Bali Travel Itinerary: Insider Tips for an Unforgettable Journey
Bali, known as the Island of the Gods, is famous for its forested volcanic mountains, iconic rice paddies, beaches, and coral reefs. I instantly fell in love with this place, and we traveled all over. This Bali Indonesia Travel Guide is not a one-stop shop for information but pays homage to my love affair with the island and its surroundings. This is my guide to exploring Bali.
Table of Contents
- Bali Indonesia Travel Guide
- Bali Travel Itinerary: Insider Tips for an Unforgettable Journey
- My Personal Guide to Exploring Bali, Indonesia
- Currency in Bali
- Language & Helpful Phrases
- Religion and Culture
- Important Cultural Notes for Women
- Transportation Around Bali
- Best Time to Visit Bali
- What to Do in Bali, Indonesia- Major Festivals in Bali
- Top Things to Do in Bali
- Foods to Try in Bali
- Where to Eat
- Typical Budget for Bali
- Responsible Travel Tips in Bali
- Travel Essentials
- Things to Avoid and Cautions during Bali Vacations
- Apps to Download
- My Personal Bali Indonesia Travel Guide
- Visa Misconceptions
- Indonesia is Really Hot
- They Drive on the Left
- The Language & Geography
- Time Shares
- The Typical Local Earns about $150 per Month
- Taxis Ask for Donations
- Even Paradise has Traffic
- Exchanging Money
- Handmade Crafts are Inexpensive
- Massages and Manicures
- Hatten Winery
- It’s the Jungle Mate
- Don’t Overpack
- Bali Indonesia Travel Guide Conclusion
The island is home to religious sites such as the cliffside Uluwatu Temple. The beachside city of Kuta has lively bars, while Seminyak, Sanur, and Nusa Dua are popular resort towns. The Bali I explored has so much to offer, but you should visit for yourself. This Bali guide will provide essential travel tips, must-visit locations, and insights into Bali’s rich culture and vibrant atmosphere.
Currency in Bali
The currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). As of 2024, Rp15,000 = $1 USD.
Bali uses a standard voltage of 230V with a frequency of 50Hz. The power plugs and sockets are of type C and F. If your device’s plug type differs, you will need a travel adapter to use it in Bali.
Tipping in Bali
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, a 10% tip is considered generous.
Language & Helpful Phrases
- Hello: halo
- Thank you: terima kasih
- Beer: bir
- Delicious: enak
- Where’s the bathroom: di mana kamar mandinya?
- How much?: berapa harganya?
- Too expensive: terlalu mahal
- Don’t want: tidak mau
Religion and Culture
Bali is predominantly Hindu, with over 80% of the population practicing Balinese Hinduism. The island is known for its vibrant culture, which includes traditional dances, ceremonies, and religious festivals. This **Bali Indonesia Travel Guide** highlights that no trip to Bali is complete without witnessing these cultural expressions firsthand. From the mesmerizing Kecak dance at Uluwatu Temple to the intricate offerings made daily by locals, Bali’s spiritual essence is woven into everyday life.
The Bali Indonesia Travel Guide also emphasizes visiting during one of the island’s many festivals, such as Galungan or Nyepi, to experience the depth of Balinese tradition. These vibrant celebrations, filled with music, color, and devotion, are truly unforgettable. Exploring temples like Pura Besakih, the “Mother Temple,” gives a deeper understanding of Bali’s spiritual roots. As noted in this **Bali Indonesia Travel Guide**, attending a ceremony or festival is not just a tourist attraction but a meaningful way to connect with the island’s soul.
Important Cultural Notes for Women
- Dress modestly in temples: Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting temples. Look for free cover ups before buying one.
- Menstruating women Are traditionally not allowed to enter temples. However, how they’d know is up for discussion.
Transportation Around Bali
Bali offers various transportation options to suit different needs and budgets.
- Taxis: Widely available and convenient. Use metered taxis or negotiate the fare beforehand.
- Motorbike rentals: A popular and economical way to get around. Always wear a helmet.
- Car rentals: Available for those who prefer driving. Consider hiring a driver for a stress-free experience.
- Bemos: Small public minibuses used by locals. They are cheap but can be crowded and slow.
- Boats: Used for island hopping and visiting nearby islands like Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and the Gili Islands.
Note: Traffic in Bali is heavy, especially in popular tourist areas like Ubud, Seminyak, and Canggu. Plan your trips accordingly. I suggest you stay in one area and thoroughly explore it before moving to another one.
