Welcome to Bali

Bali is often referred to as the “Island of the Gods” due to its strong spiritual aura. Bali is a popular tourist destination known for its spiritual and wellness retreats, iconic rice terraces, beaches and active volcanoes. Bali is located in Southeast Asia, part of Indonesia’s Lesser Sunda Islands. It lies between the islands of Java and Lombok. The island is relatively small, covering an area of about 5,780 square kilometers (2,230 square miles). Balinese culture is deeply influenced by Hinduism, which sets it apart from the predominantly Muslim culture of the rest of Indonesia. The island is home to thousands of temples, ranging from small village shrines to grand complexes like Besakih. Religious ceremonies are an integral part of daily life.

Best Things To Do

Bali Instagram Tour

This private & all inclusive tour takes you to the most famous and Instagram-worthy spots in Bali like the Lempuyang Temple and Tegalalang Rice Terrace.

Waterbom Bali

Exciting water slides slice through 3.8 hectares of landscaped tropical parks providing hours of fun and entertainment for the young and young at heart!

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

This sanctuary is home to over 1,200 monkeys. As you walk alongside them, you can also check out all the elaborate temples in the area.

Tegalalang Rice Terrace

A UNESCO World Heritage site, comprises of cascading rice fields. Also visit the nearby Bali Pulina plantation and the mountain-edge swings.

Royal Karangasem Heritage Tour

Visit some of its most important shrines and palaces. Your day trip includes entrance fees, a guide and round-trip transport from your hotel.

Private Snorkeling

Private Snorkeling Boat accompanied by a Snorkeling Instructor. Snorkel at Manta Bay, Gamat Bay and Crystal Bay, ending with an Indonesian lunch.

Accommodation

Padma Resort Ubud

Five-star amenities and stunning views from every room, an 89-metre infinity swimming pool and signature world-class dining venues.

The Anvaya Beach Resort Bali

Featuring 495 modern and spacious Guest rooms, Suites and Villa with the highest standards of facilities, amenities, and professional service.

IHG Hotel

Offering 430 spacious rooms overlooking the stunning Jimbaran Bay, the luxury resort is designed for business or leisure travelers.

Things To Consider

Language

Indonesian (Bahasa Indonesia) is the official language of the country but the local language spoken in Bali is Balinese. Balinese is primarily spoken within the local community and for religious ceremonies, while Indonesian is used for communication with people from different parts of Indonesia and for official purposes.

Population & Tourism

The population of Bali is estimated to be around 4.3 million people and they welcome approximately 6.3 million international tourists each year.

Temperatures

Bali has a relatively consistent tropical climate throughout the year, so the temperature differences between summer and winter are not as pronounced as in some other locations. Bali has Dry and Wet Seasons. The dry season has lower humidity and less rainfall while the wet season has more frequent rainfall.

Summer	Winter
Apr – Sep	Oct – Mar
23°C – 31°C	23°C – 30°C
73°F – 88°F	73°F – 86°F

The Best Time to Visit

Bali’s is a great destination to visit year-round. The best time to visit Bali depends on your interests and priorities:

Dry Season (April – September) If you prefer pleasant weather and vibrant cultural experiences, the dry season is a great time to visit. Just be prepared for the higher number of tourists.
Wet Season (October – March) If you don’t mind occasional rain and prefer a more serene atmosphere with lower prices, the wet season can be a delightful time to visit. Just keep in mind that some outdoor activities might be affected by the weather.

Currency

The official currency of Bali and Indonesia is the Indonesian Rupiah, often abbreviated as IDR. Cash is widely used for smaller transactions, while credit and debit cards are accepted at many hotels, restaurants, and larger establishments, especially in tourist areas. However, it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for places that might not accept cards.

Budget

A general budget for Bali is approximately 2,500,000 IDR ($165 USD) per day depending on your activities, dining and accommodation choices.

Bargain Wisely

Bargaining is common in local markets and small shops. While haggling can be fun, remember to do it respectfully. Start with a friendly attitude and be prepared to compromise to reach a fair price for both parties.

Tipping

Tipping isn’t mandatory, but it’s appreciated. If a service charge is not included in the bill, leaving a small tip for waitstaff, drivers, and other service providers is a nice gesture.

