Bali Travel Guide
" Everything you need to know before traveling to Bali"
Bali is an island and province of Indonesia suitable for watersports and visiting one of the richest marine life and corals on the planet. This island is located to the east of Java and the west of Lombok, but it is mostly known as the westernmost province of the Lesser Sunda Islands. It is much richer than imagined, with an area of 2,230 square miles (5,780 km2), and is rapidly becoming more developed in tourism. Most of the population of Bali (more than 4 million) believe in Hinduism, dotting the land with numerous beautiful temples and marvelous structures. The rest of the religions are minorities, with Islam and Christianity present in the islands, living in harmony and respect.
Other than these major and minor beliefs, you could say the real religion in this amazing land is love and art. The culture, along with stunning land, is an attraction that adds to the popularity of this destination.
Last but not least, one of the other things that bring a good portion of the travelers is history. It is said that Bali has been inhabited for more than two thousand years Before Christ, with immigrants that mostly came from the nearby regions of Taiwan. Thus, their culture and history are very much related to these people as well as the rest of Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Oceania.
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Local Name Bali
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Country Indonesia
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Population (2018) 4,362,000
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Time Zone UTC+08 (WITA)
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Area Code +62-36
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Website baliprov.go.id
Why Visiting Bali?
Seekers of nature and beauty should make Bali one of the top destinations for seeking a new adventure. The land is rich and beautiful with all kinds of terrains to travel and enjoy. And what’s best is that there is no need for any special gear or training as there are always good trails and places to pick, suitable for everyone.
With the rich nature comes amazing sceneries and photography opportunities. Moreover, there are amazing ingredients and delicious things to make tasty Balinese Cuisine. Added with the numerous ethnic groups and cultures, cuisine and sights are just enough reasons to make this destination one of your most memorable.
Additionally, people living in such beautiful land tend to have good taste in beauty and art. It is like the artistic vibe that exists all over Bali with galleries, colorful and enchanting clothing; the same is true for the rest of their art as well. And all of this is suitable for everyone no matter the age or preference, it has something for everyone.
Speaking of all the food and art and other things to enjoy, tourists will also enjoy shopping in the islands as well as exploring it. Whether it is a piece of art or traditional handicraft you are looking for, Bali is a great place to go shopping and at reasonable prices. While shopping, there is also a great chance to meet the lovely and kind locals as well. Despite having numerous differences, they live in peace and harmony with love and care.
Speaking of differences, the religious sites and the monuments that show these differences are also among the highlights that tourists come to see. Sea Temples, religious sites on the mountains, and all other Hindu sites offer spirituality as well as beauties of architecture. The religious aspect of Bali may even add to the interesting and lovely culture of these warm people as well.
The culture itself is also worth discovering. Best to do this kind of activity during events or in public gatherings. Even at other times, the people and how they live is an interesting thing to witness, but why not make it more memorable during a religious ritual or national event!
All in all, the last yet most important reason for many travelers to visit Bali is its beaches. The sea and the waters alone are good enough, but wait until you discover the rich underwater world and the marine life. No spoilers! Just go there and be at awe as the watersports and the marvels of the water all around Bali can earn it the name of Paradise. If nothing else, it is already a paradise for surfing and diving.
