Bali Travel Guide

Hey there travelers and welcome to my Bali Travel Guide. Bali is one of the world’s most stunning vacation spots featuring untamed tropical vegetation, beautiful beaches and ancient temples. It is one of my favorite places to visit in the world and after the events of recent times that decimated their tourist industry, has started to reopen to the world once again.

I have created this travel guide as a means of giving you all of the information you may need to plan and enjoy your Balinese adventure. And as I cannot even begin to cover everything Bali has to offer, I will try and keep it as up to date as possible and update where necessary. I will also try and keep you up to date with entry and visa requirements as well.

Anyway, let’s throw on our Bintang singlet and check it all out.

Bali: The Facts

Bali is a group of four islands that form part of the greater country of Indonesia. It surrounded by coral reef and most famous for its tourism receiving more than 6.3 million visitors in 2019.

And after 2 years of total visitor ban during the pandemic, Tourism is starting to bounce back with the Island welcoming around 5.2 million foreign tourists in 2023.

The region is heavily influenced by their Hindu religion (90% of the population are Balinese Hindu) with exquisite temples and where celebratory street parades are a common occurrence – listen for the drums and xylophones.

• Its population is 725,000 (Indonesia 273.5 million)
• The currency in Indonesia is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)

Check out these: 10 Best Beaches In Bali

Tourist Entry requirements

As of September 2022, to enter Bali, tourists from most ASEAN countries will need to purchase a visa and pay a tourist tax as follows:

Visa on arrival:

This is the “standard” Visitor Visa B213, also known as Visa on Arrival (VoA & e-VoA) and is the Visa most travelers will need to get. It can be purchased online prior to travel (I highly recommend this option as it saves around 15 – 30 minutes in wait time) or upon arrival at the airport in the customs area.

As of March 2024, the cost is around $USD35 ($AUD50) and it is valid for 30 days – but can be extended to 60 days without too much fuss. For more information on the B213 visa, and to apply – click here.

Bali Tourist Tax

This is a new tax that was introduced in late 2023/early 2024 and is a province specific tax charged by Bali’s provincial government. The tax costs IDR 150,000 per person (ca. USD 10 and AUD 15) and is payable regardless of the age of the traveler.

As with the VoA & e-VoA above, this tax can be paid online or at the airport upon arrival. Exemptions are offered to the following:

1. Holders of Diplomatic Visas and Official Visas
2. Crew Members of Conveyances are exempted
3.  KITAS & KITAP Holders (Holders of Temporary and permanent stay permits)
4. Family unification visa holders
5. Student Visa Holders

Living in Bali

As with immigration to any country, one of the first hurdles of living in Bali as a foreigner is navigating Indonesia’s visa requirements. There are several types of visas available for foreigners (as of December 2023), each with its own set of rules and regulations. This can include:

• Social-cultural or single entry visas (B211A) – valid for 60 days and extendable up to 180 days, are perfect for those intending to stay for a relatively short period. However, these visas prohibit the visa holder from any form of employment.
• Business or multiple entry visas – these allow foreigners to participate in business meetings, seminars or exhibitions but don’t permit formal employment.
• Retirement visa – available for individuals aged 55 and above. This visa (Multiple Exit Re-Permit (MERP)) allows for a longer stay, given that certain conditions like proof of pension and health insurance are met. Holders can open Indonesian bank accounts, buy cars and get a local drivers license etc. as well.
• The working stay permit – also known as the temporary stay permit card, allows foreigners to work and stay in Indonesia where they obtain both a work permit (VITAS – employer application), and a stay permit (KITAS – worker application) from immigration.
• The investor stay permit – applies to foreigners who own shares in an Indonesian limited liability company (PMA).
• The family stay permit – requires an Indonesian spouse as sponsor of the foreigner. In order to be able to work however, the foreigner requires a work permit from their employer.