Transport

In Bali and Indonesia as a whole, traffic drives on the left-hand side of the road. Traffic in Bali can be congested, especially in tourist areas. Exercise caution if you’re renting a motorbike or car. Rather consider hiring a local driver for a safer and more relaxed travel experience. The following transport options are available:

Motorbike Rentals: Motorbikes are the primary mode of local transport, a convenient and popular way to navigate the island, especially for short distances. They provide flexibility and ease of movement in traffic.
Car Rentals: Renting a car is a convenient option for those who prefer the comfort of a vehicle with more space. You can rent cars with or without drivers. Having a driver can be beneficial as they are familiar with local traffic and roads.
Private Drivers: Hiring a private driver for the day or for specific trips can be a comfortable way to explore the island, especially if you want to visit multiple destinations.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis are available in tourist areas and can be hailed on the street or booked through apps. Ride-sharing apps like Grab are also operational in some areas.
Buses: Public buses are available, but they might not be the most efficient way to get around for tourists, as routes and schedules can be limited.
Cycling: Some areas of Bali are cyclist-friendly, offering bike rentals and scenic routes.
Walking: Walking is a great way to explore local neighborhoods, especially in areas with pedestrian-friendly infrastructure.

Alcohol Consumption

While alcohol is available in Bali, it’s important to note that public intoxication and disorderly behavior can lead to legal issues. Drinking alcohol is generally accepted in licensed establishments.

Volcanoes

The island is home to several active volcanoes, with Mount Agung being the highest and most revered. Volcanic landscapes contribute to Bali’s unique scenery.

Unique Calendar System

Bali follows its own calendar system, known as the Pawukon calendar, which consists of 210 days. This influences the timing of festivals and religious events.

Nyepi – Day of Silence

The island hosts a wide range of vibrant festivals, but one of the most unique is Nyepi, the Day of Silence. On this day, all activities come to a halt, and the entire island observes a day of introspection and self-reflection.

Spiritual Offerings

Everywhere you go in Bali, you’ll encounter small, intricate offerings called “canang sari.” These are meticulously crafted and placed daily to appease the spirits and bring blessings.

Noise and Celebration

Bali is known for its lively festivals and ceremonies. While these celebrations are a part of the cultural experience, they can be quite loud. If you’re staying near local communities, expect music and festivities during specific times.

Stay Hydrated and Use Sun Protection

Bali’s tropical climate can be hot and humid. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, and use sunscreen, hats, and lightweight clothing to protect yourself from the sun’s rays.

Water

Be cautious with the local tap water. It’s generally recommended to drink bottled or boiled water. Consider getting travel insurance that covers medical expenses, as medical care can be costly for non-residents.

Electricity

The standard voltage is 230V, and the frequency is 50Hz. Power outlets use the Type C and Type F sockets, so you might need a travel adapter if your devices use different plug types.

Local Sim Cards

While most hotels, restaurants, and cafes offer Wi-Fi, the quality and speed might vary. Consider buying a local SIM card If you need a stable and fast internet connection.

Environmental Responsibility

Bali faces challenges related to waste management and environmental degradation. Be mindful of your use of plastic and dispose of waste responsibly. Consider participating in beach clean-up initiatives if you’re interested in helping preserve the island’s beauty.

Safety

Bali is a safe destination, but like anywhere else, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas, and use reputable transportation services.

Dos & Don'ts

Dos:

Dress Modestly: When entering temples or attending ceremonies, wear appropriate clothing that covers your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.
Show Respect to Elders: Balinese culture places a strong emphasis on respecting elders. Use both hands when giving or receiving items from an elder and consider addressing them with appropriate titles like “Ibu” (Mrs.) or “Bapak” (Mr.).
Remove Shoes: Take off your shoes before entering homes, temples, and even some shops. This is a common practice to keep the living spaces clean.
Use Your Right Hand: When giving or receiving something, use your right hand or both hands. The left hand is considered impolite for these interactions.
Barter Politely: If you’re shopping in local markets, bargaining is expected, but do it with a friendly and respectful attitude.
Participate in Temple Etiquette: If you’re allowed to enter a temple, follow the rules, sit lower than the shrines, and don’t climb on them. Also, don’t point your feet towards the shrines or people.
Accept Offerings Graciously: If someone offers you an offering (“canang sari”), it’s a sign of respect. Accept it with both hands, bow slightly, and place it on the ground before stepping over it.

Don’ts:

Don’t Enter Temples During Menstruation: Women who are menstruating are generally not allowed to enter temples as they are considered spiritually impure.
Don’t Disrupt Ceremonies: If you come across a ceremony or procession, maintain a respectful distance and avoid interrupting or taking photos without permission.
Avoid Public Displays of Affection: While holding hands is acceptable, intimate gestures like kissing and hugging in public can be considered inappropriate.
Don’t Point with Your Index Finger: Pointing with your index finger is considered rude. Instead, use your thumb with an open hand or gesture subtly with your whole hand.
Don’t Raise Your Voice: Public displays of anger or frustration are considered disrespectful. Maintain a calm demeanor even in challenging situations.
Don’t Step on Offerings: Avoid stepping on offerings on the ground, as these are considered sacred.
Don’t Touch People’s Heads: The head is considered the most sacred part of the body, so avoid touching it, even playfully.