There is a unique and romantic charm to November in Bali. This is the dawn of the Green Season, a time when the landscapes turn a vibrant emerald, the air feels fresh and clean, and a cozy, atmospheric feeling settles over the island. It’s the perfect time of year for a different kind of holiday—one focused on cultural discovery and indulgent culinary comforts.

Forget chasing endless sunshine; this is a weekend for embracing the rhythm of the island. This 3-day itinerary is perfectly designed for the mixed weather of November, blending inspiring mornings at Bali’s best indoor cultural sites with long, relaxing afternoons spent “cafe hopping” in its most famous coffee shops.

Your Home Base: A Sanctuary in Nusa Dua

The key to a perfect mixed-weather holiday is having a comfortable and beautiful home base to return to. Starting your journey in the serene enclave of Nusa Dua provides the perfect sanctuary. From the peaceful beachfront setting of Merusaka, you can easily embark on day trips to the cultural hubs of Ubud and Seminyak, knowing that you can retreat from the hustle and bustle to your own tranquil haven at the end of the day.

The 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: The Artistic Heart of Ubud

Today is all about immersing yourself in the creative soul of Bali.

Homaya Restaurant

Morning (10:00 AM): After a leisurely breakfast, your private driver will take you on a scenic journey to Ubud. Your first stop is a deep dive into Balinese art history at a world-class institution like the ARMA Museum or the Neka Art Museum, both of which house incredible collections of traditional and modern Balinese art.

Lunch (1:00 PM): Enjoy a healthy and beautiful lunch at a famous Ubud institution like Clear Cafe, known for its stunning architecture and delicious, nourishing food.

Afternoon (2:30 PM): Now for the cozy part. As the afternoon clouds gather, it’s time for some serious cafe hopping. Head to one of Ubud’s renowned specialty coffee shops, such as Seniman Coffee Studio, for an expertly brewed coffee. Find a comfortable seat, relax with a book, and watch the world go by.

Evening: Return to the serene comfort of Merusaka for a relaxing dinner at our authentic Indonesian restaurant, Homaya Restaurant.

Day 2: Contemporary Style & Culinary Delights in Seminyak

Today, you’ll explore the stylish, modern side of Bali’s creative and culinary scene with a trip to the chic streets of Seminyak.

• Morning (11:00 AM): Enjoy a slower start before heading out. Begin your cultural exploration not just at a gallery, but at a unique lifestyle space. We recommend visiting Kim Soo Home, a stunningly curated homewares store. It’s a beautiful space that showcases a sophisticated, monochrome aesthetic, offering a perfect opportunity to shop for unique design pieces.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM onwards): A Cafe & Brunch Hopping Adventure Seminyak is the undisputed champion of Bali’s cafe culture. Instead of just one stop, we recommend spending the afternoon exploring a few of the legendary spots, all within easy walking distance of each other. Here is your curated list:
  • For the Iconic Brunch: Sisterfields Cafe. This is a Seminyak institution. Famous for its vibrant Australian-style brunch menu, great coffee, and buzzing atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to start with a delicious and highly “Instagrammable” meal.
  • For the Hidden Gem: Revolver Espresso. Tucked away down a small laneway, finding this boutique coffee shop is part of the fun. Step inside to discover a cool, quirky, and always-busy cafe known for serving some of the best and most consistent coffee on the island.
  • For the Coffee Purist: Expat. Roasters. If you are serious about your coffee, Expat is a must-visit. They are specialty coffee producers who roast their own beans. It’s a more minimalist, coffee-focused experience for those who appreciate the art of a perfect brew.
  • For the Aesthete: Neon Palms. Located above the iconic Bali Boat Shed, Neon Palms is a vibrant and colorful oasis. Its retro-inspired, tropical decor with bright pinks and greens makes it one of Seminyak’s most visually stunning spots. It’s the perfect place to relax with a creative cocktail or a coffee in a beautifully designed setting.
• Evening: Return to Merusaka in time for sunset cocktails, followed by a fresh seafood barbecue at our beachfront restaurant, Ja’jan by the Sea.

Day 3: A Day of Cozy Indulgence

The final day is all about pure relaxation and enjoying the beautiful facilities of the resort.

SPA Gazebo

Morning: There’s no rush today. Enjoy the full, lavish breakfast buffet at your leisure.

Late Morning (11:00 AM): A day with a chance of rain is the perfect excuse for a luxurious spa journey. Book a traditional Balinese massage at The Spa at Merusaka and let our expert therapists melt away any remaining stress.

Afternoon: If the sun is shining, relax by our magnificent multi-level pools. If it’s raining, it’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy a book and a drink from the comfort of your covered private balcony.

Evening: A final, indulgent dinner caps off your cozy and cultural weekend, leaving you feeling completely refreshed and inspired.

While many people dream of Bali under a sunny sky, the island has a deep beauty. This secret is often reserved for the experienced traveler. This secret is the “Green Season.” When the calendar turns to Bali in November, the first nourishing rains arrive. Then the island transforms beautifully. It is a time when the entire landscape relaxes. It bursts forth in a thousand shades of deep green.

Forget what people may say about the “rainy season.” We invite you to discover this. November is the start of the Green Season. It might just be the most magical time of all to experience the Island of the Gods.

The Arrival of the Rains: A Blessing, Not a Burden

The first rains of November are not a sign to stay away. They are a blessing (berkah). The rain washes the island clean. It also clears the air. The landscape awakens from its dry-season rest. The rain in Bali is rarely an all-day event. Instead, it often comes as short, intense afternoon downpours. These showers are very refreshing.

This is a time for cozy relaxation. Imagine listening to the gentle drumming of rain on the roof. You are comfortable on your private balcony. Then the clouds part. They reveal a stunning, golden sunset. The air feels fresh and clean afterwards. It is filled with the beautiful, earthy scent of rain.

The Island in Emerald: A Feast for the Eyes

In Bali in November, the color palette shifts. It changes from gold to a brilliant emerald. It is a wonderful visual experience. These sights are at their absolute best during the Green Season:

The Rice Terraces

The Rice Terraces: The famous, sculpted rice paddies are at their most intense. This is true in places like Tegalalang and Jatiluwih. The new rice shoots create a carpet of neon green that glows. You can often see them shrouded in a beautiful morning mist.

The Waterfalls: The rains feed Bali’s waterfalls. They change from gentle trickles into powerful, thundering cascades. This is the time of year to see their full, majestic power. The jungles around them seem to be fully alive.

The Jungles & Gardens: Every leaf in Bali’s lush jungles looks freshly polished. The colors are deeper, and the flowers are brighter. The entire island feels full of life.

A Sensory Experience: The Feeling of a Reawakened Bali

A November visit is more than just a visual experience. It is a complete sensory one. The entire island feels more alive.

• The Tranquility: The crowds are smaller during the shoulder season. Therefore, you can often experience Bali’s temples and natural spots in peace. This allows for a more personal connection.
• The Atmosphere: The temperatures are often slightly cooler. They are more comfortable than in the peak dry season. This makes it perfect for exploration.
• The Sounds: The Green Season has its own beautiful music. You can hear the powerful rush of a full waterfall. You can hear the gentle chorus of frogs in the evening. There is also the calming rhythm of rain. These sounds create a perfect soundtrack for relaxation.

Adventures in the Rain: Fun Beyond the Sunshine

The Green Season doesn’t mean you have to stay indoors. For the adventurous traveler, a little rain simply adds to the excitement of Bali’s outdoor activities. Here are a few experiences that are amazing in November, rain or shine.

1. Go on a Thrilling ATV Ride: Riding an All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) through Bali’s jungle is always fun. The Green Season makes it even better. The rain makes the tracks muddy and slick. This adds a thrilling splash of adventure to your ride. Imagine powering through jungle trails and splashing through puddles. You will get covered in the mud of the real Bali. It is a guaranteed rush.

2. Cozy Up with Lakeside Glamping: Glamping (glamorous camping) on the shores of one of Bali’s lakes is magical in November. Try Lake Batur or Lake Buyan. The cool, misty mountain air and the gentle sound of rain on your tent create an incredibly cozy escape. You can wake up to the sight of the peaceful lake shrouded in mist. You will feel completely connected to nature while still being comfortable. It is a truly romantic adventure.

3. Conquer the Rapids with White-Water Rafting: Bali’s rivers, like the Ayung River near Ubud, are at their absolute best during the Green Season. The rains raise the water levels. This makes the rapids faster, bigger, and more exciting for a thrilling adventure. Furthermore, the jungle scenery along the riverbanks is at its most lush and beautiful.

• • Important Safety Note: Rafting during a light shower can be a fantastic experience. However, do not go rafting during or immediately after very heavy rainfall. Heavy downpours can cause the river levels to rise too quickly. This creates dangerous conditions. Always choose a certified rafting operator. Their professional guides constantly monitor the weather and river conditions. They will be the best judge of safety. They will cancel or postpone a trip if there is any risk. We always put your safety first.

