Know Before You Go: Visiting Bali

Bali, a part of Indonesia, is a picturesque island in Southeast Asia, renowned for its culture, beaches, and lush landscapes. It has one airport, Ngurah Rai International Airport, located near the capital city of Denpasar, located on the southern coast of the island. There are daily flights to popular transit hubs such as Dubai and Qatar. You'll also find regular flights directly from parts of Europe, Australia, and Asia.

The best time of year to visit Bali is from late March until October. The rainy season begins in November and usually ends in March, although in recent years, it has been arriving earlier than usual. While there is nothing wrong with visiting Bali during the rainy season—prices are lower and tourist-heavy spots are a little quieter—it’s worth noting that bad weather can affect popular excursions, including boat trips or waterfall and volcano excursions.

From budget-friendly to luxury accommodations, hotels in Bali cater to a diverse range of preferences and budgets. For budget travelers, you'll find affordable guesthouses and hostels in popular areas like Kuta and Seminyak. These options offer basic amenities and a laid-back atmosphere.

Mid-range hotels are abundant, providing a balance between comfort and cost. In areas like Ubud and Canggu, you can discover charming boutique hotels and resorts with additional amenities such as pools and spas.

For those seeking luxury, Bali boasts upscale resorts and villas with ocean views and private amenities. Seminyak and Jimbaran are known for their high-end options, offering lavish experiences, gourmet dining, and exclusive services.

Whether it's the beach and nightlife, cultural experiences, spiritual pursuits, or surfing adventures, Bali’s neighborhoods are diverse and offer various activities depending on your preferences.

• Canggu and Seminyak: These areas are known for their vibrant nightlife, trendy cafes, beach clubs, and cosmopolitan atmosphere. Digital nomads often find these places appealing due to the availability of co-working spaces, a lively social scene, and proximity to the beach.

• Ubud: Ubud is renowned for its cultural and spiritual offerings. It attracts travelers seeking a tranquil environment, traditional arts and crafts, yoga retreats, and a connection with Bali's cultural heritage. It's often associated with spiritual journeys and self-discovery.

• Uluwatu: Uluwatu is a popular destination for surfers, known for its world-class waves and stunning coastal cliffs. It offers a more laid-back atmosphere than the busier tourist hubs, making it a favorite among those who enjoy surfing and a more relaxed environment.

• Sanur: Situated on the east coast, Sanur is often considered a family-friendly destination. It offers a calmer atmosphere, a sandy beach, and a range of water activities suitable for families. The area is known for its relaxed vibe and is less crowded compared to some other popular tourist spots.

• Nusa Dua: Nusa Dua is a resort town known for its luxury accommodations and pristine beaches. It is a popular choice for honeymooners seeking a romantic and upscale experience. The area features high-end resorts, spa facilities, and beautiful seaside settings.

• Amed: Located on the east coast, Amed is a top spot for scuba divers. The area is known for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, making it an excellent destination for underwater enthusiasts. Amed offers a more laid-back and less touristy environment.

• Kintamani: Positioned in the north, Kintamani offers a unique experience above the clouds. It is known for its stunning volcanic landscapes and the serene Lake Batur. The area provides a more tranquil and nature-centric experience, making it suitable for those who prefer a peaceful atmosphere.

Motorbikes are the most common mode of transport in Bali, but, if you don't have a motorbike-specific driving license, you should stick to bike taxis rather than renting a bike yourself. Currently, it's very easy to rent a bike from your hostel, guesthouse, or hotel, but there are plans to restrict this to specific motorbike rental shops in the future.

Southern Bali (Canggu downward) can have heavy traffic, and the rules of the road are mostly ignored. It's far safer to book a bike taxi through Gojek or Grab rather than risk driving yourself. If you'd rather get a car, Gojek, Grab, and Bluebird are your best bets. Try to avoid booking random bike or car taxis off the street, as drivers are renowned for charging tourists hugely marked-up prices.

