BALI

Complete tips for visiting Bali Indonesia, the ‘island of gods’

Welcome to Bali – Paradise Awaits

Bali, the Island of the Gods, is a tropical haven offering an eclectic blend of culture, nature, and adventure. Located in Indonesia, this island offers the perfect escape, whether you’re seeking a relaxing beach holiday, cultural exploration, or an adrenaline-filled adventure.

From breathtaking sunsets over crystal-clear waters to the serene beauty of terraced rice paddies, Bali is a place where every corner holds something magical. Experience the warmth of its people, the peaceful aura of ancient temples, and the island’s eclectic mix of old-world charm and modern luxury. Whether you’re an adventure seeker looking to surf Bali’s legendary waves, a culture enthusiast exploring sacred sites, or someone just wanting to relax in a luxury resort surrounded by nature, Bali is a place that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and inspired.

DESTINATIONS

HIGHLIGHT

Dry Season (April to October)
Ideal for: Outdoor activities, beach trips, sightseeing, and adventure.
Weather: Bali enjoys sunny weather with minimal rainfall. Average temperatures range between 27°C to 32°C (80°F to 90°F), making it perfect for exploring the island’s beaches, rice terraces, and temples.

Wet Season (November to March)
Ideal for: Quiet retreats, exploring Bali’s lush landscapes, and budget travel.
Weather: This is the rainy season, with heavy but short bursts of rain, mainly in the afternoons or evenings. Temperatures remain warm, around 26°C to 31°C (79°F to 88°F), but humidity levels rise.

What to expect?

Language: The official language in Bali is Balinese.

Currency: The currency of Bali is the Thai Indonesian Rupiah (IDR).

Credit Cards and ATMs:Credit Cards: Major credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are accepted at most hotels, resorts, restaurants, and shops in tourist areas. However, smaller businesses and markets often prefer cash.
ATMs: You can find ATMs throughout Bali, especially in tourist-centric areas like Kuta, Seminyak, Ubud, and Sanur. Most ATMs will allow you to withdraw up to 2 million IDR per transaction. Be cautious about hidden fees, both from the ATM and your bank.

Plugs:Bali uses Type C and Type F power outlets, which are common across Europe.
Type C: Two round prongs.
Type F: Two round prongs with two earth clips on the side.
Voltage: The standard voltage is 230V with a frequency of 50Hz.

Safety: Personal Safety: Petty theft, such as pickpocketing or bag snatching, can occasionally happen in crowded areas. Always keep your belongings secure, especially in busy spots like markets or beaches.

Traffic Safety: Bali’s traffic can be chaotic, especially in busy areas. If you’re renting a scooter or motorbike, always wear a helmet and drive defensively. Make sure your rental vehicle is in good condition and check your insurance coverage.
Health & Hygiene: Bali has good medical facilities, especially in popular areas, but travel insurance is recommended. Be cautious when drinking tap water—stick to bottled water to avoid stomach issues. Insect repellent is also important to avoid mosquito bites, particularly in rural and jungle areas.

Pro tip for Bali visit

Bali is a paradise, but to make the most of your trip, plan a mix of adventure and relaxation. Explore Ubud’s lush rice terraces, waterfalls, and monkey forest for a cultural and nature-filled experience. Visit temples like Tanah Lot at sunset for stunning views, and don’t miss the vibrant beach clubs in Seminyak or Canggu. If you’re into diving or snorkeling, head to Nusa Penida or Amed for crystal-clear waters and marine life. Renting a scooter can be a great way to explore, but only if you’re comfortable with Bali’s traffic—otherwise, hire a driver for a hassle-free experience.

For a smoother trip, travel during the dry season (April–October) to avoid heavy rains. Pack light, breathable clothing and bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect Bali’s beautiful coral reefs. Respect local customs—wear a sarong when visiting temples and be mindful of Balinese traditions. Cash is preferred in smaller shops and warungs (local eateries), so keep some handy. Lastly, be cautious with street food and tap water—stick to bottled or filtered water to avoid Bali belly. Enjoy the island’s charm, and take your time soaking in the magical vibes!

Getting Around

Getting around Uluwatu Temple

Getting around Uluwatu Temple is fairly easy, but it’s best to come prepared. The temple itself is spread out along the clifftop, with scenic walkways offering stunning ocean views. Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking on uneven paths and stairs. Since it’s a sacred site, visitors must wear a sarong and sash, which are usually provided at the entrance. Arrive before sunset to explore at a relaxed pace and secure a good spot for the famous Kecak Fire Dance, which starts around 6 PM.

