Bali for First Timers: A Comprehensive Guide to Unforgettable Experiences
Planning your first trip to Bali? Discover the best things to see and do, from stunning beaches and ancient temples to delicious cuisine and vibrant culture. Our ultimate guide Bali for First Timers will help you make the most of your unforgettable Balinese adventure!
Bali is a popular destination for first-time travelers who are looking for a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences. Ah Bali, its rice fields, its surf spots, diving spots and its sunsets…
This destination makes more than one dream! But Bali is much more than that. It is a magical island where the gods reign, where the inhabitants offer you their most beautiful smile, it is an island with relaxing and rejuvenating landscapes… Bali is paradise!
Best Beach Clubs in Bali | Best Spots in Top Destinations for Beach Club Hopping
WHY GO TO BALI?
Why go to Bali? For first-timers, Bali offers an irresistible blend of exotic charm, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural wonders. Here are the reasons why you should embark on your Bali adventure today!
✓ Because the cost of living is low: we eat and stay for next to nothing!
✓ Because the landscapes are breathtaking and diverse: volcanoes, lakes, forests, rice fields, volcanic beaches… You could think that Bali was sculpted or drawn, it is so beautiful!
✓ Because the Balinese are adorable, smiling and of a rare kindness. They are soothing and very calm in nature. They rarely get angry, it’s quite impressive by the way! This is surely due to Hinduism, practiced by more than 80% of the population. Experience the genuine warmth and friendliness of the Balinese people, creating memorable connections.
✓ Because the food is just excellent! Mie Goreng, Nasi Goreng, Ayam Satay, Soto Ayam or even Nasi Campur, you will quickly become addicted to Indonesian and Balinese cuisine.
✓ Because Bali is the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with yourself. Meditation, yoga, relaxation, you will come back completely changed from a trip to Bali!
✓ Because Bali has managed to preserve its traditions and its authenticity. You will attend the offering rituals daily, wherever you are. It is not uncommon to find yourself in the middle of a religious ceremony or event.
✓ Because Bali has a very rich culture and ancestral traditions. Crafts, gastronomy, traditional dances, architecture… There is a lot to learn and discover on this island.
✓ You can do adventure and exploration: dive into thrilling water sports, diving, embark on hikes through lush jungles, or challenge yourself with volcano treks.
✓ In short, because Bali is simply magnificent.
Making the Most of Your First Trip to Bali: A Guide for First Timers
Bali is a popular travel destination, known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and lush landscapes. If you’re planning your first trip to Bali, it can be overwhelming to decide what to see and do. Here are some essential tips to ensure you make the most of your Bali adventure:
1. Choose your destination in Bali
Bali has several popular destinations to choose from, each offering a different experience. Seminyak, Kuta, and Legian are known for their nightlife and shopping, while Ubud is the cultural center of Bali.
If you’re looking for nightlife and shopping, consider staying in Seminyak, Kuta, or Legian. If you’re interested in culture and arts, head to Ubud, the spiritual center of Bali. And if you’re seeking tranquility and natural beauty, stay in Canggu, Uluwatu, or Nusa Dua.
2. Plan your itinerary
Bali has something for everyone, from stunning temples to beautiful beaches to adventurous outdoor activities. Plan your itinerary based on your interests and the amount of time you have.
Whether you’re interested in cultural sites, water sports, hiking, or nature adventures in Ubud, Bali has it all. Popular Bali attractions include the ancient temples of Uluwatu and Tanah Lot temple, the rice terraces of Tegalalang, and the iconic beaches of Seminyak and Kuta.
Bali is a diverse island with plenty to explore. Research and plan your itinerary in advance to maximize your time and experience the highlights of Bali.
2 Weeks Itinerary in Bali | What to do and visit in Bali for 14 Days | Best Itinerary
3. Plan your trip, Bali Airport and Visa Requirements
Airport
Bali has an airport in Denpasar (DPS), Ngurah Rai International Airport, which handles international and domestic flights.