Bali Tours
What to See in Bali
- Air Panas Banjar Hot Spring
- Alas Kedaton
- Aling-Aling Waterfall
- Amed
- Amed Beach
- ARMA Museum
- Badung Market
- Bajra Sandhi Monument
- Balai Gili
- Balangan Beach
- Bali Bird Park
- Bali Botanic Garden
- Bali Museum
- Bali Safari and Marine Park
- Bali Swing
- Bali Zoo
- Balian Beach
- Banyumala Twin Waterfalls
- Batu Bolong Beach
- Berawa Beach
- Besakih Temple
- Bias Tugel Beach
- Bingin Beach
- Blue Point Beach
- Bratan
- Bukit Peninsula
- Campuhan Ridge Walk
- Canggu Beach
- Danau Batur
- Danau Beratan
- Danau Buyan
- Double Six Beach
- Dream Museum Zone Bali (DMZ)
- Dreamland Beach
- Elephant Cave
- Garuda Wisnu Kencana
- Gitgit Waterfall
- Goa Gajah
- Green Bowl Beach
- Jalan Legian
- Jalan Nusa Dua
- Jatiluwih Rice Terrace
- Jimbaran Bay
- Jimbaran Beach
- Kebun Raya Bali
- Kuta Beach
- Lake Tamblingan
- Legian Beach
- Lovina
- Melasti Beach
- Menjangan Island
- Monkey Forest Road
- Mount Agung
- Mount Batur
- Mount Batur
- Munduk Village
- Museum Pasifika Bali
- Museum Puri Lukisan
- Neka Art Museum
- Nungnung Waterfall
- Padang Padang Beach
- Padang Padang Beach
- Pandawa Beach
- Pandawa Beach
- Pantai Batu Bolong Street
- Pantai Kuta
- Patung Garuda Wisnu Kencana
- Penataran Lempuyang
- Petitenget Beach
- Pura Goa Lawah
- Pura Gunung Kawi
- Pura Lempuyang Luhur
- Pura Luhur Batukaru
- Pura Ulun Danu Batur
- Puri Saren Agung
- Sanur
- Saraswati Temple
- Seminyak
- Serangan Island
- Sukawati Art Market
- Taman Ayun Temple
- Taman Kertha Gosa
- Tanah Lot
- Tanah Lot Temple
- Tanjung Benoa
- Tegalalang Rice Terraces
- Tegallalang Rice Terrace
- Tegenungan Waterfall
- The Blanco Renaissance Museum
- Tirta Empul Temple
- Tirta Empul Temple
- Tirta Gangga
- Tukad cepung waterfall
- Ubud Art Market
- UBUD ART MARKET
- Ubud Monkey Forest
- Ubud Palace
- Ubud Royal Palace
- Ulu Cliffhouse
- Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
- Uluwatu Kecak & Fire Dance
- Uluwatu Temple
- Waterblow
- Waterbom Bali
- West Bali National Park
Best Time to Visit Bali
Having a tropical climate makes it a bit difficult to say when is the best time to visit Bali. There are generally two seasons, Wet Season and Dry Season. Between the two of them, the dry season is the more suitable one for traveling, but from the very beginning as it is too warm.
Dry Season (April – October)
- Temperature: 22.5°C (72.5°F) – 34.3°C (93.9°F)
- Features: The Dry Season has much less rain and humidity, but it is very warm at the beginning of April throughout May. It is sunny and dry, which means you will get the best experience of the beaches. But also note that some of the beaches are suitable all year long. Near the beginning of March and April and halfway through September, the weather gets a bit difficult, but the prices may become more pleasing.
- Recommendation: Although April to October is the Dry Season and the most suitable time to travel, the high season is from June to August. These three months are the best months and the high season of Bali when literally every kind of activity is available and recommended. Unless, of course, you are looking for the best prices. In that case, avoid these three months, and you will have the best prices possible, especially at the beginning of Dry Season when it is just too hot.
What to wear?
Except for inside the religious site, there are no particular dress codes, so you can wear whatever you feel comfortable with. Pack for the beach, and explore the city and forest alike. Above all else, you will need sunscreen, but something that will not harm the marine life of Bali in case you go swimming. Expect the occasional rains, but do not worry as they are at a minimum. An umbrella would be just enough.
Wet Season (November – March)
- Temperature: 23.5°C (74.3°F) – 33.6°C (92.5°F)
- Features: It is much hotter, and with the amount of rain, it is safe to say it is wet most of the year. There are long hours of sunshine that even last for days. But the same can also be said about the rain. The rain is not the only thing seen in these months, but also the waves and the wind are rather harsh. Going to the beach is not a good idea since the current and the winds can drop a lot of debris at the shores.
- Recommendation: If good prices are the thing you are looking for, wait until around December when you can find the best of deals. Anything you want to do will depend on the forecast, so try not to plan for a lot of beach time and surfing in the sea. From time to time, the Watersports are available and even ideal, but these are only rare occasions. The best thing to plan for is a cultural trip and trying the nightlife of Bali during this season.
What to wear?