It’s essential to keep in mind that as of 2021, Indonesia doesn’t offer a permanent residency visa for foreigners unless they’re married to an Indonesian citizen or qualify for a retirement visa. This necessitates periodic visa renewals, which can be a complex process.

Note: Visas can be complicated and the above is designed to be informative only as requirements can and do change regularly. Always check official Indonesian Visa Websites for the most up to date information before you apply.

Book your trip to Bali here!

Things to Know

Whilst Bali is widely regarded as one of the safest places to travel in Indonesia, and a great place to visit without too much to worry about. However, there are still some things to be aware of such as:

1. Petty crime – this is the main risk to tourists where pick pockets and bag snatchers on mopeds work at night in busy areas such as Kuta and Seminyak. Just know where your bag is at all times and avoid walking small alleys alone.
2. Footpaths and traffic – Bali is not known for its wide pedestrian friendly footpaths – and in some places such as Canggu, they are non existent. This just means that you need to take care as you walk around and locals tend to ride wherever they need to ride to get to where they need to go (yep, including on the footpath).
3. Methanol poisoning – avoid non-bottled spirit drinks in the nightclubs of Kuta and Seminyak where dodgy bar owners have been known to ‘water down’ their spirits with methanol.
4. Scooter/mopeds – over 80% if hospital visits for tourists in Bali is due to moped accidents. DO NOT ride these without a helmet unless you are after a personal introduction to local law enforcement. International driver’s licenses are mandatory in Bali as well. Oh, and if you rent a scooter – make sure you check for previous damage and photograph it thoroughly before you take off.
5. Money changers – Stick to banks or their official ATMs (these are usually guarded). If the money changer looks dodgy (or offers a rate way better than everyone else) then trust me – walk away. My recommendation is to change your money before you leave and take advantage of the in house safe.

Note: as of late 2023, there has been movement from the Balinese Provincial Government to ban foreigners, including tourists, from hiring or riding mopeds/scooters. As of March 2024, this ban has not been put into affect, however from what I have seen in person, local authorities are cracking down on helmet and license regulations as well as those riding drunk or in an unruly fashion.

Check out my post: Bali vs Phuket: Which Should You Visit?

When to Visit Bali

Bali is warm and humid throughout the year, however there are certain times of the year that are better for visiting Bali than others.

The best time to visit Bali is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. During this time, the weather is sunny and dry, and there is very little rainfall. Keep in mind though that the dry season is also the peak tourist season, which means that there will be more crowds and higher prices.

If you want to avoid the crowds and save some money, time your visit during the shoulder season, which runs from November to March. The weather is still warm but a little more humid during this time, and there is more rainfall. However, the rain usually comes in short bursts, and it does not usually last all day.

This makes it possible to still enjoy outdoor activities during the shoulder season.

If you are planning to visit Bali during the rainy season, which runs from December to February, you should be prepared for heavy rainfall and really, really humid weather. The rain can be quite intense during this time, and it can last for several hours or even days.

This can make it difficult to enjoy outdoor activities, and some roads and attractions may be closed due to flooding but also way less crowded which allows the time to really explore – especially as there is less traffic as well..

Check out these: Best Things to Do in Bali Month by Month

How to get to Bali

Getting to Bali usually involves travel by air due to its island location in Indonesia. The exact process will depend on your starting location. Ngurah Rai International Airport, also known as Denpasar International Airport, is the main international gateway to Bali. Major airlines from around the world operate flights to Bali.

If you are already in Indonesia, then ferry services are also available from neighboring islands as well.

Book your trip to Bali here!

Getting Around Bali

Bali is a beautiful island with a lot to see and explore. To get around Bali, tourists can choose from a variety of transportation options. Here are some of the best ways to get around Bali:

Scooter

Scooters are the most popular mode of transportation in Bali. They are cheap, easy to rent and can navigate the narrow roads of Bali. Tourists can rent a scooter for as little as 50,000 IDR per day. However, tourists should be aware that driving a scooter in Bali can be dangerous, and they should always wear a helmet and drive defensively.

