things to know about bali
About Bali One of the ultimate tips for Bali for first timers: citizens from roughly 160 countries can enter Bali visa free for up to 30 days, however, that does leave 30+ countries that cant. Many of the waterfalls require a short hike to get to them. Many nearby hotels offer free shuttle service as wellif you notify them in advance. Bali Here is the official e-visa on arrival website to apply. . Before you arrive in Bali, check if you need a visa. Gunung Kawi refers to a set of 10 shrines that are cut from a rock face in Bali's lush Tampaksiring region. Fun Bali Facts to know 1. While Grab is used in Bali, we have had to argue for prices with the drivers upon arrival, and in some areas it seemed almost impossible to find a Grab driver. Its only natural that a persons perception of the world would shift when traveling from the West to the East. . Things Those who completed the journey said it was worth it for the views and serenity from above. This stunning religious complex (and impressive architectural feat) sits on a gigantic jagged rock that rises out of the ocean on Bali's southern coast. Bali's got it. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Australia vs New Zealand: which destination is right for you? We loved Bali so much that we went here twice within a year! Uluwatu Temple is popular with not only tourists and locals but also some sneaky monkeys many visitors warned to be on the lookout for the monkeys, who snatch up things like hats, purses and glasses fromunsuspectingtravelers. Just know that ride-hailing cars are banned in some neighborhoods as we saw a few places that had No Grab signs. Bali allows 80+ countries for visa on arrival, including the United States. Please share your experience about the day! For adventure, traverse this magical island in search of hidden shrines and ancient templesPura Tirta Empulis a traveler favorite. With such a large part of the people of Bali representing one culture you will undoubtedly see and experience it in Bali. During the dry season, there is little to no rain, the sea is cool and the nights are cooler as well. Here are some surprising need-to-know facts about your favourite holiday destination. Even if youre an avid beach-goer and surf worshipper, Bali's powerful waves, strong currents and exposed rocks can be treacherous, so take care, and don't swim alone unless you are completely confident in doing so. Its the opportunity to be silent and stay indoors to reflect on the new year. Bali for First Timers: 21 Things to Know Before You Go! Most of the days will be hot and humid between 29-30 (84-87), so its recommended that you wear moisture-wicking and light-weight clothes. Bali, paradise on earth, an island filled with tropical beaches, culture and waterfalls, what else do you need in a vacation. Things . You may need to pay a nominal fee of $.25 to refill your bottle. Pura Taman Saraswati is one of Bali's most beautiful temples Sytilin Pavel / Shutterstock, 16 essential tips for planning a trip to Bali, Indonesia. But feel free to jump to any section that interests you: about Bali With that mindset, youll need to pay the tourist prices for everything from visiting temples, local attractions, and parking. While Bali knows multiple religions, including Christianity, Muslim and Buddhism the largest part of the people living on Bali are Balinese Hindu. If I wanted value for money Id not use AirBnB. Bali Give wild and stray animals a wide berth. Recent visitors loved their time at this water park, with everyone noting that kids, teens and adults all enjoyed the fun slides and water features. If you have not traveled in areas such as Asia, Africa or Central/South America there is a high chance that you will need some vaccinations. You can hike up Mount Batur for a bird's-eye view or take a boat out on the water. From budget homestays to private beach bungalows, you name it, they offer it. The Tukad Cepung Waterfall all to ourselves. Here are some recommended outdoor attractions to do in Bali as day trips. The Indonesian legal system may seem confusing and contradictory, but it's best not to argue with police if you are accused of an infringement that may feel unjust, and pay "fines" with good grace. During the dry season, there is little to no rain, the sea is cool and the nights are cooler as well. One of the best parts about eating Indonesian food is the side of. It is strongly advised to only drink bottled water in Bali, as the tap water can make you quite ill. Bottled water is widely available, however, with travellers drinking on average two to three liters of water a day in Balis hot climates