Welcome to your essential Bali survival guide!

This handbook equips you with 99 insider

tips to help you navigate the island like a local, avoid common pitfalls, and maximize your
vacation experience. Whether planning your trip or seeking the best-hidden gems, you'll
find invaluable advice to enhance every aspect of your stay. From mastering local
transportation to enjoying Bali's rich culture and vibrant nightlife, get ready to transform
your journey into an unforgettable adventure. Dive into Bali with confidence and
excitement—your ultimate island experience awaits!
Welcome to Bali Top 99 Insider Tips

Smart Travel Planning Getting Around

Where To Stay SOS!

 WELCOME TO

Located in the middle of the world's largest

archipelago, Bali is Indonesia's most well known
island. Its rich traditions, breathtaking nature,
colorful ceremonies, and unique culture make it
stand out from its neighbors. With an average year
round temperature of around 27C (80F), an open-
minded culture, access to modern bars, luxurious
spas and sandy beaches it is no wonder that many
simply get addicted to the Island.

Although Indonesia is the largest muslim dominated

country in the world, Bali is unique with its mostly Hindu culture which permeates all aspects of
everyday life. Ceremonies are held almost every day, celebrating the cycles of the moon,
holidays, birth, marriage, coming of age, and passing away. Traditional clothing is still commonly
worn, and visitors are often surprised by the daily 'canang sari' offerings to Gods and demons
that are found everywhere on sidewalks, shrines, stores, and homes.

Bali is celebrated as a wellness haven, enticing weary travelers with its affordable massages, spa
treatments, and idyllic beach settings perfect for sipping cocktails and watching sunsets. The
island caters to a variety of interests, making it challenging for visitors to choose from the
plethora of activities available. In addition to relaxation, Bali's rich cultural tapestry is vividly
showcased through regular performances of traditional dances and gamelan music, particularly
in Ubud where tradition meets daily life through rituals and practices like traditional medicine.

Adventure and nightlife are also prominent features of the Bali experience. The island offers
exceptional watersports, including world-class scuba diving and snorkeling at sites like
Menjangan and the USS Liberty shipwreck at Tulamben. Surfers of all levels will find perfect waves,
while trekkers and mountain bikers can explore the cooler mountainous regions. For those
seeking lively evening entertainment, southern Bali, especially Kuta and Seminyak, buzzes with
vibrant nightlife, featuring numerous bars, clubs, and fine dining, complemented by a diverse
shopping scene where local and global fashion is abundantly available.
 BALI

You might be thinking about coming to Bali, you might have booked your flight, or you might
already be on the Island. Whichever stage you are on your travel plan, here are some valuable
information and tips that will help you to have a great time on Bali and to avoid some of the traps
one could step into, but would rather avoid.

Based on our experience it is advisable to start with the following when planning your trip to Bali:

KNOW YOUR BUDGET

When planning a trip to Bali, it's essential to set a rough budget for various expenses
including accommodation, meals, drinks, and activities. Consider your transportation
needs as well, whether it's renting a scooter, using taxis, or hiring a car with a driver. You
can manage on a shoestring budget or indulge in luxury. Regardless of spending level,
from $20 to $1000 per night, Bali is renowned for offering excellent value for money,
ensuring travelers often receive more than they expect.

DEFINE YOUR GENERAL INTEREST

Whether you travel alone, with friends and family, or with children, you
should have a general idea about what you are looking for. Culture,
Nature & Sightseeing, Action & Sport, Watersport & Diving, Culinary
Adventures, Chilling, Party & Clubbing, Shopping. Some of it? All of it?

THE AREAS
With this in mind we suggest you read up on the areas and what they offer or better
"what they stand for". First read about the 7 main areas and look at the map. Then dive
into the smaller areas such as Seminyak, Kuta, Ubud, Sanur etc., once you know
generally what area suits you. Depending on your length of stay you might consider to
move a few times within Bali. This is actually an excellent way of getting around and
exploring the different "faces" of Bali.
 BALI

For a 2 weeks holiday, following itinerary is a kind of a magic mix that

worked for many travelers extremely well over the years:

3-5 nights in the south or South East (Kuta, Seminyak, Legian,

Canggu, Bukit, Ungasan. Sanur, Padang Bai, Candi Das, etc); getting
used to climate, arriving, some beach time, maybe water sport, one
temple visit, going out, wine and dine.