Ride-Hailing Apps

Tourists can also use ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek to get around Bali. These apps are similar to Uber and Lyft and allow tourists to order a car or motorcycle taxi to their location. The prices are usually reasonable and tourists can pay through the app.

Taxi

Taxis are another option for tourists to get around Bali. The most popular taxi company in Bali is Bluebird. They have a good reputation for being reliable and safe. Tourists can hail a Bluebird taxi on the street or order one through their app.

Tip: Look inside for a fare meter – even if the there is a Bluebird graphic on the door – if there is no faire meter, chances are you are going to pay through the nose for your trip – at times up to 100,000 times as much.

Personal Driver

Tourists can also hire a driver to get around Bali. This is a good option for families or groups of friends who want to explore Bali at their own pace. Prices vary depending on the type of car and the length of the rental but can be the most cost effective way to explore the entire island.

Check out these: Tips for Hiring a Driver In Bali

Public Transport

Public transport in Bali is limited, but tourists can use bemo buses to get around. Bemo buses are small vans that operate on set routes around Bali. They are cheap, but tourists should be aware that they can be crowded and uncomfortable.

Accommodation in Bali

Bali offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. The best area to stay in Bali depends on the traveler’s preferences and interests. The most popular areas for tourists are Kuta, Seminyak, Ubud and Canggu.

Luxury Resorts

Bali has some of the world’s most luxurious resorts, offering guests an unforgettable experience. The island’s top luxury resorts are located in Seminyak, Nusa Dua, and Ubud. These resorts offer guests a range of amenities, including private pools, beach access, spa treatments, and fine dining restaurants.

Some of the best luxury resorts in Bali include:

• The St. Regis Bali Resort in Nusa Dua
• Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan in Ubud
• Ayana Resort and Spa Bali in Jimbaran
• Bulgari Resort Bali in Uluwatu

Budget Accommodations

For budget travelers, Bali offers a range of affordable guesthouses, hostels, and homestays. The most popular areas for budget accommodations are Kuta, Legian, and Seminyak. These areas offer a range of options, from basic guesthouses to stylish hostels.

Some of the best budget accommodations in Bali include:

• Capsule Hotel in Kuta
• The Farm Hostel in Canggu
• M Boutique Hostel in Seminyak
• Puri Garden Hotel and Hostel in Ubud

Travelers should keep in mind that budget accommodations may not offer the same level of luxury and amenities as the more expensive resorts. However, Bali’s budget accommodations offer a great way to experience the island’s unique culture and hospitality without breaking the bank

Check out these: Family Friendly Resorts in Bali

Cuisine And Dining

Bali is a food lover’s paradise, offering a diverse range of cuisine and dining options to suit all tastes and budgets. From street food to fine dining, the island has it all.

Cafe’s and Bars

Bali is famous for its café and bar scene which is both delicious and affordable. Visitors can find these all over the island, especially in the major tourist spots. Some of the must-try Indonesian dishes include:

1. Nasi Goreng: Nasi Goreng is Indonesian fried rice that’s cooked with a blend of sweet soy sauce, shallots, garlic, tamarind, and chili, along with other ingredients. It’s often served with additional items such as a fried egg, prawn crackers, or chicken satay skewers.
2. Babi Guling: Babi Guling, or Balinese Suckling Pig, is one of Bali’s most famed dishes. The pig is stuffed and infused with a spicy concoction typically involving turmeric, coriander seeds, lemongrass, black pepper, and garlic, and then roasted whole. It’s a special dish often served during ceremonies and celebrations.
3. Bebek Betutu: Bebek Betutu is a dish of slow-cooked duck, which is marinated in a rich blend of traditional Indonesian spices, then wrapped in banana leaves and cooked in a coal fire underground for several hours. The result is a flavorful and tender meat dish.
4. Satay Lilit: This is a type of satay from Bali that’s quite different from regular satay. It’s 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 mixture is wrapped around bamboo, sugar cane, or lemongrass sticks and grilled.
5. Lawar: Lawar is a traditional Balinese dish made from a mixture of vegetables, coconut, and minced meat mixed with rich herbs and spices. There are different types of Lawar, like white Lawar, red Lawar, and even Lawar that incorporates various other unique ingredients.