this not only can get costly, but will also produce quite some trash. Best Things to Do in Bali It pays to put some thought into your Bali base, as chaotic traffic and hot weather are likely to make you stick close to your hotel or guesthouse rather than wander far on foot or sit in stuffy taxis. And while you'll have to wait for low tide to reach the temple, many say it's worth it, adding that snapping a photo of Tanah Lot Temple at sunset is a must. We hear you ask. Full-body massage begins at $7/hour, although 5 star hotels charge $60+/h. , from restaurants. Singaporean Dollars, Hong Kong Dollars, Euro, Japanese Yen, British Pounds, Saudi Arabia Real, Thailand Bhat, Canadian Dollars, Swiss France, Korean Won, Malaysian Ringgit, and Chinese Yuan. This means that purchasing a product or service via these links may earn us a small commission (at no extra cost to you of course). 30 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Bali On Visa Requirements and Passport. Where Is Bali Leave the beachwear at your hotel and dress conservatively when visiting the temples. One thing that surprised us the most upon our first visit to Bali was the lack of public transport. Bali's volcanoes are highly active and can have minor to very serious impacts on flights, hotel stays or movement throughout the country. People celebrate with penjor. to Know About Bali Bali's got it. In non-pandemic times Bali, as one of the most touristed islands on earth, is hardly an untouched 2. Choose your base carefully. WebBali is known by many yet understood by so few. Visa As of 2016 nationals of 169 countries can visit Indonesia visa-free for 30 days, while Visa on Arrival applies for others at USD 35. Pizza, burgers, nasi goreng, Mexican, you name it and they will have it! Or, there will be a sign translated to English that addresses menstruation. Bali YSC cookie is set by Youtube and is used to track the views of embedded videos on Youtube pages. This combination is rendered only more dramatic by the crashing of waves more than 200-some feet below. 20 Things to Know Before You Many of the waterfalls are considered the. Good set of tips. All rights reserved. It was actually these places that made us fall in love with Bali, as it showed the diversity of all that Bali has to offer. The _ga cookie, installed by Google Analytics, calculates visitor, session and campaign data and also keeps track of site usage for the site's analytics report. Here are some prices on what to expect: The temples in Bali are gorgeous, such as this one, Pura Ulun Danu Beratan. Party safe, always wear a helmet when riding a bike or scooter, be respectful, and dont do anything you wouldnt do in your home country that way, you're on track for the vacation of a lifetime. Our favorite foods include nasi campur (rice, peanuts, eggs, and small portions of meat and vegetables), babi guling (suckling pig), and ikan bakar (grilled fish, usually gourami). WebExplore Balinese History & People The historical background of Bali is very interesting since it is the last remaining Hindu Island in Indonesia. The cost of the visa is 500,000 IDR ($35 USD). At the higher-end restaurants, some automatically add a 5-10% service fee to the final bill. Hi Jackie, looks amazing Hope to visit Bali one day. to Know About Bali That would be the Fiji Waterfalls, and the Tukad Cepung Waterfall! Weve used this ATM card for many years and it has helped us, We know, Bali is a touristy place to visit. The unfamiliar sights, scents, and tastes. Knock on wood, we havent had any stomach issues yet. I absolutely loved my last trip to Bali. Bali is a 95-mile-wide (153 kilometers) island located in the Indian Ocean, just west of the tip of Java the world's most populous island and home to around 145 million people. Yes. When it comes to taxi rides we always make the decision to round up the bill, for example a taxi ride that was IDR 90,000 we will just simply give IDR 100,000 (which equals to a tip of around $0.75). While Bali always sounds like a good idea, there are some months in the year that you might want to think twice before booking a plain ticket. While Bali has gorgeous beaches, were huge fans of spending time outdoors, going on adventures, and hiking. One experience to know about is that you may receive a necklace as a gift from one of the hawkers. Bali It is important to check which conditions apply to you. This cookie is native to PHP applications. The plan is to reopen Bali to international tourists in 2021. But with Balis traffic being quite chaotic we wouldnt recommend this option unless you feel confident and comfortable riding a motorbike here, and if you do, be sure to wear a helmet as this is mandatory in Bali! Babies in Bali cant touch the ground till theyre three-months-old. As with ice, we have them in the Indonesian dessert. Something that every first timer in Bali should know, something that might surprise you, there are certain internet access restrictions in Bali. You can tip between 5-10% of the cost. Before entering a temple area, some of the workers will ask women if they are on their cycle. If youre from the U.S, you can consider changing your cell phone plan to. Things 1 Thing Not To Do In Bali. You may want to change locations for drop off or pick up. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Youll love your time in Bali and the incredible outdoor activities. Travelers often visit Pura Tirta Empulon their way to or from the village ofKintamani or Gunung Kawi, another religious site. One of the best parts about eating Indonesian food is the side of sambal, a type of chili sauce. Your email address will not be published. 1. Nail salons, massage parlors, and even high-end cosmetical centers are accessible. The seasons of Bali can be divided into two seasons: the dry season and monsoon season. The holes lead to the sewage or underground pipes so the fall would be significant. There are 2 seasons in Bali: dry season (May to September) and wet season (October to April). If you enter the country visa free, you are not eligible for extending your stay. Sanur Beach attracts both locals and tourists alike with its soft sand and quaint boardwalk. WebFun facts about Bali: 10 things you didnt know Fancy yourself an expert on all things Bali? Plan accordingly if your travel dates fall on Nyepi when everything in Bali (even the airport) shuts down for the day, and always dress modestly (covering the shoulders and knees) and conduct yourself appropriately when visiting temples and holy sites. Not only did it mean we had some of Balis most beautiful sights all to ourselves, it also meant that we could avoid the warm midday sun of Bali, and by the time most people arrived, we were already done exploring. We are budget travellers, and carefully pick our restaurants based on what we can afford, if suddenly an extra 15% is added to your bill this could take money away from planned activities or other meals! Sometimes, its 2x the cost for the local residents. Or perhaps looking for that stunning villa with private swimming pool? Youll also see them around the temple area and in the mountains. To find these restaurants, we usually do a quick search on Google Maps for nearby restaurants from our current location and also ask locals for their suggestions. Plastic is an issue in Bali. If you dont plan to buy anything, please do not bargain and walk away. Expect crowds. They are affordable and oh so delicious! Nusa Islands are three islands south of the mainland. Bali is home to crazy, crazy traffic, and even out of rush hour, just a few kilometres of driving will take much longer than #2 consider moto-taxis - but with caution! As with ice, we have them in the Indonesian dessert, cendol, from restaurants. Kuta has swiftly become Bali's most popular beach town, and with that title comes the responsibility of feeding and entertaining flocks of visitors. 22 Incredibly Useful Things to Know Before WebEverything you need to know about Bali before you go is covered in this video. 1 attraction in this town is Kuta Beach. Due to chaotic traffic and religious ceremonies we have been rerouted or extremely delayed. The unfamiliar sights, scents, and tastes. 20 Things to Know Before You But feel free to jump to any section that interests you: Look out for online discounts and happy hour deals to keep your bank balance happy. The monkeys will grab anything new and shiny from sunglasses, cell phones, hats, and even food. You can visit a new waterfall every day while youre in Bali as there are several dozens to visit. Its still possible to visit Bali on a shoestring by staying in guesthouses, dining at warungs and shopping at local markets, but you can just as easily blow your life savings. In addition, youll need to account for the travel time between locations. Many travelers recommend hiring a local guide once you reach one of its small lakeside towns or arranging a daytrip through your hotel in advance. Nice photos. By submitting a comment, you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website. 