Read also: Things To Do When Arriving at Bali Airport (DPS) | Tips for Every Traveler As Soon As We Land
Visa
To be able to travel to Bali, some formalities must be respected! As for most other countries, a valid passport and still valid 6 months after the date of return must be presented. Regarding the Visa, 169 nations get a free visa for up to 30 days for tourism purposes in Indonesia, which will be done directly at the airport (so remember to check with your local embassy).
Please note: you may be refused entry to Bali if you do not have a return ticket.
For a stay of more than 30 days, a tourist visa is mandatory! If you do not do this and you exceed your 30 days, you will have to pay a penalty of Rp 1,000,000 per day.
Entry Requirements to Bali and Navigating Stay Visas in Indonesia
3. Sample the cuisine
Balinese cuisine is delicious and diverse, with influences from Indonesian, Chinese, and Indian cuisine. Some must-try dishes include Nasi Goreng (fried rice), Satay (skewered meat), and Gado-Gado (vegetable salad with peanut sauce). Bali is also famous for its seafood, with fresh catches available at local restaurants and markets.
Explore local warungs (small eateries) and night markets to savor authentic and affordable Balinese food.
4. Stay like a local
Escape the ordinary and stay in authentic Balinese accommodations. From charming boutique hotels to luxurious private villas nestled amidst rice fields, immerse yourself in Balinese architecture and hospitality for an unforgettable stay.
5. Embrace the Balinese culture
Immerse yourself in the rich Balinese culture by attending traditional dance performances, visiting local markets, and exploring the unique customs and traditions. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness a traditional Balinese ceremony or participate in a cooking class to learn the secrets of Balinese cuisine.
Bali is a deeply spiritual and cultural place, so it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting temples, remove your shoes when entering homes or temples, and don’t point with your feet.
6. Stay sun-smart:
Bali’s tropical sun can be intense, so stay hydrated and protect your skin. Carry a water bottle, apply sunscreen liberally, and don a stylish hat to keep cool and safe under the Balinese sun.
Bali has a tropical climate, with hot and humid weather year-round. Be prepared for occasional rain showers, and bring sunscreen, hats, and lightweight clothing.
4 THINGS TO DO ABSOLUTELY IN BALI
✓ Negotiate prices, all the time! For the Balinese, negotiating is a pleasure, a game. Whether it’s transportation, accommodation, clothes, handicrafts and even fruits in the market, negotiate all the time without attacking them, keeping calm and with a smile! 
✓ Rent a scooter or moped to discover the Balinese countryside, the temples and the magnificent rice fields: you will find scooter rentals everywhere. For around IDR 75,000 a day, you are free! Be sure to bring your international license and wear a helmet + make your insurance cover a scooter accident in Bali. For gasoline, you will easily find it everywhere. Make sure your insurance cover a scooter accident in Bali and for a third party injuries.
✓ Eat local and taste a Nasi Campur in a small warung! The warungs are family restaurants or small groceries where you can enjoy yourself for next to nothing. Balinese cuisine is very diverse, spicy, gourmet and tasty. The ideal way to make our taste buds travel!
✓ Visit attractions places: Bali is known for its cultures, nature, volcanic mountains, its paradisiacal beaches, its coral reefs, its rice fields, its tropical forests and its typical villages with incredible charm.
Read also: Itinerary in Bali, Lombok and Gilis in 3 Weeks Stay
Things you should never do in Bali : Essential Travel Tips for a Respectful and Enjoyable Experience
Budgeting for Bali
Bali caters to a variety of budgets. Accommodation, food, and transportation costs can vary depending on your chosen experiences. Research your options beforehand and consider setting a daily spending limit.
Bali’s affordability is a major draw for budget-conscious travelers. Here’s a breakdown to help you create a realistic spending plan:
Accommodation:
- Hostels and guesthouses: $10-$20 per night, offering dorm beds or basic rooms with shared bathrooms. Perfect for social butterflies on a tight budget.
- Budget homestays: $20-$40 per night, providing a charming and local experience with private rooms and often breakfast included.
