Bali Family Holiday 2017

Bali Family Holiday

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We had a fantastic Bali family holiday in November 2017 and the best part was we celebrated my birthday and my sister in laws birthday too! I asked in our closed Facebook group if anyone would be interested in a trip report of our holiday and a big YES came back! So here is a day to day account of our Bali holiday with kids.

You can find more detailed reviews of our Bali holiday including:

Monday 20th November

Whenever we have an international flight we have to leave home in the Western District of Victoria, Australia 6 hours before we are due to depart. We decided this Bali holiday to just get up early and do the drive rather than stay near Melbourne airport. This meant I was woken up at 3:30am by Charlotte telling us we were off to Bali!! Every thing went smoothly through the airport, I love the self service check-in with Jetstar and the bag drop makes it easy and no need to fold up the Mountain Buggy Nano we travel with for Mason. Dare I say it but Mason was not too bad going through the airport! You can find my tips and other Mum’s tips on travelling with kids on the autism spectrum here.

Melbourne Aiport
The obligatory family photo before departure
Jetstar bag drop at Melbourne Airport
Bag drop area at Melbourne Airport for Jetstar
Melbourne Airport
The Mountain Buggy Nano comes in very handy during these times!
Melbourne Airport
Bali here we come!
Jetstar Australia
The kids very excited to see our plane
Melbourne Airport Playground
Melbourne Airport playground

We were once again able to take our Mountain Buggy Nano on the plane with us, my one tip is to always have it folded up in its bag when boarding. We sat on the tarmac for 45 minutes waiting to take off which is always fun! The flight went pretty well, we made sure the iPads were charged and any apps that needed wifi were deleted. This definitely saves on any melt downs! Even though we left Melbourne late, we landed on time to a wet Bali. Immigration line was longish but we made our way to line 3, to the left of all the lines, for families and the elderly so we probably saved 30 minutes on lining up time. Bags only took 5 minutes to come out and then we were straight out to meet our drive Made.

My Awesome Bali Adventure
Charlotte loves filling out her My Awesome Bali Adventure book on the flight
Jetstar Australia
Jetstar in-flight entertainment that can be purchased on the flights from Melbourne
Bali
About to land in Bali
Bali airport arrival
Mountain Buggy Nano coming in handy on arrival to Bali
Bali airport
Walking from the plane to immigration
Bali airport
Bali immigration
Bali airport
Bali airport luggage pick up
Bali airport
Before going through customs at Bali aiport
Bali drivers at Bali airport
Awaiting Bali drivers at Bali airport
Bali airport
You then walk through duty free to the drivers
Arriving in Bali
Walking with Made our Bali driver to the van
Bali Airport
Don’t mind the husband looking overly enthused at being photographed after 10 hrs of travelling!

We were driving to the Padma Ubud so knew we had a long drive ahead of us so stopped on the way to get a SIM card for our phones and money exchanged.

Bali Money Changer
Changing Money on the way to The Padma

From the time that we walked off the plane and then made it to the Padma was 3 hours. The drive was beautiful especially once we reached near the Padma. The kids were very excited to go for a swim straight away and our nanny Berta was waiting for us at reception. So lovely to see her again and it’s always great to have someone look after the kids after a long flight while we unpack. You can find our full review of the Padma Ubud Here.

Charlotte receiving her welcome flower
Charlotte receiving her welcome flower at Padma Ubud
Padma Ubud
Berta with the kids

The Padma Ubud was so beautiful and our room was a great size for the 4 of us. After a quick unpack we all changed into our bathers and headed to the pool. As I finally got around to check my phone I learnt of the very sad news that my Aunty had passed away. She had been sick with cancer but was still devastating to read and at that moment I desperately missed my family and wanted to give my Dad a big hug. It was also the 6 year anniversary of my Mum’s death so after a quick cry into my cocktail, I picked myself up and went for a swim with the kids. I knew that both my Mum and Aunty would want me to enjoy my holiday so that is what I was determined to do.

Padma Ubud Resort
Testing out the beds!
Padma Ubud Bathroom
Huge bathroom
Padma Ubud
Ready for the pool!
Padma Ubud Resort Bali Pool
The gorgeous pool at Padma Ubud Resort Bali
The Padma Resort Ubud
Kids enjoying the kids pool

The kids had a quick play in the kids club and then we ordered room service for them while Jed and I enjoyed dinner at Putu Restaurant. Food was delicious and the moijito hit the spot! When we arrived back to the room the kids were asleep and an early night for us all!

Ubud Restaurants
Yummy dinner at Puhu Restaurant
best restaurant in ubud
Enjoying a kid free dinner at Puhu Restaurant

Tuesday 21st November

Mason’s waking at a reasonable time has never been his strong point and it was a 5am wakeup! Lucky I love to get up early in Bali and enjoy the beautiful sunrise. Breakfast was amazing at the Padma, so many options and the view from breakfast was spectacular. They even made the kids hot chocolates in take away coffee cups so there was no spills.