Check out these: 14 Best Restaurants in Bali

Fine Dining

Bali also has a thriving fine dining scene, with many world-class restaurants offering exquisite cuisine and stunning views. Some of the best fine dining restaurants in Bali include:

1. AKAR by K Club Ubud: A restaurant located in Ubud that offers contemporary Indonesian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients and traditional cooking techniques.
2. FIRE at W Bali – Seminyak: A steakhouse located in Seminyak that offers premium cuts of meat cooked over an open flame and a selection of wines from around the world.
3. Soleil: A restaurant located in Nusa Dua that offers Mediterranean and French cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients.
4. Ayung Terrace: A restaurant located in Ubud that offers panoramic views of the Ayung River Valley and serves Indonesian and international cuisine with a modern twist.
5. Merah Putih: A restaurant located in Seminyak that offers contemporary Indonesian cuisine with a focus on sustainability and the use of locally sourced ingredients.

Overall, Bali is a food lover’s paradise, offering a diverse range of cuisine and dining options to suit all tastes and budgets. Visitors should be sure to try the local dishes, indulge in some fine dining and savor the fresh seafood while on the island.

Book your trip to Bali here!

Outdoor Activities

Bali is an exciting destination for adventure seekers, offering a range of activities that cater to different levels of adventure. Here are some of the best adventure activities to try in Bali.

Surfing

Bali is famous for its world-class surf spots, attracting surfers from all over the world. The island has a variety of waves suitable for all levels of surfers, from beginners to experts. Some of the most popular surf spots in Bali include Kuta Beach, Uluwatu, and Padang Padang. Surfing lessons and board rentals are available at most beaches.

Check out these: Best Surf Beaches in Bali

Trekking

Bali’s lush jungles and scenic rice paddies make it a great destination for trekking. There are a variety of trekking options, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. One of the most popular trekking destinations is Mount Batur, an active volcano that offers stunning views of the sunrise. Other great trekking spots include Campuhan Ridge Walk and Tegallalang Rice Terrace.

Scuba Diving

Bali is home to some of the best diving sites in the world, boasting an abundance of marine life and colorful coral reefs. Some of the most popular diving spots in Bali include Nusa Penida, Tulamben and Menjangan Island. Diving courses and equipment rentals are available at most dive centers.

Check out these: Best Tours in Bali

Shopping in Bali

Bali is a shopper’s paradise, offering a wide range of products at affordable prices. From traditional crafts to high-end fashion, Bali has something for everyone with boutiques, food and souvenir shops on just about every street. Not to mention the infamous ‘knock-off’ shops in Kuta and Legion.

Additionally, here are two popular shopping destinations in Bali:

Ubud Art Market

Located in the heart of Ubud, the Ubud Art Market is a must-visit destination for art lovers. The market is home to a wide range of traditional Balinese crafts including wood carvings, paintings, and textiles. Visitors can also find unique souvenirs such as handmade jewelry and accessories.

One of the best things about shopping at the Ubud Art Market is the opportunity to haggle with vendors. Bargaining is a common practice in Bali, and visitors can often get a good deal by negotiating the price. However, it is important to be respectful and fair when bargaining, as vendors rely on their sales to make a living.

Seminyak Square

For those looking for a more modern shopping experience, Seminyak Square is a popular destination. The open-air mall is home to a variety of high-end fashion brands, as well as local boutiques and souvenir shops. Visitors can also find a range of restaurants and cafes, making it a great place to spend an afternoon.

One of the highlights of shopping at Seminyak Square is the variety of products available. From designer clothing to handmade crafts, there is something for every taste and budget. However, it is important to note that prices at Seminyak Square can be higher than at other shopping destinations in Bali.