Transportation-wise, Uluwatu isn’t as walkable as other areas in Bali, so hiring a private driver or using ride-hailing apps like Gojek or Grab is the most convenient way to get there and around. Scooters are also a great option if you’re comfortable riding, as traffic can get busy in the evenings. If you’re planning to visit nearby beaches like Padang Padang or Suluban, it’s best to arrange transport in advance, as taxis can be limited at night.

Getting from Island to Island

Getting from island to island in Bali is relatively easy, with speedboats and ferries being the main modes of transport. If you’re heading to Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, or Nusa Ceningan, speedboats depart from Sanur Harbor and take around 30–45 minutes. Book tickets online or at the harbor, but arrive early as boats can fill up fast. For the Gili Islands (Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, Gili Meno) and Lombok, fast boats leave from Padang Bai or Serangan, taking 1.5–3 hours depending on the destination. For a smoother ride, choose a morning departure when the sea is usually calmer.

Once on the islands, getting around is different from mainland Bali. Nusa Penida has rough roads, so hiring a private driver or renting a scooter (only if experienced) is best. Nusa Lembongan and Ceningan are smaller and easily explored by scooter or bicycle, connected by the famous Yellow Bridge. The Gili Islands have no motorized vehicles, so transport is by bicycle, electric scooter, or horse-drawn cart (cidomo). Always check return boat schedules and book return tickets in advance, especially during peak season!

Once on the islands, getting around is different from mainland Bali. Nusa Penida has rough roads, so hiring a private driver or renting a scooter (only if experienced) is best. Nusa Lembongan and Ceningan are smaller and easily explored by scooter or bicycle, connected by the famous Yellow Bridge. The Gili Islands have no motorized vehicles, so transport is by bicycle, electric scooter, or horse-drawn cart (cidomo). Always check return boat schedules and book return tickets in advance, especially during peak season!

Foods you have to try in Bali

Bali is a food paradise with a mix of rich flavors and traditional dishes you must try. Start with Babi Guling (suckling pig), a Balinese delicacy with crispy skin and aromatic spices, best enjoyed at local warungs like Ibu Oka in Ubud. Another must-try is Nasi Campur, a plate of rice served with a variety of meats, vegetables, and sambal, giving you a little taste of everything. For something more unique, Ayam Betutu offers slow-cooked, spice-infused chicken, while Bebek Bengil (crispy duck) is a deep-fried favorite, especially at its namesake restaurant in Ubud. If you love grilled dishes, don’t miss Sate Lilit, a Balinese-style satay made from minced fish or meat wrapped around lemongrass sticks for extra flavor.

Vegetarians can enjoy Gado-Gado, a delicious Indonesian salad topped with creamy peanut sauce, or Lawar, a coconut and veggie mix sometimes made with jackfruit. For dessert, try Jaje Bali, colorful Balinese sweets made from rice flour, coconut, and palm sugar. Fresh tropical fruits like snake fruit (salak), mangosteen, and dragon fruit are also a treat. And if you’re a coffee lover, sip on Kopi Luwak, one of the world’s rarest coffees, made from beans naturally processed by civet cats. Pair your meals with sambal matah, Bali’s famous raw shallot and chili relish, for an extra kick of spice. For the best experience, eat at local warungs, where the flavors are most authentic and the atmosphere is warm and welcoming.

Ultimate itinerary for Bali

Here’s the ultimate 7-day Bali itinerary, balancing adventure, culture, relaxation, and stunning scenery.

Day 1: Arrival & Beach Clubs in Seminyak/Canggu

Arrive at Ngurah Rai International Airport and check in to your hotel or villa.
Relax at Seminyak Beach or Canggu’s Batu Bolong Beach.
Enjoy sunset cocktails at Potato Head Beach Club or Finns Beach Club.
Have dinner at La Lucciola (Italian with ocean views) or Warung Eropa (authentic Balinese cuisine).

Day 2: Ubud – Culture & Nature

Visit Tegalalang Rice Terraces early to beat the crowds.
Swing over the jungle at Aloha Swing or Bali Swing.
Explore Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud.
Have lunch at Clear Café or Sari Organik.
Visit Ubud Palace & Saraswati Temple.
Shop at Ubud Art Market for handmade crafts and souvenirs.
Dine at Locavore (fine dining with local ingredients) or Melting Wok Warung.

Day 3: Waterfalls & Temples

Start with Tibumana Waterfall or Tukad Cepung Waterfall.
Visit Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave).
Explore the serene Tirta Empul Temple for a holy water purification ritual.
Drive to Gunung Kawi, an ancient rock-cut temple.
Enjoy dinner at Bridges Bali, overlooking the Campuhan River.

