Guía de viaje Canggu Bali (Visita en 2024)

Backpacking Bali offers every possible comfort, and Canggu has everything one could need: high quality services, a wide range of accommodation, good weather and a huge variety of bars and restaurants.

There is something for everyone here and depending on your style, Canggu, or your Bali travel expenses can be as expensive or as cheap as you like. read this article about the cost of living in Bali.

For the average traveler, the daily budget in Canggu will be about 50-60 dollars.

This includes a private room in a Canggu guesthouse, basic groceries, a meal at a restaurant, and some money for beer.

For those on a very tight budget, it is possible to do Canggu on the cheap – say, around $25-$35 a day, but they must have very strict habits.

No epic clubbing nights or copious meals for you backpackers without resources.

When allocating your budget for Canggu, consider the following expenses:

• Accommodation: In Canggu there are many forms of accommodation that vary in price You can pay around $ 15 for a dormitory and $ 25 for a private room in a guesthouse. People who want to stay in Canggu for a long time often find discounts on accommodation as well.
• Food Drink: The average meal in Canggu is about $10, including drinks. You can find on the road nasi goreng for as little as 2 $ and, on the contrary, 5-star meals for much more. To save on food, buy some basic groceries and prepare your own meals from time to time.
• Transport: Renting a motorcycle will cost you about 5$/day. If you opt to carpool, you'll probably spend about the same amount. Riding a motorbike can be a great and cheap way to travel around Canggu. Although you do not need a license to rent a scooter, most travel insurance companies will require a valid motorbike license in order to claim in the event of an accident. Always make sure that your Bali travel insurance coverage extends to the motorcycle accidents.
• attractions: Entrance to cultural attractions, such as Tanah Lot, will be reasonably priced (5$). Otherwise, some activities in Canggu, such as ax throwing or traditional shows, will be quite a bit more expensive.

Canggu Bali Budget Breakdown

Below is a breakdown of a daily budget in Canggu including the average costs for each expense.

Accommodation in Bali is plentiful, varied and generally of a high standard.

Every day there are more guesthouses and hotels in Canggu. Canggu, once a sleepy fishing village, has taken off as a tourist destination and is poised to be Bali's next great destination.

There are a lot of types of accommodation in Canggu. Hostels, hotels, family houses, villas, tourist complexes; you name it, Canggu has it.

Therefore, travelers should have no problem finding the perfect type of accommodation for them during their visit.

Of course there are many backpacker hostels around Canggu Bali and they are most likely the best deal in town.

Bullshit aside, most of the Canggu backpacker hostels will have a really good vibe, possibly the best in all of Bali.

If you want something more private, I suggest book an Airbnb.

The apartments around Canggu that you can rent are very nice and will be like a home away from home for you.

Today, many Bali hotels and resorts list their properties on Airbnb, so you won't be short of selection.

Here are some of our favorite places to stay in Canggu:

Best hostel in Canggu – The Farm Hostel

A staple of the Canggu backpacking scene, The Farm Hostel has firmly established itself as one of the best in Bali.

It is elegant, chiq, quiet and quite luxurious. It's so good here, we'd actually call it a "backpacker resort."

Best coliving and coworking hostel in Canggu – tribal bali

Bali's first co-working hostel, custom designed and purpose built, and the epic brainchild of Will Hatton, the OG broken backpacker. Mingle, share inspiration and find your tribe as you work in the AWESOME FUCKING HUGE co-working space and shoot a game of pool on Tribal's electric pink pool table.

There's also a gigantic swimming pool, so it's always time for a refreshing dip to break the rush of the day. Plus: epic food, legendary coffee, and amazing cocktails!

Best Canggu Hotel – Villa Red Door Bali

RedDoor Bali Villa is a beautiful hotel located slightly off the beaten track.

Tucked away in the jungle just outside of Canggu, RedDoor is a very peaceful experience.

You'll have all the usual amenities of a 5-star hotel - including WiFi, shuttle services, good food and a pool - without any of the chaos.

Best (small) village in Canggu – Villa Domus

This Canggu villa is pretty hard to beat. Meticulously designed, cleaned daily, with a great location away from traffic and a pool to go with it all; this place screams "serenity."