The weather is still very much warm so you will not need warm clothing such as jackets. Pack for heavy rains and bring anything that will make you and your items waterproof. And this is not just a suggestion, it is a warning as the rain can last for several days. The raindrops are not exactly small either. Sunscreen is still a necessity in case of hours or days of sunshine at the beach.
How Long To Stay?
It is safe to say that anything less than a week is not nearly enough. More than that, most people would suggest staying for 10 to 14 days in Bali. The best duration for the first time in Bali would be two weeks. Less than that, and you will miss it as soon as you leave; more than that might get a bit costly for a vacation. In any case, it is also safe to say a longer stay in this place is also fun beyond imagining. It is like you will never want it to end.
Things to do in Bali
Get connected with the environment and spend some time in nature. The best experience is near or in the sea. Either riding on the waves or going below to discover the underwater world is recommended. Marine life and the natural formations are perhaps the best of Bali, but the land itself is not any less of a beauty. The land, nature, and wildlife bring about an amazing and peaceful trip. All of this comes with a bit of an adventure on the side. Moreover, you can also discover the beauties left behind by men as well as the Earth. The Sea Temples are among the favorites, but their culture and the city are also worth seeing.
Explore the Famous Gili Islands
Although the Gili Islands are not part of Bali (as one of the most popular places to have fun near Bali), visiting them will always be recommended. Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air are the names of these small and enchanting islands, all worth the trip. As a favorite destination of Indonesia, the Gili Islands are visited by numerous tourists each year. They have beautiful blue waters and some of the best beaches in all of the country. Each of the three islands has their top things to do as well. Therefore, it is best to just say you should explore all three.
See the Popular Ubud Monkey Forest and Visit its Wildlife
Ubud Monkey Forest is almost like a zoo filled with macaques that come with a temple waiting at the end of the trail. The Monkey Forest is a top highlight in Bali, bringing numerous travelers and adventurers who see nature, wildlife, and a historic site all in one. It is a sacred and most beautiful site where you can take some pictures are reminders of the Monkey Forest. Just be mindful of your belongings as these sacred monkeys tend to be playful and take travelers’ items. If you have anything shiny or expensive, better to just leave them at the hotel and enjoy the beauties of Monkey Forest.
Catch the Sunrise at Mount Batur
The locals and travelers flock to Mount Batur near Bali in the early hours of the morning to catch the sunrise. The trip to Mount Batur will take about 3 to 4 hours with a trail that is not very hard to travel. Hiking to the top of Mount Batur is a top activity as it will offer the best view over the surrounding green areas and Lake Batur. You will have an unmatched beauty all around you as early as feeling the sun rays of the early morning until whenever you decide to leave.
Witness Farming and Irrigation Systems of Tegalalang Rice Terrace
Visiting the Tegalalang Rice Terrace is like seeing an ancient heritage of the Indonesians that still lives on. It is a learning experience, where you will discover the farming and irrigation systems that are used by the locals as well. Additionally, Tegalalang Rice Terrace is another pretty sight to see in the nature of Bali. The Tegalalang Rice Terrace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a lot to show and teach. The numerous layers of paddies are also top picturesque areas of the country. Strolling around the Tegalalang Rice Terrace is rather easy and will be interesting all along the trail.
Feel the Sanctity of Uluwatu Temple
Uluwatu Temple seems like just a marvelous sight to see with astonishing surroundings and a beach. But it is more; the Uluwatu Temple has a cultural and historic story and a religious significance. The Uluwatu Temple is constructed on a cliff overlooking the sea and protecting the land from the evils offshores. More than that, the Hindus believe that the temple itself is also protected by the monkeys (be mindful of these playful creatures as they may go off with your belongings). True or not, the sense of spirituality is strong here, especially at sunrise when you can just enjoy the view of waves crashing against the beach.
Purify Your Body and Soul at Tirta Empul Temple
From the 10th century forward, Tirta Empul Temple has been a site for purification for the Balinese Hindus. The name itself means holy spring, which is located in a tropical forest in the central regions of Bali. Going to the Tirta Empul Temple is one of the things one has to do because of the beauties in the forest and the temple. Besides, this unique spiritual journey does not cost much, and it will teach a lot about the culture and religion of locals.