3-5 nights Ubud or near Ubud; time for sightseeing, art and nature.
Explore culture and art, day trips to volcano, temples, rice fields lakes,
some shopping and chilling in cafés, yoga, rafting.

2-3 nights Lembongan or Ceningan Island (30min by speed boat

from Sanur); for snorkeling, diving, exploring "Bali" like it was 30 years
ago.

2-4 nights in another place in the South different from first stop; for
some dining, shopping, days at pool and beach, leisure.

WEATHER AND SEASONS

Depending on the time of the year you wish to travel,or can get your days off from work, you can
experience a different Bali altogether. The best time to travel is the dry season: mid March to mid
October. Although even during rainy season you can sometimes have fantastic weather with
almost no rain.

Avoid if you can: Easter, Christmas, July and August. These are Bali's high season, prices are up
and the island is much more crowded.
 BALI

KNOW YOUR BUDGET

The Island of the Gods, Bali, provides an extensive variety of accommodations that cater to all
tastes and budgets. Options range from basic home-stays operated by warm and welcoming
Balinese families, to opulent, privately serviced beachfront villas. Given the vast array of choices,
deciding where to stay can be daunting.

Popular booking platforms like Traveloka.com, Booking.com, and Agoda.com are frequently used
by travelers to find accommodations in Bali. These platforms are known for their reliability in
managing reservations, cancellations, and payments.

THINGS TO DO
The range of activities Bali has to offer is numerous. Once you get tired of the sun and
beach, there is so much more to do and explore. Bali is relatively small and if you
decide to stay in the center around Ubud or in the south around Kuta/Seminyak, most
of the attractions and sightseeing spots can be reached with a day trip. For example, if
youwish to go to Bali Zoo which it's located near Ubud, no need to stay in Ubud to get
there. You can manage that while staying in Seminyak.

Note: If you plan specifically to explore scuba diving, surfing, trekking and hiking then
it's advisable to plan ahead and also read the corresponding chapter, as this might
also effect your choice of location.
 The Kuta and Legian area
is the most developed part
of Bali. It's an ideal place to
find accommodation on a
budget and is within easy
reach of most of the southern parts of Bali. Small
hotels and 'losmen' offer basic rooms with a lot of
personality for a few dollars per day, while some larger
budget hotel chains have sprung up in Kuta and
Legian in recent years, with clean standard rooms
available at great rates. Prices here depend upon
whether hot water, air conditioning, or a pool is
included, and asking for better rates is common.
Cheaper prices are almost always available for longer
stays.

Kuta and Legian are not quiet, by any means, and

visitors who stay here should be prepared for action
and even crowds at all times of day and night. Packed
into the alleys running through this area are an
incredible number of busy restaurants, bars, and
nightclubs, and the beach is never more than a short
walk away. Kuta is a great place to learn to surf, let
your inner party animal run wild and meet new people.

Farther north you will find the more refined Seminyak area. If you
want to be close to the heart of things, but enjoy a bit more
sophisticated accommodation and surroundings, this is the place for
you. Hotels here are slightly more upscale, ranging from affordable
and stylish to luxurious and opulent. Seminyak also has an incredible number of private villas
available for short and long-term stays, often including staff that will cook, clean, and look after
your every need. The hotels and villas in this area are often tucked away from everything else,
offering serenity, calm, and a unique Balinese aesthetic. Seminyak is great for families, with
many world-class but affordable restaurants, clean and pleasant beaches, and fashionably
funky boutiques that will drive shoppers wild withouthurting their bank accounts. Kids' clubs
and indoor play areas are also available, as are nannies at very reasonable prices.
 North of Seminyak, just past
Petitenget, the emerging
area of Canggu is becoming
increasingly popular. Ideal
for travelers who cherish Bali's west coast with its
stunning sunsets, lengthy beach strolls, and superb
surfing waves, Canggu presents a refreshing
alternative for those finding Seminyak too crowded or
expensive. In recent years, a wide range of hotels and
villas have sprung up, alongside a burgeoning scene
of restaurants and shops. Canggu offers a vibe
reminiscent of what Seminyak was like 15 to 20 years
ago. Key attractions in the area now include the
expansive Canggu Club, featuring a bowling alley and
waterpark, and the fashionable Finns Beach Club,
drawing a lively mix of travelers, locals, and
expatriates. Notable spots within Canggu include Echo
Beach, Batu Bolong, and Nelayan.