Embracing the Green Season

A day trip into the island’s green heart is a must during this time of year. Our Concierge team can help you craft the perfect “Green Season” tour. They can arrange a private car to take you to the most spectacular waterfalls and viewpoints. Afterwards, you can return to the comfortable peace of Nusa Dua. You will have experienced the island at its most alive.

STAY MORE EXTRA REWARD

For years, travelers have debated the best time to visit Bali, with many pointing to the peak dry season of July and August. But a new trend is emerging among savvy visitors who have discovered the island’s true “golden season”: the beautiful shoulder season that stretches from September to November.

This period is a magical sweet spot, offering a perfect trifecta of incredible benefits that many now consider the ideal Bali experience. It’s a shift away from the chaotic peak season, rewarding those in the know with a more relaxed, authentic, and valuable holiday. As your friendly hosts at Merusaka Nusa Dua, let us give you the insider’s guide to why the shoulder season is the new best time to be in Bali.

The Shoulder Season Advantage: The Perfect Trifecta

So what makes this period so special? It’s a perfect combination of three key elements that create an ideal holiday.

• Fewer Crowds: As the peak holiday rushes of summer end, a calmer, more relaxed energy settles over the island. This means more space on the beaches, easier reservations at famous restaurants, and a more peaceful and personal-feeling experience at temples and attractions.
• Excellent Value: With lower demand than the peak season, the shoulder months are the best time to find exceptional deals on flights and accommodation. It’s when you’ll find the most attractive bali hotel specials deals and value-packed packages.
• Wonderful Weather: You get the best of both worlds. The season starts with the beautiful, sunny tail end of the dry season and gently transitions into the lush, green beginnings of the wet season, with still plenty of sunshine to enjoy.

A Month-by-Month Guide to the Golden Season

Each month during the shoulder season has its own unique charm and special events.

September: The Golden Month

• The Vibe: This is the perfect blend. You get the glorious, sun-drenched weather of the peak season but with a fraction of the crowds. The seas are often calm, the skies are blue, and the atmosphere is wonderfully serene.

October: The Cultural Month

• The Vibe: The island is vibrant, green, and culturally buzzing. While you might get a brief, refreshing afternoon shower, the days are still predominantly sunny and beautiful.
• Major Events: October is packed with world-class events, including:
• • Ubud Writers & Readers Festival (Oct 2-6): Southeast Asia’s premier literary festival transforms Ubud into a global hub for ideas and culture.
  • Bali Nusa Dua Festival (Oct 25-26): Our very own neighborhood comes alive with a spectacular celebration of music, food, and art right on Peninsula Island.

November: The Lush & Local Month

• The Vibe: This is the beginning of the “green season,” when the landscapes become incredibly lush and vibrant. It’s a beautiful, quiet month perfect for exploring Bali’s authentic culture.
• Major Events: Witness a truly unique Balinese tradition:
• Makepung Buffalo Races Final (Nov 9): Head to West Bali for the thrilling grand final of the traditional buffalo races, a spectacular and authentic cultural experience.

Your Perfect Shoulder Season Base

The best way to enjoy the shoulder season is from a comfortable and convenient base that allows you to both relax and explore. Staying at Merusaka in Nusa Dua places you on a serene beachfront, perfect for enjoying the beautiful weather, while also being an easy starting point for day trips to the cultural events in Ubud or beyond.

This is also the best time to find incredible value. We invite you to explore our official offers page, where you’ll find packages designed to make your shoulder season escape even more rewarding.

[Link to Merusaka Stay More Extra Reward]

Planning a trip to our beautiful island? There is a new, simple step for all international visitors. Bali recently introduced a tourism tax. It is an important contribution to preserving the island’s culture and environment. Some people feel confused about how it works. However, the process is actually very simple.

This guide will walk you through the levy. We will explain what it is and why it exists. We will also show you the easiest way to pay it. This will ensure a seamless and stress-free start to your Bali holiday.

What is the Bali Tourism Levy?

First, let’s understand this new levy. It is more than just a tax. It is a collective investment in the future of the island we all love.

• The Amount: It is a one-time fee of IDR 150,000. That is about $10 USD per person. You pay this for each visit to Bali.
• The Purpose: The funds help with vital projects. These projects preserve Bali’s unique cultural heritage. They also protect its beautiful natural environment. By paying the levy, you are helping to keep Bali beautiful for generations to come.
• Who Needs to Pay: The levy applies to all international tourists. This includes children of all ages. You must pay if you enter Bali from overseas.

