Avid traveler and mother of two, Ingrid Huitema shares her five top destinations to stay with young children when in Bali.

Bali for babies – traveling with tots made easy
by Ingrid Huitema

Just because you’re a parent doesn’t mean that a life filled with travel and adventure needs to stop.

But the question for many is where to go and – particularly in the tropical playground of Bali – who can look after your precious little one/s.

With family life so hectic, we often forget how important it is to spend time together as a couple.  Taking a few hours each day to eat lunch uninterrupted, walk on the beach or try a surf lesson are things that usually don’t happen when you’re on holidays with babies and toddlers, so I wanted to change all of that.

Top five destinations – Bali
1. Bingin
Beautiful Bingin is one of the most stunning and unique destinations in Bali. Relatively quiet, it is home to some of Bali’s prettiest beaches are numerous world-class surf breaks are within walking distance. Yoga sessions and relaxation massage treatments are also popular.

2. Canggu
Canggu is a small village on the beach about 10 minutes north of Kuta but feels like a million miles from the hustle and bustle of the city. A stay here will allow you to experience everyday life in Bali. Canggu features gently undulating terrain with the rice paddies that epitomise much of south-central Bali. The beaches here are not the iconic white sand but have dark grey or black sand and offer some renowned surfing locations.

3. Jimbaran
Jimbaran beach and the popular Jimbaran Bay are situated on the southwestern coast of Bali just south of the airport and the metropolis of Kuta. The beach and the bay of Jimbaran offer some secluded areas, but as word spreads regarding the beautiful beaches in this area, it is becoming increasingly popular with visitors. Gorgeous Jimbaran Bay features a long stretch of white sandy beach and it is a popular swimming spot for families. There are some fabulous seafood barbecue restaurants right on the beach that attract lots of visitors as they relax and enjoy stunning Bali sunsets.

4. Seminyak
Beautiful Seminyak boasts some of Bali’s best beaches. It’s renowned for gorgeous sunset vistas and beautifully tranquil surrounds. Enjoy Balinese ceremonies on the beach and explore intricate temples. Alongside the picturesque beaches and rich cultural experiences is a plethora of high-end spas, boutiques and restaurants which will be sure to entice you away from the waterfront – at least for part of your stay.

5. Ubud
Ubud is far removed from the downtown Kuta in more ways than one. It is regarded as the cultural centre of Bali and famous for being a hub for the arts and creative pursuits.  Much of the town and nearby villages consist of artists’ workshops and galleries. Ubud is also renowned as the health and wellbeing capital of Bali. There is some lovely architectural and other the landscape is mountainous and beautiful.

Top tips for traveling with babies and toddlers
1 Take a lightweight pram that can be pulled shut with one hand and invest in a baby carrier such as an Ergobaby and Babybjorn for infants.

2 Make sure you take a dummy cord that clips onto your baby or toddler and pack an extra one in your carry on just in case!

3 Feed your baby on take-off and landing to help their ears pop or have them suck on a dummy.

4 Take along a supply of store-bought baby food tubes and a plastic teaspoon. They are easy to open and feed inflight with minimal mess and fuss.

5 Pack a toy bag with plenty of snacks, books and toys. If your little one is allowed screen time an iPhone/android or Ipad loaded with games and TV series can be a lifesaver!

If you are planning to travel to Bali please be sure to check the Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade travel warnings.