In the mountains around Ubud, the local accommodations including

guesthouses, hotels, and villas, all share the village's serene ambiance,
deeply rooted in authenticity and art. Backpackers have the option to stay
in comfortable losmen run by local families for
generations, offering a genuine experience of Bali's
rustic traditional life, complete with chickens, playful
children, and the occasional monkey. For those
seeking spiritual enrichment, numerous yoga retreats
and accommodations cater to soul-searching
travelers. Many mid-range hotels provide family-
friendly comfort and style, featuring local stonework,
wood carvings, and fish ponds. Additionally, some of
the world's most opulent hotel chains have established
exquisite retreats in the surrounding mountains, providing unparalleled style and luxury for
those in search of tranquility. Ubud has always been a favored residence for artists and free
thinkers globally, ensuring a variety of long-term accommodations suitable for different
budgets. The heart of Ubud, while centered around meditation, traditional arts, and culture,
remains vibrant, boasting some of the island's top restaurants and a range of shopping
options. Families will find plenty to do among the scenic rice fields and rivers in the area.
 Sanur is one of the oldest
tourist regions in Bali, and yet
has remained calm and
quiet, run according to
traditional principles by a tight-knit group of Balinese
villages. Once the preferred choice of the stars, Sanur
is now more focused on tranquility and relaxation. It is
ideal for families, with a peaceful white sand beach
fronting a calm section of the Indian Ocean that allows
for water sports of all types. Sanur is also a base for
diving and snorkeling. It is a great place to find mid-
range accommodation, an affordably priced beachfront hotel, or a villa for longer stay.
Tradition is strong in the area, which is known as a center for magic, meaning that visitors get a
true taste of Bali while still having access to modern amenities.

Those in search of beachfront luxury will appreciate Nusa Dua, on the

southern tip of the island. Here, the world's foremost hotel operators
have set up lush beachfront compounds, each with its own system of
swimming pools and restaurants. Massages, spa
treatments, kids' clubs, and tasteful boutiquescan all
be found within the groundsof these spacious
properties. Surfing and water sports are also available
in the stretch reaching up to Benoa. While some mid-
range options and private villas are found in this area,
Nusa Dua is really for those who want to enjoy the
finest accommodation in a uniquely Balinese way.

West of Nusa Dua, on the tip of the

southern Bukit Peninsula, is the
Uluwatu area. Lovers of beaches
and sun will enjoy this area, but the focus here is clearly the
world- class surf breaks on this cliff-lined stretch of coast.
Surf-hungry backpackers travelling on a shoestring can find
the most basic accommodation here, often offering only a
bed and a fan, but those who want to enjoy their time out of
the water can also find many mid-range choices, often
owned by local families and including a restaurant or bar
and swimming pool. An increasing number of luxury hotels
are also springing up along the cliffs of the Bukit area, offering upscale accommodation and
incredible views, as well as magnificent villas of the utmost luxury.
 North of Uluwatu is
Jimbaran, home to the
tallest hotel in Bali; The
Jimbaran View. Jimbaran
was a small fishing village before it grew into a tourist
resort, offering spectacular seafood restaurants and
luxury 5 star hotels. There are also many high-end
villas in this area, particularly on the ridges of high
ground above Jimbaran Bay. This has resulted in
monikers such as the "Beverly Hills of Bali" or -
"Millionaire's Row". Lately the area is developing more affordable accommodation. There is
however little in the way of budget accommodation. The bay itself has a pleasant white sand
beach and is very safe for swimming. The three clusters of grilled seafood restaurants on the
beach are a major tourist draw in the evenings, as is the truly stunning sunset. The customers
can selectlive seafood that they wish to eat, and it is immediately prepared, generally grilled
over a for of coconut husks rather then charcoal. Jimbaran has an increasing number of rather
chic shops but there is little or no nightlife here. It has the advantage of being a little closer to
Kuta and Seminyak and the cultural highlights of Central Bali.

