Where to hit the shops in Bali

If you are thinking of going to Bali, we know you’ll be looking forward to the beaches, the paddyfields and spas, but do include some shopping.  There are some gorgeous designer boutiques for ‘western’ bodies in a range of prices and some very cool homewares at the markets and stores.

Shopping in and around Seminyak

Most of the fashion shopping in Bali is centered around Seminyak, with its on-trend fashion boutiques, beautiful homewares and custom-made furniture. Start from the main drag, Jalan Oberoi (also known as Jalan Laksmana), before veering off into the narrower side streets of Jalan Kayu Cendana and Jalan Kayu Jati. You’ll naturally wind around to Petitenget, the undeniable cool kid on the Bali shopping map; this lively stretch is crammed with homeware shops and uber-chic fashion boutiques. Barely minutes from Jalan Petitenget, Batu Belig doesn’t get nearly as much attention as it deserves. Nowadays, you can pretty much shop till you drop all the way to Canggu where there are some colourful boutiques seriously worth making the trip for.

Fashion shopping in Bali

Where to shop: Seminyak, Petitenget and Canggu

What to buy: Designer resortwear made from organic silks and cottons, swimwear with a twist, sandals, flats and shoes, colourful accessories and handmade jewellery

Homewares shopping in Bali

Where to shop: Kerobokan, Seminyak and Ubud

What to buy: Mirrors, linen placemats, shell chandeliers, handcrafted ceramics, antique doors, recycled wood furniture, rattan furniture, stone sculptures and cool artwork

Shopping in Ubud

Ubud, the artistic and cultural epicentre of Bali, is crammed with craft communities and markets with an astounding selection of handcrafted jewellery, ceramics, sculptures, woodworks and home accents. Scrimmage around Jalan Raya Ubud and Monkey Forest Road where local artisans and craftsmen congregate to sell their wares. This is also the place for traditional batiks and sustainable and eco-friendly fashion.

Tips!

• Research before you go; create a list of stores you’d like to visit and have their addresses ready.

• Get a local driver to take you from place to place and wait while you shop.

• Book a personalised shopping tour.

• Pack light, leaving as much room as possible for new purchases.

• For larger items, most stores will help you arrange shipping home.

• Some handicrafts can’t be taken into certain countries; check your own country’s regulations before you buy.

Travelshopa is the curated guide to the best local shopping around the world. travelshopa.com | @travelshopa

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This article first appeared in the September 2018 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase a copy or subscribe so you never miss an issue!