Family friendly accommodation Ubud Bali
Mason and I hanging out on the balcony at 5 am!
best restaurants in Ubud
View from Puhu Restaurant
Padma Resort Bali Breakfast
So many fruits!
Padma Ubud Resort breakfast
Breakfast time at the Padma
Padma Ubud Resort
Mason enjoying his hot chocolate
Padma Bali Ubud
Charlotte loving being in Bali

We had organised with Bisma Cottages in Ubud to be picked up by their driver Darma to show us around Ubud and take us to look at Bisma. He took us to Tegallalang Rice Terraces and to the car park north of the main tourist look out. There was hardly anyone around but Mason may have managed to grab a few things from the ladies trying to sell us stuff!! Gorgeous views and a great opportunity of a family photo. We then drove into Ubud and down Jl Bisma to Bisma Cottages. Such a lovely spot and the 2 family sized cottages would have been perfect for our family of 4. Love the great value of this place and the pool was perfect for a cool off for the kids.

Tegallalang rice terraces
Tegallalang rice terraces
Bali with kids
Family photo time!
Bisma Cottages
Darma from Bisma Cottages helping Mason up the hill
Ubud with kids
Maso trying to take the toys home!
Ubud with family
Bisma Cottages
Bisma Cottages Ubud
Bisma Cottages Ubud
Ubud Accommodation
The cottages were gorgeous
Bisma Cottages Ubud
The balconies looked lovely to relax on
Ubud family accommodation
Fun in the pool!
Kids in Ubud
Jl Bisma Ubud

Next we headed to the newly opened Milk and Madu for lunch. The decor and building was awesome and Mason decided the pot plants looked like they needed a water so proceeded to pee in them! The pizza and smoothies were perfect for the kids and the perfectly brewed coffee just what I needed! I next had to pick up a Hungry in Bali book that I had won from Watercress on Monkey Forest Road. One thing to note of Monkey Forest Road is that is only one way. To get the short distance to Watercress we needed to go down Jl Hanoman then do the loop around. As I knew we were going to have to do this I stopped into Coco Supermarket where Jl Hanoman and Jl Monkey Forest join. This is a large supermarket and great to load up on snacks and milks.

Milk and Madu Bali
Milk and Madu Ubud
Ubud food
Milk and Madu Courtyard

Ubud food

Ubud lunch

Ubud eating with kids

Pizza Bali
Margherita Pizza
Ubud drinks
Berry Boost Super Smoothie
Ubud coffee
Coffee was good!

Ubud supermarket
Coco Supermarket in Ubud

It started pouring with rain at this time so we decided to head back to the Padma to meet Jed’s sister and her family. They had 3 kids aged 18mths, 5 years and 8 years old. The kids were very excited to see each other as they had been travelling around Australia. Lauren nearly gave me a big kiss for having the nannies waiting for their arrival. Berta had brought her friend Monica to help look after their kids and she was awesome too!! We had a great afternoon in the pool and the kids loved popping in and out of the kids club.

Padma Ubud Resort Pool
Drinks by the Padma pool
Padma Ubud Resort kids club
Kids pool from the kids club
Bali kids club
Cousin fun at the kids club

I escaped to enjoy a massage at the spa which was about $60aud for a hour. Not cheap but just what I needed! Once again we ordered room service for all the kids in our room and they enjoyed a movie while us 4 adults ventured to Puhu Restaurant for dinner. While we enjoyed the food and a few cocktails our phones started going off with messages. The Agung volcano that had been simmering away had finally erupted! We weren’t too far from the volcano but had no idea anything had happened. The only thing to be done was order another cocktail! Once the kids had dinner and were ready for bed, Monica took the 3 cousins back to their room and our kids were asleep once again.

Padma Ubud Spa
Padma Ubud Spa
Padma Ubud Spa
Lovely staff at the spa
Padma Spa
Massage room at the spa
Bali nannies
Berta getting the room service organised
Padma Ubud Resort
All the kids with the nannies Berta and Monica
Ubud food
Dusk view from Puhu Restaurant

Wednesday 22nd November

Another early morning wake up from Mason so I decided to take the opportunity to test out the jogging track at the Padma. Amazing views and so quiet! After another fantastic breakfast I decided to try out the morning yoga class. I don’t regularly do yoga but found the class catered for all levels. The most gorgeous views from the yoga bale. We were planning to go to the Bali Treetops but after working out it would take us 1:45 minutes to get there we decided not to. I thought that staying north of Ubud and closer to the Treetops would have made it quicker but I didn’t factor in the driving time. You nearly have to go all the way back into Ubud then drive north.