Check out my: Best Shopping Options in Bali

Bali Travel Guide – Locations

Ok, let’s get stuck into the most popular spots in Bali – step by step.

Kuta

I am going to start with Kuta as for us Australian travelers, it was for a long time the most well known and popular part of Bali – in fact, I often wondered if there were more Australians in Kuta at any given time than Balinese. It has a reputation as the island’s party capital filled with bar after bar offering cheap booze and loud music. Aside from the bars, hawkers and junk souvenir shops ruled the roost where fake Rolexes were the thing to buy (pirated DVDs in later times).

It was also the place to hit the beach in the day to sample the Bintangs in the beach bars and to get your hair braided. This was aided by a wide variety of reasonably priced hotels and stores all within walking distance of the beach and in easy reach of the Airport.

In recent times however, Kuta has undergone a bit of a facelift. The bars, hair braiders and Aussie teenagers on mopeds are still there, but there are also a few more resorts and a real lot of construction going on. It is still the pace to be if you want to party or get a tattoo.

Things to do in Kuta

• Waterbom Bali – A large water park featuring slides, pools and tropical lagoons – a great option to keep the kids busy for a day.
• Armada flow house – A restaurant with an inbuilt flow wave pool. This kids can ride the waves and you can eat in peace.
• Beachwalk – One of the newer attractions in Kuta – it is a large shopping mall with shops, bars, cafes and restaurants.
• Beach bars – Still there and if you want to sit on a beach chair and do nothing whilst a waiter brings you beer and the kids get their hair braided – then this is old style Bali at its best.

Check out these: 7 Things To Do In Kuta

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Legian

In time gone past, Legian was a separate area to Kuta (it is just next door) and a little quieter. Now though it can probably just be included in the same breath as Kuta with lot’s of bars, restaurants and hotels of all levels to choose from. If you have time however, Legion’s multiple little laneways are well worth exploring for those little one of a kind trinkets and hidden Balinese food houses.

Things to do in Legian

• Dream Museum Zone –  the world’s most fantastic trick art museum originated from Korea.
• 5GX Bali – Reverse bungy is a slingshot ride.
• Azul Beach Club – Relaxing café by day, extravagant beach party by night – great food and a place to party with live bands and DJs at night.

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Semiyak

Fast catching up to Kuta as one of the most popular spots in Bali, Seminyak is a world of private villas where families can laze around private pools and eat meals made by private chefs – all at a hotel price. Once you leave the villa however. it is essentially a place of two worlds in one. By day it is a family haven with a mixture great cafes and restaurants, boutique shopping and Balinese Warungs. And for those still just want to relax, Seminyak beach is full of beach bars with their bright umbrellas, bean bags, lounge chairs and cocktails. The kids can learn to surf and you can sit and watch the world go by.

Then day turns to night and Seminyak becomes the domain of Instagram. The beach clubs, sports bars and nightclubs fire up and the streets are replaced by partygoers and those looking to catch up on their favorite sports team from home. All recorded online for all those who don’t wish to leave their villas to see.

Things to do in Seminyak

• Beach clubs – Potato head, KuDeTah, Mrs Sippy – relax by day – party all night.
• Nyaman Gallery – Showcasing local Balinese and Indonesian artists with an emphasis on showcasing up-and-coming new talent.
• Pura Petitenget– One of the six important sea temples in Bali – ancient beauty – you can also check out Pura Masceti as well.

Check out these: 7 Things To Do In Seminyak

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Ubud

Now we head up into the mountains to Ubud, the place of temples, health centers, yoga studios and local markets on every block. It is much more ‘Balinese’ than Kuta or Seminyak etc. and often referred to as Bali’s de facto cultural epicenter where artists, yogis and those seeking an alternative lifestyle can congregate. Ubud is also the place to go for vegan and raw food because of the abundance of locally produced foods – many of which are sold on the main street before the boutiques behind them open.