- Mid-range hotels: $40-$80 per night, offering more amenities like private balconies, swimming pools, and air conditioning.
- Private villa and 5-star hotel: $240-$800 per night, more service, high class amenities.
Food:
- Warungs (local street food stalls): The most budget-friendly option! Enjoy delicious meals like nasi goreng (fried rice) or mie goreng (fried noodles) for just $1-$3.
- Local cafes: Offering a mix of Indonesian and Western fare for $3-$7 per meal.
- Restaurants: Upscale restaurants can get pricey, but you can find tasty meals for $10-$20. Consider happy hour deals for discounted drinks and appetizers.
Transportation:
- Bemo (public minibuses): The cheapest way to get around, but can be crowded and confusing. Fares are minimal, typically under $1 per ride.
- Motorbike rentals: For a more adventurous and independent experience, rent a scooter for $5-$10 per day, plus gas. Remember to wear a helmet!
- Taxis: Metered taxis are readily available, negotiate the fare beforehand and avoid unmetered ones. Ridesharing apps like Grab are also an option.
Activities:
- Temple entrances: Costs vary, but expect to pay $5-$10 per temple.
- Day trips: Prices can range depending on the activity. Group tours to waterfalls or rice terraces start around $20-$30, while private tours offer more flexibility but cost more.
- Free Activities: Relaxing on the beach, exploring local markets, and attending cultural ceremonies are all free experiences to soak up the Balinese atmosphere.
Saving Tips:
- Travel during the shoulder seasons (April-May, September-November) to avoid peak season prices.
Consider getting a local SIM card for cheap internet access and calls. - Drink bottled water instead of buying drinks everywhere.
- Learn a few basic Bahasa Indonesia phrases. Locals appreciate the effort and you might get better deals.
- Walk or cycle short distances to save on transportation costs.
Remember: Budgeting in Bali is all about planning and prioritizing. With a little research and some savvy choices, you can experience the magic of Bali without breaking the bank.
The Best Beaches in Bali | Most famous beach during your holiday
TOP PLACES TO VISIT IN BALI FOR FIRST TIMERS
Discover the top places to visit in Bali for first-timers and make the most of your unforgettable journey! Unlock insider tips and must-see attractions for an incredible Bali experience:
✓ Ubud, in the center of the island. The city has a lot of charm and is still very authentic. It is also a good starting point to visit the island because it is central. Read our little practical guide to visit Ubud in 1 week.
✓ Payangan and Tegalalang, the countryside of Ubud and its rice fields as far as the eye can see for a Bali off the beaten track.
Read slso: Places to Visit in Ubud | What to do in Ubud – Bali?
✓ Munduk and its waterfalls, passing by the sublime Pura Taman Ayun: not very touristic and still preserved, just like the west of Bali.
✓ Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Penida islands for their heavenly beaches. Prefer Nusa Penida if you want more calm and authenticity.
Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Penida | What to choose between the two islands?
✓ Amed in the north: we were not there, but we heard a lot of good things about this place. Ideal for snorkeling, calm and authenticity of the place.
Amed Bali | A Little Paradise To Discover Absolutely On The Island of the Gods
Things To Do in Bali and What to Visit, Where To Go While Vacationing in Bali? (Top Attractions)
WHERE TO SLEEP IN BALI?
Here is the list of our accommodations, all very nice and very correct in terms of price:
✓ In Ubud and its surroundings
Gangga House, a homestay located less than 10 minutes walk from Ubud Palace.
Address: Jalan Sukma Kesuma No. 70, Peliatan, Ubud.
Bersila, la Maison du Bonheur, a guest house located 700 meters above sea level in an exceptional setting. More details in this article.
Rice Fields in Ubud. Michelle Maria, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
✓ In Nusa Lembongan
Sukanusa Luxury Huts: Pretty overwater bungalows located 5 minutes from the beach in Juguntbatu. Read our article about Nusa Lembongan, we talk about it in more detail.
Nusa Lembongan or Nusa Penida | What to choose between the two islands?
