Everything You Need To Know About Bali
Welcome to Bali, a tropical paradise of stunning landscapes, unique culture, and warm hospitality! Whether you're exploring the lush waterfalls, snorkeling in the waters of Nusa Penida, or surfing in Uluwatu, Bali offers a captivating travel experience. In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover all the essentials to help you plan your Bali adventure. And yes- we know that Bali isn’t a country. While it’s a part of Indonesia, its culture and religion are vastly different than the rest of Indonesia.
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The official currency of Bali is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). You can exchange your currency at banks, exchange offices, and ATMs, which are widely available. Credit cards are commonly accepted in tourist areas at restaurants, cafes and hotels. You should expect to pay in cash for tours, souvenirs and some accommodations. We recommend the Charles Schwab Debit Card for 0 ATM fees and the Chase Sapphire Reserve Credit Card for credit transactions.
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Denpasar, the capital, is located near the airport and one of a few immigrations offices. Most people only travel through Denpasar to get to other destinations.
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Bali is a Hindu-majority island. Balinese Hinduism is a unique blend of Hinduism, Buddhism, and indigenous beliefs, making it distinct from the rest of Indonesia.
Seasons and Weather:
Bali has a tropical climate with two main seasons:
Dry Season (April to October): Ideal for most regions, with less rainfall and plenty of sunshine.
Wet Season (November to March): Rainfall is common, especially in coastal and lowland areas.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Bali depends on what you want:
Dry Season: Perfect for beach vacations, outdoor activities, and exploring Bali.
Wet Season: Great for experiencing lush landscapes, enjoying cultural festivals, and diving in some regions.
Language
While Bahasa is the official language of Indonesia, Basa Bali or Balinese is most local's first language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few Indonesian phrases like "Selamat pagi" (Good morning) and "Terima kasih" (Thank you) is appreciated by locals.
Popular Destinations:
Bali offers a wealth of captivating places:
Ubud: Known for its cultural richness, art scenes, and lush landscapes, Ubud is a favorite among those seeking a serene and artistic retreat.
Uluwatu: Famous for its stunning clifftop temple, surf breaks, and beautiful beaches, Uluwatu offers a more relaxed yet scenic atmosphere.
Canggu: Emerging as a hipster haven, Canggu attracts surfers, digital nomads, and those looking for a laid-back atmosphere with a touch of bohemian charm.
Munduk: Nestled in the mountains, Munduk is a peaceful retreat known for its cool climate, lush greenery, and scenic waterfalls, providing a tranquil escape.
Nusa Penida: An island southeast of Bali, Nusa Penida is renowned for its rugged landscapes, stunning viewpoints, and crystal-clear waters, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
These cities and islands showcase the diverse experiences Bali has to offer, from cultural immersion to beachside relaxation, mountain retreats, and island exploration.
Customs:
Balinese hospitality is known for its warmth. Greet with a friendly smile and a "Selamat" (Hello). When visiting homes or temples in Bali, dressing modestly is respectful. DO NOT step on the daily offerings left out on the sidewalks and streets.
Food Specialties:
Indulge in Balinese cuisine at a local “warung” with dishes like Nasi Goreng (fried rice), Babi Guling ( Balinese-style roast pork), and Mie Goreng (fried noodles with a variety of ingredients). Don't miss tasting local tropical fruits and sipping on fresh coconut water. Bali is also home to some incredible restaurants serving up cuisine from around the world and exceptionally affordable prices.
Transportation:
Getting around Bali can be done a few ways. Most Balinese drive a motorbike which you can rent for less than $5 a day. However, we ONLY recommend riding a motorbike in Bali if you are experienced. We rode a bit in Thailand and still managed to crash ours in Bali. Be sure to download the app Grab or Go-Jek, similar to Uber, before arriving in Bali. If you’re traveling solo, you can use the apps to be picked up on a motorbike which is even cheaper than getting a car in the app. We HIGHLY recommend hiring a driver for the day which will run you about $20. The best budget tip we have for Bali is to hire a driver for the day when you are changing locations and asking them to stop along the way to see waterfalls, temples etc. For example, if you are leaving Uluwatu and heading to Ubud, hire a driver for the day for a set price (paid in cash) and ask them (or tell them if you already know what you want to see) what you can see along the way.