The cliches are true: Bali does have something to offer all kinds of travelers. From sunrise yoga to active volcano hikes to beach-hopping trips and gorgeous island getaways, you'll find an endless highlight reel of things to do here.

Some of the most popular Hindu temples include Tanah Lot, Uluwatu Temple, and Lempuyang Temple. A sunrise hike up Mt. Batur is a staple Bali excursion, while the Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud is also a must-see spot. You can also take a day trip to the gorgeous Gili Islands, famous for their white sands and turquoise waters, or Nusa Penida and Nua Dua, home to some of Indonesia’s top snorkel spots.

While Bali officially has two seasons—the dry season and the rainy season—the weather here can be unpredictable. You’ll want to bring light, breathable clothes to combat the humidity (while making sure you’re respectfully dressed when visiting spiritual or religious places), especially if you’re going to Bali during the rainy season.

A sarong is a great item to throw in your bag ahead of day trips, too. If you’ll be exploring waterfalls, pack sturdy shoes and plenty of mosquito repellent, especially if you’re visiting during the wet season. Don’t bother bringing jeans or anything overly fancy: Most places on Bali are relaxed and laid-back when it comes to a dress code.

Balinese people are culturally very polite, friendly, and easygoing. Unfortunately, that's led to an increase in tourists misbehaving in recent years without being corrected for offending local cultural norms. And if the whole "Island of the Gods" name didn't give it away, you'll want to ensure you're following the cultural rules while exploring Bali. Bali's immigration chiefs don't take misbehavior lightly. As such:

• Don't litter the beaches or rivers.
• Dress appropriately when visiting spiritual and religious places. Shoulders and knees should be covered for all genders. Similarly, don't walk down the street (or even drive around town) in a bikini.
• Temples should not be entered during menstruation. It's crucial to be respectful when visiting spiritual spots.
• No inappropriate posing in sacred places or public displays of affection.
• Before snapping photos or touching things, ask your guide if you’re allowed.
• Don't shout or argue with police officers, or other vendors and officials. A trip to Bali can require a little extra patience (for example, take boat departure times with a pinch of salt), and arguing and demanding a refund is not going to get you anywhere.

Bali’s currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Most places take card payment in the southern part of the island although warungs (smaller, family-run restaurants) may be cash only. You'll find plenty of ATMs dotted around the tourist-centric spots, but less frequently if you venture up north or off the beaten track.

If you book an excursion with a local guide, you'll likely be expected to pay cash or via bank transfer. Using an international-friendly card such as Wise or Revolut is a great way to avoid expensive currency conversion charges. If you want to take cash out while on Bali, there are a lot of exchange shops, but always count your new notes before you leave as more scams have cropped up in recent years.

Tipping isn’t expected on Bali, but, on an island heavily dependent on tourism (which was decimated during the pandemic) and where the monthly wage is amongst the lowest in the world, it’s appreciated. A service charge (and around 15 percent tax) is sometimes already added in larger restaurants.

When it comes to bartering, remember that the US$1 you're arguing about for the price of a souvenir can buy a whole meal for the seller. Bartering is expected in street markets but is never welcomed in restaurants, hair salons, or spas.

• Do I need a visa to visit Bali? Most tourists from many countries, including the United States and many European nations, do not need a visa for short visits to Bali (less than 30 days). Visitors receive a free visa exemption on arrival. However, it's crucial to check visa requirements based on your nationality and the purpose and duration of your visit to ensure compliance with Indonesia's immigration policies.

• What language do they speak in Bali? The primary language spoken in Bali is Indonesian. However, many locals in popular tourist areas also speak English due to the tourism industry. Balinese, a Malayo-Polynesian language, is also spoken by the Balinese people and is often used in cultural and religious contexts. Learning a few basic Indonesian phrases can enhance your experience and interactions with locals.

• Is Bali expensive to visit? Bali can cater to a range of budgets. While luxury accommodations and high-end dining options can be relatively expensive, there are also numerous budget-friendly accommodations, eateries, and activities. Overall, Bali is often considered an affordable destination, particularly for travelers who are conscious of their spending.