You can use this place as a base to see much of Canggu, but you will most likely never leave it.

Best Boutique Hotel – Taman Nauli Boutique Rooms

A peaceful hideaway in the middle of Canggu, with a 180 degree view of rice fields and greenery, a truly unique and romantic place to stay. With an in-house mixed Asian-Western restaurant, damn good coffee, and daily yoga (and coconut oil-making) classes to keep you active. Definitely one of the best located boutique guest houses in Canggu and a great choice for a romantic stay.

Canggu, Seminyak or Kuta?

Canggu is located just north of Seminyak. Below Seminyak is Legian and then Kuta. Together these four zones make up a large expanse of development that attracts most of Bali's tourism.

Each of these places has its own character and personality. Some are more infamous than others.

Kuta It has a reputation for being overdeveloped, neglected, and frequented by the worst kind of tourist: the all-expense-paid, uninhibited tourist (who chokes on their own margaritas).

To add more shit to the pile, Kuta is also crowded, ugly, and more agitated than usual.

However, some of the best surfing in Bali is here and the infrastructure is well built, so Kuta is to be congratulated for that.

Going up, Legian he's a little less wacky than Kuta, but still retains some sanctity. This neighborhood is packed with bars and nightclubs, which tend to lean towards the club.

Despite this, many people comment that it is one of the best areas to party in Bali.

Finally, seminyak it is the most luxurious part of the stretch. Many of Bali's most expensive nightclubs and luxury villas are located in this neighborhood, so you can expect a lot of fancy people, a lot of shops, and a lot of high prices.

In conclusion, choosing Canggu over your neighbors comes down to your own character.

If you want to stay somewhere in Bali that is more elegant, go to Seminyak. If you want to stay somewhere that is good for surfing, try Kuta.

But if you want to spend your time somewhere up-and-coming, diverse, and not crazy, Canggu is an excellent choice.

It is my favorite place on the west coast and, in my opinion, it will be the next "it" place on the island.

These are the must-do activities and attractions in Canggu For more inspiration, be sure to check out the Guide to travel to Bali, All you need to know.

1. Get in shape

There is a huge health and fitness community in Canggu, which is thriving today.

Many people choose to live in Canggu specifically for its presence.

Join one of the many CrossFit gyms, yoga studios or maybe the Bali Bouldering Gym and take care of that body.

2. Build lunch into your schedule

Brunch is serious business in Canggu. People need a good breakfast after a long night out. And although brunch places in Canggu are numerous, only a few are worth mentioning.

Do not stop visiting Lifescrate , the shadow cabin and Naked and maybe you'll wear some dog hair.

3. Watch the sunset from a beach bar

Canggu's beaches face west almost perfectly, so it goes without saying that the sunsets there are especially good.

Head to one of the many beach clubs, such as The breeze either The old and enjoy a drink at sunset, or just grab a Bintang and sit on the beach with friends.

4. Go on a graffiti hunt

In Canggu there are a lot of talented artists who regularly paint murals in the city. As if that were not enough, many international street artists also visit Canggu to contribute.

Walk around the city and find your favorite work.

5. Partying in Canggu Bali

Unlike Kuta and Seminyak, in Canggu there is a great diversity of bars.

Whether you're a dancer, beach party lover, clubber or lounger, there's a seat at a local bar for you.

6. Enjoy the coffee culture

Canggu has fully embraced the cafe life. Along the streets there are more cafes, organic delicatessens and relaxed bars than can be counted.

I doubt one can see them all in one trip to Canggu, but you wouldn't waste your time trying.

7. Hug the hipster

Whether hunting for graffiti, drinking craft beers or wearing locally made clothing, hipsterism is evident in Canggu.

Although hipsters sometimes get a bad name, you can't deny that the variety of high-quality and conscious products found in Canggu Bali still deserves your attention.

Embrace the culture and buy that knitted beanie. You'll be glad you did.

8. Take a day trip to Tanah Lot

visit to Tanah Lot it is one of the most popular things what to do in bali and for good reason: situated directly on the sea, it is a very beautiful and impressive temple complex.

If you plan to go, make sure you leave early as this place gets very busy late in the day.

9. Join a co-working space

Digital nomads love Canggu and new businesses are springing up here.

