Bali Collection used to be a thriving shopping and dining hub that attracted both visitors and residents. It’s the only outdoor mall in Nusa Dua, Bali and located right outside the Grand Hyatt Bali hotel. I remember celebrating my birthday there with M and enjoying delicious seafood. J and I also had some good meals, coffee, and shopping experiences there during our previous trips. They had many stores, including Australian surf brands, luxury shops, and even a departmental store.
Before COVID
Bali Collection offered a diverse range of stores and restaurants, and there was always a vibrant energy present. From time to time, visitors could even enjoy cultural shows like traditional Balinese dances. However, this was all before the pandemic hit.
After COVID
Like many other places globally, Bali Collection also felt the impact of the pandemic. During my recent visit, I noticed several vacant shop spaces, and the area was eerily silent with only a handful of people around. To be honest, I wasn’t surprised since Bali itself seemed to be less crowded than before.
In the past, there used to be a supermarket in this location, but it has since closed down. The only option I came across was Uncle Jo, which is more like a minimart. They do offer some local snacks and treats, but I found that their prices were relatively high.
It’s surprising to see that the SOGO department store managed to survive until now.
Previously, there used to be a large art market that sold an array of handmade art, crafts, and souvenirs. Now, I could only find a shop with a limited selection of items.
If you’re interested in art, you can watch the artists in action or get your portrait drawn on the spot.
Conclusion
Despite the current situation, Bali Collection remains a convenient destination for those staying at the nearby resorts. Bali Collection is not as lively as it used to be, but hopefully, more tenants will fill up the empty spaces in the future, and the mall can become a bustling destination again.