✓ In Canggu
Mojo Resort: Charming hotel located 5 minutes by scooter from the beach, close to warung and supermarkets, with air conditioning, private bathroom and swimming pool! Address: Jl. Pantai Batu Bolong No.10, Canggu.
✓ In Seminyak
Villa Carissa: Located in the heart of Seminyak, offers a private outdoor pool, an enclosed garden for your privacy and a sunny terrace…
Villa in Seminyak Center | Villa Carissa, 3 bedrooms Villa With a Private Pool
ART and CULTURE Typically Balinese
Discover the infinite richness of a culture preserved and touching by its grace. Dances, flowers, processions: the Balinese express their fervor to the Gods in a cheerful and colorful way and they return it well!
The beautiful traditional dance costumes of leak dance from Bali. Mufidqa91, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
For their religion as for their history, the Balinese love to use dance to tell the story of past adventures. They have different types of dances, each representing a specific story: it is a kind of dance theater. During the ceremonies, both adults and children put on masks, tiaras and other typical costumes to dance the story of the gods and other episodes of the Hindu epic of the Ramayana. Everything is beautifully punctuated by local melodies.
One of Bali Traditional Fashion Style. Puri Lumbung Cottages, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Woodworking, like painting, has experienced a strong evolution over the last century, moving from decorative utility to an artistic form in its own right. And the demand from outside has also brought the discipline out of its traditional shackles, fantasy has appeared, naturally stimulated by the love of derision and the Balinese sense of humor.
Rattan craftsmen. Wiaskara, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Fabric production is also an important part of Balinese craftsmanship, especially since it is a religious obligation to dress in the best possible way during temple ceremonies or dances.
Tenun dance (Weaving dance) is a traditional Balinese dance that means Balinese women’s love for woven fabrics. Herryz, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
RESTAURANTS BEST ADDRESSES IN BALI
List of restaurants, cafes and warung that we discovered in Bali.
Ubud
- Puteri Minang: our favorite in Ubud and our HQ! We enjoyed ourselves for less than 2 euros! Address: Jalan Raya Ubud No.77, Ubud
- Cafe Wayan: a zen tea room not to be missed. Sitting on cushions on the floor, treat yourself to a good fresh fruit juice, a pastry or homemade ice cream! Address: Monkey Forest Road, Ubud (at the beginning of Monkey Forest Road when coming from Ubud Palace)
- Manah Shanti: a very nice warung where we tasted our very first nasi campur! It is located not far from the Monkey Forest, on the Monkey Forest Road.
✓ Nusa Lembongan
- Bali Eco Deli: to treat yourself to homemade pastries and fresh fruit juices. Take a slice of banana cake, it’s to die for! Address: on Jalan Raya Jungutbatu street
- Warung Bambu: a warung where you eat with your feet in the sand on Jungutbatu beach. Address: on Jalan Raya Jungutbatu street to the far north before going to the mangrove
✓ Canggu
- Warung Dandelion: an upscale warung, necessarily more expensive than other warungs, which offers exquisite dishes in a warm atmosphere. Rabbits come to say hello to you at the table! Address: Jalan Pantai Batu Bolong No.8
- Warung Bu Mi: a very good address in Canggu. Delicious specialties are offered at low prices! Address: Jl. Pantai Batu Bolong No.52
- Warung Jawa Bu Sri: a not too bad little warung where we ate for just over 1 euro per person! Address: Jl. Pantai Batu Bolong No.20
✓ Seminyak
- The Favela, Seminyak
And here is another address of the group which also owns La Brisa, here we have a rather Amazonian atmosphere with many plants and a subdued interior. More than a bar, it’s a nightclub that fills up nicely around midnight! One of the best clubs in the south of the island! - Mexicola: our favorite address
The place is colorful, completely quirky, we go there for tacos with a cocktail or dancing in a festive atmosphere. Read also: Bali nightlife. Guide to nightlife or clubs in Bali
List of the Best Restaurants in Seminyak including Bars and Nightlife, Fun and Places To Go Out
Local specialties to know
Bali rhymes with Foodie and it is undoubtedly an essential food spot in South Asia! If some addresses, called “warungs” offer local and traditional cuisine, based on Gado Gado, Nasi Goreng, Babi Guling & cie, you will also find the trendy dishes and concepts of the moment in the south of the island, with airs of little Australia on the plate. Include: pancakes, avocado toast, barbecue and healthy bowls. We have already revealed some tips for preparing your trip or discovering Bali once there. Here are now our favorite addresses spotted during our month spent in Bali and some anecdotes about the specialties to test
If a lot of Indonesian specialties are inspired by its neighboring countries, Indonesia is also at the origin of more or less good and quite varied dishes, so you can easily eat local for several weeks without getting too tired! Here is the list of Bali for the firstimers concerning the local specialties:
Warung
This is the name given to local restaurants, in general you sit on the floor and you taste a whole bunch of local dishes for less than 1€! Be careful, the warungs close early (8 p.m.) and in general in Indonesia, after 10 p.m., you don’t have too many places to eat.
Gado Gado
Want freshness and lightness? Crunchy vegetable salad with peanut sauce. If you’re into into veggie/vegetables, this dish is good for you.
Gado gado is vegetables mixed together with peanut sauce. Piknikdong, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Nasi or Mie Goreng
This great classic of Balinese cuisine almost looks like paella. If it is indeed a rice-based dish (nasi), there is also a version with noodles (mie), both sautéed in a pan with onions, small vegetables and some spices. Accompanied by meat or shrimp, this specialty offers an originality: the fried egg placed on top.
Nasi Goreng (fried rice). Siliconprophet, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The vegetarian version can be offered to you. Everything is served with sambal (small spicy sauce).
Goreng means “fried”, crumb version (rice) or nasi (noodles) usually accompanied by egg or chicken!
Mie Goreng (fried noodle). Hanschrists, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Bintang
Light local beer, love it!
Bintang beer. Crisco 1492, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Satay
And yes, the famous “sate” or “satay” that we find everywhere in Asia are from Indonesia! Needless to say we love it!
Chicken Satay on banana leaf. Gunawan Kartapranata, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Sate Lilit
Sate Lilit is a variation of satay in Balinese cuisine. It is made from minced pork, fish, chicken, beef or even turtle meat, which is then mixed with grated coconut, thick coconut milk, lemon juice, shallots and pepper. The spiced minced meat is wrapped around sticks of bamboo, sugar cane or lemongrass, then grilled over charcoal. The term “lilit” means “to wrap”, which corresponds to the method of mounting the skewer where the meat surrounds the rod rather than being pierced as for a classic skewer.
Sate lilit. Kresnanta, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Nasi campur
It is a dish, made up of several small portions organized around plain white rice. You will find a variety of foods there: fish or beef or duck or pork, condiments, shrimp crisps (krupuk) and some roasted peanuts to garnish everything. It is sometimes served with a fried or hard-boiled egg. Nasi campur is a simple, complete and effective dish of which there are many variations in Bali, to the delight of gourmets!
The Balinese version of this dish may contain grilled tuna, fried tofu, cucumber, spinach, tempeh (fermented soybeans), beef, curried vegetables, corn and chili.
Duck nasi campur. Midori, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Read also: DPS (Bali Airport) Practical Tips to Improve your Experience at Ngurah Rai Airport
Babi guling (roasted suckling pig)
Simply great! It is THE traditional Balinese dish par excellence. But beware, it does not run the streets, the Balinese cook it for special occasions, I also tasted it for the first time at a wedding. Babi Gulling is roast pork, sprinkled with local spices and drizzled with coconut juice. Cooking lasts a whole night, so it’s a tender and tasty meat and a crispy skin that you can enjoy on your plate.
Babi guling (roasted suckling pig). Alex Anderson from Taipei, Taiwan, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Lawar babi guling (vegetables and roast pork)
Lawar is an Indonesian dish created from a mixture of vegetables, coconut and minced meat mixed with rich herbs and spices, originating from Bali, Indonesia. This Lawar Babi Guling is commonly found in restaurants and warungs in Bali.