To get into the nitty-gritty, join a local coworking space, like the Tribal Hostel Bali and start thinking about the next revolution.

10. Go to a local market

There are many markets scattered throughout Canggu and each one has a different theme.

For example, him Love Anchor Market it deals mostly with babble and souvenirs, while Samadi Market is more dedicated to local handicrafts.

Drop by on Sundays to see if anything catches your eye.

Trying to plan a perfect holiday in Canggu? Try using our suggested itinerary!

Day 1 in Canggu

On the first day of our Canggu Bali itinerary, we are going to get going; literally! Beat jetlag and get a good workout before spending the rest of the day eating and resting.

The day will wind down little by little and trust me there will be plenty of drinking opportunities later on.

Wake up Get in a workout at CrossFit Wanderlust. Be sure to make a Movement class and continue with a bulletproof coffee

In the morning Have a good breakfast at Lifescrate. Order the Kiss (French toast), the Veto (mashed avo toast), or anything that involves their wonderful, hearty bread.

Be sure to check out their in-house gallery, curated by local artists, while you're there.

In mid afternoon Relax on one of Canggu's many beaches. Grab a Bintang and take a nap after that workout. Batu Bolong or Perancak will do.

Late in the afternoon Head to one of the many beach bars for a bite to eat. Old Man's and COMO are very popular spots with great menus and views.

At night Dress down for fine dining and even better cocktails at Macan. Ask for their special wasabi drink, but don't forget to shake it every once in a while.

At night If you still have energy, have a few after-dinner drinks at Café Grass Terrace. They offer happy hour all night long and the place never gets too crowded.

Day 2 in Canggu

Hopefully you've saved yourself from last night's partying and are ready to have another busy day today.

You'll continue your itinerary in Canggu with some surf lessons, some shopping, and as always, more great food. At the end of the night, you will also take part in one of my favorite activities in Canggu!

Wake up Take a surf lesson first thing in the morning, when temperatures are cool and the water is calm. Be sure to check the tides first and book the class in advance.

I suggest you contact Surfing Bali Adventure and set up a class with one of your instructors.

In the morning Head over to Zin Cafe for some quality breakfast and WiFi. Answer some emails, get some work done, post some photos, have a meeting; Get some productivity on your commute.

In mid afternoon Take a walk around town and do some shopping.

On Sundays there are many craft markets around the city. If not, there are many more craft and souvenir shops in Canggu.

Late in the afternoon Eat late at local legend The Shady Shack. It is a favorite with vegetarians, although carnivores will enjoy a break from their usual diet.

At night Come to the area and try some authentic Indonesian food at Warung Ramadan. It may not sound like much, but the food here is excellent, not to mention great treatment.

At night End the night with an epic ax throwing at Muther Huckers.

Don't worry if you want a few beers to go with those hacks - the staff are very attentive and do their best to keep you safe.

Late-night (optional) If you want to spend the night later, this is the time. Return to the center of Canggu to stop by Deus Ex, which is a great place for a drink.

Day 3 in Canggu

If you've decided to burn the midnight oil and stay out late, I have good news: today is going to be a relaxing day.

You'll be scheduled for a crucial siesta, followed by a possibly epic sunset at a beach club. As always, you will not lack quality food either.

Wake up If you're feeling a little under the weather, grab a coffee and the Hungry Bird Coffee Roaster. Try to get there early before the crowds show up and the headache gets worse.

In the morning Have a quiet breakfast at the Cinta. Order the hearty country breakfast and enjoy the peaceful views. Maybe you fancy a nap afterwards?

In mid afternoon Eat something clean and light at Manggi's. The smoked tofu is highly recommended as it is flavorful but not too heavy.

Late in the afternoon Take a day trip to Tanah Lot. Sunset is the most popular time to visit the temple, but it can be a bit of a madhouse. Arrive a little earlier and watch the sunset elsewhere.

At night Head to La Brisa for an epic sunset and a drink.

If you grab some snacks, you can sit in one of the comfortable bean bag chairs on the deck area. Otherwise, it's the bar for you.

At night Have a late dinner at one of our favorite Canggu Bali restaurants: Koloni. Order the beef redang or the Jimbaran red snapper, both divine.