Best Time to Visit Bali
Bali Indonesia Travel Guide Tips and Advice
I love Bali anytime, but it can be a furnace. I remember walking and carrying two bags, and the heat was overwhelming. Sweat poured into my eyes, and a local grabbed some tissue so I could see. Why I didn’t put the bags down, I just don’t know. However, you need to know that Bali, Indonesia, has a tropical climate with two main seasons. Keep reading this Bali Indonesia Travel Guide for more details on how to make the most of your visit.
- Dry Season (April to October): Sunny and less humid, ideal for outdoor activities and beach trips.
- Rainy Season (November to March): Higher humidity and frequent rain showers. Still warm, but some activities may be limited.
Times to Avoid Traveling in Bali
Avoid traveling during the peak of the rainy season (January and February) if you prefer outdoor activities. The holiday season (December) can also be crowded and expensive.
What to Do in Bali, Indonesia- Major Festivals in Bali
- Nyepi: March – The Balinese Day of Silence, marking the New Year. The entire island shuts down for 24 hours of silence and meditation.
- Galungan: Occurs every 210 days – Celebrates the victory of dharma (good) over adharma (evil). Marked by elaborate ceremonies and offerings.
- Kuningan: 10 days after Galungan – Honors ancestors and spirits, with ceremonies and temple visits.
- Saraswati: Celebrated four times a year – Honors the goddess of knowledge, music, art, and culture.
- Odalan: Temple anniversary celebrations that occur throughout the year, with each temple having its own date.
Top Things to Do in Bali
Best Places to Visit in Bali
Hire a driver so you can relax, don’t have to worry about parking, or police shake-downs. Our driver provided water (and beer), wifi, and was a steal for $50 for 10-12 hours of touring each day.
Side note: we actually hired him through trip advisor for $50 the first day. So making $50 he didn’t have to share put a lot more money in his pocket.
Relax on the Beaches of Kuta, Seminyak, and Nusa Dua
Visit the Rice Terraces in Ubud
Explore the iconic Tegallalang and Jatiluwih (my preference) rice terraces. Enjoy the stunning landscapes and learn about traditional rice farming.
Take a yoga class or retreat. There are do many all over the island– some are located on the beach or in the jungle.
Experience Balinese Culture and Temples
Visit ancient temples like Uluwatu, Tanah Lot, and Besakih. Witness traditional dance performances and participate in local ceremonies.
Dive and Snorkel in Amed and Pemuteran
Discover vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Ideal for diving enthusiasts and underwater photography.
Trek Mount Batur at Sunrise
Hike up Mount Batur for a stunning sunrise view. The trek is moderately challenging and offers breathtaking scenery.
Visit the off the beaten track islands. The Gili Islands, comprising Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air, offer everything from vibrant nightlife and extensive water sports in Trawangan, to the serene, romantic retreats in Meno, and a balanced vibe in Air with both relaxation and entertainment. Nearby, the rugged and picturesque Nusa Penida beckons adventurers with its dramatic landscapes like the T-rex-shaped Kelingking Beach, the stunning natural infinity pool at Angel’s Billabong, and the opportunity to snorkel with majestic manta rays at Manta Point. Together, these islands provide a perfect mix of leisure, adventure, and natural beauty, ideal for enhancing any Indonesian travel experience.
Go away from the crowds. Amed, Nusa Lembongan, Munduk, Pemuteran, Sidemen are great places to enjoy the old Bali.
Foods to Try in Bali
Where to Eat
Restaurants in Seminyak:
Revolver Cafe & Restaurants (Seminyak Branch)
Address: Jalan Kayu Aya No.3, Seminyak, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Operating Hours: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM, daily
Pak Malen
Address: Jalan Sunset Road No.554, Seminyak, Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Operating Hours: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM, daily
Chandi
Address: Jl. Kayu Aya No.72, Seminyak, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Operating Hours: 12NN – 12MN, daily
Motel Mexicola
Address: Jalan Kayu Jati No. 9X, Petitenget, Kerobokan Kelod, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Operating Hours: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM, daily
Restaurants in Ubud:
Sun Sun Warung (Ubud)
Address: F7R6+PR8, Jl. Jembawan No.2, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
Operating Hours: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM, daily
The Wild Yak (Nyuh Kuning Village)
Address: Jl. Nyuh Bulan No.4, MAS, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
Operating Hours: Currently open on Saturdays for dinner; expanding hours and set dinner menu launching in June 2024
Watercress (Ubud)
Address: Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
Operating Hours: Check locally for hours
Clear Cafe (Ubud)
Address: Jl. Hanoman No.8, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
Operating Hours: Check locally for hours
Other Locations:
Warung Sika (Canggu)
Address: Jl. Tanah Barak No.45, Canggu, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80351, Indonesia
Operating Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM, daily
Gron Espresso Bar & Kitchen (Tibubeneng)
Address: Jl. Raya Semat No.1, Tibubeneng, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Operating Hours: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM, daily
Warung Eropa (Kerobokan Kelod)
Address: Jl. Petitenget No.9D, Kerobokan Kelod, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Operating Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM, daily
Crumb & Coaster (Kuta)
Address: Jl. Benesari No.2E, Kuta, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Operating Hours: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM, daily
Bintang Rules
If you’re a beer lover, you’ll likely appreciate Bintang, the go-to brew in Bali, Indonesia. As the island’s local beer, Bintang is ubiquitous—you’ll see it on menus everywhere, from beachside bars to upscale restaurants. Its distinctive red star logo is iconic, so much so that the Bintang t-shirt has become almost as popular as the beer itself. You’ll spot tourists and locals alike sporting these shirts, whether proudly displayed on their chests or tied around their waists as a makeshift sarong. It’s almost like a rite of passage for visitors to pick one up as a souvenir.