If you are looking for something a little less busy – I didn’t notice a lot of loud bars in Ubud – or want to get yourself a nice painting or yoga bowl, then this is also the place for you. There are plenty of little Balinese Warungs to try all offering variations of local delicacies made with the freshest ingredients before heading back to your private villa in the middle of the rice fields to further unwind.

Things to do in Ubud

• Monkey Forest – Home to 1000s of long tailed Macaques and a 14th century temple, the monkey forest offers a relaxing walk and fun viewing – just hold onto your sunglasses
• Ubud markets – a mixture of art, crafts, local foods and produce and junky souvenirs (being re-built at time of writing)
• Tirta Empul Temple – Visit the exquisite temples and bathe on the purifying waters of the holy spring
• Kecak Dance Show – There are a number of these in and around Ubud featuring traditional storied Balinese dance.

Check out these: 11 Best Things to Do in Ubud

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Canggu

Canggu is another of my favorite places in Bali as you travel along the coast. Echo Beach, a popular surfing spot can be found here as can a number of one of a kind boutiques, hip coffee shops serving up Acai bowls and other healthy snacks. You can see both the island and the shore from here, since there are many rice terraces in the area. It is a popular spot for ex-pats to setup house as it is – or was – quiet however its popularity is souring mainly due to the celerity Instagram set, .

Another reason for it being popular as a home base is the The DoJo co-working facility which is an excellent option for remote workers in Bali thanks to its reliable internet and working space. To be honest, Canggu holds all of the best parts of Seminyak and Ubud all rolled into one with sunset views over the ocean.

Things to do in Canggu

• Tanah Lot – One of Bali’s most well-known temples – it is actually on the beach. Avoid the tacky souvenir shacks and head through the park to the cliffside restaurant as well.
• Echo beach – a haven for surfers from all over the world
• Indulge at a spa – these are all over Bali but Canggu has some of the best (so my wife tells me anyway haha)
• Finns beach club – Seminyak doesn’t have the monopoly on good beach clubs

Check out these: 7 Things To Do In Canggu

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Sanur

If you are travelling with a family, then Sanur is well worth a look. It doesn’t (at the moment) have the vibrant cafes and shops of Seminyak, Canggu or even Ubud however it offers a fantastic Balinese experience right on the doorstep of these other more popular spots. Often referred to as the original beach resort destination in Bali it has numerous hotels geared for families.

In my opinion, this is the best area to get a taste of the laid-back Balinese lifestyle whilst still having access to the cafe’s, restaurants , supermarkets and a good number of ice-cream shops as well. Sanur is also the gateway to get to Nusa Lembongan, a pristine little island just off the coast.

Things to do in Sanur

• Hang at the beach – Sanur has beautiful family friendly beaches.
• Blanjong Pillar – visit the the oldest historical artifact in Bali.
• Museum Le Mayeur – This is a museum which sits on the site of the former home of a Belgian expatriate named Adrien-Jean Le Mayeur de Merpres and houses his collection of arts and statues.
• Hardy’s – It may be a supermarket but it well worth the wander

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Nusa Dua

Nusa Dua is the land of the resort with enough included within them so that you really never have to leave. The coastline is littered with one after the other after the other varying in standards from 4 star up to 6 star luxury for families, couples, singles or for weddings and conferences. The beauty is that many allow for day visitors as well so if this is your thing, you can pick a different pool bar to lounge in every day.

Away from the resorts however, Nusa Dua offers pristine beaches that are not nearly as busy as other parts of Bali, fantastic walking and bike paths and a plethora of temples and natural water formations to look at and photograph. There are also some good shopping areas and restaurants hidden amongst it all as well.

Things to do in Nusa Dua

• Resorts – As above, you can literally pick a different one every day and most have access from the beach.
• Spas – As with Canggu – the spas here are next level if not a little pricier if you visit one in a resort.
• Bali National Golf Club – World class golf course
• The Puja Mandala complex – Promoting itself as “a landmark of religious harmony”, it has a Buddhist temple, a Hindu temple, a Catholic church, a Protestant church and a mosque.

