An expert expat’s tips for Canggu, Bali
The Expat
Louise Millroy - “get out beyond the hussle.”
Born in Cairns and raised in Hong Kong, Louise Millroy moved to Bali in 2016. She is the founder of Kinship Studio, a creative co-working space in Berawa and also has a neighbourhood, hole-in-the-wall cocktail and wine bar called Souvenir, which she and a friend opened at the beginning of 2022.
See
Get outside the hustle and explore Bali in her natural beauty. My favourite place to wind down and reconnect is Sarinbuana Eco Lodge. I stumbled upon this eco lodge during the pandemic and have visited more times than I can count. The property is situated in the foothills of Mount Batukaru in Tabanan, surrounded by incredible rainforest trails to hike and waterfalls to swim in.
Do
Go for a slide and spend the day at the iconic Waterbom in Kuta. The park has over 20 slides for both thrillseeker adrenalin junkies or chillers (like me) who enjoy floating down the lazy river after a few Kura Kura beers at the pool bar. Aside from the fun, it’s great to see a waterpark with a sustainability plan, dedicated to reducing their footprint and becoming Asia’s most sustainable waterpark.
The Waterbom park is an iconic local attraction, and actually worth a visit.Credit: Waterbom
Eat
How could I just choose one? I am passionate about my food so here are my must-eats. Don’t leave Bali without trying Tanau in Kerobokan, I order the pork chop and corn in the husk. It’s a hole-in-the-wall, Indonesian fusion restaurant that gives off a casual yet fine-dining tone (without the pretentiousness). The young couple behind it, Brigette and Nathan, have an impressive background in hospitality and are the driving force behind the place. For an elevated dining experience, check out chef Steve Skelly’s restaurant Uni at Berawa – modern seafood sharing plates with a focus on sustainability and Japanese handling techniques. Uni also serves fantastic cocktails by mixologist Jordy Outra, My local, everyday go-tos in Canggu include great lunches at Neighbourhood, take-aways from Wei To Go Chinese restaurant and Warung Maaaak for some local makanan (food).
Drink
In Canggu, check out our friends at Club Soda, from the crew behind Locavore Ubud. My favourite is a nee-groni (made with their homemade Campari). They are clever in their use of local ingredients and the team are always down for a chat about their latest creations. Wine lovers head to Mosto, Indonesia’s first natural wine bar. For a sunset cocktail, visit Skool Kitchen overlooking the surf at Batu Bolong beach. I always order the watermelon mojito – it’s clarified, so the drink itself is clear, but packed full of flavour.
Skool Kitchen overlooking the surf at Batu Bolong beach.
Avoid
Don’t ride a scooter after drinking. Bali has so many options for affordable transport, there is really no need for this.
Thrive
Ask the locals for advice on sights you might not otherwise see.Credit: iStock
Ask your driver, villa staff or hospitality staff about their village. You never know what attraction might be nearby for you to immerse yourself in, and to learn the ways of the warm and forever welcoming Balinese people.
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