Best Cities to Visit in Bali (first-time visitor)
- Ubud: The cultural heart of Bali, known for its art, dance, and serene landscapes.
- Kuta: A bustling beach town famous for its vibrant nightlife and surf-friendly beaches.
- Seminyak: A trendy area with upscale resorts, restaurants, and shopping.
- Nusa Dua: A luxury resort enclave with pristine beaches and world-class amenities.
- Uluwatu: Known for its dramatic cliffs, surf spots, and the iconic Uluwatu Temple.
Typical Budget for Bali
Daily Budget
For a budget traveler, expect to spend around $30 to $50 per day. For mid-range, it’s about $60 to $100 per day, and for luxury, it’s $150 and above per day.
Accommodation
Budget Options: Homestays and budget hotels typically range from $10 to $30 per night. Mid-Range Options : Boutique hotels and guesthouses range from $40 to $100 per night. Luxury Options: High-end resorts and villas can cost $150 and above per night.
Food
Local Eateries: Meals at Warungs (local eateries) cost around $2 to $5.Mid-Range Restaurants: Expect to pay between $10 and $20 for a meal.High-End Dining: Fine dining experiences can range from $30 to $50 per person.
Transportation
- Taxi (short trip): $2-$10
- Motorbike rental: $5-$10 per day
- Car rental with driver: $30-$50 per day
- Bemo ride: $0.50-$2
Activities
- Temple entrance fee: $1-$5
- Balinese dance performance: $5-$20
- Cooking class: $30-$50
- Diving trip: $50-$100
Responsible Travel Tips in Bali
- Dispose of waste properly: Use bins and recycle where possible.
- Respect wildlife: Avoid activities that exploit animals.
- Unplug: Turn off lights and appliances when not in use.
- Hang hotel towels: Reuse towels to save water.
- Learn local customs: Respect local culture and dress modestly at temples.
- Support local businesses: Buy from local markets and artisans.
- Limit plastic use: Carry reusable bags and bottles.
Travel Essentials
Clothing
- Light, breathable clothing: For hot and humid weather.
- Comfortable walking shoes: Essential for exploring.
- Rain jacket or umbrella: Useful during the rainy season.
- Swimsuit: For beaches and pools.
- Sarong: Useful for temple visits and beach cover-ups.
Toiletries
- Basic toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, etc.
- Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun.
- Bug repellant: Essential, especially in rural areas.
- Tampons: May be hard to find in some areas.
Travel Essentials
- Passport and visa: Ensure they are valid and secure.
- Travel insurance: Important for unexpected situations.
- Travel adapter: Bali uses Type C and Type F plugs (220V).
- Reusable water bottle: To stay hydrated and reduce plastic use.
- Reusable shopping bags: For carrying purchases and reducing plastic waste.
- Power bank: To keep your devices charged on the go.
Health and Safety
- Medications: Personal medications and a basic first aid kit.
- Face masks: Useful for air pollution and health safety.
- Hand sanitizer: Maintain hygiene when soap and water aren’t available.
Things to Avoid and Cautions during Bali Vacations
- Bali, Indonesia, is a paradise for many travelers, but it’s crucial to consider certain precautions for a seamless experience.
- Water Precautions: Stick to bottled water to avoid waterborne illnesses and ensure a safe Bali vacation.
- Street Vendor Awareness: Always confirm prices before purchasing from street vendors to avoid misunderstandings.
- Personal Belongings: Although Bali is generally safe, vigilance is necessary, especially in crowded areas to prevent theft.