Check out my: Top 10 All-Inclusive Resorts in Bali

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Uluwatu

For surfers, Uluwatu is home to some of the most reliable and sought-after reef breaks in the world located towards the southern end of the island, on the western cliffs of the Bukit Peninsula. And for non surfers there are amazing cliff top temples and parks full of trinket stealing monkeys and local cafes.

The beaches are amazing and at the right time of year, a haven for professional circuit and beach club visitors alike. And if you wish to stay where the waves are there is a great mixture of hotels, villas and homes stays for every budget as well.

Things to do in Uluwatu

• Go to the beach – try Balangan Beach, Suluban Beach or Padang Padang Beach for surfing or Pandawa Beach for water sports.
• Uluwatu Temple – known locally as Pura Luhur Uluwatu, the Uluwatu temple is a sprawling temple complex that sits atop the limestone cliffs. The views from here are incredible in themselves.
• Kecak fire dance – A traditional Balinese dance telling a story from the Ramayana epic. It features a monkey army and Rama, Sita, and the evil Ravana.

Book your trip to Bali here!

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Benoa

Nestled on the southern peninsula of Bali just above Nusa Dua is Benoa – or Tanjung Benoa. More of a place to visit for the day, Benoa is famous for its access to water sports such as banana boat, scuba diving, jet skiing, parasailing, rolling donuts, flying fish and snorkeling. Accommodation is not as prevalent in this part of the island as most visitors come in from other parts but there are a few hotels and villas around.

And for those traveling on a budget, In general, the cost of lodging in this location is a little lower than in the more popular districts since the beach is not ideal for swimming and there is not as much around in terms of cafes and restaurants etc. In spite of this, the beaches here have a much more local vibe, and the water activities make them less than ideal for lounging meaning they are not as busy.

Things to do in Benoa

• Watersports – as above, this is the water sport capital of Bali
• Tanjung Benoa fishing village – And the end of the peninsula away from the touristy water sport areas is a beautiful little fishing village. Wander through the markets as local fishers sell their catch (you will need to get up early though) – which can be worth the visit if you have a private chef awaiting in your villa.
• Bali Wake Park – 6 hectares of artificial lakes and verges for cable water skiers and wakeboarders. the kids can also enjoy the floating obstacle course as well.

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Jimbaran Bay

As with Benoa above, Jimbaran Bay Beach is more of a place to visit than one to stay. It is famous for its beach sunsets and open fire seafood restaurants. That said, there is plenty more to do here including beach clubs, some resorts and cafes. It is also a great spot for those learning to surf or just lay on the beach. In the event that Kuta is not on the itinerary, its convenient location near the airport makes it an excellent alternative.

It is also another area with rich Balinese culture with Warungs, markets and temples a plenty.

Things to do in Jimbaran Bay

• Fishing charters – As above, Jimbaran bay is popular for its seafood. And in this area, there are a number of good trips that can get you out there to get amongst them yourself.
• Garuda Wisnu Kencana – Garuda Wisnu Kencana is a cultural park that stretches across some 250 hectares of land. It features a large statue of Vishnu, a Hindu god, sitting atop a mythical Indonesian Garuda bird
• Local markets – get up early and wander the local produce and seafood markets. The colors alone are well worth the effort.

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Tegalalang

Located just north of Ubud, Tegalalang is where you can view the iconic rice terraces that appear on every Bali postcard. Most visitors will only be here for a few hours during the day, but there are options to spend a few nights there as well, watching the fireflies dance and listening to the forest.