Join the countless others in the Tirta Empul Temple and participate in their rituals. As you go to soak in the holy waters of Tirta Empul Temple, be sure to have a guide or someone to ask about the ritual and the rules. It is very important to respect the rules of the temple as you participate in this activity.
Marvel at the Tanah Lot Temple
Tanah Lot Temple is perhaps the most beautiful temple among the beautiful and sacred sea temples of Bali. Ordinarily, you will not be allowed to explore the Tanah Lot Temple unless you are fortunate or go with a tour and guide. Just like the other temples, Tanah Lot Temple is a great thing of beauty during sunrise. Even if you are not allowed to enter and explore, be sure to see the exterior and take pictures of the Tanah Lot Temple from afar. One of the other top things to do here is to take pictures of this most picturesque place.
Discover All the Amazing Things of Canggu
Canggu is becoming a very popular destination for travelers as it is rapidly developing into a paradise. It has well-known street arts, the best foods of all Bali, and it is most popular for its beach and surfing. Canggu has a special charm to it that works like a magnet; it will bring you in and will not let you leave. Few crowds and the golden beach are pretty good reasons to pick Canggu as a top destination, but other than the sand and sea, there is more to discover.
Go surfing
Surfing in Bali is like visiting the Eifel Tower in Paris; you just have to do it. But surfing is not on the top of the list as it required skill and training. There are several easy spots for Surfing in Bali, but the world-famous experience of surfing here is where it needs skill. The number of good spots is limitless, like Canggu or Uluwatu, which were previously mentioned. And if your level in surfing is really a problem, do not worry as there are always a few instructors to teach you how to surf. Better get some training before the trip, or else you might have to spend some of the time for practice before actually Surfing in this surfer’s paradise.
Relax or Surf at Echo Beach
Bali has numerous amazing beaches, but Echo Beach is one that has a charm for everyone. It is not one of the most developed, but there is the best opportunity to try some fresh seafood. It is also ideal for the more skilled surfers to go there and have some fun. Perhaps one of the things that make Echo beach stand out is the fact that it has fewer visitors, and it has more space to claim as a private beach.
Where to Stay in Bali
There are suitable accommodations for everyone, with a wide range of prices and quality. Most people make the mistake of just looking in the southern areas since it is mostly known to tourists. But depending on your needs and budget, you will have numerous options. Besides that, it is recommended to stay in more than one place. Since the island is large, moving to a new place every 4 or 5 days would be better. This way, you will not need to pay so much and waste time moving around.
First things first, everyone heads to the south of Bali for accommodation before anywhere else. This is obviously not wrong as you will have easy access to all the best things the island has to offer. But expect to see more people and busy streets as well as higher prices. That being said, the price for accommodation in Bali is still much lower than in most countries, so do not worry about it costing too much.
Seminyak
Seminyak is one of the recommended areas to seek accommodation as it is one of the most modern and developed areas. It also has one of the best beaches and bars along the beach. High-end resorts and villas are found easily in these parts, and surprisingly, they do not cost as much as many people expect.
West Bali
West Bali is mostly for those seeking to stay with the locals and visiting the villages. It is ideal for traveling in nature and going to the forests. It is much quieter, and life in this area is much simpler. There is also the village of Nyanyi that is a great place to stay near numerous highlights.
Central Bali and Ubud
Central Bali and Ubud are the best areas for culture, art, and history enthusiasts. It is also called a hippie’s paradise, but, in these areas, you will find the most fun indoors and with the people. The best of the central region is discovering temples and rice paddies while relaxing and enjoying the simple life.
Sanur
Last but not least, there is Sanur in the east, which is best for families. As for the prices in each of these four areas, the villages are the cheapest and best for backpackers. Along the beaches and the larger populations, staying at the hotels or guest houses have the most reasonable prices. As a final note, the most expensive options are to hire a yacht or rent a villa, which still does not cost so much in Bali.
How to Get to Bali
Since Bali is an island, getting there is a bit difficult. This is because there are no suitable ground access ways or railways, or anything else. There are basically just two options:
By Air
Ngurah Rai International Airport takes international flights into Bali as one of the best points to start a trip in Indonesia. Additionally, it is possible to arrive at this airport from domestic flights as well. Getting there by air is the fastest and safest option, if only a bit costly.