Lawar Babi Guling. ybs from Jakarta, Indonesia, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Bebek betutu (smoked duck stuffed with spices, wrapped in a banana leaf),
Bebek betutu is a very delicate dish. It is sometimes hard to find, and in some areas you even have to order it in advance! An expectation to which is added that of cooking, which is very slow, but rewarded by a very tender and tasty meat. The duck is prepared stuffed, stewed in a banana leaf and then quickly fried to make its skin crispy. A real delight that is usually reserved for offerings, so enjoy!
This typical Balinese recipe will allow you to taste an excellent duck stuffed, spiced and wrapped in banana leaves. It is then roasted very slowly for several hours. As you will have understood, this dish is very tedious to prepare! This is the reason why it is increasingly difficult to find this dish in Balinese restaurants…
Bebek betutu. casey yancey from brooklyn, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Soto Babi Bali
Is a traditional soup made from broth, pork meat and vegetables. Yummy. This soup is also widespread in Indonesia, sold in the street to the big hotels. The soup is accompanied by rice or rice balls (lontong / ketupat).
Soto Babi Bali. Gunawan Kartapranata, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Cap Cay (stir fry vegetables)
A dish made with sautéed vegetables influenced by the chinese food (tomatoes, beans, cabbage, carrots…) served in a broth base.
Various vegetables, such as cauliflower, cabbage, carrots, baby corn, black mushrooms, fragrant mushrooms Lentinula edodes, leek, dried lily flowers, tofu skins, spring onions, are thinly sliced and sautéed with minced garlic in a wok with a small amount of oil and water. The condiments are fleur de sel, cane or palm sugar, soy sauce, Chinese cooking wine (ang ciu), salted black soybean paste or fermented tofu and sesame oil. . It can be eaten with rice; or add a little water to the wok to cook soy vermicelli with the dish.
Cap cai can be either a vegetarian stir-fry dish. Either become a broth soup when mixed with meat: beef, pork, lacquered duck or seafood (shrimp, cuttlefish, fish and fish balls (bakso).
Cap Cai (vegetable and chicken stir fry). 2009-07-07, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Arak
Strong Indonesian alcohol, it’s a kind of brandy made from rice, it looks quite like sake, frankly it’s good!
Arak Bali. Bapak Alex, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Cafe
So there! In Indo, they drink it with the coffee grounds at the bottom of the cup, they do not filter it and it is not soluble. And to go further in the experience (ahah), in Bali the specialty is coffee with mongoose poo (Kopi Luwak) don’t ask us how they came up with the idea…
Instant noodles
You can find them in all the small shops and it’s really cheap (0.20ct) and nutritious: the good plan when you want to eat at a lower cost from time to time!
Gastric problems: because transit is fantastic! In Indonesia, the water is not drinkable: it is not a question of habit or other (like in South Africa or Morocco), nor of comfort (like in Dubai where it is desalinated therefore with a certain taste) but really because the water contains bacteria so even if it is more or less drinkable depending on the corner of the island, it is better to avoid consuming it: even the locals do not drink it. Beyond that, for Bali for the firstimers as we told you above, some of the restaurant seemed clean: you have to be careful with the preservation of the dishes to avoid bacteria!
And the sweet, for the gourmands
Dadar gulung (coconut pancakes)
Don’t be put off by their color! These little thick (almost pancakes) and green pancakes are simply made from rice flour and flavored with pandan, which gives them that special color! Inside, the filling consists of palm sugar and grated and toasted coconut. A real treat!
Want to learn how to prepare them? At Warung Classic restaurant cooking classes (Jl. Kayu Putih, Munduk).
Dadar gulung. Sitti Mulya, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Bubur injin (black rice with coconut milk)
The strange but delicious sticky rice is used to make this dish, often served as a dessert for tourists but which is a breakfast for the Balinese. This black rice is cooked in coconut milk, and served in a bowl with a few slices of fresh fruit, often mango. This tasty delicacy is eaten warm.