Things to do in Tegalalang

• Rice fields – There are plenty of tours and activities on and around these famous rice fields such as walking tours, growing information sessions with local farmers, flying foxes and more.
• Elephant Safari Park – Spend a day with the ‘rescued’ Elephants in this conservation park.
• Bali swing – Instagram 101 – take photos on a swing overlooking the rice paddies.
• Bali Geo Luwak Coffee – Get’s the worlds mopst expensive coffee where the beans have been passed through the digestive track of the Asian Palm Civet. It is actually not too bad!

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Kintamani

Next along the road is Kintamani. Many just stay long enough to make the morning walk up Mount Batur and take photos at the temple on the lake (the one featured in every brochure) but the area is filled with hiking trails, some thermal springs and verdant scenery, making it a great place to spend a few days. You can even enjoy the island’s natural beauty by staying at a small inn or pitching a tent.

Things to do in Kintamani

• Mount Batur – Bali’s active volcano – take a hike or bike ride up or around the main crater. Most places also offer tours where you hike up to view the sunset from the top.
• Thermal springs – although built as a massive tourist trap – the waters are warm and the views from the naturally heated thermal pools across the lake make it well worth the visit.
• Trunyan Village – Trunyan village rests at the foot of Mt. Abang, at a remote and isolated location on the eastern shore of Lake Batur. here you can sample ancient cultures and local delicacies.

Health and Safety Tips

Bali is a beautiful destination with a lot to offer, but it’s important to take certain precautions to ensure a safe and healthy trip. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Drink bottled water: The tap water in Bali is not filtered and can cause stomach problems. It’s recommended to drink bottled water instead.
• Protect yourself from the sun: Bali is known for its sunny weather, but it’s important to protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun. Wear sunscreen with a high SPF, and consider wearing a hat and sunglasses.
• Be aware of your surroundings: While Bali is generally a safe destination, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid theft and scams. Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
• Get vaccinated: Before traveling to Bali, it’s recommended to get vaccinated for certain diseases, such as hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and rabies. Consult with a healthcare provider for more information.
• Be mindful of food safety: Bali has a lot of delicious food to offer, but it’s important to be mindful of food safety. Avoid eating raw or undercooked meats, and be cautious of street food that may not have been prepared in a hygienic manner.

By keeping these tips in mind, travelers can have a safe and healthy trip to Bali.

Bali Travel Checklist

When planning a trip to Bali, it is essential to make sure that you have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Here is a checklist of items you should bring with you:

Clothing

Bali is a tropical destination, so pack lightweight and breathable clothing. Cotton and linen fabrics are ideal for the hot and humid weather. Remember to dress modestly when visiting temples and other holy sites. Here are some clothing items to consider:

• Swimwear
• Sun hat
• Sunglasses
• Light, loose-fitting tops and bottoms
• Sarongs or scarves to cover up when necessary
• Comfortable walking shoes

Toiletries and Medications

Pack all the necessary toiletries, such as toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, and conditioner. It is also a good idea to bring mosquito repellent and sunscreen with a high SPF. Here are some other items to consider:

• First-aid kit with bandages, antiseptic cream, and painkillers
• Prescription medications, if any
• Motion sickness medication if you plan to take a boat or car ride

Electronics

Don’t forget to bring your essential electronics. Bali uses the same power outlets as in Europe, so bring a power adapter if you’re coming from the Australia, the US or other countries that use different outlets. Here are some electronics to consider:

• Camera or smartphone
• Power bank
• Chargers and adapters

Money and Travel Documents

Make sure you have all the necessary travel documents before you leave for Bali. It is also essential to have enough cash and credit cards to cover your expenses. Here are some items to consider:

• Passport with at least six months validity
• Visa, if required
• Travel insurance
• Cash and credit cards
• Printed copies of flight and hotel reservations

By following this checklist, you can ensure that you have everything you need for a fantastic trip to Bali.

FAQs

Conclusion

So there you have it, my travel guide to all things Bali. I hope it has been of assistance but as usual, if you have any questions please do not hesitate to reach out by commenting below.

Do you have any other tips or favorite things to do in Bali? If so, please comment below.

Until next time

Have fun

Paul