By Sea
Arriving by ship or taking a ship from another Asian country to Indonesia may sound ideal, but considering the climate, it can become a horror movie really quick. There are, of course, patterns that can make traveling via ship and ferry possible, but a long journey may bring about several difficulties. These difficulties do not happen regularly but keep them in mind when deciding to take to the sea.
Flight to Bali (CAN)
Bali Food & Drink
The Balinese Cuisine will rely greatly on seafood and the life with the sea. Other than the stunning beauty and the fun, it is also a huge source of food. But generally speaking, the people of Bali mostly eat meat, and not just fish. Alternatively, since the land is extremely rich and fertile because of the rains and the volcano, farm products are also available. With a wide variety of recipes coming from different Asian nations, it would be an ideal chance to eat one of the most delicious and healthy foods in Asia. Keep trying the local recipes and the traditional dishes as they are both tasty and safe for all tastes.
Babi Guling (Suckling Pig)
Babi Guling of Bali is one of the dishes to try in the city that is a mouthwatering food for anyone who has had a taste. It is a nose-to-tail suckling pig that is marinated and stuffed and then cooked into a tender and rich meal. The texture, flavor, and smell of Babi Guling is something you cannot miss. Above all else, it is a dish to try in Bali since you may not see it in other cities due to religious reasons. Babi Guling can have various marination or seasonings but expect the taste of this tender meat to be mostly spicy because of the use of peppers, chilies, and garlic.
Bebek Betutu (Smoked Duck)
Bebek Betutu is a very old and traditional smoked duck dish. The modern version that is found in most of Indonesia is seasoned, boiled, and then fried. The original Bebek Betutu, however, needs a day to prepare! Before anything else, call a restaurant and order a Bebek Betutu one day ahead of your visit. Now, as for how it is prepared, Bebek Betutu is marinated and seasoned with local and regional spices and herbs. It is then wrapped in banana leaves and smoked for 12 to 24 hours.
The traditional way is to dig a hole and bury the wrapped Bebek Betutu with the embers left from the fire for 1 day. The process has not changed, but it is not that very traditional either. The result is food to die for!
Mie Goreng (Stir-Fried Noodles)
Each Asian country and city have their own special noodle dish. In Bali, it is Mie Goreng or Stir-Fried Noodles that stand out as the best. Mie Goreng is a staple part of Indonesian cuisine made with either chicken, pork, or shrimp. On top of that, there are vegetables, fried egg, and a special soy sauce. Mie Goreng may have a Chines touch to it, but it is made with regional ingredients and amazing local spices and herbs. Mie Goreng is very delicious, healthy and easy to make. Therefore, it is also a popular thing to learn how to cook it as a great part of the experience in this country.
Nasi Campur (Mixed Rice)
Nasi Campur, also known as Mixed Rice of Indonesia, is a dish with no fixed recipe or perfect combination. Nasi Campur is simply rice in the middle of the plate that is surrounded by all kinds of side dishes. And the possibilities with this food are just limitless, making it a local and tourist favorite. You can order Nasi Campur as any of the daily meals and with any of the combinations of grilled meats or vegetables you like. Since everything other than the rice in Nasi Campur depends on your taste and local ingredients, it is best to give it a try in Bali, among other cities.
Sate (Grilled Skewered Meat)
Sate is simply just grilled meat on sticks. It can be alternatively made with small wood or metal skewers. These delicious barbequed meats are always recommended to eat in Bali. You can go for any kind of meat grilled along with spices and vegetables all around the streets. Sate is really easy to find and available in all of Indonesia, but pork and top-quality seafood are not. Even if you do find other kinds of Sate in different regions and cities, the ones in Bali are way better and different. A bit sweet and yet spicy with the best meats you can find.
Pisang Goreng (Fried Bananas)
After having a meal, it is good to try local desserts such as the Pisang Goreng or Fried Bananas. They are sweet and delicious, having been battered and then deep-fried. In Indonesia, you can find Pisang Goreng very easily, topped with all kinds of sweet or delicious things imaginable. But you can find even more versions of Pisang Goreng as there are different types of bananas here in terms of taste and texture. You can try them as a snack in the street or sit at a café or restaurant and order Pisang Goreng. In any case, be sure to give them a try.
