Traveling to Indonesia is definitely a trip you will never forget.Plan for a long ride to get there, as it is a 31 hour flight from New York. Bali is a wonderful area with an array of fun filled activities to choose from. It is the main tourist area of Indonesia.
The people of Bali are very friendly, and enjoy having visitors come to their area. Many speak English to interact with tourists. They have chosen to preserve their culture for all to see rather than change it to become like other countries. The beaches are a main attraction with surfing being one of the most popular activities. Others enjoy renting a boat for the day to relax on the open waters.
There are more than 400 volcanoes in Indonesia, 128 are still active. They offer a historical view of this natural creation to observe. Botanic Gardens are also a very popular attraction. Displaying flora and fauna as well as promoting conservation, people are drawn to the beauty of such attractions.
Thinking of visiting Bali? Make sure to watch this video before going!
This is your one stop shop (with prices) on everything you should know before going.
Travel Guide to Bali, Indonesia
1. Best Time to Visit
- Dry Season (April to October): Ideal for outdoor activities like surfing, diving, and hiking. Peak months are July and August.
- Wet Season (November to March): Quieter and greener, with occasional rain showers, ideal for budget travelers and fewer crowds.
2. Visa Requirements
- Most nationalities can enter visa-free for up to 30 days or apply for a Visa on Arrival (extendable). Check current regulations.
3. Getting Around
- Transport: Rent a scooter for convenience (~$5-10/day), hire a private driver, or use apps like Grab/Gojek for taxis.
- Traffic: Can be heavy, especially in South Baliโplan extra time for travel.
4. Accommodation
- Luxury: Seminyak and Nusa Dua offer high-end resorts like the Four Seasons.
- Budget: Ubud and Canggu have affordable homestays and hostels.
- Mid-range: Beachside villas in Sanur or boutique hotels in Jimbaran.
5. Must-Visit Destinations
- Beaches:
- Kuta (party vibes), Canggu (surfer spots and top beach clubs)
- Uluwatu (surfing),
- Nusa Dua (family-friendly).
- Sanur (family friendly)
- Cultural Sites:
- Ubudโs Sacred Monkey Forest,
- Tanah Lot Temple,
- Uluwatu Temple (catch the sunset and Kecak dance).
- Besakih Temple (important temple for Balinese)
- Nature:
- Mount Batur (sunrise hikes),
- Tegallalang Rice Terraces,
- Sekumpul and Tegenungan Waterfalls.
- Islands:
- Nusa Penida (Angelโs Billabong, Kelingking Beach),
- Gili Islands (snorkeling, diving).
6. Activities
- Surfing: Uluwatu and Canggu are top spots.
- Diving and Snorkeling: Explore shipwrecks in Tulamben or coral reefs in Amed.
- Yoga and Wellness: Ubud is the wellness hub with retreats and spas.
- Shopping: Local markets in Ubud and Seminyak for handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry.
- Party:ย in Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu.
7. Food & Drinks
- Local Dishes: Try nasi goreng, mie goreng, babi guling, and sate lilit.
- Cafes: Ubud and Canggu are renowned for vegan and organic cafes.
- Nightlife: Seminyakโs beach clubs (Potato Head, Ku De Ta) and Kutaโs bars and discos like the Bounty.
8. Etiquette Tips
- Dress modestly when visiting temples.
- Avoid pointing with your feet or touching someoneโs headโitโs considered impolite.
- Bargain respectfully in markets.
9. Health & Safety
- Stay Hydrated: Avoid tap waterโstick to bottled water.
- Travel Insurance: Essential for medical emergencies and accidents.
- Beware of Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from monkeys in areas like Ubud.
10. Local Tips
- Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Carry cash for small purchases.
- Electricity: Adapter for Type C or F plugs.
- Language: Basic phrases in Bahasa Indonesia can be helpful, though English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Packing Essentials
- Light, breathable clothing.
- Sunscreen, bug repellent, and a reusable water bottle.
- Comfortable shoes for exploring temples and trekking.
Enjoy Baliโs vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality!
Hotels in Bali:
Lodging in Bali ranges from small bungalows to huge fancy hotels, all with basic accommodations to meet the needs of tourists. The view from your hotel will be wonderful because of the rich beauty of the area regardless of where you choose to stay.
Hotel Deals:
Temples are a main attraction in Bali. They are called Pura. The temples provide an opportunity to explore religion and art of the culture. The people of Bali are still very religious, and it is very important that those visiting the Temples show respect for their religious beliefs.
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Tours & Activities: