Last Updated on August 24, 2024 by Roslin Dwivedi
“Ma’am tell your husband to keep his shades inside the bag, monkeys will take it,” said the Grab taxi driver while stopping at the Uluwatu temple.
At that time I felt why he was saying this to me for my husband. I was also wearing sunglasses, why didn’t he say that to me?
After buying the tickets and entering the temple premises we had almost forgotten the words of our taxi driver. And yes that happened. The monkey took my husband’s sunglasses with precision without any scratch to his face.
And it was at that moment the words of the taxi driver ringing loudly in our heads. Anyways later on we gave the money to the fruit lady over there who brings back your stuff from the monkeys in return for some fruits. It looks like a setup but it works for everyone.
Monkeys snatch almost everything, hats, sunglasses, phones, bags, earrings (one man told me of this).
That was a small snippet of what you may have to be taking care of when visiting Bali.
I see this incident videos on Instagram every now and then on IG.
Travelling to Bali is a wonderful experience. But I would like to alert you of a few more things than the one mentioned in the introduction paragraph. In this blog I am focusing on topics that may clear some questions and tell you all about Bali Travel Tips.
Planning and Preparation Before Traveling to Bali
Documents for Bali: To enter Bali, you need 2 documents for Indian passport holder. One is an E-visa on arrival, pay it and keep it ready to clear immigration quickly. The other one is the Declaration form. Fill it out before your travel and keep the QR code ready to show at the disembarking gate to the officers. Visa on arrival for Indian passport holders, get it from https://molina.imigrasi.go.id/ –
519500 IDR per person ($32).
Get the Declaration form.
Make sure your Vaccinations and Health certificates are up to date. Consider vaccinations for Hepatitis A, Typhoid and others recommended for Indonesia. Bring a basic first aid and medicine bag for kids and adults and consider purchasing travel insurance.
eSim for your Bali trip: Check with your service provider if they offer an international eSim facility. If yes then just like us, go to your phone and switch it on when you land in Bali.
We live in Malaysia so we just kept the sim as eSim. And once we were in the country we switched it on only when we went outside. At the resort we had wifi.
Activate the eSIM on
iPhone:
- Go to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan.
- Scan the QR code provided by your eSIM provider.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
Android:
- Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network > Advanced > Carrier > Add Carrier.
- Scan the QR code provided by your eSIM provider.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
When is the Best Time to Visit Bali:
The best time to visit Bali is the dry season from April to September, these months have less humidity and rainfall so the chances of cancelling plans or tours are less. However, it’s also the peak tourist season.
We visited Bali during the end of October and the start of November and we still saw places flooded with tourists. So, in my opinion, you may want to plan your timings of visiting places during the months as well.
Also do check the Odalan festival time or other festival timings in Bali. We loved it when we visited a local temple next to the Four Seasons Jimbaran Bay and got the chance to see the real celebration with locals.
Budgeting: Running behind all the fancy activities will end up making you spend more on your vacation so make an itinerary that will show you the real Bali without wasting your time in doing expensive and fancy stuff only.
Check out a proper accommodation for your family or a honeymoon.
Before your arrival, learn about the people, culture and history of Bali to enjoy it well.
Bali Travel Tips to help you make the most of your trip:
- Be vigilant if visiting Uluwatu Temple:
The incident in question is mentioned above. Read about kecak dance before you go see it or ask any Balinese or Indian to make you understand the story. You need to understand the concept of the story before you watch it. I had a few tourists next to me in the Kecak Dance audience sitting on the stairs who were making fun of the dance because they had no idea what was going on. I helped them with the story so they could follow the show. Why you need to know the story because in the show they don’t use English or speak about the events unfolding. Rather than feeling deceived by your tourist operator or wasting money and time feeling, you read the story already to enjoy it over there in an authentic form.
2. What to wear in Bali:
It’s best to wear shoes when visiting Bali’s spots. Bring extra inner clothes or a day outfit and slippers if you are going for the waterfall or Tirta Empul temple. More details below.
3. How to Get Around Bali:
Renting a scooter is the most preferred way to get around in Bali but be cautious if you’re not experienced. Take taxi and ride-hailing services from Gojek and Grab, they are very convenient and easily available.