Padma Ubud Jogging track
Gorgeous sunrise on the Padma Ubud jogging track
best place to stay in Ubud with family
Jogging track
Padma Ubud Yoga
Yoga at Padma Ubud Resort

So instead we spent the day exploring the resort at the Padma and so much to do! We relaxed in the gorgeous pool, ate yummy food then joined in with the kids on the tour of the animal garden. This was a lot of fun for the kids feeding the ducks and the rabbits. Back for lunch by the pool, more time in the kids club then Charlotte, Ava and I explored the lobby, gift shop and ended up joining in on the free afternoon tea at Puhu Restaurant. They don’t include lattes in the afternoon tea but will make one for a charge of about $5aud. The girls had also booked themselves in for a kids massage at the spa and loved it.

Padma Ubud resort
Relaxing at the Padma
Padma Ubud Kids Club
Fun in the kids club pool at the Padma Ubud
Kids Club Ubud
List of activities during our stay at the kids club and resort
What to do in Ubud with kids
The kids loved the Animal Garden Tour
Padma Ubud Kids Club
Playing super heroes at the Padma Ubud Kids Club
Padma Food
Yummy food by the pool
Padma Resort Ubud afternoon tea
Charlotte loved afternoon tea
Mt Agung Bali
View of Mt Agung letting off some steam
Gift shop Padma Ubud
Gift shop at the Padma
Padma Ubud Spa Kids
The girls loving their massages

We decided to escape feeding time at the zoo (dinnertime for the kids) and went downstairs to the Padma lounge for a cocktail before another adults only dinner. Tonight was an Indonesian buffet and the food was amazing. There was also a Balinese performance after dinner which was lovely to enjoy without the kids running around.

Padma resort Ubud booking
Enjoying cocktails at The Lounge while the nannies look after the kids
Ubud Dinner
Buffet Dinner
Padma Resort Bali
Traditional Bali dance at the buffet dinner

Thursday 23rd November

Today we went on a bike tour with Ubud Cycling Bike. Was so much fun and you can read our full review of day here. The day consisted of leaving the Padma Ubud at 7:45am and arriving back at the Padma at 2:30pm. The activities that were included in the bike tour were visiting a school, checking out a coffee plantation, seeing Mt Batur, a bike ride through the country side, being invited into a family compound and finished with lunch just outside of Ubud.

Bali Holidays with kids
Getting ready to leave Padma Ubud Resort
At school Bali things to do with kids
Visiting the school
Things to do in Ubud with family
Roasting coffee beans
Bali bike tour reviews
Our group had a great time riding the roads of Bali
Ubud cycling tour
The kids learning about rice making
Ubud day trip with kids
Lunch time and it was delicous

After we got back from the ride, hubby and I booked in a couples massage while Berta looked after the kids. We then had quite a few cocktails at the pool bar and finished with an early dinner at Putu Restaurant for our last night at Padma Ubud.

Friday 24th November

After our latest fantastic breakfast at the Padma Ubud we went for a walk as a family down to the river on the jogging track. Was such a beautiful walk and the kids loved walking through the ‘jungle’. When we got back it was time to pack for the 11am transfer to Jimbaran. Once we were ready I went for a look at the 2 bedroom Club rooms and the medical facilities on site. I was very impressed with the space of the Club rooms and it was great to see that they had a nurse and doctor available if any guest was to get sick or injured.

Check out prices and more info on the Padma Ubud

Ubud with children
The kids loved the walking track
Ubud Family Friendly Resorts
Making it to the river on our walk. These were the first set of steps we had to walk over
Padma Resort Bali Family Room
Stunning spa views on the balcony of the club rooms
Padma Resort Bali Family Room
View from kids ensuite
Padma Resort Bali Family Room
View from the master bed
Ubud Medical Clinic
Clinic at Padma Ubud

We said farewell to the beautiful staff at the Padma Ubud and our driver picked us up for the trip down to Sea Shanty Villa in Jimbaran. We didn’t have a transfer included in our stay but Lauren’s family did. The drive took 1:45 so I made sure we had some pastries from breakfast with us in the van. Arriving at the Sea Shanty we were so happy with the space and the villa was gorgeous. It was only a short walk to the beach and I do love staying in villas so the first thing I did was unpack. You can check out our full review of our stay here.