How to Pay: The Official and Easiest Way

Many people talk about different payment methods online. The official and safest method is to pay online before you travel. This is what we recommend. The official platform for this is the “Love Bali” system.

• A Step-by-Step Guide to Paying Online:
  • Visit the Official Website or App: Go to the official government website. It is the only one. The address is lovebali.baliprov.go.id. You can also download the “Love Bali” app on your smartphone. Please be careful of unofficial websites. They may try to charge you an extra fee.
  • Enter Your Details: You will need to input your name. It should appear as it does on your passport. You will also need your passport number, email address, and arrival date.
  • Make the Payment: You can pay easily and securely online. You can use a credit card like a Visa or Mastercard.
  • Receive Your Voucher: Once you pay, the system will send you a digital levy voucher. It has a QR code. They will send it to the email address you provided.

What to Do with Your Voucher

You are all set once you have your voucher! Here is what to do with it:

• Save It to Your Phone: Take a screenshot of the voucher. It has a QR code. Save it to your phone’s photo library. This ensures you can access it instantly upon arrival. It works even without an internet connection.
• Have it Ready: Officials may check your QR code at checkpoints. Have it ready. The checkpoints are at Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) or maybe at other places around the island.

What Happens If You Don’t Pay?

The Bali government takes this new Bali tourism tax very seriously. There are checks and enforcement measures in place. Tourists who have not paid the levy may face inconveniences.

According to official sources, here’s what could happen:

• Entry Denial: Officials may scan the QR code voucher at the entrance of major tourist spots. If you do not have a valid voucher, you may be asked to pay. You could also be denied entry.
• Issues Upon Departure: Checks may also happen at the airport when you are leaving. You may be required to pay the levy and any fines. This must happen before you can depart.
• Reminders and Warnings: The Love Bali system or tourism officials may send you reminders or warnings during your stay.

Ultimately, paying the levy is a mandatory obligation. To ensure your holiday is completely stress-free, it is highly recommended to pay the Bali tourism tax online before you arrive. Keep the voucher saved on your phone to avoid any issues.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I pay at the airport upon arrival? Yes, payment counters may be available. However, the official recommendation is to pay in advance. This ensures a faster and smoother process through immigration and customs.
• Is this the same as a Visa on Arrival (VoA)? No. The Bali tourism tax is a separate requirement from your visa. You must still follow the visa rules for your nationality.
• Do I have to pay if I am visiting other parts of Indonesia? The levy is specifically for international tourists. It applies only when you enter the province of Bali.

Paying the Bali tourism tax is a simple and quick online process. It makes a real contribution to protecting the island. By taking a few minutes to do it, you can start your holiday with peace of mind. You will know you’ve played a part in preserving the magic of Bali.

Beyond the serene beaches of Bali lies a different kind of energy. It is a thundering, thrilling display of speed, skill, and local pride. This is the Makepung Buffalo Races. It is a fantastic cultural tradition found only in the rice fields of Jembrana, West Bali. It offers a glimpse into the island’s rich farming heritage.

For the adventurous traveler, this is a great experience. A trip to witness the Makepung is an unforgettable adventure. As your hosts at Merusaka Nusa Dua, we created this guide to the island’s most exciting race.

What is Makepung?

The name “Makepung” literally translates to “chasing.” It is a series of thrilling races. Skilled jockeys balance carefully on colorful, two-wheeled wooden chariots (cikar). They are pulled by pairs of powerful water buffaloes (kerbau). These are not just farm animals. In fact, they are prized racing buffaloes. Their value can increase greatly if they win.

The races take place on makeshift dirt tracks. These tracks are usually 1-2 kilometers long. Farmers carve them out of harvested rice fields. Furthermore, it is a muddy, fast, and very exciting event.

A Tradition Born from the Harvest

The tradition of Makepung dates back to the early 20th century in Jembrana. It began as an informal contest among farmers. They held it after the rice harvest. It was a way to celebrate their hard work. Also, they tested the strength and speed of their buffaloes. Over the decades, these simple contests evolved. They became the highly competitive races we see today. Consequently, they are now a key part of West Bali’s cultural identity.

The Day of the Races: What to Expect

A Makepung race day is a vibrant and festive affair. It is filled with a lively and competitive atmosphere.