4. Traffic:
Traffic in the Canggu and Seminyak areas is normally heavy. Due to the roads being narrow and the area is highly populated with tourists for the clubs and Airbnbs around. Be prepared for heavy traffic and long signal weighting time if you come out during the daytime. So plan your travel times accordingly.
5. Cultural Etiquette:
Dress modestly and Respect local customs, especially when visiting temples. Sarongs are important and can be rented at temple entrances.
Tirta Empul: Temple Tour with Optional Spiritual Cleansing
6. Top Attractions and Adventure Activities:
Don’t miss iconic spots like Uluwatu Temple for sunset views, Tanah Lot, the rice terraces in Ubud, and the beaches in the Bukit Peninsula.
Bali offers great surfing, diving, and snorkelling opportunities. Consider a day trip to nearby islands like Nusa Penida or Gili Islands. More details on Things to do in Bali.
7. Try local dishes in Bali:
Look for dishes like Nasi Goreng, Rendang, Babi Guling and Satay. You may find them in local warungs (small family-owned restaurants) for an authentic experience. What to eat in Bali. best local food to try. video
8. Stay hydrated:
Drink Water Safely. Avoid tap water. Stick to bottled or filtered water to prevent any stomach issues.
9. Shopping in Bali markets:
Bargaining is common in local markets for shopping. Start at about half the asking price and negotiate from there.
Buy local products like handmade crafts, textiles, jewellery or Batik art, a unique art made in Indonesia and Malaysia.You can buy these items in Ubud Market, Tirta Empul temple exit, Tanah lot temple area and Seminyak Village.
10. Keep local currency:
The local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah. You can get your money exchange from the ATMs also. We did the same at the airport. The exchange rate we received wasn’t bad. Carry some local cash for small purchases. The markets also take dollars and euros and to our surprise, they were accepting Indian rupees also.
11. Bali is generally safe, but safeguard your belongings in crowded places and avoid isolated areas at night. More on this below.
12. Learn a few basic phrases in Bahasa Indonesia. Especially Terima Kasih (Thank you), and sama-sama (you are welcome) can be helpful and appreciated by locals.
Ideal Number of Days to Vacation in Bali
I feel 7 to 10 days in Bali is perfect for a great vacation that provides you with relaxation and exploration. We spent a good 8 days
How to prevent Bali belly?
If you want to experience authentic Bali food without getting the famous Bali belly, be sure to choose your restaurants wisely. Avoid eating in Bali at very low-cost places.
To experience the real local food you don’t have to go to the real roadside kiosks. You can get good Bali food at any good restaurant as well.
We went to this restaurant Balique very close to where we were staying at Four Seasons Resort Jimbaran Bay and enjoyed the local food over there with good hygiene and ambience.
What to Wear and Pack for Bali
When we were in Bali, I noticed the girls were dressed in liberal clothing. Men were in their usual shirts, shorts and Shoes or flip-flops.
Comfortable Sandals, Open-toed sandals or flip-flops are great for the beach and casual outings.
Bali is quite relaxed, so you can wear your usual clothes here. T-shirts, tank tops, shorts, and sundresses are great choices to stay casual and comfortable.
When packing for a trip to Bali, consider the tropical climate and cultural norms mostly when visiting a temple. Dress modestly when visiting temples. Wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. A sarong and sash are often required and can usually be rented or bought at the temple. In most temples you get the sarong at the entrance for free because it’s compulsory to wear a sarong for the men and women in respect of the temple before going in. If you think too much about hygiene then you can buy one sarong at the start of the Bali trip and wear it for all the temples you visit.
Bring your swimwear for the beaches and pools. A cover-up is also handy for going to and from the beach.
Sarongs can be used as beach cover ups also.
If you’re visiting during the rainy season from October to March, do pack a light rain jacket or poncho.
From July to September months Bali gets occasional shower days and the rest of the days are humid and hot, it’s better to pack some Quick-Dry Clothes as well to deal with sudden rain showers.
Long-sleeve shirts and Pants are great for the evenings or jungle treks, these clothes can help protect from mosquito bites.
Bring Sunglasses and Hats, especially the wide-brimmed hats that are very helpful or a cap on your trip to Bali.
Sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from the strong tropical sun.
Reusable Water bottles to stay hydrated and a reusable bottle is eco-friendly too. But note, that you won’t find any drinking water kiosk or waterfall to fill up your reusable water bottle.
A daypack or Beach Bag is useful for carrying your essentials during day trips and beach outings.
Pack Insect Repellent to protect yourself from mosquitoes, especially if you’ll be spending time in rural or forested areas.
Where not to stay in Bali? Or stay if that suits you
As an outsider, you see Bali Airbnb reels and get excited to go there. Bali has many wonderful places to stay, there are certain areas or situations that you might want to avoid based on factors like safety, overcrowding or lack of amenities.
1. Overly Tourist-Focused Areas like Kuta Beach and Legian. These places are usually overcrowded because of their bustling nightlife and heavy commercialization. Kuta is not for the people looking for a relaxed or authentic Bali experience.
Similar to Kuta, Legian is busy and has a high concentration of tourist-oriented businesses. If you prefer a quieter stay, consider nearby areas like Seminyak or Canggu.
2. Areas with Poor Infrastructure like North Bali (Singaraja). North Bali is beautiful and mostly less touristy, some areas in North Bali lack modern amenities and can have limited infrastructure. Living in North Bali, you may have to face longer travel times and less convenience. It’s best to avoid very remote areas If you’re not comfortable with limited access to services or are travelling without a rental vehicle.
3. High Traffic Zones in Bali are Central Ubud, particularly around the main streets and popular attractions. Though Seminyak is trendy and has a lot to offer, traffic can become heavy, especially during peak hours. So consider staying in quieter parts of Seminyak or look for accommodations a bit outside the central area of Ubud to enjoy a more peaceful environment.
4. Be cautious with unregulated or poorly reviewed homestays. Ensure that any accommodation you book has positive reviews and is well-vetted. Although Bali is generally safe, some areas may have higher crime rates or be less secure. Always check recent traveller reviews and stay informed about local safety.
5. Avoid areas with visible pollution or poor waste management. Some parts of Bali, especially near certain beaches or in industrial areas, may have issues with litter and pollution. Whereas, some regions have low-lying areas that can experience flooding during the rainy season. Check local conditions and weather reports before booking.
6. Loud or Party-Centric Areas like Kuta and Seminyak are known for their vibrant nightlife and loud parties, so if you want tranquillity you need to look for a hotel away from these places.
Where to Stay in Bali
Choosing where to stay in Bali depends on what you’re looking for in your trip. Here are a list of popular areas to consider:
Kuta and Legian are known for their vibrant nightlife, shopping, and dining options. Great for younger travellers or those looking to party. Check for Kuta and Legian hotels.
Seminyak is an upscale area with luxury resorts, trendy beach clubs, and high-end shopping. Ideal for people looking for a more sophisticated atmosphere. Check hotels in Seminyak or the Seminyak beach area.
Ubud is the cultural heart of Bali, surrounded by rice paddies and lush forests. Perfect for art lovers, yoga enthusiasts and those who are looking for a tranquil retreat. Check for Ubud hotels.
Canggu is a hipster enclave with surf beaches, organic cafes and a relaxed vibe. Ideal for surfers, digital nomads and families seeking a quieter atmosphere. Check for Canggu hotels.
Nusa Dua has luxury resorts, golf courses and calm waters. Perfect for families and travellers seeking a more exclusive and serene environment. Check for Nusa Dua hotels.
Jimbaran is famous for its seafood restaurants and stunning sunset views. Good for couples and families looking for a quieter beach experience. Check for Jimbaran hotels.
Uluwatu, is a cliffside area, great for its surf breaks, stunning beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. Ideal for surfers, beach lovers and those wanting a more secluded experience. Check hotel options in Uluwatu hotels.
Compare the hotel prices here
How much money would be enough for your Bali trip?
Depending on factors like the duration of your stay, your travel style and your planned activities. Here’s a breakdown to help you determine if $1000 (83978 INR) will be sufficient for your trip.
1. Hostels and budget guesthouses can cost between $10 to $30 per night. Mid-range hotels or private villas might range from $30 to $80 per night. Luxury hotels and resorts can start from $100 and go up significantly.
2. Food and Dining cost for eating Street Food or at Local Warungs may come to $2 to $10 per meal. ($10-$20 per day). Any Mid-Range Restaurant may cost $10 to $25 per meal. So it can be $20-$50 per day. If you eat at a High-End Restaurant, it will be around $25 and up per meal. So $50+ per day.