Sea Shanty Jimbaran Entrance
Through the entrance doors to the villa
Sea Shanty Villa Bali
Sea Shanty Villa in Jimbaran
Bali Family Villas
Dining table and lounge
Jimbaran Indonesia
Pool at the Sea Shanty
Sea ShantyVilla Jimbaran
Kids bedroom with bunkbeds
Villa In Jimbaran
Downstairs garden view bedroom

Our nannies Berta and Monica arrived to help with the kids and Lina the live in maid ordered some pizza for lunch. After lunch Jed, Charlotte, Ava and I headed over to Sheraton Kuta to check out Play at Sheraton that I had previously organised. The Sheraton was extra central and right next to Beachwalk Mall so perfect if you want to do some shopping. I checked out the rooms and they were a good size with nice views over the garden and Kuta beach. Charlotte was desperate to get to the Lego store again so both girls bought a small Lego as they are probably a bit more expensive than Australia!

Bali nanny
Mason enjoying his pizza for lunch with Berta. She bought him those cars after he kept trying to take the cars from Padma kids club!
Sheraton Kuta
Charlotte having a great time at the Sheraton kids club
Sheraton Bali Kuta Kids Club
Upstairs area with TV and game controls for the older kids and downstairs lots of space for craft
Play at Sheraton Kuta
Outdoor play area at Play at Sheraton
Sheraton Kuta
You can organise birthday parties at Sheraton Kuta
Beachwalk Mall
Entrance to Sheraton Kids Club from Beachwalk mall.
Kuta Beach
Sheraton Kuta pool overlooking Kuta beach
Sheraton Kuta
Rooms overlooking the gardens and beach at Sheraton
Sheraton Kuta with kids
View over the pool areas at Sheraton Kuta
Kuta with toddlers
One of the rooms at Sheraton
Sheraton Kuta Room View
View from the Sheraton Kuta room that I looked at
Lego Kuta Bali
Charlotte very happy to get to the Lego store
Lego
Lego prices at Beach walk Mall

Check out prices for Sheraton Kuta Here

We finished off with icecream at XOXO and found the ATMs in the carpark to get some cash out. I usually use the Mandiri ATMs as I sometimes have problems with the my card working in the other sorts of ATMs. While we were in Kuta, Berta sent some photos of Mason playing at the Balinese kinder next to our villa. Takeaway Thai from Kat’s Kitchen was delicious for dinner.

Icecream Bali
Icecream fun at XOXO
Ice cream in Bali
XOXO Ice Cream at Beachwalk Mall
Bali kids
Mason having a great time playing with the kids in the Balinese kinder next to our villa
Bali food
Thai for dinner all set out by Lina

Saturday 25th November

Today was my birthday! I have always wanted to celebrate my birthday in Bali so I was so happy to wake up in the beautiful villa. We made our way downstairs and the kids were straight into the pool while Lina made me a pot of brewed coffee. Breakfast was next and oh my goodness the porridge and everything was so good. I was so spoilt to be in such a lovely spot and Lina was looking after us so well. She organised us a driver to take us to Sundays Beach Club where we planned to spend the morning with the kids. I have writen up a full review of our day at Sundays and you can find it here. It took us 25 minutes to drive to Sundays from the Sea Shanty Jimbaran.

Jimbaran Bali Villa
Waking up to this view!
Bali coffee
Coffee in the Bale will kids swim in the pool
Bali kids
Breakfast is served!
Breakfast in Bali
The most delicious porridge!
Bali accommodation
Lina cooking breakfast
Top beach clubs in bali
Infinity pool at the entrance that can be used by beach club guests at Sundays Beach Club
beach club uluwatu bali
Inclinator ride to the beach club
Sundays Beach Club Bali
Sundays Beach Club
Beach at Sundays Beach Club
Beach at Sundays Beach Club

We left Sundays just after lunch as the kids were starting to get a bit tired! On arriving back to the villa we had organised for Berta and Monica to come and swim with the kids while us adults relaxed. I headed out for a massage at Green Massage on Jl Uluwatu not far from the villa. It was cheap but not ultra relaxing as the drums starting up in the bar next door! I then met Jed at La Brassiere restaurant just around the corner from the villa for birthday beers. This soon became our go to place near the villa.

Massage Jimbaran
Green Massage Jimbaran
Jimbaran Bali Spa
Green Massage Prices
Jimbaran Spa
Green Massage Spa Prices
La Brassiere Jimbaran
La Brassiere Jimbaran
La Brassiere
La Brassiere
Jimbaran drinks
Birthday drinks at La Brassiere

We then headed back to the villa where us adults got ready to go out. We started with drinks at Above Eleven Bar at the Movenpick but unfortunatley the sunset wasn’t out that night. The cocktails were good but around Australian prices. We then got in a taxi to Cuca Restaurant where I had made a dinner reservation for us. We had been to Cuca back in 2016 for Jed’s birthday and we loved it. We were once again spoilt with yummy food and then we were lucky enough to be invited into the kitchen to meet the head chef Terry Chee.

