The Kirshbaums Guide to Bali

Given Regina Kirshbaum’s exotic accessories and clothing company, Agabhumi: The Best of Bali, she has the unique requirement of jetting off to paradise twice a year for work with her husband and business partner, Michael. “We’re always thrilled by how warm and welcoming the Balinese Hindus, as well as the Muslims from surrounding islands, are to us, and how much they enjoy showing us their culture,” says Regina. “The architecture is so exquisite, you want to touch and photograph nearly everything you see.” Just keep your wits about you, she warns. “Never drive anywhere yourself and be sure you have a trustworthy driver who is licensed to carry tourists.”

Favorite cafe: “Bebek Bengil (a.k.a. Dirty Duck) is named for the ducks with dirty feet that walked through the newly constructed restaurant many years ago. Ironically, this is where you’ll get the best crispy fried duck on the island. Watch out for the hot sauce, called Sambal Matah.” agungraka.com/bebekbengil

Dance party: “You have to see Balinese dancing. There is no describing this fascinating tradition. The stories, told through costume and movement, are delightful and moving and you will be astounded at the fluidity of the dancers.” Afternoon dances are performed at the Uluwatu Temple Cliff Bank in Pecatu Village, South Kuta.

Must see: “My favorite historic site in Bali would have to be the Gandhi Ashram in Candidasa. The Ashram is the most peaceful spot I have ever experienced. Take along your camera because it’s impossible not to have a great photo op here.” ashramgandhi.com

Sweetest sip: “The best mochaccino I’ve ever tasted, and the perfect respite from the heat was at Kopi Bali Coffee House on Jalan Monkey Forest. The road is called Monkey Forest because, yes, you have to dodge the monkeys to pass it.” Jalan Monkey Forest, Ubud

Haute hotel: “We rent from Bali Club Villas for their privacy and spaciousness. We don’t usually like chains but Le Meridien Hotel is reopening in July and the property has a great pool, golf course and beautiful bar for sunset viewing. Every evening there is a sunset celebration at the temple which is perched on a rock outcropping that looks like a ship with a temple on top.” theclubvillas.com; lemeridien.com/bali

Spa central: “My husband and I love the two-hour couple’s Bali Massage with chocolate massage oil at Aisis Spa in Sanur. You must make reservations for evening treatments, as it is always packed. Request Adi, my favorite masseuse.” Jalan By Pass, Ngurah Rai No. 110, Tuban, +62 361 705 005

Produce pick: “Be sure to stop at fruit markets in Bali. The colors are abundant, the fruit quintessential Bali. Salak is an amazing one to try, sweet with an apple-like texture. I also love the presentation of the fruit in the carts. It is humble but so appealing.” Jalan Kerobokan, South Bali

Beach bets: “Though Bali is most famous for Kuta Beach, I find it overrun with crowds. The beach at the Ashram in the seaside town of Candidasa takes my breath away and is so soothing. You can also go snorkeling off of the coast of Candidasa.” Candidasa, Eastern Bali

Great goods: “Don’t leave Bali without buying the beautiful weaving art of the ATA root. It is a specialty of the Teneganan villagers that is woven into handbags, baskets, place mats and other home decor. It has a memorable scent and was one of the first things I ever bought from Bali ten years ago.” Teneganan, Eastern Bali

Local flavor: “When you visit Bali, prepare to come across a gorgeous tradition of daily offerings to spirits. You will find beautifully crafted works of art and flowers at road intersections, curbs, storefronts, tiny temples and the beach, each with its own special meaning.”