16 essential tips for planning a trip to Bali, Indonesia 1. Where Is Bali Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Welcome to Life Of Doing! Visa on Arrival applies for others for a fee (extendable once). Bali's got it. We also hope you get a chance to visit Bali. Refer to the Privacy Policy and Disclaimer for more information. You may opt to donate or smile and politely decline. It does not store any personal data. All visitors need to cover their shoulders and legs and wear a sarong. Before you head out on your daily excursions, stop by the ATM to get cash. Tip: Stay hydrated so you dont get heatstroke. Be warned though, the sewer system in Bali is not made to handle toilet paper and tissues and it is therefore not uncommon to find signs above the toilet asking you to put the tissues in the bin instead! Travelers suggest arriving at the beach early to stake your claim to some sand, as the area typically gets crowded as the day progresses. With Grab, there are pick-up locations at the airport! There have been terrorist attacks and natural disasters in Bali, and with around six million tourists hitting its shores every year, its realistic that some travelers may run into difficulties. From Kuta Beach to Lovina Beach in North Bali, itll take 2 hours 40 minutes (86 kilometers/53 miles). After visiting the island, you may regret having more time on the island. Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. We highly recommend that you stay in, would be even better as you can explore more of the island and visit neighboring islands, such as Gili Islands (Gili Air, Gili Meno, and. No public transportation means arranging your own transport, and renting taxis or tour services can get quite expensive, depending on how much you want to go and see! This gives you 30 days (updated December 2016). Bring, distribute, take, or leave with any type of illegal substance (drugs)! Find your perfect spot with the help of Lonely Planet's 'first time Bali' guide. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. With Grab, there are pick-up locations at the airport! Web14. The unfamiliar sights, scents, and tastes. Go slightly off the beaten path, avoid the Bali Crowds, and explore places such as Sidemen, Lovina and Amed. Choose your base carefully. Cruise insurance can protect your investment in the event of cancellations, delays, lost luggage and more. Once you depart the airport, youll be swarmed by drivers (unofficial taxi drivers) who will want your service. This article was first published May 2019 and updated January 2021. This gives you 30 days (updated December 2016). Outside Balinese homes and other 3. Keep a close eye on travel advisories. 2. Unfortunately, our driver has decided to focus on his coffee shop and photography, but he has a friend who still offers driving services. Others were disappointed with the restricted temple access. VISA. Another option is to either round up your bill, or to simply put a small tip in the tipping jar that you will find in almost any cafe or restaurant in Bali these days. By the end of this list, youll be travelling in Bali like a pro! The best way to get the most value for your accommodation is by using AirBnB. The Location of Bali, Indonesia. Do not make the mistake of only staying in the beach areas such as Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu! 12 things to know before going to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Everything you need to know before visiting Grand Canyon National Park, The best time to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park for foliage, fog and more, 8 of the best places to visit in Singapore, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. The best news is that you dont have to pay extra for the data! You can bargain for many items and services in Bali, but do so respectfully and with a smile on your face. Traveling between cities, or even public washrooms in restaurants often dont have any toilet paper. I'm notorious for getting lost, so you may see me circling a place a few times. Things Appreciate the support. Discounts can be great, but if you end up spending your holiday cooped up indoors, you may be left wondering if making the trip was worth it. To get out of Bali is 200,000RP approx. Its one of the best things to know before traveling to Bali. WebWe are going to inform everything you need to know about Bali Indonesia including history, culture, geography, language, foods, visa, religion, life style, tourism and much more. *. Driving a motorbike will allow you the opportunity to squeeze between cars and zip around the traffic. Help reduce this figure by investing in a stainless steel bottle that you can refill; most good cafes and restaurants have a water filter available that you can use for free or for a small fee. 22 Incredibly Useful Things to Know Before You Visit Bali ALONG DUSTY ROADS. Its valid for 