Looking for more detailed information for your next vacation in Canggu? There are many more useful tips just below

How to travel to Canggu

Canggu is well connected to the most popular places in Bali, and getting here shouldn't be a big problem.

Most arrive in Canggu via some form of private transportation, be it a taxi, rideshare, or shuttle.

These are essentially the only way to get to Canggu, as there is no regular public transport that runs here.

Depending on where you are coming from, I suggest you book a shared transport like gojeck either grab . They offer good rates and are safer than normal taxis.

The problem will be getting the shared transport service to come to you: Gojek and Grab are not available in all parts of Bali, especially in the more remote corners of the island.

If you can't get a shared ride, ask your hotel or pension to book a ride for you.

This method is more reliable, as the driver should be on time at your pick-up time, and you may get a better deal.

If you're coming from the airport, feel free to buy a SIM card while you're there so you can carpool. Otherwise you will have to deal with the taxi mafia and those guys will rip you off for sure.

See below for the list of routes to Canggu and the estimated prices:

• Kuta 60,000 rupees (4 $) – 40 minutes
• Ngurah Rai Airport: 80,000 rupees (7 $) – 45 minutes
• Sanur: 100,000 rupees (7$) – 50 minutes
• ubud : 120,000 rupees (8 $) – 1 hour
• uluwatu: 120,000 rupees (8 $) – 1 hour
• Padang Bai: 250,000 rupees (15 $) – 1 hour and 40 minutes
• amed: 460,000 rupees (32 dollars) – 3 hours
• lovina: 400,000 rupees (28 $) – 2 hours 30 minutes

How to get around Canggu

Canggu is a seemingly large place. The winding alleys, hidden lanes, and confusing layout can make getting around Canggu a mildly stressful experience.

That being said, there is a method to madness.

To make Canggu more digestible, it is best to divide Canggu Bali into individual parts. There is four main highways running through Canggu – Jalan Pantai Batu Mejan*, Pantai Batu Bolong street, Jalan Raya Semat and Jalan Pantai Berawa.

Most of the time, you'll likely be moving around these streets, so make sure you know where they are on the map.**

The question of how to get around Canggu is another story. Basically, you have three different options:

1. Walking
2. By taxi or carpool (Gojeck, Grab)
3. on scooter

Walking around Canggu is doable, but I would not recommend it. The distances are longer than many expect, especially if they plan to see all of Canggu.

Walking around Canggu is also not very safe . Sidewalks are very infrequent and those that do exist often end without notice.

The traffic is also heavy and does not usually show much consideration for pedestrians. Recently while visiting Canggu, I was hit on the arm by a passing car (a jerk).

Shared transport services can be a good way to travel around Canggu, depending on how lucky you are.

Sometimes there are many, but sometimes they are mysteriously absent.

Keep in mind that some attractions are hare drivers may appear out of uniform .

This is because Gojek and Grab are supposedly targeted by the local taxi mob and then get beat up.

It's a screwed up situation, but one that will rarely affect tourists directly.

* pull means street in Indonesian

** Although some maps may say otherwise, most people consider everything west of Jalan Batu Belig to be part of Canggu

Rent a motorbike in Canggu

In Canggu, scooter rental is by far the most popular means of getting around. Scooters are affordable, allow a lot of freedom, and are (in a way) easy to use.

Everyone in Canggu Bali has a scooter, which will be obvious from the moment you arrive. Read this about renting and riding a motorcycle in Bali.

Most hotels in Canggu will be able to arrange a scooter for you. Most charge around 50,000-70,000 rupees per day.

If for some reason your accommodation can't get you a scooter, there are plenty of independent dealers around town who will provide one for you.

Although riding a scooter in Canggu can be comfortable, it can also be quite a headache. As already stated, the streets here are crowded and often hectic.

It is important to remember that Canggu is still a town and was never designed for the mass movement of vehicles.

This inefficiency causes confusion, bottlenecks and inevitable accidents.

Enters the shortcut This is perhaps the most notorious 2 foot drop you will find in all of Bali; even in Southeast Asia, for that matter.

Though its literal height pales in comparison to exploring Bali's rugged parts, such as the nearby island of Nusa Penida, its edges are no less intimidating and have caused numerous accidents.