Budget
Affordable Options:
Street Food: Enjoy a plate of Nasi Goreng for about 15,000-25,000 Indonesian Rupiah (IDR), approximately $1-$2 USD.
Local Warungs: Dining in local eateries offers budget-friendly options, with meals typically ranging from 20,000-40,000 IDR ($1.50-$3 USD) per person.
Transportation: Rideshare apps will vary widely depending on where you’re going. Being picked up by a motorbike will be your cheapest option if traveling solo while a car will be more affordable for more than 2 people.
Accommodation: For budget travelers, hostels and guesthouses start at 100,000-200,000 IDR ($7-$14 USD) per night.
Midrange:
Restaurant Dining: Midrange dining offers a diverse culinary experience with meals typically costing 50,000-150,000 IDR ($3.50-$10.50 USD) per person, providing quality and variety.
Transportation: Taxis and rideshares are convenient for midrange travelers, with fares starting at 5,000-10,000 IDR ($0.35-$0.70 USD) per kilometer.
Accommodation: Midrange hotels and resorts range from 340,000-770,000 IDR ($22-$50 USD) per night, offering comfort and amenities.
Luxury:
Fine Dining: Indulge in gourmet dining at upscale restaurants, with prices ranging from 150,000-500,000 IDR ($10.50-$35 USD) or more per person, featuring exquisite cuisine.
Transportation: Luxury travelers can opt for private drivers or premium car rentals with rates varying based on services and vehicle choice. In our experience, it’s usually around 300,000-600,000 ($19-$39).
Accommodation: Bali offers luxurious hotels and resorts starting at 1,500,000 IDR ($75 USD) per night and increasing significantly for top-tier options, providing unparalleled comfort and amenities.
Tours & Experiences
Bali offers a plethora of exciting things to do and see! These are the top rated tours and experiences!
Ubud- Waterfall, Rice Terraces, & Monkey Forest Private Tour
Visa Requirements:
Travelers to Bali are required to obtain a visa on arrival or apply for a visa in advance, depending on their nationality. It is essential to check the specific visa requirements and application processes before planning a trip to Bali. Various visa options, including tourist, social, and business visas, are available, each with its own set of conditions. For more information on Visa requirements- click here to be taken to the state departments official guidelines.
Holidays:
In Bali, several major holidays are celebrated with vibrant festivities and cultural significance. It is important to research when these holidays are celebrated as it can cause sever traffic delays. Some of the key holidays in Bali include:
Nyepi (Balinese New Year): This is a day of silence, meditation, and reflection, marking the beginning of the Balinese New Year. Activities come to a halt, and the island observes complete silence for 24 hours.
Galungan: This holiday symbolizes the victory of Dharma (good) over Adharma (evil). Balinese Hindus celebrate with elaborate decorations, traditional dance performances, and visits to temples.
Kuningan: Falling ten days after Galungan, Kuningan is the conclusion of the Galungan festivities. Families come together for prayers and offerings, and yellow rice is prepared as a symbolic representation of prosperity.
Pagerwesi: This day is dedicated to honoring ancestors and seeking protection against negative forces. It is marked by ceremonies at temples, prayers, and the strengthening of one's spiritual defenses.
Saraswati: Celebrated every six months, Saraswati is dedicated to the goddess of knowledge, wisdom, and the arts. Balinese Hindus participate in prayers and ceremonies to seek blessings for wisdom and creativity.
Tumpek Uduh: This holiday is dedicated to Sang Hyang Sangkara, the god of plants. It is a day to express gratitude for the abundance of nature, particularly focusing on plants and trees.
Bali Arts Festival (Pesta Kesenian Bali): While not a religious holiday, this annual event showcases Bali's rich cultural heritage through traditional performances, art exhibitions, and various cultural activities.