Above Eleven Bali
View over Movenpick Jimbaran from Above Eleven Bar
Above Eleven Bali drinks
Cocktails at Above Eleven Bali
Above Eleven rooftop bar
Above Eleven rooftop bar Jimbaran
Movenpick Jimaran Bali
What a view from the toilets!

Above Eleven Menu
Above Eleven menu
Above 11
Jed and I enjoying a night out!
Cuca Bali
Entrance to Cuca Bali Restaurant
Cuca Jimbaran Menu
Cuca Jimbaran Menu
Cuca Bali
Cuca Bali Restaurant Menu
Cuca Jimbaran
Cocktail Menu at Cuca Jimbaran
Cuca Bali
Cuca baked pumpkin salad
Cuca Jimbaran
The most delicious dessert!
Cuca Bali
Cuca kitchen
Cuca Bali
Meeting Terry Chee

Sunday 26th November

Woken to a beautiful Bali morning by Mason at 5:30am I decided it was a great time to go for a run along Jimbaran Beach. I loved how easy it was to get to the beach from the Sea Shanty Villa and sunrise is such a gorgeous time of the morning in Bali. It became apparent that not many planes were flying though as airlines were starting to cancel flights due to the volcano. They soon started flying though so all looked ok.

Walking to Jimbaran Beach
Walking from the villa to Jimbaran Beach
Things to do in Jimbaran Bali
Jimbaran Beach
Jimbaran Fish Market
Jimbaran Fish Market
Bali Sunrise
Those Bali sunrises!

It was a quiet morning in the villa with the girls getting their hair braided by the girls at Green Massage Spa. It was perfect that they could come to the villa making it so much easier and Charlotte’s longer hair cost $30aud and Ava’s shorter hair $20aud. They did a fantastic job and saved me siting in a spa for a couple of hours while they had it done! During the time that the braiding was happening I headed out for a coffee at the Chocolate Café at Jimbaran Corner which was just a short walk from the villa.

Sea Shanty Jimbaran Villa
The girls getting their hair braided at the villa
Sea Shanty Villa Jimabaran
The girls after hair braiding was done
Chocolate Cafe Jimbaran
Chocolate Cafe at Jimbaran Corner
Jimbaran restaurant
Yummy!!

We had a booking at Prego Restaurant at the Westin Hotel in Nusa Dua for their Sunday Brunch. It was a 20 minute drive across from the villa and easy traffic. We had so much fun at the Sunday Brunch and highly recommend it as the most kid friendly Sunday Brunch in Bali. The staff were so friendly and even stopped and clapped when the kids dropped anything! You can find our full review here of our day. I also had a look through one of the family rooms at the Westin Resort. We spent 3.5 hrs there and then headed to The Grand Mirage Resort in Tanjung Benoa.

nusa dua what to see
So much fun for all the family
Nusa Dua Activities
The kids loved the magician
things to do in Nusa Dua with kids
The kids loved cupcake decorating
westin nusa dua kids club
Prego Sunday Brunch Details

We had been invited to stay at the Grand Mirage so we packed an overnight bag while Lauren’s family headed back to the Sea Shanty Villa. We were greeted by the manager and taken to the check in lounge where we tried to not let Mason destroy the room! Ahh the joys of travelling with kids but the welcome beer helped 😉

Grand Mirage Bali Benoa
Checking in at the Grand Mirage Bali

We were then driven the short distance to the Grand Mirage Family Wing and the kids were very excited to see all the kids facilities. The room was perfect for our family and then it was bathers on and off to the water park. We were so impressed with all the kids activities and you can find the full review of our stay at the Grand Mirage here. One tip I do have is take mosquito repellent, we tried to have dinner at Cascata by the sea and we were eaten alive!

Grand Mirage resort Nusa Dua
The kids loved their bedroom in the Grand Mirage Family Wing Kids Suite
Grand Mirage Family Wing
The splash park at Grand Mirage Family Wing
hotel grand mirage resort & thalasso bali
Lots of space around the family pool
all inclusive family resorts bali
Looking from the beach side back to the family wing
best kids resort Bali
Beautiful setting at La Cascata restaurant

We went back to the room, put the kids to bed and I wentto the supermarket across the road to see what they had available. I couldn’t resist heading to Bumbu Bali to get some takeaway chicken satay skewers, always so yum! On arriving back to the room the news starting flooding through, there was ash on the ground at Bali airport so it was being closed! Hmm it was not ideal but nothing we could do about it. We weren’t due to fly out until Friday so we just had to wait and see what was going to happen. My major concern was the ash in the air for the kids and the hotel were nice enough to provide masks to be used.

Grand Mirage Bali
Charlotte loved dessert in bed via room service
Supermarket near Grand Mirage
Coco Mart directly across the road
Bumbu Bali
Kitchen at Bumbu Bali 2
Bumbu Bali
My chicken satay from Bumbu Bali

Monday 27th November

The next morning we had an early breakfast and went to the main wing for a swim. After spending the morning trying out all the kids facilities we caught a taxi back to the Sea Shanty Villa in Jimbaran.