- Respecting Local Customs: Adhering to local customs and traditions is vital:
- Religious Ceremonies: Yield to processions and refrain from disrupting temple ceremonies. Respect these sacred events.
Apps to Download
- Google Maps: Essential for navigation.
- WhatsApp: Popular messaging app in Bali.
- Google Translate: For translation and communication.
- Grab: For booking taxis and food delivery.
- Traveloka: For booking flights and accommodations.
- Klook: For booking tours and activities.
My Personal Bali Indonesia Travel Guide
This post is sponsored and/or contains affiliate links, from which I earn a commission at no extra cost to the reader. I appreciate your support and know that all the views expressed are my own.
Overview
My trip to Bali was wild, with many monkeys (skip the monkey forest- they are everywhere), stunning temples, giant bugs, and motorbikes galore. But Bali turned out to be way more than I expected.
In Kuta and Nusa Dua, I discovered a captivating mix of offerings that left me amazed—from vibrant culture and stunning natural locales to incredibly friendly locals. In Uluwatu and Ubud, I found tranquil sanctuaries and artistic hubs that drew me into their serene and creative atmospheres. Uluwatu’s dramatic cliffside temples and Ubud’s lush rice terraces offered both spiritual solace and visual delight.
Come with me as I spill the beans on the hidden gems of this incredible island, sharing all the cool things I learned in Bali during my recent adventure.
Visa Misconceptions
Indonesia must have made some changes to its visa policy recently because there is a lot of false information on the internet. But as of April 2016, unless you are staying for MORE than 30 days, you don’t need to stop at the visa counter. Follow the mad dash of people heading to the customs counters to receive the FREE visa on arrival stamp.
Indonesia is Really Hot
We knew it was hot, but honestly, I have never been THAT hot before. On one particular day, it was so hot that I couldn’t stop the sweat from running into my eyes, and they stung. I had to pull off to the side and try to clear the sweat with the bottom of my shirt. I must have looked pretty bad because an Australian dude reached out to ask me if I was okay. However, I never had my eyes burn from sweat and I don’t ever want to experience that again. I carried a small washcloth (and a bottle of water) in my bag from that day forward. My ankles and hands swelled badly from long flights, dehydration, and walking. Neither has returned to normal two days after I returned home.
They Drive on the Left
I didn’t realize this until we arrived. I actually tried to assist our driver navigate through the traffic and kept looking in the “wrong” direction. Good thing he really didn’t need my help.
The Language & Geography
The island is small, but apparently, there are so many dialects that the locals sometimes have to revert to the Indonesian language- a dialect common to all of them. But no worries, everyone speaks English, and some of them speak very, very well. Communication is easy in and around Ubud and Kuta, where most tourists stay while visiting Bali. But don’t let that keep you from staying or visiting the north, east, or west– or even islands off the coast where developers haven’t spoiled the landscape with fancy resorts and theme parks, and you can develop a closer relationship to the land and its people. You can rent a villa with a private beach and a cook and book a masseuse who makes house calls.
Time Shares
Everyone who stops to talk to you isn’t trying to sell you something, but most are. We spent a few minutes huddled under an ATM when it started to pour. A nice young lady started a conversation, and the next thing we knew, we were sitting on the veranda of a resort in Nusa Dua, talking to an even nicer woman from New Zealand trying to sell us a timeshare. I’m leaving out a lot of details, but we went because: A. it was raining, B. we wanted to see the resorts in Nusa Dua, and C. it was raining in Bali. No, we didn’t buy a timeshare, but just beware that it happens. It all worked out in the end; we got some free drinks and some great restaurant recommendations from Sandy, and that’s how we ended up at Fat Chows.
The Typical Local Earns about $150 per Month
That’s it. And the main business is tourism. So don’t get irritated when they seem a little aggressive. They are just trying to make a living. I bought a few things “for good luck,” a phrase you’ll hear over and over again. It’s okay to bargain, but don’t go crazy. Goods and services are so inexpensive in Bali. Once they make the sale, don’t be surprised that they rub the currency over their goods for added good fortune.
Taxis Ask for Donations
They beep when they pass you on the street. You’ll get asked a million times a day if you need transport. Sometimes I said no, sometimes I just kept walking– until I really needed one. I felt so bad the first night I rode in a taxi. However, I didn’t realize the taxi didn’t have a meter. I hadn’t planned on hailing a car, but my sandal broke on the way to rendezvous with my husband. He talked my ear off for 5 minutes and then pulled up to the hotel and asked for a donation. I was late and irritated because I had just bought those sandals the night before. I grabbed a 10,000 note out of my wallet and jumped out of the cab. Later I realized I only gave the driver $0.70. I felt awful, and every other driver benefitted from that incident.