An address ? The Kafe Batan Waru (The New Lippo Mall, Jalan Kartika Plaza Kuta, Kuta).
Bubur injin. Gunawan Kartapranata, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Fruits
In addition to all these typical dishes, you can always find excellent fruits and fruit juices in Bali to accompany your meals: mangoes, papayas, guavas, bananas, pineapples and coconuts, but also fruits to discover such as mangosteens, the rambutans (kinds of lychees) and the pretty dragon fruit.
So? Tempted by a trip to Bali to test these culinary specialties?
HEALTH, SAFETY and SECURITY in INDONESIA
If you’re new to Indonesia regarding the health and safety in Indonesia, you may need to read these artricles:
- MEDICINES IN BALI | Preparing for your trip to Bali
- Travel Plans Registration Before Leaving Your Country | Where to Register? Traveling for Safety and Advice
- Health and Safety in Indonesia
- Travelers Diarrhea
- Things you should never do in Bali : Essential Travel Tips for a Respectful and Enjoyable Experience
BALI, TOO TOURISTIC?
Yes and no! Bali is big, so it is possible to avoid the many visitors! Most tourists stay in the south towards Kuta, so like us, avoid this part of the island if you want to discover a more authentic and quiet Bali. Don’t worry, in the south, there are still places a little untouched by the crowds, this is the case around Canggu (not Canggu itself, but a little further). You can rent a scooter and set off to get lost in the surrounding rice fields. Canggu itself is not interesting unless you want to meet expats, Australian surfers and party!
Read also: Tips for Scooter Travelers in Bali | Safety, Price, Road conditions, Driving license and Insurance
Of course, the most beautiful temples in Bali will always be full of people, regardless of the day and the season. This is the case of the magnificent Tanah Lot and Ulun Danu Bratan temples, very popular with Indonesian tourists. But difficult to escape, they are the postcard of the island of the Gods!
It is therefore up to you to choose the places preserved from tourism when organizing your trip. It all depends on what you are looking for! But be aware that in tourist places, you will never be alone, as in all tourist places on the planet! Logical no?
Read also: Bali Airport DPS | Important and Practical Tips to Improve your Experience at Ngurah Rai Airport and Things To Do When Arriving at Bali Airport (DPS) | Tips for Every Traveler As Soon As We Land
Water Sports Place in Bali | Best Spots for Aquatic Activities
WHEN TO GO TO BALI?
In Bali, it is hot and humid all year round. There are two seasons, the dry season from April to the end of October, and the rainy season from November to the end of March. Avoid July and August, and the Christmas period. Early December and March-April seems like the right time to us! BUT if you like crowds and party… it’s up to you
If you stay there during the rainy season and it is rather quiet in Ubud, which is not the case in high season. The downside of the rainy season is… the rain! And this year especially. Usually, there are a few showers at the end of the afternoon, but there it sometimes started to rain from 2 p.m. without stopping! If it doesn’t bother you that much, go ahead!
You will find a lot of information and other ideas… Take a look here Bali or Lombok | Which island to choose for your trip to Indonesia? or you can check this out: 2 Weeks Itinerary in Bali | What to do and visit in Bali for 14 Days | Best Itinerary
Rent a car in Bali with delivery to your hotel!
If you are traveling to Bali as a family or in a group, the car is probably the most economical means of transport. This gives you freedom of movement to visit Bali and it is undoubtedly more convenient than depending on a driver. Our partner Bali Oto Rental is a trusted company based in Kuta offering competitive rates to lebaliblog readers and will provide you with a 4-seater or 8-seater car with manual or automatic gearbox, with delivery to your hotel!
Rent a car without driver in Bali
Driving conditions in Bali
We still want to warn you, driving in Bali is not easy. There is no traffic code or it is never respected, so it is a bit of a jungle on the road. Scooters everywhere, we overtake on the right or the left, very often people do not use their indicators, many people do not respect red lights, some roads are in poor condition or even very narrow. These are therefore elements to keep in mind, so I advise you to drive slowly and to be attentive to your environment at all times. If you do not feel ready to face the Balinese roads you can always book a car with driver.