Want to get off

the beaten path?
Accommodation
in regions like Candidasa and Amed is
comfortable and suited to families, couples,
or relaxed singles. Here, there is a wide
range of mid-level options, often fronting
the beach and offering snorkeling and
diving. These areas are still quiet, and offer
an amazing opportunity to get away from
the hustle and bustle and enjoy low-key
Bali tranquility. Farther north, in Lovina,
where dolphins can be sighted, and the
calm waves lapping the black sand
beaches are ideal for swimming. Hotels
here are comfortable and peaceful,
offering plenty of quiet and local charm.
1 Both the Free Entry Stamp and the Visa on Arrival are
valid for 30 days—note that both arrival and departure
days are counted as full days.
2 Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months upon
arrival; failure to comply means no travel permitted,
and there are NO EXCEPTIONS.
3 Ensure one page in your passport is blank for the visa
stamp.
4 Retain your boarding pass upon arrival, as you may
need to present it to immigration officials.
5 The Free Entry Stamp cannot be extended.
6 While not required for most, the Visa on Arrival is useful for those wishing to extend
their stay from 30 to 60 days.

7 Most listed prices are plus tax (10%) and a service charge (6-
11%).
8 Bali offers incredible value for money, whether you opt for
street food or fine dining. The options are limitless.
9 Ice cubes in restaurants are typically safe, being government-regulated.
10 A decent meal can be enjoyed for just 3-5 US$.
11 Vegetarian and health foods are increasingly popular, especially in Ubud—try the detox
smoothies.
12 Rooftop bars and beach clubs are becoming ever more popular, and for good reason.
13 Don’t be misled by the name of a venue—always verify its location on the map. The "Kuta Hotel"
might not be in Kuta.
14 When selecting a hotel, pay close attention to maps; proximity to the coast doesn't guarantee
easy beach access.
15 Homestays are available for 10-15 US$ per night.
16 New budget hotels provide clean rooms with air conditioning in larger complexes for around 20
US$.
17 Expect to pay between 70-120 US$ for a room in a four-star hotel or resort.
18 Private, serviced villas are an excellent alternative, offering great value.
19 Each area in Bali is unique; familiarize yourself with different regions before booking.
20 Though prices may be quoted in US$, payments will be converted to Indonesian
Rupiah at checkout.

21 Left-hand traffic on Bali. Tips on handling traffic.

22 Scooter rental costs 5-8US$ per day. Always put safety and
reliability first. Never compromise. Enough people have
serious or fatal accidents. Never hire run down scooters to
save a buck.
23 Keep the mobile no. of the bike rental shop with you. You
might need it.
24 Car with driver for 8-10 hours costs 40-70US$ per day. Make
sure they have a driver's license and the permission to be a
driver (izin, insurance issues) to avoid trouble with the police.
25 Taxis are safe and cheap, but ask them to switch on the
meter, always!
26 Ubud no meter taxis available, transport is organized by
licensed drivers from the village. It's important to bargain!
27 Renting a scooter or car? Bring international driving license
28 Yes, there is UBER and GRAB in Bali. But in many areas drivers
are afraid to go to, because the local communities are
against it and create major trouble.
29 Motorbike Taxis can be arranged through the app Go-Jek. Works well, although also they are
restricted in some areas.

