FAQ

The best time to visit Bali is generally during the dry season, which runs from May to October.

If you’re traveling to Bali for a vacation of up to 30 days, you can get a Visa on Arrival (VoA) or apply for an electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VoA) online.

There’s so much to see in Bali—it’s a fantastic mix of nature, culture, relaxation, and adventure. Here’s a list of top spots you shouldn’t miss:

1. Tanah Lot
   • Famous sea temple on a cliff, stunning at sunset 🌅
   • Located close to your villa (bonus!)

2. Uluwatu Temple
   • Located in the south, with breathtaking cliff views
   • Nightly Kecak fire dance performances during sunset

3. Tegallalang Rice Terraces
   • Iconic green scenery near Ubud
   • Great for photos + try the famous Bali swing over the valley

4. Ubud
   • The spiritual heart of Bali—temples, galleries, yoga studios
   • Visit the Monkey Forest, local markets, and cozy cafes

5. Waterfalls
   • Tibumana, Sekumpul, or Gitgit—beautiful and refreshing, often hidden in the jungle

6. Nusa Penida & Nusa Lembongan Islands
   • Day trips by boat—crystal-clear water, cliffs, and the dinosaur-shaped Kelingking Beach
   • Snorkeling with manta rays available

7. Spas and wellness
   • Bali is a wellness paradise—try a traditional Balinese massage or a flower bath 🌸

8. Mount Batur Sunrise Hike
   • Easy night trek, rewarded with a magical sunrise over the volcano and lake

9. Balinese Cuisine
   • Don’t miss out on:
   o Nasi Goreng (fried rice)
   o Mie Goreng (fried noodles)
   o Babi Guling (roast suckling pig—Balinese specialty)
   o Fresh tropical fruit juices

10. Beaches and Surfing
    • Seminyak, Canggu, Uluwatu—each with its own vibe
    • Great for both beginners and experienced surfers

1. Scooter (most popular option)
   • Most flexible and affordable
   • Ideal for solo travelers or couples
   • Cost: approx. 4–7 USD/day
   • Requires international driver’s license (class A) and helmet
   • Great for Ubud, Canggu, and Seminyak
   Traffic can be intense in some areas—recommended for experienced riders only.

2. Car with driver
   • Comfortable, safe, and hassle-free
   • Perfect for full-day island tours
   • Drivers often double as local guides
   • Cost: approx. 32–60 USD / half-day to full-day
   • Ideal for families or those who want a relaxing trip

3. Taxis & Ride Apps (GoJek, Grab)
   • Similar to Uber—fast, reliable, and cheap
   • Available for both car and scooter rides
   • Can also order food, groceries, massages, etc.
   In some tourist areas (e.g., near temples), app use may be restricted by local taxi unions.

4. Shuttle buses & minivans (Perama, Kura-Kura Bus)
   • Budget-friendly transport between major towns
   • Operates on a fixed schedule—less flexibility

5. Walking or biking
   • Great for short distances, e.g., Ubud or beach areas
   Be cautious of traffic and heat while biking

BONUS: Flights
If you’re planning to visit nearby islands like Lombok, Flores, or Java, you can catch a flight from Denpasar Airport.

Yes, Bali is generally considered a safe destination and is one of the most popular places in Southeast Asia. Still, here are a few tips to ensure a worry-free stay:

Safe aspects:
• Friendly locals – Balinese people are warm, welcoming, and used to tourists
• Low crime – Violent crime is rare, and tourist areas are generally safe even at night
• Healthcare – Good private clinics available (e.g., BIMC Hospital in Kuta or Ubud)

Caution advised for:
• Pickpocketing – Watch your belongings in crowded places (e.g., Denpasar, Kuta)
• Scooter riding – Accidents are common. Be experienced, wear a helmet, and have valid documents
• Natural risks – Occasional earthquakes or volcanic activity, usually not dangerous. Stay updated locally
• Tap water – Not drinkable. Use bottled water for drinking and even brushing teeth
• Animals – Avoid stray dogs and monkeys (e.g., Monkey Forest), as they may be aggressive

