Weekend in Bali

Long, wide stretch of dark sand facing west. Best spot for a free sunset show—locals and tourists gather from 5.30pm. Surfers ride the waves as the sun drops.

Tip: Bring a sarong to sit on. The beach vendors sell cold Bintang beer for 15,000 IDR. Arrive by 5pm to secure a good patch of sand away from the noisy bars.

Iconic stepped rice paddies carved into a hillside north of Ubud. You can walk the irrigation paths for free. Local farmers ask for a small donation if you enter the heart of the p

Tip: Go at dawn (around 6am). You'll beat the crowds and tour buses. Bring sturdy shoes—the mud paths get slippery.

Forest sanctuary with three ancient temples and over 700 long-tailed macaques. Entrance fee is 80,000 IDR (about £4). Well-maintained paths through dense jungle.

Tip: Remove loose jewellery and keep food hidden in a zipped bag. The monkeys grab anything shiny. Don't make direct eye contact—they see it as a challenge.

Active water temple in Tampaksiring where locals and tourists perform purification rituals in spring-fed pools. Entry fee is 50,000 IDR (about £2.50). Sacred but welcoming.

Tip: Bring a sarong or rent one at the entrance for 10,000 IDR. If you want to do the purification, wear quick-dry shorts under your sarong. Go early to avoid long queues.

Ancient sea temple perched on a limestone cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean. Entry fee is 50,000 IDR (about £2.50). Dramatic views and a daily Kecak dance performance at sunset (ticket extra).

Tip: Watch out for the long-tailed macaques—they steal sunglasses and phones. Rent a sarong at the entrance. Book the Kecak dance online in advance; it sells out fast.