3. Let’s talk about transportation. Renting a Scooter may cost from $5 to $10 per day. If you choose to take a Taxi or Ride-Hailing that may come to $3 to $15 per ride, depending on distance. And if you book a Private Driver, they may charge you $40 to $70 per day.
4. Activities like Bali swing would cost around $35 to $ 40 per person, visiting any temple, rice terraces and other popular attractions will cost around $1 to $10. Day tours, yoga classes or adventure activities can range from $20 to $100+.
5. Expenses on miscellaneous souvenirs like Souvenirs could go up to $10 to $50 depending on your shopping habits.
So let’s do the Sample Budget Breakdown
Budget Traveler: $30 (Accommodation) + $15 (Food) + $10 (Transportation) + $20 (Activities) = $75 per day. $75 x 10 days = $750
Mid-Range Traveler: $60 (Accommodation) + $30 (Food) + $20 (Transportation) + $40 (Activities) = $150 per day. $150 x 10 days = $1500
Luxury Traveler: $150 (Accommodation) + $50 (Food) + $40 (Transportation) + $70 (Activities) = $310 per day. $310 x 10 days = $3100
Precautions you should take in Bali/ Conclusion
Visiting Bali is a fantastic experience, but it’s important to take certain precautions that make sure of your and your family’s safety, so you all can enjoy the Bali trip.
1. Ensure you are up to date with routine vaccinations. Vaccinations like Hepatitis A, Typhoid and others are recommended for Indonesia.
2. Purchase travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, accidents and theft.
3. Avoid drinking tap water. Stick to bottled or filtered water. Be cautious with ice and raw foods, especially from street vendors.
4. Use sunscreen with high SPF to protect your skin from strong UV rays. Wear a hat and sunglasses.
5. Use insect repellent to protect against mosquito bites which can transmit diseases like dengue fever.
6. Keep valuables like passports, money and electronics in a secure place. Use a hotel safe if available.
7. Be cautious of scams, such as overcharging for taxis or fake guides. Always agree on prices beforehand and use reputable services. Check reviews online.
8. Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers (e.g., police, ambulance) and the location of your country’s embassy or consulate.
9. If you are renting a scooter, ensure you have a valid international driver’s license and wear a helmet. Be aware of local traffic rules and driving conditions.
10. Be cautious on roads, as traffic can be chaotic and road conditions may vary. Avoid travelling at night in rural areas.
11. When visiting temples and religious sites, dress modestly. Cover your shoulders and knees. Follow local customs and guidelines.
12. Be aware of local customs and traditions. Avoid behaviours that may be considered disrespectful.
13. Reduce your use of single-use plastics. Use reusable water bottles, bags, and utensils.
14. Avoid interacting with or feeding wildlife. Support ethical wildlife sanctuaries if you wish to see animals.
15. Be cautious with street food. Choose vendors with high turnover and ensure food is freshly prepared.
16. Bring a basic travel health kit with medications for common issues like stomach upset, allergies, and minor injuries.
17. Be aware of volcanic activity, as Bali is home to several active volcanoes. Follow local news and advisories.
18. During the rainy season (October to March), some areas may experience flooding. Check weather forecasts and plan accordingly.
19. Use ATMs in secure locations, such as bank branches or reputable hotels. Be mindful of your surroundings when withdrawing cash.
20. Use credit cards cautiously and monitor your statements for any, unauthorized transactions.
21. Consider getting a local SIM card, eSIM or portable Wi-Fi device to stay connected and access maps and travel information.
22. While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, learning a few basic phrases in Bahasa Indonesia can be helpful and appreciated by locals.
If you are travelling on a budget and plan to stay in budget accommodations, eat at local warungs, and use affordable transportation, $1000 could be sufficient for a 10-day trip. However, for a more comfortable or mid-range experience, you might need more. It’s always good to have a little extra cushion for unexpected expenses.
Planning and budgeting carefully will help ensure you have a great time without financial stress.
I would say if you want to go to Bali, go there to experience the people and culture. I didn’t feel that you had to go there for something very specific like monuments or landscapes. Rice fields do look good but not very much. Experiencing Bali overall should be the goal.
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