The Way Aussies Are Changing How They Travel Bali: Food Takes Center Stage
Bali, known worldwide for its ancient temples, stunning natural landscapes, and affordable Bintang beers, is attracting Australian tourists in increasing numbers—but not just for its traditional draws. A notable shift has occurred in how Australians plan their trips to this Indonesian island paradise, with food emerging as a central focus of travel.
A New Travel Trend: ‘Nom-Tourism’
Recent research by accommodation platform Booking.com reveals that over 80 percent of Australian travelers now select destinations based on the opportunity to dine at specific restaurants or visit local food markets. This evolving approach to tourism, playfully termed ‘nom-tourism,’ highlights a growing desire among Aussies to experience authentic culinary culture during their holidays.
One standout destination for food lovers in Bali is Warung Babi Guling Sari Dewi, located in Nusa Dua in southern Bali. This modest eatery, or warung, is famed for its Babi Guling—a traditional Balinese roast suckling pig dish that holds cultural significance, especially in ceremonial contexts. Tourists and locals alike flock to the warung, attracted by its flavorful offerings and reasonable prices. A typical meal, including a dish and a bottle of Coke, costs just 50,000 Indonesian Rupiah (around AUD 4.60), making it an accessible taste of authentic Balinese cuisine.
The Appeal of Living Like a Local
The food-centered travel trend extends beyond just eating out. Australians are increasingly seeking accommodations that allow them to cook, dine, and immerse themselves in local lifestyles. Booking.com reports a steep rise in Aussies looking for alternative accommodations—such as homes and villas equipped with kitchens—where visitors can prepare meals using fresh, local ingredients.
Simon Clark, Booking.com’s Head of Communications for Oceania, notes that living like a local has been popular in Europe for some time and is now gaining momentum in the Asia Pacific region. “This has been a trend post-Covid that has risen very fast. It is no longer ‘I just want to sit on the beach’; people want to experience something different,” Clark said.
Laura Houldsworth, Managing Director for Asia Pacific at Booking.com, emphasizes that food acts as a powerful connection point for travelers aiming to engage with local culture. “Somewhere in the memoir of a trip, a food experience is triggered. It could be good or bad, but food definitely creates a memorable connection," she explained.
Exploring Food Markets and Fresh Catch
In line with this trend, traditional food markets like Kedonganan Fish Market in Jimbaran Bay have seen a steady increase in Australian tourist activity. This vibrant wet market offers a variety of freshly caught seafood, including snapper, lobster, prawns, and the popular Mahi Mahi. Visitors can buy their catch and take it to nearby warungs that will clean and grill the fish on the spot—an adventurous culinary experience that highlights local flavors.
Catering to this demand, luxury villas such as Sohamsa Ocean Estate in Nusa Dua provide self-contained accommodations with full kitchens, dining areas, and the flexibility to host and cook. Clark highlighted the appeal of such setups: “You can’t go to the fish market and take a big tuna back to a hotel coffee table, but here you can cook it if you’re bold enough.”
Choosing Accommodations That Match Culinary Interests
For travelers keen on embracing Bali’s culinary culture, accommodation options like Taman Dharmawangsa Suites in Nusa Dua offer modern villas with private pools, kitchenettes, and dining spaces—perfect for preparing traditional dishes like grilled tuna with rice and sambal.
As more Australians embrace food-focused travel, planning their Bali vacations around authentic dining experiences and cooking adventures, the island’s tourism landscape continues to evolve. Whether savoring iconic street food, exploring bustling markets, or staying in a villa equipped to bring local flavors to life, Aussies are discovering new ways to connect with Bali beyond its beaches and temples.
In summary, Australians’ travel habits in Bali are shifting toward immersive culinary experiences, blending the joy of exploring local food culture with the flexibility and comfort of accommodations designed for “living like a local.” This trend reflects a broader desire for meaningful, experiential travel rather than traditional sightseeing alone.
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