Visiting temples and sacred sites
• Always wear a sarong (waist cloth), sometimes also a scarf over the shoulders – usually provided at temple entrances
• Women should not enter temples during menstruation – considered impure
• Never stand or sit higher than a priest or sacred object – don’t sit on altars
• Photos are usually allowed, but always ask first

Shoes and indoor manners
• Take off your shoes when entering homes or traditional accommodations
• Don’t touch people’s heads – the head is considered sacred

Dining and social behavior
• Eating with hands is common – use your right hand (left is considered unclean)
• When visiting locals, bring a small gift (e.g., fruit or sweets)
• Always give or receive food and gifts with your right hand or both hands

Religious life
• Respect offerings to gods (canang sari) – small baskets with flowers, rice, and incense found on sidewalks or steps. Don’t step on them, even if they’re everywhere

Food and drink
• Local warungs (traditional eateries): 2-3 USD/meal
• Tourist restaurants: 5-12 USD/meal
• Coffee at a café: 2-4 USD
• Bintang beer: 2-4 USD per bottle

Transport
• Scooter rental: approx. 4-7 USD/day
• Grab/Gojek (ride apps): usual ride 1-5 USD
• Private driver per day: 32-55 USD

Entrance fees and activities
• Temple entrance: 1-4 USD
• Massages: from 5 USD (basic), 14+ USD (luxury spa)
• Guided tours / rafting / trekking: 23-69 USD
• Surf lesson: 14-37 USD

Other expenses
• SIM card with data (30 GB): approx. 7-12 USD
• Souvenirs, clothes, handmade crafts – varies, but bargaining is common!

No vaccinations are mandatory for Bali, but some are strongly recommended for your safety and comfort:

Recommended vaccinations:
• Hepatitis A – strongly advised (spread via contaminated food/water)
• Hepatitis B – recommended for longer stays or risk activities
• Typhoid – recommended if traveling outside tourist areas
• Tetanus, diphtheria, whooping cough – check if your routine vaccines are up to date
• Rabies – if staying long-term or in contact with animals
• Japanese Encephalitis – for rural travel during rainy season

Health tips:
• Bring a basic first-aid kit (for diarrhea, fever, pain, disinfectant, etc.)
• Drink only bottled water
• Avoid ice unless from a reputable establishment

Currency and payments
• Currency: The official currency is Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Cash is widely accepted; credit cards are usable in larger establishments
• ATMs: Widely available, but may charge high fees – carry enough cash
• Currency exchange: Be cautious of small money changers offering bad rates or scams

Health and hygiene
• Tap water: Never drink from the tap. Use bottled water, even for brushing teeth
• Food and drinks: Stick to well-prepared food. Be cautious with street food if you have a sensitive stomach. Avoid ice unless in reputable places
• Vaccines: Hepatitis A/B, typhoid, and rabies recommended. Use mosquito repellent (for dengue and malaria prevention)

Culture and customs
• Respect: Bali is predominantly Hindu—be mindful of traditions and religious practices
• Bargaining: Common at markets and small shops. Be polite and patient when negotiating

Weather
• Climate: Tropical. Dry season (May–October) is ideal for visiting—warm weather, minimal rain. Rainy season (Nov–April) brings tropical downpours, but it’s still warm
• Clothing: Pack light and comfy clothes. If visiting temples, bring a scarf or sarong to cover knees

Safety
• Health risks: Travelers’ diarrhea or dengue fever are possible. Bring meds and insect repellent
• Pickpockets: Be cautious in tourist areas (e.g., Kuta, Ubud)—keep valuables safe

Basic phrases
• Hello – Selamat pagi
• Thank you – Terima kasih
• How much does it cost? – Berapa harganya?
• Can I get the bill? – Bisa minta bill?
• Toilet – Toilet

Internet connection
• Wi-Fi: Free in most hotels, restaurants, and cafes, though signal may be weak in remote areas
• Mobile data: Affordable and accessible. Buy a local SIM card for reliable connection

Money and shopping
• Markets: Bali is famous for local markets and handicrafts—batik, wood carvings, jewelry, and more. Bargaining is expected but be respectful
• Prices: Bali is generally affordable, though tourist zones may be pricier