Hyperbole aside, many people fall off the road while driving through El Atajo.

So please be careful. Also avoid driving on it in the afternoon, when the heavy traffic causes massive traffic jams.

Therefore, you must be very careful when driving. anywhere in Canggu.

If people insist on doing things like driving drunk and not wearing helmets, they're just asking for trouble.

Always wear a helmet and always be cautious. Just because you think you're a good driver doesn't mean others are. You could be involved in an accident that wasn't even your fault.

When to go to Canggu

Canggu (and most of Bali) is subject to a tropical climate.

Summers here are hotter and rainier, while winters are drier and slightly less hot.

Temperatures in Canggu are fairly constant throughout the year, usually hovering around 82 degrees Fahrenheit or 28 degrees Celsius.

The best time to travel to Canggu is really a matter of preference.

If you are looking for the best climate possible, the winter months (May-October) will be perfect for you.

If you don't mind the rain in the summer - it usually comes in the form of afternoon thunderstorms anyway - or some Aussies on Christmas break, then you could honestly visit Canggu any time of the year.

A number of festivals and events take place around Canggu throughout the year, and attending one of them could become the center of your Bali itinerary.

They could even be the highlight of your trip

If you're curious about what's going on in Canggu, I suggest you check the following websites for upcoming events:

1. eventbrite – A complete collection of festivals, parties and cultural events in and around Canggu.
2. Dojo Bali – Bali's original co-working space. It offers regular events geared towards entrepreneurs and digital nomads.
3. Hubud – One of the biggest digital hubs in Ubud. It offers its own series of events and is well worth the drive.

Canggu's Essential Packing List

Be sure to take these important items with you when you go to Canggu

1. Water bottle – Reduce your plastic footprint and bring your own water bottle. Bali is currently in the midst of an environmental crisis and it only gets worse as more people visit. Is it part of the solution.
2. Adapter – How annoying is it when you pack up all your electronics and then you can't plug them in to charge them? Avoid this common mistake and remember to bring a power adapter with you.
3. imodium – Bali tummy doesn't affect everyone, but if you catch it, you'd better prepare for a hard night. It may not be a cure, but Imodium is one of the best ways to help remedy an upset stomach.
4. waterproof phone case – They are great for not only keeping water out, but also sand and other bits of sand. They are very useful when you are at the beach or playing on the boat.
5. First aid kit – You never know what can happen in Bali. You can fall off the motorcycle, cut your leg on some coral, all that and more. Make sure you have a first aid kit in case of an emergency - it's one of the items you could pack the most.

For more ideas, be sure to check out our full list of Essential luggage to visit Bali!

The best beaches in Canggu

Of course Canggu has beaches! The beaches here are very similar to those in Kuta, with black sand, lots of surf, and even more beach bars.

There are many different beaches in Canggu, but they are all more or less the same. One seems to blend in with the other and the only thing that really sets them apart are the local bars. Here you will find the best beaches in Bali.

You will have to be careful when swimming at the beaches of Canggu. The sea can be fierce here and the currents can easily rip off unsuspecting swimmers.

Stay away if conditions seem too dangerous and be aware of red flags.

As previously mentioned, there are many opportunities to go surfing in Canggu.

As already stated, the sea can be a bit rough in this part of the island. Most of the waves I saw were very big and broke very early.

Below you will find a list of the most popular beaches in Canggu:

1. Batu Belig Beach – At the southern end of Canggu and practically in Seminyak. From here you can easily enter the famous Club Cabeza de Patata.
2. Kayu Putih Beach – A low-key beach that is best known for hosting the “Wooden Bridge”
3. Perankak Beach – A very quiet beach in Canggu where all the fishermen moor their boats. These boats are often brightly painted and are good for taking photos.
4. Batu Bolong Beach – It is probably the busiest beach in the area, but less crowded than any other in the south. There are many beach bars, such as Old Man's, and surf instructors.
5. Echo Beach – It is not a beach per se, but a popular place that has given rise to an erroneous name. The nearby La Brisa is the best beach club in Canggu.
6. Munggu Beach / Seseh Beach – Where Canggu ends and the private villas begin. They are quite remote and quiet.