30 days and can be extended for another 30 days (with a sponsor letter). Its valid for 30 days and can be extended for another 30 days (with a sponsor letter). This will be helpful if you decide to use ride-hailing services or need to use data for GPS. Check out some of our guides for some ideas of which beautiful Bali sights you should add to your itinerary: Planning your trip or perhaps your Bali itinerary? When we first arrived in Bali there were so many things that we learned throughout our trip, things we wished we would have know in advance as they would have not only saved us time, but probably also money. about Bali Well, were here to tell you. While dodgy prawns will always be out there, by staying hydrated, avoiding notorious local liquor arak, and consuming street food with a degree of caution, the dreaded Bali belly should be kept at bay. WebBali (Menjangan, Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan) is a scuba divers paradise. It can be difficult to escape the throngs insouthern Bali and Ubud, but determined solitude seekers will be pleased to find loads of secluded corners beyond these primary tourist centers. Explore Bali Kites Protectors in the Sky Explore The Balian Healer Connecting with the mysticism of Bali's culture Explore A big example of respecting local customs is when visiting the many temples of Bali. 2 Things To Remember At Bali Airport. Bali Sunrise Trekking and Tour receives favorable reviews from past visitors, as does the Mt Batur Sunrise Trekking company. Instead they have a bum gun, a pressured water hose that you can use to clean yourself. VISA. Wildflowers, snow-capped mountains or fall foliage? No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. It pays to put some thought into your Bali base, as chaotic traffic and hot weather are 3. Here are some surprising need-to-know facts about your favourite holiday destination. #1 crazy traffic. Where Is Bali Besakih, also known as the Mother Temple, is the largest and most sacred temple in Bali and one of the most touristy temples on the island. Traveling to Bali, Indonesia for the first time? It pays to put some thought into your Bali base, as chaotic traffic and hot weather are 3. Its too gorgeous. Travelers, too, are welcome to enter the water, known for being a holy mountain spring. A single-day admission costs 535,000 rupiahs for adults (around $37) and 385,000 for children (around $27); however, this does not include rental rates for towels, lockers, gazebos or other amenities. Hi Lisa. One thing we can tell from experience, dont trust Google Maps when it comes to travel times in Bali. ride-hailing services and taxi industry are rivals, A Visitors Guide to Phu Quy Island, Vietnam, 5 Affordable Places to Eat in Seminyak, Bali, 7 Budget-Friendly Places to Stay in Seminyak, Bali. We loved Bali so much that we went here twice within a year! , Hi, about Bali We hear you ask. More than 100 dive centers and great dive spots; Bali may have the most spas. But don't think that you'll have this isolated sanctuary to yourself. Before you arrive in Bali, check if you need a visa. About Bali Pack light, wear light! Food is affordable if you decide to stick to the small warungs (local cafes and restaurants) for Indonesian and Balinese food. Bali has got a pleasant, tropical climate all-year-round with warm temperatures around 28 degrees Celsius on average. It depends on where youre staying. Fun? The cost of the visa is 500,000 IDR ($35 USD). However, Bali has so much more to offer. Recent travelers were impressed by not only the calm water at this beach but also the colorful display of kites flying high in the sky. Weather. Since weve traveled to many parts of the island from North to South and explored the top attractions, we want to share with you tips on what to expect on your first trip to Bali. Lonely Planet's Natural World invites you to reconnect with nature in this sweeping look at the cultural, ecological and historical significance of our world's remaining natural places. Though many travelers were impressed with the stunning views, they also warned that this is not a good place to come for peace and quiet as it is usually crawling with tourists, especially around sunset. Travelers were also impressed with the cleanliness of the park and the service from the staff. Bali Your GP or a travel clinic will often be able to advise you on the specifics of bringing malaria tablets, how to prevent mosquito bites and the risk of dengue fever in the Bali region. The cost of the visa is 500,000 IDR ($35 USD). This article was first published in July 2009, and last updated in January 2021. If its the time