30 Purchase a SIM card at any mobile shop for your smartphone

(approx. 3 US$).
31 For mobile internet, buy a SIM card and select a package (e.g.,
4GB for 1 month costs about 10 US$).
32 Many restaurants offer free Wi-Fi.
33 SIM cards are available immediately upon exiting the international airport.
34 Mobile credit is referred to as pulsa.
35 Hotel phones are largely obsolete; WhatsApp and Skype are the preferred
methods for inexpensive communication.
36 Most hotels provide free Wi-Fi; check availability in rooms as well as public
areas.
37 Internet speeds can be slow; streaming videos or transferring large files
may not be feasible.
38 Bali is renowned for scuba diving, with notable sites at Amed,
Tulamben, Padang Bai, and the Nusa Islands.
39 The island boasts the world's highest density of spas.
40 Hour-long full-body massages start at 7 US$, but luxury hotels
and spas may charge up to 60 US$ per hour.
41 Options for nail and hair salons, massage parlors, and even
cosmetic medical centers range from basic to high-end.
42 Surfing lessons are available at beaches like Kuta, Legian, and
Seminyak.
43 Bali offers surfing opportunities for all skill levels throughout
the year.
44 Must-visit temples include Uluwatu, Tanah Lot, and Besakih.
45 Engage with nature and Balinese culture through activities like
volcano climbing, downhill cycling, or village hikes.
46 Include Ubud in your itinerary for a rich cultural experience.
47 Ubud is also a shopping haven for art, handicrafts, essential
oils, clothes, and more.
48 During Nyepi (Day of Silence), the entire island, including hotels and the airport, shuts down; no
check-ins or check-outs are permitted.
49 Dive in areas like Nusa Penida and Lembongan to see marine life like Manta Rays and Mola
Mola.
50 Planning a wedding in Bali is straightforward with local companies offering comprehensive
services.
51 Avoid smiling at monkeys in the forest or temples as showing teeth is a sign of aggression.
52 Water sports such as jet skiing and parasailing are available at Benoa.
53 Nearby islands like Lembongan, Ceningan, and Nusa Penida are less than an hour's boat ride
from Sanur and offer a paradisiacal escape.

54 Sidewalks become particularly slippery when it rains.

55 Be cautious of large, unnoticeable holes in sidewalks at night.
56 When driving a scooter, moderate your speed to avoid daily
occurring fatal accidents.
57 Loose gravel is common; expect unexpected crossings by animals and other vehicles.
58 Never drink and drive to ensure your safety and return from Bali.
59 Be wary of strong sea currents that pose risks even to proficient swimmers.
60 Avoid night swimming under the influence; it often leads to fatal outcomes.
61 Be vigilant of natural hazards at the beach, such as rip currents and strong waves, especially
when children are present.
62 Steer clear of drug use; penalties are severe and not worth the risk.
63 While crime rates are relatively low in Bali, staying vigilant is advisable.
64 Prostitution is illegal and engaging with it risks exposure to HIV, which is prevalent in this group.
65 Exercise caution in Kuta nightclubs where security may respond unpredictively.
66 Topless sunbathing is prohibited on beaches.
67 While the Balinese are tolerant, they disapprove of disrespectful behaviors like shirtlessness in
public places and excessive public displays of affection.
68 Protect yourself from mosquitoes using nets and repellents to avoid dengue fever.
69 Nightlife areas, like elsewhere, can attract crime; maintain awareness and drink responsibly.
70 Always cover the ATM keypad when entering your PIN to protect against fraud.
71 As a general safety tip, avoid dubious areas; if somewhere feels unsafe, choose an alternative
location.

72 Bali faces significant environmental challenges such as trash

management, water scarcity, and traffic congestion.
73 Conserve water by taking shorter showers.
74 Be mindful of your trash; poor waste management means most
refuse remains on the island or ends up in the ocean.
75 Avoid single-use plastics like bottles, straws, and bags.
76 Many Balinese workers earn modest wages, work long hours, and
support extended families with their income.
77 The local population is extremely hospitable; respecting their
customs and their island enhances your experience.
78 If issues arise, address them calmly and politely to facilitate
resolutions.