• The Teams: The competition is a fierce but friendly rivalry. It is between two main groups. There is the Eastern Division (Ijo Gading Timur), who wear red. Also, there is the Western Division (Ijo Gading Barat), who wear green.
• The “Buffalo Fashion Show”: There is a unique procession before the main races begin. The buffaloes are adorned with elaborate crowns, large bells, and silk ribbons. It is a celebration of the animals. It is also a chance for owners to show their pride.
• The Race: The main event is a thrilling sight. Pairs of buffaloes are released down the track. They go at incredible speed. Their jockeys guide them skillfully from their chariots. It is a powerful display of the unique partnership between man and animal.

How to Witness the Spectacle

The Makepung season runs annually. It is during the dry months, from July to November. Races are typically held on Sunday mornings.

• The Grand Final: The season ends with the most prestigious final race. It is for the Governor’s Cup (Piala Bupati). This is the biggest event of the year. It draws the largest crowds and the fastest buffaloes.
• Confirmed Date for the 2025 Final: The final race for the Governor’s Cup is scheduled for Sunday, November 9th, 2025.
• Location: The races are held in various circuits. They are around Negara. This is the capital of the Jembrana regency in West Bali.

Planning Your Adventure

A trip to the Makepung Buffalo Races is a full-day excursion from Nusa Dua. However, it is well worth the journey for a truly authentic cultural experience.

• Getting There: The drive to Jembrana takes several hours. The most comfortable and convenient way to go is with a private car and driver.
• Let Us Be Your Guide: To ensure a seamless and unforgettable adventure, our Concierge team can arrange your entire trip. We can organize private transportation. We can also provide you with all the details you need to experience the thundering spirit of the Makepung races.

Getting married in Bali is a dream for many couples. The thought of saying “I do” on a beautiful beach is the ultimate romantic fantasy. While the ceremony is a beautiful dream, the legal process can seem confusing.

But don’t worry! The process is very straightforward with the right preparation. As your friendly hosts at Merusaka Nusa Dua, we created this simple guide. It explains the legal requirements for foreigners. We want to help you on your way to a perfect and legally recognized Bali wedding.

1. The Two Essential Ceremonies

The key to a legally recognized marriage in Bali is understanding this. You need to have two different ceremonies. They must be on the same day. One happens right after the other.

• The Religious Ceremony: According to Indonesian law, a marriage must first have a religious ceremony. A representative of one of Indonesia’s five official religions performs it. The religions are Islam, Protestantism, Catholicism, Hinduism, or Buddhism. You and your partner must both declare the same religion for this ceremony.
• The Civil Ceremony: A government official from the Indonesian Civil Registry Office arrives immediately after the religious ceremony. They conduct a short civil ceremony. They record the marriage. This step makes your wedding legally binding in Indonesia and internationally.

2. The Most Important Document: Your CNI

Before any ceremony can happen, you need one crucial document. You must get it from your home country’s representatives in Indonesia.

• What it is: This document is a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage (CNI). It is a sworn statement. It confirms that you are legally single and free to marry. Different countries may call it by another name, but the purpose is the same.
• How to get it: You must get this from your country’s embassy or consulate in Indonesia. This should be one of your very first planning steps. It can take some time to process.

3. Your Document Checklist

Being well-prepared with the right paperwork is the secret to a stress-free process. Specific requirements may change slightly by nationality. However, here is a general checklist of the documents you and your partner will likely need:

• Valid Passports (with at least 6 months of validity remaining)
• Full Birth Certificates (the original or a certified copy)
• The CNI from your consulate in Indonesia
• Divorce Decree Absolute (if you have been previously married)
• Passport-sized photographs of the couple together (usually in a specific side-by-side pose)
• Photocopies of the passports of your two witnesses

Note: Any documents not in English may need to be officially translated into Indonesian.

4. The Role of an Expert Wedding Team

You can arrange the legalities yourself. However, managing the process with your consulate and Indonesian officials can be complex and time-consuming. This is where an expert team can be very helpful. The wedding planners at a romantic wedding resort have the experience to handle all the paperwork. They coordinate with the religious and civil officials. They also ensure every detail is perfect. This removes all the stress from you.

Let Us Guide You Through the Process

At Merusaka Nusa Dua, our dedicated wedding specialists are more than just planners. They are experts in the legal and logistical aspects of a Bali wedding. We can guide you through every step of the legal process. This includes advising on the necessary documents. We also coordinate with all the official parties. We ensure your journey to saying “I do” is as smooth and beautiful as the ceremony itself.

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