Bali family packages
Charlotte loved the pancakes!
Grand Mirage Resort Benoa Bali
Main Pool at Grand Mirage Resort Benoa Bali
Grand Mirage Waterslide
Mason enjoying the waterslide at the Grand Mirage

If you are interested in more info and prices for the Grand Mirage Bali click here

It was another birthday with Jed’s sister Lauren celebrating. We had a casual day lazing by the pool and then had Evermotion Photography come to take family photos. Wrangling kids for photos is always fun but the local Bali photographers Budi and Toris were amazingly patient!

Bali Family Holiday

Coco and Ginger Bali
Charlotte and I
Sea Shanty Jimbaran
Jed and Mason
Bali Family Photography
Fun at the beach!

After the fun/chaos of the photos we left our gorgeous nannies Berta and Monica to look after the kids for dinner and bath time as Lina had made a delicious dinner for them all. We took a taxi up the hill to Fat Chow Temple Hill and can highly recommend this place. Would be great with the kids too and the food plus drinks were so good!

Fat Chow Bali
Fat Chow Temple Hill
Fat Chow Bali
Fat Chow Temple Hill

Fat Chow Jimbaran Bali

Fat Chow Bali

Fat Chow Bali

 

Tuesday 28th November

I woke to news that there was probably more than likely ash in the tourist areas so made the decision not to go to Waterbom. Ahh so hard when you are the one organising everything but I just couldn’t be sure so didn’t want to risk it. Worked out well though as we enjoyed relaxing at the villa for the day.

Pancakes at Sea Shanty Jimbaran
Gorgeous pancakes Lina made up for the kids each morning
Relaxing at The Sea Shanty Jimbaran Bali
The boys relaxing at the Sea Shanty Jimbaran

I also went for a walk and had one of my favourite drinks at Noh by Pison Cafe, an avocado espresso. I know sounds so weird but is delicious! I had spotted this café next to the Movenpick Jimbaran and Pison Cafe in Jl Petititenget is one of my favourite cafes in Bali so had to try it out. There are so many restaurants, a supermarket and the House of Trap near the Movenpick that looked like fun with the kids!

Jimbaran Bali Hotels
Walking up the hill from Jimbaran Corner near Sea Shanty villa to the Movenpick
Jimbaran Bay Bali
Coming up to the entrance of the Movenpick shops
Pison Cafe Jimbaran
Pison Cafe Jimbaran
Bali Coffee
Menu at Pison Coffee
Jimbaran Cafe
Avocado espresso! Mmm delicious
House of Trap Jimbaran Bali
House of Trap Jimbaran
House of Trap Jimbaran
House of Trap Jimbaran

I had a look around the Movenpick lobby then they were nice enough to show me through a Family Pool View room and pool area. Looked amazing with kids and I chatted to the manager about us maybe needing a place to stay if our flights were cancelled as the airport was still closed. I was impressed by the safety aspects of the loft room as you can see in the photos.

Movenpick Bali Jimbaran
Movenpick Bali Resort
Movenpick Jimbaran
View from the room I looked through
Movenpick Jimbaran Bali
Kids pool area at Movenpick Jimbaran
Movenpick Resort Bali
Pool area outside the kids club
Movenpick Resort & Spa jimbaran Bali
Pool area at Movenpick Bali
Movenpick Resort
Map of the Movenpick Resort
Movenpick Rooms
Family Pool View Room at Movenpick Bali
Bali Jimbaran Bay
Main bathroom of the Family Pool View Room
Best family resorts Bali
Main Bathroom of Movenpick Bali Family Room
Jimbaran Accommodation Bali
Just a little bit excited to see a coffee machine!
Jimbaran Bali Hotel
Fridge and coffee making facilities
Movenpick Resort and Spa Bali
International power points in the room
Jimbaran Bay Hotels
Looking down from the loft area to the main bed
Movenpick Resort Hotel Jimbaran
Stairs to the loft area that have non slip flooring and secure glass
Jimbaran With Kids
Stair gate at the top of the stairs
Movenpick Bali Room
Upstairs bed
Movenpick Bali Reviews
Upstairs bedroom
Movenpick Bali Family Room
Kids bathroom

Check out more info and prices here if the Movenpick Bali interests you

We were also shown around the amazing kids club and it had something for every age! It is open from 9am-8pm and kids aged 4-12 yrs are welcome to join in without an adult. Kids aged 3 yrs and under are welcome with a parent, outside nanny or you can hire a hotel nanny for 90,00rp/child/hour. If you would like to check the Movenpick out why not join in for Sunday brunch and the kids can access the kids club. Also the first 4 hrs per day are free and after that there is a cost of 65,000rp/child/hour.