Gado Gado (Indonesian Mix-Mix Salad)
Gado Gado means Mix Mix in Indonesia, and it is literally a mix of numerous delicious and very healthy vegetables. Tempe, tofu, cucumbers, kidney beans, spinach, potato, corn, bean sprout are among the things that are mostly seen in a Gado Gado. They are sometimes even accompanied with some eggs on top. It is the ideal choice for vegetarians, which can even come without the eggs and still taste amazing. The Gado Gado salad is usually served cold. But if you try it warm, it is still pretty great. What really makes a difference in Bali is the local and regional fresh ingredients for Gado Gado.
Pepes Ikan (Steamed Fish in Banana Leaves)
Pepes Ikan is seafood of Bali that is cooked in a similar way to the Bebek Betutu. To make the Pepes Ikan, the fish is marinated and seasoned and then wrapped in banana leaves. It is then steamed for some time for it to absorb all the flavors. The best of Pepes Ikan is in Bali, where you can have numerous options for the type of fish. You might wonder, since fish can be available everywhere, why Bali? The answer is that the people of this area have become experts in preparing their fish and the Pepes Ikan is one of those dishes.
Es Campur (Shaved Ice with Mixed Flavors)
Campur means mixed, and Es Campur is something of a shaved ice with mixed flavors. The Es Campur is easy to find all over the country, but it is something to mostly eat in Bali due to the warm and humid weather and the cool and sweet taste of this dessert. To make Es Campur, fruits, seeds, and coco are mixed with coconut milk and condensed milk into a sweet and refreshing dessert. It is a delicious thing to eat that will cool you down in the sunny and warm days of Bali. And it does not matter where you get the Es Campur, from vendors or cafés, it is the experience of having it that counts.
Kopi (Coffee)
Bali does not originally have Kopi or Coffee in its land, but it grows some quality Coffee in its fertile lands. The fertile grounds come from the lands around the volcanoes to the northeast, which are attractions in their own regard. Kopi in Indonesia may not be the number one edible item to go for, but for coffee lovers and those who want to experience the amazing nights of the islands, it is a necessity.
Shopping in Bali
The best shopping districts in Bali
Kuta Beachwalk
Kuta Beachwalk is the first mall in Bali, a great shopping center, and a great place to eat. The design and the shape of this place in three levels make it ideal to just shop ’till you drop. Additionally, it is suitable for entertainment along with the food court and other things.
Mal Bali Galeria
Mal Bali Galeria is even better and much more suitable for couples and even families. Again, it is a great place for eating. You will face countless items for shopping and thing you can eat in the restaurants.
Discovery Shopping Mall
Discovery Shopping Mall and the Mal Bali Galeria are great for buying electronics, tools, and clothes. The Discovery Shopping Mall is much better on clothing with the latest trends in fashion. As for eating, this place mostly offers snacks and fast food rather than the sit-in restaurants of the other places.
Lippo Mall Kuta
Lippo Mall Kuta is relatively near the airport and has the best restaurants in its basement level. It is the ideal place for families that comes with a large enough space to hold events and celebrations. Keep an eye out for the special events as well as the latest fashion trends.
Bali Collection
Bali Collection is suitable for all groups, but the items there will not be very cheap. But if you are looking for the best souvenirs possible and money is not an issue, this is the place to go.
What to buy in Bali
Kopi Luwak
Indonesia is famous for its chocolate and coffee due to its fertile lands, but the Kopi Luwak Coffee is just the best. Even if there is a slight favor towards coffee, be sure to buy some in Bali.
Silver Jewellery
Any kind of Balinese Silver Jewellery crafted by the locals and in traditional designs is worth it. They are amazing gifts to win a woman’s heart and valuable works to bring home.
Dupa
Dupa are handmade incense sticks mostly used in religious rituals but can also be purchased as souvenirs. Besides the amazing smell, they also bring a special spiritual sense.
Ceramics
Either as decorations or utensils, the Indonesian Ceramics are of top quality. The low prices are also a good reason to purchase some and bring them home.
