Mindful Traveler’s Guide To Bali, Indonesia, With Jaro Cabla

With lush scenery, breathtaking beaches, volcanic mountains, and a wide variety of food and drink, Bali is a must-see for wandering adventurers and spiritual nomads. It is certainly not going to be the most visited destination in Indonesia because it is one-dimensional.

For travel influencer Jaro Cabla, Bali is not just another stop on his globetrotting. While surf spots, tourist attractions, and unique accommodations are undoubtedly badass, Cabra treasures the experiences that helped him further connect with nature, his community, and himself.

“I love telling stories through my travel videos and content,” Cabla told UPROXX. “My goal is to inspire the younger generation to persevere in pursuing their dreams and live out the best of themselves.”

If you’re ready to experience Bali’s vibrant culture for yourself, check out Cabla’s foolproof travel guide to Bali below. From snorkeling with a manta ray to climbing a volcano at sunrise to sleeping in a treehouse, he shares everything you need to eat, see and do.

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Why choose Bali?

Bali has a place for everyone on her island, whether you’re here for a short vacation or a long stay. I came to Bali personally because I knew this would advance my career in content creation and meeting like-minded people.

Bali is also one of the places on earth that offers world-class surfing. Whether you’re just learning or you’ve been charging buckets all your life, there’s a wave for everyone. If you find yourself called to Bali, the island will stretch you out in a hundred different ways. For better or worse, you will shift and be pushed out of your comfort zone.

What is one thing every first-time visitor to Bali should see or do?

Spend time in Ubud and try some yoga classes and ecstatic dances at The Yoga Barn. You can rent beautiful bamboo eco-villas like The Rescape Villa or Eco-Six, a type of accommodation you don’t usually experience in places like the US or Europe. Ubud is unlike any other place on earth, so if you want to stretch your mind and immerse yourself in the entire spiritual realm, this is the place to go.

I know you’re only asking for one thing, but I can’t help but mention the Nusa Islands. Nusa Penida is pure magic, with scenery you can only see in the movies. I recommend checking out Diamond Beach and staying at an Airbnb called Tropical Glamping. It will be an experience of a lifetime.

Favorite restaurant of all time?

Bali has so much food for almost everyone. I’m not a vegetarian, but vegetarian food in Bali is the best food I’ve ever eaten. I also had a chance to try Indonesian food, Uluwatu has a place called d’alvie. Everything on their menu is delicious.

In Ubud, you must try Zest. Their jackfruit steak is a must. Of course, when you’re in Canggu, visit Secret Spot and try their Southwestern Chicken Bowl or dine at Pizza Fabbrica. Pizza Fabbrica has such good PIZZA and calzone.

Here are some other suggestions from Canggu:

The best outdoor excursion or adventure in Bali?

I guess the event is not directly in Bali but in Nusa Penida in Bali. One of the most amazing experiences is snorkeling with manta rays. These filter feeders are giant gentle giants in the water, and the experience itself is like anything else. Sanctum Divers is located in Nusa Penida. Their boat was clean and they brought us snacks and water and made sure the equipment was clean and ready.

If you are not a swimmer, Bali has thousands of waterfalls for you to visit. My favorites are Sekumpul, Nung-Nung and Leke-Leke in northern Bali.

One of my favorite excursions is sailing around the Komodo Islands, which actually have some of my favorite beaches and trails with some of the most breathtaking views. It was a five day sailing trip that took us to a pink sandy beach where we saw Komodo dragons and then the iconic Padar Island. All food and water were provided on board and the crew made us feel comfortable every day.

Favorite beach in Bali?

I’m a big surfer, so I have to say my favorite beach is Uluwatu. The sunset over the cliffs is epic, and you can also sit and watch the surfers, fresh coconuts in hand. But if you just want to hang out and enjoy the beach, go to Dreamland. The name says it all – the water is crystalline blue and white sand and absolutely stunning. You can also swim if the waves are not too crazy.

There is also Binging Beach, a 5-minute walk from the cliffside, right at the famous Bingin Reef Rest. There is also a small warung on the cliff by the beach, called Kelly’s Warung, with a vicious sunset view.

Hiking trail with the absolute best view?

The sunrise volcano trek in Bali is called Mount Batur. I got up at around 2 am and started to drive up the mountain, about two hours from Canggu. The hike itself also takes about two hours and the views from the top are absolutely breathtaking. Although I didn’t take a guide, I still recommend it. There is also the option to camp on the top and enjoy hot chocolate and food. I personally haven’t done that, but I’ve talked to people who like the experience.

Coolest hotel or place to stay?

Skai Joglo in Ubud. It is the best tree house with the most beautiful view of the rice fields. Prices are reasonable, around $60 per night. When I lived there, the staff decorated the entire pool with petals, and it was the perfect place to capture some epic content. In the morning they also have the option to offer a floating breakfast which is also a cool experience if you’ve never done anything like this before.

What surprised you the most about Bali?

spiritual side. The energy here is so powerful. I spent some time here to really dig it and feel the vibrations of the island. I know it sounds dreamy, but you have to be here to really experience it, let alone, be open to it. I’ve met a lot of people who had a bad time here and left after a few weeks, and I’ve met people who came here and never left.

This place is amazing and she will test you in so many ways. Experience and emotion are definitely uplifted here, and it can make or break a person. I’ve been through quite a few highs and lows here, where I’m exhausted and into the party scene, and I realize it’s not actually what I want for myself and my life. I originally came to Bali to grow my business, instead I spend 70% of my time on a personal journey of self-discovery.

Is there anything else you would like to add about Bali?

Be careful on the way and learn a little about the culture here. After all, you come to this country as a guest and you cannot act or treat the people here as above them. I really wish I learned to speak more languages ​​while I was here.