If not for the positive aspects, Bali has generally good quality roads especially on the main roads. There are petrol stations everywhere around the island and refueling is economical at around 0.60€/L of petrol.
The vehicles are comfortable and in good condition. Take an automatic gearbox for even more comfort, especially in traffic jams.
Documents
It is strongly advised to obtain your international license in your home country before your departure in order to be able to drive legally in Indonesia and Bali. This will be especially practical in the event of a police check or in the event of an accident to prove that you were entitled to drive with regard to your travel insurance.
Practical advice
When handing over the keys, take a good look around the vehicle, I advise you to take a series of photos on your mobile or a video in order to document the condition of the rental vehicle. In the event of a disaster, this will be useful.
Overall, Bali is a perfect destination for first-time travelers who want to experience a mix of adventure, relaxation, and culture. With its beautiful temples, stunning beaches, unique cuisine, and rich culture, Bali is sure to be a memorable trip for any traveler.
Bali for first timers: trip preparations tips
If you’re planning a trip to Bali for the first time, here are some tips to help you prepare:
- Research and plan ahead: Take the time to research Bali and plan your itinerary based on your interests. Bali has a lot to offer, so decide what you want to see and do before you go.
- Check travel entry requirements: Make sure to check the travel requirements for Bali, such as visas and vaccinations, before you go.
- Pack accordingly: Bali is a tropical destination, so pack light, comfortable clothing that’s suitable for hot and humid weather. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat.
- Book accommodation in advance: Bali is a popular tourist destination, so it’s best to book your accommodation in advance to avoid disappointment. There are many options available, from budget hostels to private villa with pool, luxury resorts.
- Learn basic Indonesian phrases: Although many people in Bali speak English, it’s always helpful to learn some basic Indonesian phrases such as “hello,” “thank you,” and “how much?” Read also: Learn Indonesian Language (Bahasa Indonesia) | The vocabulary to know for a trip to Indonesia
- Be respectful of local culture: Balinese culture is deeply rooted in tradition, so it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. For example, when visiting temples, dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering.
- Be mindful of your safety: Like any destination in the world, it’s important to be mindful of your safety when traveling in Bali. Avoid carrying large sums of cash, and be cautious when using public transportation.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your trip to Bali is a safe and enjoyable experience.
What souvenirs from Bali to bring back to your home country?
When visiting Bali, you’ll be captivated by its vibrant culture and unique craftsmanship. Bringing back souvenirs is a wonderful way to cherish your memories and share the beauty of Bali with your home country. Please click the link below for more details and information.
To learn more about the souvenirs to bring back home, please click on the link below for detailed information.
Bali Souvenirs | What to Bring Back from Bali: Unique Souvenirs and Treasures
Here are some recommended souvenirs to consider:
- Handicrafts: Look for intricately carved wooden masks, sculptures, or batik textiles.
- Silver Jewelry: Bali is renowned for its exquisite silver jewelry with traditional designs.
- Batik Clothing: Bring home a batik sarong or shirt, showcasing the island’s vibrant patterns.
- Traditional Musical Instruments: Consider buying a gamelan or bamboo instrument as a unique memento.
- Spa Products: Indulge in Bali’s wellness culture with natural soaps, essential oils, or herbal drinks.
- Coffee and Tea: Bring back locally grown coffee beans or organic tea leaves for a flavorful taste of Bali.
- Masks and Puppets: Traditional Balinese masks or shadow puppets make captivating decorative pieces.
Remember to purchase from reputable sources and respect customs regulations. Enjoy your Bali souvenirs and share the island’s cultural treasures with your loved ones!
So, would you like to go to Bali? If you’ve been to Bali, please kindly leave a reply / comments… Thanks!
Sources: CleverlySmart, PinterPandai
Photo credit: Stockvault (Creative Commons – CC0)
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