Health and Fitness in Canggu

Despite all of Canggu's hedonistic tendencies - overeating, drinking, staying up late, etc. - there is equal attention to health and nutrition Canggu boasts a thriving fitness scene, that attracts and traps all kinds of travelers concerned about their health.

The scene is so prevalent here, I would even go so far as to say that personal health in Canggu is just as important, if not more so, than partying.

There are many, many places to exercise in Canggu. Among them are CrossFit gyms, weight rooms, yoga studios, climbing areas and much more.

Most work in the same way as your personal home gym. In most of them you can go through a quick session or request a longer subscription.

Will, as a CrossFit addict that he is, recommends stopping by CrossFit Wanderlust. He's there most mornings doing a WOD and responds well to a casual "how's it going bro?"

If you don't like lifting weights, or calisthenics, or anything like that, or organized workouts, there is always The surf.

Surfing is a much tougher exercise than most people realize and it really hits your core and shoulders. You just have to be careful with the powerful swell of Canggu: the waves here are more violent than in Kuta.

It must also be said that, in general, the food in canggu it is of higher quality. Here there is a lot of emphasis on organic, vegetarian and clean food, something that is often sorely lacking when traveling.

For those who have been backpacking in Southeast Asia for a long time, Canggu's healthy food will be a welcome respite (more on that later, though).

money in canggu

There are plenty of ATMs in Canggu, so withdrawing money shouldn't be a problem.

The banks they will be your best bet for finding working ATMs, followed by the large convenience store chains. There are a few ATMs scattered randomly around Canggu, but they can be unreliable.

Where there are tourists there will always be private money changers also.

I generally don't suggest you use one of these services unless you absolutely have to - most of these businesses will give you shitty money.

Speaking a little more seriously, there will always be thieves where there are also tourists with money.

Although the chances of being directly attacked are low, pickpockets are common enough to warrant attention. Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and keep your money in a safe place.

If you're looking for tips on where to eat, drink and settle in Canggu, check out the sections below!

The best cafes and restaurants in Canggu

There is no doubt: the best thing about Canggu is its culinary scene. There are places to eat everywhere in Canggu and there are all kinds of them.

Do you fancy eating seafood? then go to MAI TAI It serves great Polynesian food.

Do you need to cure your hangover with a quality coffee? Satu-Satu has your back.

Ready to try French fusion? So don't miss Folie Bali.

These are just the tip of the iceberg: there are so many restaurants in Canggu that I couldn't even begin to rank them all.

It must also be said that the coffee culture in canggu it is also very strong.

Cafes can be found in abundance on almost every street and are often packed with digital nomads and vacationers looking for an extra energy cure.

So as not to overwhelm you, I am just going to introduce you to some of The Broke Backpacker's favorite restaurants and cafes in Canggu. We highly recommend you check them out when you visit as they will be a highlight.

• Warung Ramadan – Best Indonesian food in Canggu
• Lifescrate – Best breakfast in Canggu (get there early!)
• Shady Shack – The best brunch in Canggu (yes, it is different from breakfast)
• Manggis – best vegan food in Canggu
• Hungry Bird Coffee Roaster – the best coffee in Canggu
• Luigi's – the best pizza in Canggu
• the baracca – best overall restaurant in Canggu
• Tape – for food with a view
• Zinc coffee – best restaurant for business and work

Nightlife in Canggu

Bali and party are quite synonymous terms nowadays. Most of us have heard of the wild parties in Legian or the extravagant beach clubs in Seminyak.

Many people travel to Bali just to drink and have fun with complete disregard.

Canggu's bars can certainly compete with any other on the island.

Much like the cafe scene, the drinking culture in Canggu is quite comprehensive and certainly has its own flair and flair.

Luckily, in Canggu there's a drinking spot for everyone. The bars here have all sorts of varieties, from beach clubs to skater bars to hipster hideouts.

It's true that the biggest venues are still in the south, in areas like Kuta and Seminyak, but, having said that, Canggu's nightlife is still some of the best in Bali.

Check out these Canggu bars the next time you're planning a big night out:

• sunny cafe – for hipsters
• Pretty Poison – for skaters
• Grass Terrace Cafe – for bribes
• Wild Kitchen – for happy hour
• The grass – for classy people
• The breeze – for the sunset
• Macan – for cocktails

For those who want to get some party favors in Canggu, we have some special tips.

