
1. Kasai Rinkai Park in Edogawa-ku Tokyo
2. Again in Tokyo, get off at Shinkoiwa station, walk the alleys, check out the markets.. All locals
Matt
Bali rocks. It's amazing.
But it depends on where you go. Around the Denpasar area (i.e. airport), it's mostly an Australian version of Cancun. Kuta is the party zone, and Seminyak and North Seminyak is a little nicer. Nice beach hotels and clubs. Quieter. If you stay there at all, take a day trip to ubud. And Tanah Lot. just get a driver. For 50 or 60 bucks, you can pay a driver to drive you to all these places, and wiat for you, for a good 8 or 10 hour day. Gas included.
The East side is much quieter, like little hotels looking out on the ocean. Me and my wife stayed in a little place near Tulamben. It was stunning, and roughly $100 a day. we had our own villa, with our own hot tub, in our own courtyard. It's amazing snorkling and scuba diving.
Climb a volcano. the scenery is unreal. But be aware, you're waking up at 1am, driving to it, getting there at 3, then it's a difficult hike. Quite the experience though.
Good luck.
Paula
We were in Ubud last year, and found it very touristy..
Karen
Where in Japan are you going and what kind of things you wanna do?
Lindsay
We would be flying in and out of Tokyo. I would like to see Kyoto, Hiroshima, etc but also would like do some more rural nature/small town exploring too
Stephani
Lindsay Kyoto is a big city that doesn't feel like a big city at all! the arashiyama bamboo forest has small restaurants to eat by the river. I can't recommend this area enough!
Ni
Going to follow this thread as well since I’ll be going to japan for two weeks in april and am in need of some recommendations!
Shaleen
In Bali I would get out of the touristy areas! I hear Amed, Nusa Lembogan, Gili Islands are nice. The Mt. Batur hike is great and not too challenging. The touristy areas are horrible. I stayed in Seminyak for a week and Ubud for a week and hated it, too many touts, garbage everywhere, taxi mafia, tourists, very theme park feel.. Japan on the other hand is incredible! I'm going again in March!
Lindsay
that is my worry - everywhere in Bali sounds touristy! I currently have a few days booked in Ubud, but am thinking to do Sideman and more places in the north/east instead...
Shaleen
Lindsay that sounds like a good plan! I wish I had done more research. I went to Bali in 2010 and it was completely different..
Ed
Btw, if you need fastfood, Saizeriya and Sukiya are good joints to go... Cheaper and better than the KFCs and other Western stops.
Win
Osho is Chinese chain restaurant, good place too
Kate
Following.
Reena
Following
Lorne
Kyoto is stunning very touristy but worth it if you are an early riser and Osaka is neat too, great food and the castle was my favourite of the 4 that I saw.
In Bali Dempansar is a gong show. Good beaches for beginner surfing but that’s it. We went to the east coast and enjoyed the vibe and scenery more.
Mariela
following
A.I. says...
Planning a Trip to Bali and Japan with a Baby
Traveling with a young child can be both exciting and challenging, but with proper planning, you can create unforgettable memories while avoiding the typical tourist traps. In this blog post, we'll share some tips and suggestions for your upcoming trip to Bali and Japan with your 17/18-month-old baby.
Bali
Bali, known for its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, offers a variety of off-the-beaten-path experiences for families with young children.
- Ubud: This tranquil town in central Bali is a hub for art, yoga, and traditional Balinese culture. Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, take a walk through the picturesque rice fields, and explore the local markets.
- Nusa Penida: This island off the southeastern coast of Bali is a hidden gem with stunning cliffs, pristine beaches, and a laid-back vibe. Explore the natural beauty of Kelingking Beach and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters.
- Munduk: Escape the crowds and immerse yourself in the cooler, lush highlands of Munduk. Hike through the scenic waterfalls and coffee plantations, and enjoy the serene village life.
Japan
Japan is a fascinating destination that offers a blend of modernity and tradition, and there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to explore with your little one.
- Kyoto: While Kyoto is a popular tourist destination, there are still pockets of tranquility to be found. Visit the lesser-known temples and shrines, stroll through the charming Gion district, and explore the beautiful gardens.
- Nara: Just a short train ride from Kyoto, Nara is a delightful city with a rich cultural heritage. Wander through the ancient temples and feed the friendly deer at Nara Park.
- Shirakawa-go: Nestled in the remote mountains of Gifu Prefecture, Shirakawa-go is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses with thatched roofs. Immerse yourself in the rural charm of this picturesque village.
Remember to pack lightweight, comfortable clothing and essential baby gear like a lightweight stroller, carrier, and sun protection. Embrace the local culture, interact with the locals, and savor the authentic experiences that these destinations have to offer. Happy travels!
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Lindsay
Planning a trip to Bali and Japan in the summer with a 17/18 month old baby. Would appreciate any suggestions - the less touristy the better!