Bali without the bogan: A guide to Seminyak

If you’re in the market for a luxurious island getaway but have already dismissed Bali (you see yourself as more bohemian babe more than bounty bogan), then it’s time you discovered the district of Seminyak.

World-class food, shopping galore and international DJs are just a handful of its many offerings – and there’s not a Bintang singlet in sight.

Where to stay:

Chandra Luxury Villas

Jl. Sari Temuku (Gang Sandat) 
Seminyak, Bali

Chandra Luxury Villas is one of those rare places where the awesome photos that reeled you in when you booked just don’t do it justice. Balinese culture has been embraced in the design resulting in a beautiful, tranquil environment – you’ll be tempted not to leave your villa for the whole holiday.

The gorgeous pool at Chandra

Best bit: There’s nothing quite like having your personal chef cook you breakfast while you laze around in your private pool.

Where to eat:

Ku De Ta

Jl. Laksmana, 9, Seminyak, Bali

Ku De Ta has it all: beautiful beach sunsets, relaxed yet buzzing atmosphere and – my personal favourite – delicious food. KDT serves Mediterranean cuisine, often with a Balinese twist, paired with an impressive drinks list. You’ll be making your next booking before you’re even out the door.

Ku De Ta

Must try: Order the entree of crispy soft shell crab salad with pork belly and die a happy camper.

Where to shop:
Saya Gallery
Jl. Laksmana 12X, Seminyak, Bali

Seminyak is known as the shopping district and offers a mix of high-end fashion and local arts and crafts. The Saya Gallery is a must-see if you’re looking for something really special. It caught my eye with its striking art, but won my heart with its unique jewellery.

Beautiful jewellery from Saya

Check out: www.sayagallery.com for a taster.

Where to relax
W Bali
Jl. Petitenget, Kerobokan, Seminyak, Bali

W is a one of Seminyak’s newest, must-see establishments. Exuding luxury at every turn, it’s a one-stop shop for accommodation, relaxation and dining, although you needn’t make a booking to make the most of it. Spend long, lazy days poolside while waiters bring you cocktails, or relax by beach with fresh bites and a cold beer.

Chilling out at the bar at W

Must try: If only for the theatrics, order yourself a signature I-candy cocktail. Consisting of crushed lime and palm sugar, mixed with cachaca and crushed ice, it’s then topped off with a massive ball of fairy floss which dissolves for it to become one sweet-ass cocktail.

Where to play
Potato Head Beach Club
Jl. Petitenget, Seminyak, Bali

Greeted by an imposing coliseum wall of colourful, old-school window shutters, you know before you even step into Potato Head Beach Club that it’s way cooler than you are. During the day it masks as a hip family hangout, but at sunset it starts to morph into a partygoer’s paradise with its dangerously deliciously cocktails and pumping beats by international acts.

Cheers!

Must try: If you’re up a good time, not a long time (and have an iron stomach to boot), try the ‘Prohibition ice tea’, but with its silky passionfruit foam and oriental flavours, the ‘Kookaburra’ is divine and will have you laughing all the way to the dance floor.

Hot Tips
The App: For more info on what to see and do in Bali, download the Bali 360 app to your smartphone or tablet.
Baby hire: For those traveling with babies and young children check out balibabyhire.com. For around $5 a day they will drop off Australian standard cots, prams, car seats and more to your hotel, saving more room for shopping!