Movenpick Bali Kids Club
Movenpick Bali Kids Club
Movenpick Resort and Spa Jimbaran
Kids club entrance
Movenpick Bali Resort
Movenpick Bali Kids Club
Movenpick Hotel Bali
Movenpick Bali Kids Club
Hotel Movenpick Bali
Movenpick Bali Kids Club
Movenpick Jimbaran Tripadvisor
Movenpick Bali Kids Club
Movenpick Resort Jimbaran
Movenpick Bali Kids Club
Movenpick Resort Jimbaran Bali
Sleeping area in the kids club
Movenpick Bali Kids Club
Activities at Movenpick Bali Kids Club
Movenpick Resort & Spa Jimbaran
Movenpick Bali Restaurant

After I arrived back and enjoyed a nap, us girls headed to the local Nails Department where we enjoyed a manicure and pedicure. A mani/pedi combi for Lauren and I was about $30aud and for the girls it cost $14aud. It was then time for a visit to the Chocolate café where the girls enjoyed a chocolate milkshake. Another quiet night with dinner at La Brassiere.

Bali Spa
After our manicure and pedicures at Nails Department
Bali manicure
Charlotte loved having her nails done

Nails Department Menu
Jimbaran Corner
Jimbaran Corner was the collection of shops near the villa
Chocolate Cafe Jimbaran
The girls loving their milkshakes
Chocolate Cafe Jimbaran
Dessert was yum!
Food at La Brassiere Jimbaran
Pad Thai at La Brassiere
Jimbaran Bali Restaurants
La Brassiere Menu
Jimbaran Bali Restaurants
La Brassiere Menu

Wednesday 29th November

So I made the decision that the ash cloud had started shifting away from Kuta so much to the kids delight we headed to Waterbom waterpark in Kuta. We decided on buying tickets from an operator on the way to Waterbom and to be honest I think this was more expensive by $10 per family. Not by much but we should have just waited until the gate as the line up wasn’t long. Straight to book a gazebo which we always get each time we visit Waterbom. This was Charlotte’s 5th time and you can find all our tips on a day out at Waterbom here. We also had Berta and Monica come with us which always makes for a more relaxing day! The older kids really enjoyed it as the girls were so tall they could go on most rides.

Activities in Bali Kuta
Getting ready to finally get to Waterbom
Waterbom Bali Discount Tickets
Buying our Waterbom tickets
Bali Bomb Water Park
Kids excited about arriving at Waterbom
Waterbom park Kuta
The kids having a blast with Berta
Waterbom Bali Kuta
My kind of area!
Waterbom Bali
Kids Funtastic Area
Kuta Bali attractions
Boomerang

Water bom bali
Mason loving the big slides!
Waterbom Bali rides
Fun!!

Water bom Park
Hanging out with Berta and Monica near the gazebo

We spent most of the day there and then headed back to Jimbaran. I was determined to get to Sundara Beach Club for a sunset cocktail but no one else was interested so off I went by myself! There wasn’t really a sunset and it was so strange seeing no planes flying in and out of the airport. The cocktails were delicious and it was happy hour so even better! Just as I was about to leave the first plane took off from the airport, the Bali airport was back open!

Sundara Beach Club
Sundara Beach Club
Sundara Bali
Sundara Bali

Sundara Bali Menu
Sundara Menu
Sundara Jimbaran
Enjoying a cocktail at Sundara Jimbaran
Sundara Bali Price
Sundara Bali
Sundara Four Seasons Bali
The first plane taking off from Bali airport in 3 days!

Thursday 30th November

We had been invited to enjoy a day out at Finn’s Recreation Club in Canggu so our family had organised our driver Made Mangku to take us for the day. You can find our full review of our day at Finns Bali here. As we turned down Batu Belig I quietly told Made that a stop would be needed at Watercress café so I could grab a coffee. Many groans were heard in the car but there is no stopping me and my morning coffee!!

Watercress Bali
Cute takeaway coffee at Watercress Bali
Watercress Bali
Watercress Bali Batu Belig

We arrived at Finn’s, met Berta who was joining us for the day and got our pass for the day. Then much to the kids excitement were transferred to the Strike Bowling in a golf buggy. It’s not far, just across the road, but the kids loved the ride. We all measured our feet up, were allocated a lane and it was time to bowl. I loved that they provided the guided bowling for the younger kids making it something for the whole family. Mason’s attention span is never great so half way through the game we went downstairs to have a look at the Cubby House Kids Club and start his time at Bounce. The time for each session at Bounce starts on the hour so it’s probably worth coordinating that in with your day.