Organic Beauty Products
Herbs, flowers, and any plant that will care for your skin can be found as Organic Beauty Products or Bali. Whatever you need to care for your body is worth buying on this island.
Beachwear
You can bring your own Beachwear or buy some as soon as you arrive. Since most of the fun happens near the beaches, you can find good quality and suitable prices in their Beachwear. Why not even bring some home?
Furniture
They will need space, and you might have some problems with the Furniture being heavy, but it is crazy how good and yet cheap they are. If you have no problems with buying Furniture, be sure to do it!
Fragrances
The same nature and environment that offers the best skin care products will also offer the best Fragrances. Stock up on some natural Fragrances, among other cosmetics.
Bali Travel Tips
Dress Code
There is generally no such thing in most of the places except for temples, but some restaurants are imposing certain dress codes. This rule is mostly to make you wear formal clothing.
Bring Waterproof Everything!
You will definitely spend a lot of time near or in the water. It is very important to either bring waterproof electronics (camera, phone, etc.) or bring covers.
Respect Every Religion
It is not like India, but some people take their beliefs to heart. And they even show or celebrate their religious events publicly. Be considerate and do not disrespect them.
Watch You Money
Not from theft but for good offers! Although it is a good idea to keep your belongings close to avoid theft, you should really worry about the prices. They can be really low in some areas but buying numerous cheap things is a mistake most people make.
The Untouched Islands as not Exactly Very Untouched
There are always uninhabited islands, but since Bali is rapidly developing and becoming a top beach destination, people are flocking to the area. It will not be very crowded but do not expect it to be that empty of crowds either.
Learn the Language
Like many places, you need to learn to speak like the locals. There might be some people who speak good English, but they are not many.
DO NOT LITTER
This one is just to preserve the beauties of our environment. Also, do not harm the animals or the trees.
Better to Come with a Guide
The law and certain other things about the entire country can become really confusing for first-timers. This is why it is best to have a guide or study about the country before visiting.
Take the Climate Seriously
If you are not careful, the harsh weather can become a storm and a problem. If you check the forecast, you will zero problems. If you do not, you may face some rain showers. During the Wet season, not checking the forecast is a big mistake.
Be Careful What You Eat
Unlike several years ago, the food is very much healthy and safe in Indonesia, but if a place does not look clean, it probably is not!
Tap Water is Not Safe
Some people would argue it is safe to drink tap water in Bali. But since it is not safe to drink from the tap, be sure to boil the water in case you have to drink the tap water.
Foreign Embassies & Consulates in Bali
| Australian Consulate | |
|---|---|
| Website | http://www.dfat.gov.au/bali |
| Consular Hours | Monday to Friday 8am-12pm – 12.20pm-4pm |
| Visa Hours | Monday to Friday 8.30am-12pm |
| Emergency | (361) 241118 and follow the menu to connect directly to the 24hr Consular Operations Centre in Canberra |
| Honorary Consulate of Brazil – Bali | |
| Address | C/- By The Sea Store, Jl Raya Legian No.186, Kuta 80361 |
| Phone | 757 775/ Fax: 751 005 |
| brazilconsul@bali.net | |
| Office hours | Monday to Friday 10.00am-6pm |
| Emergency | 081344928 |
| British Honorary Consulate – Bali/Lombok | |
| bcbali@dps.centrin.net.id | |
| Phone | 270 601 |
| Office Hours | Monday to Friday 8.30am-12.30pm |
| Emergency | 0811802435. Jakarta Duty Officer or 08123838844 |
| Cosulate of Chile – Bali/Lombok | |
| Office hours | Monday to Friday 9am-5pm |
| Emergency | 0811394045 |
| Consulate of Czech Republic | |
| Office hours | Monday to Friday 8.30am-4.30pm |
