If you’re planning a trip to Bali, you’ve probably seen the same spots pop up all over Instagram—swings over rice fields, temples packed with tourists, and monkey selfies galore. But not everything that goes viral is worth your vacation time! In this post, I’m sharing a few “wish we’d known before” moments from our own Bali adventure, plus tips for how to find quieter, more authentic alternatives.
1. The Famous Bali Swing… and the One We Wish We Found!
Let’s talk about the Bali Swing. Yes, it looks amazing in photos. Yes, you’ll probably still want to go. But here’s the reality: when we went, it was packed. I’m talking four tour buses of people waiting in line just to swing for 30 seconds. We waited over an hour!
Travel Chick Tip: Do a little research ahead of time and look for lesser-known swings. Many local villages offer similar swings with better views and fewer crowds. Ask your hotel staff or driver—they’ll know where to go!
2. Monkey Forest: Cute or Chaos?
Monkey sanctuaries in Bali can be SO fun—but also a bit overwhelming. We visited one that was super lively, and Gregg (my husband) came prepared… with peanuts in his pockets. It was hilarious watching him get mobbed by monkeys like a walking snack cart.
Travel Chick Tip: Definitely visit a monkey forest—but go early in the day before the crowds show up, and keep your snacks zipped up unless you’re ready for a full-on monkey meet-and-greet!
3. Temples Worth the Trek
Bali’s temples are absolutely breathtaking—but some of the most popular ones get crowded fast. We loved the quieter ones that weren’t on every “Top 10” list. They felt more peaceful and spiritual, and you didn’t have to elbow your way through a selfie crowd to enjoy them.
Travel Chick Tip: Ask your driver to take you to a temple they go to—not just the ones tourists ask for. It makes all the difference.
