Info & Travel Tips for Bali 🌴✈️
Whether you’re visiting Bali for the first time or returning for another island escape, these essential travel tips and insights will help make your journey smooth and unforgettable.
🌍 General Info:
- Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
- Language: Bahasa Indonesia (English widely spoken in tourist areas)
- Time Zone: GMT +8
- Visa: Visa on Arrival (VoA) is available for many nationalities—valid for 30 days.
- Electricity: 230V, European-style two-pin plugs (Type C & F)
- Best Time to Visit: April–October (dry season)
✈️ Arrival & Airport Tips:
- Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) is the main entry point, located near Kuta.
- Airport Transfers: Arrange airport pickup in advance to avoid overpriced taxi fares.
- SIM Cards: Purchase a local SIM card at the airport for affordable internet access (Telkomsel & XL are recommended).
🏖️ Cultural Tips:
- Dress modestly when visiting temples—sarongs are often provided at entrances.
- Always use your right hand when giving or receiving items.
- Avoid touching anyone’s head, as it’s considered sacred.
- Don’t step on offerings (called canang sari) on the streets.
💳 Money & Payments:
- Cash is king in rural areas and small businesses.
- ATMs are widely available but may charge international withdrawal fees.
- Credit cards are accepted in major restaurants, hotels, and stores.
🚗 Transportation:
- Grab/Gojek apps are reliable for ride-hailing.
- Scooter rentals are popular, but traffic is chaotic—only rent if you have experience.
- Private drivers are affordable for full-day tours and offer local insights.
🏥 Health & Safety:
- Drink bottled water only.
- Use mosquito repellent, especially in rural or forested areas.
- Travel insurance is highly recommended.
- Avoid swimming in rough ocean conditions—some beaches have strong rip currents.
🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs:
- Haggling is expected in traditional markets.
- Great souvenirs include batik fabrics, silver jewelry, wood carvings, Luwak coffee, and Balinese essential oils.
🙌 Etiquette & Respect:
- Balinese are friendly and polite—return smiles and greetings.
- Don’t enter temple areas during menstruation—this is a local custom.
- Always ask permission before photographing people or ceremonies.