| Emergency | 08123970129 |
| Consulate of France | |
| Office hours | Monday to Friday 9am-12pm |
| Emergency | 08123800124 |
| Consulate of Germany | |
| germanconsul@bali-ntb.com | |
| Office hours | Monday to Friday 8am-12pm |
| Emergency | 08123913938 |
| Consulate of Hungary | |
| Address | C/- Marintur Jl. Bypass Ngurah Rai No. 219 Sanur |
| huconbali@telkom.net | |
| Phone | 287701 Fax: 735232 |
| Office Hours | Monday to Friday 10am-12pm |
| Emergency | 0811389680 or 0816790046 |
| Consulate of Italy | |
| Website | http://www.italconsbali.org |
| Public Hours | Monday to Friday 10am-1pm |
| Office Hours | Monday to Friday 10am-4pm |
| Emergency | 08123904471 |
| Consulate of Japan | |
| Office Hours | Monday to Friday 8.30am-12.30pm – 1.30pm-4pm |
| Emergency | 08123801941 |
| Consulate of Malaysia | |
| Address | Alam Kulkul Boutique Resort/ Jl Pantai Kuta, Legian Bali 80030 |
| Fax | 752 519 |
| Phone | 752 520 |
| feisol@attglboal.net | |
| Consulate of Mexico | |
| yudhara@astinatravel.com | |
| Office Hours | Monday to Friday 9am-3pm |
| Emergency | 288 218 or 0811399929 |
| Consulate of the Netherlands | |
| Website | www.netherlandsembassy.or.id |
| Office Hours | Monday to Friday 8.30am-12.30pm – 1.30pm-4pm |
| Visa Hours | 8.30am-12.30pm only |
| Emergency | +62 818789444 |
| Danish/Denmark Consulate | |
| Website | http://www.mimpi.com |
| Office Hours | Monday to Friday 9am-2pm |
| Emergency | 08123802104 or 08123930809 |
| Consulate of Spain | |
| Office Hours | Monday to Friday 9am-12pm – 1pm-4pm |
| Emergency | 975 736 or 08123840801 |
| Consulate of Sweden & Finland | |
| sweconsul@yahoo.com | |
| Office Hours | Tuesday & Thursday 9am-12pm |
| Emergency | 08179723658 |
| Swiss and Austrian Consulate | |
| jonswiss@telkom.net/swisscon@telcom.net | |
| Office Hours | Monday to Friday 9am-1pm |
| Emergency | 754 719 730 149 or 08123948861 or 0818566392 |
| The Royal Thai Consulate | |
| RTC_bali@thaimail.com | |
| Address | Jl Puputan Raya No. 81, Renon Denpasar 80235 |
| Office Hours | Monday to Friday 9am-12pm – 1pm-4pm |
| Visa Hours | Monday to Friday 9am-12pm – 1.30pm-4pm |
| Emergency | 08164724466 |
| Phone | 263 310 Fax: 238 044 |
| Consulate of United States of America | |
| Office hours | Monday to Friday 8am-12pm – 1pm – 4.30pm |
| Emergency | 08123802540 |
Exchanging Money
Bali Ngurah Rai International Airport
The first place to exchange into the local currency of Indonesia is the Bali Ngurah Rai International Airport exchange office. But it is best to just exchange enough money for the taxi and do the rest at other banks and offices. This is sole because the rates at the airport may not be as desirable as other places.
After the airport, the second place to exchange will be a hotel. Same as the airport, the hotels will also not have desirable rates.
Exchange Offices
There are three major places inside Bali to exchange. Since finding an office can be difficult in some areas of Bali, it is best to make your exchange at these three sites before moving on.
| PT Central Kuta | |
|---|---|
| Address | Jalan Sunset Road No.168, Seminyak, Badung, Bali 80361 |
| Phone | +62 (0)361 4741 940 |
| Opening Hours | Daily 07:30 – 13:00 |
| PT. Dirgahayu Valuta Prima | |
| Address | Jalan Subita No. 21X, Denpasar, Bali 80236, Indonesia |
| Phone | +62 (0)361 237 015 |
| Opening Hours | Daily – Not Fixed – Call Before Visiting |
| PT Bali Maspintjinra | |
| Address | Jalan Legian No.141, Legian, Kuta, Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia |
| Phone | +62 (0)361 730989 |
| Opening Hours | Daily 08:00 – 21:00 |
Banks
There are several major banks in Bali, but Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) and Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) are the best options. Still, the better rates can be found in the three exchange offices above, but if you cannot find them, look for these banks. If you are lucky, some of their ATMs will not charge extra, or you will not have to pay additional fees inside these banks.