79 Kuta is lively at night, attracting a vibrant party scene.

80 Seminyak is known for its upscale clubs and beach clubs.
81 Ubud offers a laid-back atmosphere with art galleries,
quaint shops, excellent food, and a focus on healthy living
and yoga.
82 Lembongan Island resembles Bali as it was decades ago,
offering a serene getaway.
83 Sanur is quieter, slightly more upscale, with calm beaches
and quality beachside restaurants featuring live music.
84 Indonesian clove cigarettes, known as Kretek, are popular
and widely smoked.
85 Bali experiences a rainy season from October to February and a dry season from March to
September, influencing travel plans.
86 The island, including Lembongan, is a top surfing destination in Asia.
87 Amed is favored by scuba divers and is home to the renowned Japanese shipwreck dive site.
88 Nusa Dua is characterized by its five-star resorts.
89 Jimbaran is famed for its nightly seafood BBQs on the beach.
90 The Bukit Peninsula in the south is a surfer’s haven, less explored but well worth the visit with
spots like Padang Padang Beach and Uluwatu.

91 Major credit cards like Visa and MasterCard are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and
shops, with a typical surcharge of 1 - 4%.
92 ATMs are widely available, although less so in remote areas.
93 Foreign currencies such as US dollars, Australian dollars, and euros are easily exchanged.
94 Opt for reputable money changers to avoid scams; small, questionable-looking places are often
unreliable.
95 Prices may be listed in US dollars, but payment is usually in Indonesian Rupiah, and hotel
exchange rates may not be favorable.
96 It's advisable to carry a mix of cash, a credit card, and a standard bank card.
97 ATM withdrawal limits vary; machines labeled with a 50,000 sticker allow a maximum of
1,500,000 per transaction, while those with a 100,000 sticker permit up to 3,000,000.
98 Traveler's checks are largely outdated and seldom used.
99 Bargaining is customary with street vendors, but it's important to be fair and respect their
livelihoods.
Indonesia, like many former colonial territories in Asia, drives on the left-hand side. Driving in
Bali can be a stark contrast to driving in Australia, Europe, or the USA. Southeast Asian traffic
can be daunting for newcomers, and Bali is no different. If you're inexperienced with driving in
hectic cities like Jakarta, Bangkok, or Kuala Lumpur, you'll need some time to adapt. The
experience isn't overwhelmingly difficult, but it isn't straightforward either.

Drivers often pull out from side streets without looking, operating under the assumption that
you'll see them and react accordingly. When overtaking, always use your horn to signal your
approach, as drivers may not see you and could shift their position unpredictably. The
unwritten rule here is to be vigilant and adapt quickly. Driving slower is generally safer.
Never drink and drive!

Honking means: Please notice me!

Expect many narrow roads with few signs
Be prepared to share the road with dogs, chickens, and cows
Sudden lane changes are common
Expect varying road conditions
Watch for roads closed for processions
Traffic rarely exceeds 30-40km/h
On main roads (Jl. Bypass) speeds can reach 60-70km/h
Expect heavy congestion during rush hours
 Main Emergency = 112 (like 911)
Ambulance = 118
Police = 110
Fire Dpt. = 113
Search & Rescue = 111, 115, 151

In case of emergency !

You need to be aware of dialling procedures, how to use the local area codes when calling the
emergency assistance services listed below. In hospitals and police stations in the south near
the main tourism areas, people will understand you, when you speak in English. If you need
assistance in a remote location, you should bring somebody along who speaks Indonesian.

Dialing Procedure

If you have a mobile with Local SIM dial first 0361 (South Bali)
If you have international SIM dial first+62 361
Via Landline dial directly the emergency number

Calling an Ambulance?
Most times it will be faster to get a cab, Gocar, grab-car etc and drive to the nearest hospital or
medical centre than calling an ambulance.

Balinese are always ready to help so if you are in an emergency don’t hesitate to ask for
assistance!
Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.
Collect memories that outshine any material treasure,
and let every journey feed your soul.

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