What with the last-minute present-buying, the hours spent slaving away in the kitchen, and the inevitable family squabbles, it’s no surprise some of us choose to book the first flight out of here when Christmas rolls around. If you’re among the crowds of Kiwis heading to the tropical shores of Bali this holiday season, we’re here to show you how to celebrate in style (if you’ve got somewhere else in mind, we can help you snap up flights to anywhere else in the world too)…
Bubbles & bites on the beach
Looking to make the most of your beachside surroundings this Christmas? Then kick off proceedings at La Lucciola for brunch. This renowned food hub in Seminyak is famed for its superb Mediterranean–Asian fusion fare – perfect for tucking into as you take in the unbeatable ocean views.
In fact, Seminyak has plenty to offer in terms of daytime drinks that span well into the early hours. There’s the Potato Head Beach Club, an uber cool restaurant come bar come music and arts venue, where you can sip cocktails and perhaps be lucky enough to catch one of the many international DJs and music acts that hit this spot (MIA, Grace Jones and Hot Chip have all played here in the past).
Then you’ve got KU DE TA, a bar/restaurant boasting delicious gourmet dining, tantalizing cocktails and plenty of dancing. Not to mention some of the best sunset views you’ll find in Bali…
Festive feasting
If you’re a true festive fiend and vying for something a little more traditional, there are loads of eateries across Bali offering Christmas meals with all the trimmings. Petani Restaurant in Ubud touts a delicious three-course menu driven by island fresh ingredients to tempt your taste buds followed by a night of soulful live music.
Got a healthy appetite? Then veer over to the Laguna Resort & Spa over in Nusa Dua, to dine on a carefully-curated six-course Christmas menu.
Can’t resist the beach? Then make a beeline for Azul, a beach hut restaurant hosting a festive Christmas BBQ buffet that mixes traditional smokehouse recipes with fresh local ingredients. With so much delicious food on offer, a post-lunch nap on the beach might just be on the cards.
Ultimate New Year’s parties
If you’re looking to welcome 2017 in with a bang, Bali has plenty of bars and clubs hosting NYE extravaganzas. Popular nightspot Double Six Rooftop in Seminyak has a whole host of DJs playing on December 31st. Combine that with panoramic views of the ocean (perfect to watch the fireworks), drinks and dancing, and you’re onto an absolute winner.
Cocoon Beach Club, meanwhile, will be hosting a huge NYE bash this year, with famed New Zealand producer Jolyon Petch headlining the event, and international DJs Heavy Pins also featuring on the bill. With the theme of this year’s party being “Wild”, expect a riotous start to the new year.
With top-notch entertainment that includes live musicians and international DJs, Nikki Beach Bali is a lush beachfront venue where the Champagne will be flowing, plus you’ll also have an excellent spot for the all-important NYE fireworks display.
Ring in the New Year, Bali-style
Perhaps the prime locale for New Year’s Eve celebrations, Kuta Beach always draws in the crowd with thousands flocking there every year to revel in its famed annual carnival and impressive fireworks display.
Alternatively, check out Bali Botanical or Kebun Raya Eka Karya, the huge tropical garden located in Bedugul. For a considerably more chilled New Year’s Eve, take a trip here and soak up the peaceful ambience and only-in-Bali views.
For a New Year’s Eve with a unique Balinese twist, head to Ubud and witness the spectacular Kecak Fire and Trance Dance – an unmissable sight!
Relax, it’s Christmas
If you’ve booked a flight to Bali to avoid the hustle and bustle of the festive season, how about a yoga retreat? Head to the magical Prana Veda Bali Sanctuary and you’ll not only enjoy daily yoga classes and Balinese massages, but also a candlelit Christmas dinner plus a concert on Christmas Eve.
Alternatively, check out Gaya Immersions Retreat this Christmas, where on top of a yoga schedule, you’re immersed with the local community and get to experience a Christmas dinner and ceremony as part of the package.
Perhaps you’ve already sampled Bali’s glittering nightlife and now you just want to recharge? Then make tracks for Tamprak Spring and cleanse your body and soul at this holy spring water temple in the Gianyar region. What better way to kick-start the New Year?
If we’ve convinced you to jump ship this December, head over to Cheapflights.co.nz to snap up flights to Bali or beyond. Let’s call it an early Christmas present to yourself, shall we?