Day 4: Nusa Penida Day Trip

Take a speedboat from Sanur Harbor (40 min).
Visit Kelingking Beach (T-Rex Cliff).
Swim at Angel’s Billabong and Broken Beach.
Snorkel at Crystal Bay or Manta Bay (if lucky, see manta rays!).
Return to Bali and have dinner at Jimbaran Bay Seafood Cafés by the beach.

Day 5: Uluwatu – Cliffs & Beaches

Relax at Padang Padang Beach or Suluban Beach.
Visit Uluwatu Temple for stunning ocean views.
Watch the Kecak Fire Dance at sunset.
Have dinner at El Kabron (Spanish restaurant with a cliffside view) or Sundays Beach Club.

Day 6: Mount Batur Sunrise Hike & Hot Springs

Start at 2 AM for a guided trek up Mount Batur (takes ~2 hours).
Watch a breathtaking sunrise from the summit.
Relax at Toya Devasya Hot Springs post-hike.
Visit Penglipuran Village, a beautiful traditional Balinese village.
Have a relaxing evening with a Balinese massage at a spa.

Day 7: Tanah Lot & Shopping

Visit Tanah Lot Temple in the morning.
Do last-minute shopping at Seminyak Village or Beachwalk Mall in Kuta.
Enjoy a farewell meal at Merah Putih (modern Indonesian fine dining).
Head to the airport with unforgettable Bali memories!

Explore Seminyak & Canggu beaches, then head to Ubud for rice terraces, waterfalls, and temples. Take a Nusa Penida day trip, relax at Uluwatu’s beaches, and watch the Kecak Fire Dance. Hike Mount Batur for sunrise, soak in hot springs, and wrap up with Tanah Lot & shopping before departure.

Bali as a Solo Traveler: A Comprehensive Review

Safety – Bali is generally safe for solo travelers, with a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. However, be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded areas, and avoid walking alone at night in remote locations. Always keep an eye on your belongings and be mindful of common scams, such as overpriced taxi fares or fake tour guides.

Affordability – Bali is a budget-friendly destination with plenty of affordable hostels, guesthouses, and warungs (local eateries) offering cheap but delicious food. At the same time, it also caters to luxury travelers with high-end resorts and fine dining experiences. Daily expenses can be kept low with local transport, street food, and budget accommodations.

Best Areas to Stay & Explore:

Ubud – The cultural heart of Bali, perfect for visiting temples, rice terraces, and waterfalls. It’s also ideal for yoga retreats and wellness experiences.

Canggu & Seminyak – Great for digital nomads, beach lovers, and nightlife enthusiasts. These areas have trendy cafés, co-working spaces, and vibrant beach clubs.

Uluwatu – Known for its breathtaking cliffs, world-class surf spots, and the famous Uluwatu Temple. It’s a more relaxed area compared to Canggu or Seminyak.

Nusa Penida – A short boat ride away, this island offers incredible landscapes, secluded beaches, and adventure-filled activities like snorkeling and hiking.

Getting Around – Public transport is limited, but ride-hailing apps like Gojek and Grab make getting around easy and affordable. Renting a scooter is another popular option for more flexibility, but it’s recommended only for those comfortable with Bali’s traffic and road conditions. For longer distances, hiring a private driver for a day is a convenient and safe choice.

Solo-Friendly Activities: There are plenty of things to do alone, from yoga and meditation retreats in Ubud to surf lessons in Canggu. Exploring waterfalls, hiking Mount Batur for sunrise, visiting local markets, and joining cooking classes or snorkeling trips are also great ways to enjoy Bali as a solo traveler.

Social Life & Meeting People – Bali has a thriving solo traveler and digital nomad community, making it easy to meet people. Staying in hostels, joining group tours, or visiting co-working spaces and social cafés are great ways to connect with others. Many bars and beach clubs also host social events where travelers gather.

Precautions & Travel Tips: Avoid drinking tap water (stick to bottled or filtered water), be mindful of ATM skimmers, and always agree on taxi fares in advance if using non-metered services. If renting a scooter, always wear a helmet and check for proper documentation. Respect local customs, especially when visiting temples, by wearing appropriate clothing.

Overall Experience – Bali is an ideal destination for solo travelers, offering a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, culture, and social opportunities. Whether you seek self-discovery, outdoor exploration, or a lively social scene, Bali provides a unique and fulfilling travel experience.