It is possible to find many of the popular drugs here, like coke, weed and ecstasy, BUT we must remind you that possessing such substances is HIGHLY ILLEGAL in Indonesia.

If you are caught with any type of narcotic in Bali, the criminal charges are jail time.

If you really want to buy drugs in Bali, be very smart.

Get help from locals you can trust. DO NOT try to buy directly from a would-be dealer - it is well known that plainclothes policemen love to sting tourists on the island.

The Canggu Hipster Guide

I'd like to think I know a thing or two about being a hipster: I grew up in Portland, lived in several increasingly "hip" areas of Denver, and have visited many more of the world's hippest cities.

By now I can tell the difference between the real hipster shit - the love of homemade, second-hand clothes, all things handmade - and the fake stuff.

Therefore, in this Canggu travel guide there will be no mention of pseudo-hipsterity.

And I have to admit, Canggu doesn't hold back in his hipster department.

Repurposed woodwork, old moldy wallpapers, barbers offering straight-razor shaves and whiskey; enough stuff for any hipster to curl his well-oiled mustache with glee.

An excellent example is sunny cafe. This place has so much old and vintage paraphernalia that you can actually smell the mothballs when you walk in. And you know what? I fucking love that.

Another example is Mother Huckers which is the only ax throwing area in Bali.

But the most hipster thing to do in Canggu is to participate in Tacos and Tattoos by Deus Ex Machina weekly event.

Every Tuesday, you can receive a beer, a taco and a new tattoo, all for the low price of Rs 150,000.

If something like that existed in Portland, the line would be out the door, around the corner, and all the way across the bridge to Washington.*

So good for you, Canggu, for embracing the counterculture. As a former hipster that I am, you can color me as impressed.

*Deus Ex Machina knows it would be ridiculous to give everyone tattoos and tacos, so they've made this a ticketed event. Only the first 16 people to arrive will be able to participate.

How to be a respectful backpacker in Canggu

The Balinese have to deal with a lot of horrible backpacker crap: half-naked photo shoots in front of temples, shitty-faced groups wading into rice paddies.

This kind of behavior reflects badly on travelers and is by no means the best way to experience Bali.

Don't be one of these people.

Being a digital nomad in Canggu

Canggu is being heralded as the new “digital nomad capital of the world” The city is currently ranked the #1 place to live for digital nomads on Nomadlist and it seems every wanderluster knows this by now.

What has made Canggu so attractive to remote workers and digital nomads? There are many reasons:

1. A relatively low cost of living, comparable to some Western standards.
2. An excellent fiber optic network.
3. A huge selection of bars and restaurants, not to mention a very pleasant lifestyle.
4. A large and active community of fellow digital nomads, making it easy to collaborate and start new businesses.

All of these factors have contributed to Canggu's rise as a remote work haven.

BUT, Canggu is not a complete paradise for digital nomads.

With increased attention have increased prices.

As more people move to work and live in Canggu, rental prices are constantly rising. It's not prohibitive yet, but it could be in the near future.

In another vein, productivity in Canggu is said to have dropped. It seems like a lot of people are more into the lifestyle and Instagram posts than actually doing a job.

Certain remote jobs are also overcrowded in Canggu, which means it will be more difficult to find a job.

So, if you plan to live in Canggu as a digital nomad, remember to spend your time first before having too much fun. Work hard and play hard and don't forget the order of both.

Make sure before traveling to Canggu

The first thing the Balinese say is "hello"; the last thing they usually say is "be careful"

Bali is not a dangerous destination, but accidents happen all the time.

either a scooter accident, complications while diving, or a case of Bali tummy, there are many ways your trip could be derailed.

Traveling without insurance would be risky, so consider getting good backpacking insurance before you head out on your adventure.

Before I say goodbye, I would like to remind everyone who visits Bali to be very careful with your drink.

There is a lot of bootleg alcohol on the island - sometimes mixed with dangerous amounts of methanol - and you do NOT want to drink the wrong batch.

Buy liquor from trusted vendors and don't accept drinks from random types. Go to the legitimate bars in Bali and not the roadside beach bars. Sticking to Bintang bottled beer is a surefire way to avoid this crap too.

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