Finns bali
Finns Bali Front Desk
Strike bowling Seminyak
Strike Bowling Desk
Bowling in Seminyak
Mason loving having a go at bowling
Cubby House Kids Club Bali
Cubby House Kids Club next to Bounce and Strike
Cubby House Kids Club Canggu
Menu at Cubby House Kids Club
Kids Club Canggu
Menu for the kids at Cubby House Kids Club
Kids Club Bali
Cubby House activity schedule
Canggu Kids Club
Handy info on kids under 2 participating at Cubby House

The kids loved Bounce! Coming from a small country town we don’t have a Bounce near us so they thought it was a lot of fun. They were quite hot after running around so it was a perfect time to head back over to Splash for a cool down. This was our second time at Splash and we always find it great with younger kids. It is a lot easier to keep an eye on them than at Waterbom and even though there is less slides it always seems to be a lot quieter so no waiting times. We ordered lunch and even though the prices aren’t that cheap the food was good.

Trampoline Park Bali
The kids and Berta having a great time at Bounce in Bali
Bounce Trampoline Bali
Charlotte having a great time at Bounce
Bounce Bali Canggu
Mason in his element at Bounce Canggu

Canggu Splash Bali
The kids loved the slides
Canggu Water Park
Mason loved the swing at Splash Canggu Water Park
Splash Bali Reviews
Charlotte loved the hotdogs

Once we were nearly ready to go I messaged our driver Made to let him know we were ready to go and he was waiting for us at the entrance. I had organised with Jen from Garden Early Learning Centre for the kids to come over and have a play in the kids club. We love it here and I am definitely staying in Canggu next trip as there is so much to do. The Sprout Café next door is perfect for a coffee and food while the kids have fun painting and drawing. Also ran into Rachel one of the Instagram Mum’s I’m friends with and it was lovely to have a chat with her.

Garden Early Learning Canggu
Garden Early Learning Centre

Sprout Cafe next to Garden Kids Club Canggu

Next we were off to The Joglo for a milkshake for the kids and a play in the playground. Awesome spot with the kids and highly recommend.

The Joglo
Entrance to The Joglo Canggu

We said our last goodbyes to Berta which is always sad as she helps us out so much! It was a quiet trip home as everyone was exhausted and we also said our goodbyes to Made.

Bali Nanny
Saying goodbye to Berta
Bali Driver
Our Bali driver Made Mangku

After arriving back at the villa I went with the girls to catch the sunset at Jimbaran Beach and enjoy a corn cob from one of the beach vendors. We had been pretty unlucky this trip with sunsets but going in the wet season had been the cause for this. Dinner for the kids back at the villa by the gorgeous Lina and then Jed and I headed out to La Brassiere for our last Bali dinner for the trip. We just find it so hard after big days to take the kids out for dinner so that’s why we love a villa with a chef to make them dinner. It suits us just fine and we get to spend some time together without the kids.

Jimbaran Beach
The corn man at Jimbaran Beach
Jimbaran With Kids
Our last night at Jimbaran Beach
Jimbaran Bay Restaurants
Looking back up towards Sundara Beach Club
Jimbaran Seafood Restaurants
Jimbaran Seafood Restaurants. November is not a great time for the rubbish!

Friday 1st December

Ahh fly out day! I always dread this day but it was different to previous holidays as we actually didn’t know if we were going to make it out. Mt Agung was still playing havoc and the week had been tense especially for Jed as he needed to get home for work. Lauren’s family were on the early morning Perth flight out so it was goodbyes to them and relaxing time by the pool for our family. We had loved our stay so much at the Sea Shanty and it was so hard to say goodbye to Lina and Supri who over the week had looked after us so well and were beautiful people.

Sea Shanty Villa Jimbaran
Saying goodbye to the gorgeous Lina and Supri

It was only a 20 minute drive to the airport and as we checked in to our Jetstar flight we got word that they were cancelling the night flight out. It was so up in the air if we were going to get out that I didn’t believe it until we were taking off! We had such a fantastic Bali family holiday and loved that we had split our time between the resort and villa. It always keeps the whole family happy.

Bali Airport
Bali Airport
Bali Porter
We always use a porter to take our bags to check in. Only costs a couple of dollars
Bali airport
Check in for Jetstar. Notice the line to the far left, they are cancelled passengers trying to get home!
Bali Aiport Kids Area
Kids play area in the airport

The ever so easy to read instructions just before boarding.

I hope you enjoyed the details of our Bali trip in 2017. We had such a fun time and found staying in a villa and hotel worked really well when travelling in a group. If you would like to join our Facebook group for even more help on planning your Bali family holiday, you can find it here.

Kate xx

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Tags: Benoa, Canggu, Family Trip Reports, Jimbaran, Kuta, Ubud, Uluwatu
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