Even Paradise has Traffic
Every Bali Indonesia Travel Guide mentions the traffic, and for good reason. Even during the low season, the island is bustling, and the roads can be challenging. Unlike the pristine beaches, the roads are often congested and require careful navigation. Bali is famous for its intricate wood and stone carvings, and road carving is a significant aspect of island life. Whether you drive yourself or hire a driver, be prepared for delays, as it takes time to get from one part of the island to another. To avoid the worst of the crowds, consult locals about the best times to visit specific attractions.
Exchanging Money
I shouldn’t have to tell you, but DO NOT exchange your money at the many money exchange places all over Bali. Their rates are not competitive with those at ATMs or banks, and you will likely get ripped off.
Carry Cash
Everyone will gladly accept US currency—remember, it’s the SUPER currency. However, when we thought about using USD at a restaurant, the owner used mystical methods and not the current exchange rate when calculating the bill, which would have had us paying an exchange rate that was more like 10-1 instead of the current 13-1. So we passed and just stopped at an ATM machine for more cash later.
Handmade Crafts are Inexpensive
I’m not a travel shopper; I usually abhor shopping and travel. I go for the food, the tastes, the smells, and the sites. I do like pretty things; I just don’t like to dust them. So when I travel, I buy a purse from a local designer, a couple of magnets, and maybe something small that I can put in “my space” that will remind me of the trip. I got a shopping fever during my Bali adventure.
I spent a lot of time in the Sukawati Art Market and the Princess Art Shop in downtown Kuta. So I bought 2 wooden buddhas, 2 wooden signs, wooden Bintang coasters, a man cave poster for my husband’s future man cave, 2 large canvas paintings, a ceramic clock, 2 ceramic statues, a mug, some magnets, some local wine (more on that later) and several pieces of clothing– and I didn’t come close to breaking the bank. MOF I would have bought more if I had space in my luggage. And nothing– I mean nothing– was made in China.
Massages and Manicures
Sadly, neither of us had great experience in this department. In Thailand, all the masseuses have skills. In Bali, unless you go to a spa or have one come to your home, you won’t get a great massage or manicure either. Steven went to three different massage parlors and was unhappy with the massages he received. I broke several nails and decided to get a manicure. It was awful. The shop still used old-fashioned cuticle removers and metal nail files, feeling more like torture. And unless you like the job your 5-year-old niece does on your nails or you do your nails after drinking a bottle of wine… speaking of wine.
Hatten Winery
This may surprise you the most in this Bali Indonesia Travel Guide. I didn’t even think Bali had wine production, so I didn’t spend a minute researching wine before heading off. But Bali has a winery in Kuta, and we could taste it at one of the local restaurants on our way to Uluwatu. It was pretty good, so we bought a bottle in the duty-free shop before we left the island.
It’s the Jungle Mate
I loved the resort we stayed at in Ubud. The Beji Ubud was gorgeous. However, after reading the reviews, we weren’t surprised that there would be some things to contend with. One of the things I learned in Bali is that bugs are everywhere. Bugs live in the trees, grass, and the air in the jungle– no surprise. However, the doors to the room left something to be desired since there was enough room for small, cold-blooded creatures to slither under and bunk with us. I didn’t see or hear anything, but my husband swears something got in and only flew around his head when he closed his eyes one night. In my review, I suggested mosquito netting around the beds.
Don’t Overpack
No matter how much I travel, I always forget or bring something that never leaves my suitcase. On this trip, a couple of short sundresses, a comfortable pair of padded flip flops/sandals, a pair of walking shoes (for the jungle/rice terrace treks), a couple of yoga pants, swimsuits, and 20 pairs of underwear and five bras would have been enough. I love my maxi dresses, but it was too damn hot, so I only wore one. I bought a few short dresses that I wore over my yoga pants almost every day instead. If I had left those other three dresses at home, I might have had more room to shop. Pack wisely, considering the local climate, and be ready to adapt your wardrobe to the weather.
End of story… Go to Bali. There are a lot of places we should visit while stationed in Asia. Bali is just one of the places I’d recommend. Click the link for the official tourism guide.
The allure of Bali, Indonesia, is undeniable. From its stunning landscapes to its rich culture and the promise of a serene escape, it’s clear why Bali is a top destination globally. The hospitality of the locals, the unique cuisine, and the paradisiacal experience are just a few reasons to put a Bali vacation on your travel list. For more tips, check out this Bali Indonesia Travel Guide to help plan your visit.
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