Historically Bali was known to tourists as a shopping destination filled with 'knock off's' with not much on offer when it came to shopping, aside from Bintang beer t-shirts and cheap sarongs. However times have changed and the island now offers visitors to the region a vast array of products including high end boutiques, homewares, art, silverware and custom made furniture.
It's relatively easy to shop on your own in Bali especially if you know your way around - however if you are on a mission to 'shop until you drop' it may be worth considering hiring a driver for the day, allowing you to move from your list of shopping meccas in air conditioned comfort and to assist with your bags.
Bali is hot and humid so allow for regular breaks in between snapping up those bargains and don't forget to stop for lunch at any of the amazing eateries which can be found in locations such as Seminyak or Petitenget. To round off an amazing shopping day, why not complete the experience with a relaxing foot massage.
For those who want to take their shopping experience up a notch, its possible to secure the services of a personal shopping guide, just ask at your hotel concierge desk for more information.
Homewares
The best place to secure unique homewares can be found in Seminyak, Ubud and Kerobokan. On offer are items including linen placemats, handcrafted ceramics including tiles, vases and driftwood mirrors and even ocean themed chandeliers.
Souq is located in Seminyak and offers up a range of homewares and gifts including jewelery and soft furnishings. There's even a cafe located inside should you need to take a break to rest and recharge.
Hobo can be found along Bali's famed Jalan Raya in Kerobokan. The store features a range of homewares produced by local artisans and artists and feature products including a range of rattan topped occasional tables, hand crafted boxes, upcycled vintage furniture, authentic school chairs covered in Javanese batik and terracotta from Lombok.
Source/Credit: Hobo
Mercredi also located in Seminyak is the home of classic French inspired beach chic including a range of hand blown glass figurines and ornaments, linen napkins, vibrant bedspreads and tableware.
Furniture
Buying furniture in Bali can be great fun indeed and most everything you see is so much cheaper than you will ever find at home. However before committing to buying any item of furniture it pays to do your research about how you plan on getting it back home. If you are new to this experience, its advisable to contract the services of a professional freight service company. One such company is sourcing-bali.com.
Jalan Mertanadi known to the locals as Jail House Road due to its proximity to the notorious Kerobokan Prison, is literally awash with furniture and homeware stores. Shoppers can find everything from colorful recycled boat wood furniture, model ship makers, oriental style and reproduction furniture makers and much, much more.
Orchard Fine Furniture is a delightful store situated the heart of Seminyak and offers customers contemporary colonial decor including classic furniture made from aged reclaimed teak. Indoor and outdoor furniture, artwork and accessories are just some of the many items on offer.
Designer Clothing
One of the best areas to shop for designer clothing can be found in Seminyak and Petitenget. Seminyak and Petitenget are home to Bali's finest concentration of designer boutiques with many of the stores owned by Australian and global designers who now base themselves in Bali.
Mr Zimi is well worth a visit if you are looking for flamboyant prints.
Source/Credit: Mr. Zimi
Uluwatu is for those who prefer the understated look, and feature a wide range of classic black and white linen and lace resort wear.
Bali Boatshed offers the consumer a range of colourful beach gear for those looking to update their summer wardrobe.
Markets
Markets are a huge part of daily life in Bali, its where the locals come to shop, socialize and dine. Along with the type of traditional Asian style markets there is a ever growing number of a newly styled markets where traders are selling samples and overstocked items produced by local designers.
Sukawati Market in Gianyar is located approximately about twenty five minutes from Denpasar. The market is a two leveled structure packed with artwork, wooden sculptures, curios, handicrafts and traditional handmade products including a range of Balinese clothing and accessories.
Badung Market in Denpasar is considered to be Bali's biggest traditional market, making it worthy of a visit. But like all popular markets, be ready to tackle the huge crowds, noise and of course the heat and humidity.
The Ubud Art Market which featured in the popular movie, Eat, Pray, Love, is situated opposite the Puri Saren Royal Ubud Palace. The market is open daily and features items created by local villagers including handcrafted woven bags, figurines, traditional hand painted Balinese kites, silk wear, masks and homewares.