[Notes From Bali No. 3]: Canggu Chillin'
I used to believe that being creative meant inventing something from nothing. Coming up with entirely new and unique content. Sitting at a desk, deep in thought, alone with pen and paper. But art is an idea explored. And ideas are informed by our experience
You find it in new cities, conversations you have and overhear, what you witness. The questions may come from inside, but the answers can only be found outside.
[If you missed my first two Bali posts, check them out here and here.]
I don't know how else to describe Canggu (pronounced "chang-goo") other than to say it's addictive. A laid-back beach community with a huge focus on healthy food, outdoor dining, biking, and the arts, Canggu's energy, landscape and diversity leave me considering moving here.
It's trendy, affordable, and reminiscent of any good design shop block in Queen West, but with motorbikes and tropical plants instead of cars and pedestrians. Not to mention, each wildly different street leads straight to Echo Beach.
Walking down any given street, you'll find furniture makers crafting benches and lights, artisan bakeshops, art galleries, independent boutiques and beautiful home decor shops (such as Bungalow Living pictured above). And between these shops, hints of old Indonesia: rice paddies, traditional temples and plenty of street pups.
One of my go-to spots was The Slow which combines an art gallery, a restaurant/bar, a venue and overnight suites. (I also loved The Shady Shack although I didn't snap a photo of it.
The nightlife in Canggu is also insane! La Brisa, a massive newly opened restaurant/bar right on the ocean, was a favourite. Set up along the beach, the restaurant offers multiple places to chill, all with different vibes. Care for a cabana, or a harvest table? Bean bags around a fire, or a two-story pier with dance floors and DJs? Swim in the ocean or dip in the pool bar while you waited for your vegan nachos or char-grilled mahi-mahi?
Canggu is number one on my list of spots to re-visit again in future. I'm honestly very tempted to up and move there... It's safe, the population is half locals, half ex-pats, its community is supportive of indie shops and eateries, and everything is sustainable and affordable. I cannot wait to go back!
Here's a list of place I'd recommend if you do go:
The Lawn (beach lounge/food/bar)
Luigi's Hot Pizza (food/bar)
Jane Doe (vintage clothing)
The Shady Shack (cafe/restaurant)
Old Man's (restaurant/bar)
Ji Restaurant (restaurant/bar)
La Brisa (restaurant/bar)
Made's Bakery (GF baked good)
The Offering (clothing)
Suen Noaj (clothing)
Nook (food)
Satu Satu (cafe)
Milk & Madu (cafe)