of the month, then they will not be able to enter. #3 don't drink the water. If you want to shop up a storm and eat more than your body weight in fine food, a week on Nusa Lembongan isn't likely to leave you fully satiated. Now, lets dive into this list of Bali travel tips to help you with your future Bali planning. You can access the beach free of charge all day, every day. Once upon a time, Jimbaran was a quiet and quaint fishing village with an equally humble shoreline but that's no longer the case. Bubbling volcanoes. While there are several shrines and other structures on the premises, the temple's tranquility is best seen in the large rectangular pool at the complex's center. The bills are different colors so itll be easier to organize in your wallet. Bali WebBali (Menjangan, Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan) is a scuba divers paradise. Note: Please also bring your documentation for proof of COVID vaccinations. Web20 Things to Know Before You Go to Bali. First time Bali: where to eat, stay and play, A guide to Bali's best spas and chill-out spots, 14 amazing places in the USA for a summer vacation. Discounted hotel rooms, unique tree houses, and complete villas for you and all your friends, nothing is impossible on Bali. Accept Read More, Traveling to Bali, Indonesia for the first time? Records the default button state of the corresponding category & the status of CCPA. We hear you ask. In Bali they drive on the left hand side This might be a surprise to you, it might not be, but in Bali they drive on 2. For long-stay tourists, the cost of living in Bali is that it will vary depending on where youre staying. Were fans of Sekumpul Waterfall and Banyumala Twin Waterfalls. Iconic rice paddies. 22 Incredibly Useful Things to Know Before Recent visitors said the beach here is soft and the swimming conditions are great. Check if you need a visa before arrival. If youre reading this, please do not use AirBnB for booking in Bali, do a quick search of the property youre interested in and find the owner and initiate contact directly. WebEverything you need to know about Bali before you go is covered in this video. The islands, Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan, are easy to get to from Bali as its only 20-30 minutes away by speedboat. As we are no medical advisors or doctors, we strongly advise you to get in contact with your doctor regarding this matter. On our blog, we focus on affordable travel itineraries, stories, and adventures that you can take while maintaining your working professional life. We had a driver for our time in Bali and will highly recommend having one. Hope the Bali borders re-opens soon! 1. Bali for First Timers: 21 Things to Know Before You Go! Depending on when youre visiting Bali, the island. about Bali There are also many stalls with vendors nearby selling everything from food and drinks to souvenirs. Iconic rice paddies. Come with U.S. News on a tour of L'Ermitage Beverly Hills in Los Angeles, Come with U.S. News on a tour of the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills in Los Angeles, Come with U.S. News on a tour of The Peninsula Beverly Hills in Los Angeles, Come with U.S. News on a tour of Hotel Bel-Air in Los Angeles, Come with U.S. News on a tour of The Beverly Hills Hotel in Los Angeles. As of May 2022, the exchange rate is $1 USD = 14,570 IDR. For a magical experience (or at least one without hordes of other tourists), get to the Tegallalang Rice Terrace before about 11 a.m., according to recent travelers. About Bali The shrines are each about 25 feet tall, and thought to be memorials to Bali's 11th-century royals. Check if you need a visa before arrival. The pattern element in the name contains the unique identity number of the account or website it relates to. Explore Bali Kites Protectors in the Sky Explore The Balian Healer Connecting with the mysticism of Bali's culture Explore 1. By the end of this list, youll be travelling in Bali like a pro! But not everyone is a big fan of the bum gun, and for that reason we would advise you to either bring some tissues or toilet paper. Weve used this service since 2016 and love how you can get data at 200+ international countries. Balis heat and humidity call for constant hydration, but consider the environment before purchasing another bottled drink. I was there for 2 weeks and felt like I only saw a small portion. 1. Some, however, say that the vendors hawking massage services can be a bit obnoxious and that in recent times, the beach has gotten a little dirty. Try selamat pagi (good morning), tolong (please) and terima kasih (thank you), for starters.