Bali is a dream for many travellers, from honeymooners to digital nomads to families with kids and groups of friends. It’s a place for everyone, with so much to do. You’ve seen beautiful photos of waterfalls, stunning sunsets on the beach, rice fields, and more, and now you just want to transform yourself to this magical island? Let me help you plan it!
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Planning your journey
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Bali is usually from April to October, when it’s dry and sunny. I recently went in January, which many say is the worst month due to rain, but I had great weather with only a few showers in the evenings.
Booking your flight
There’s a reason why Bali is most popular with tourists from Australia: you can get here as fast as 3 hours from Perth or 6 hours from Melbourne. However, travelling from Europe, America, or Africa can be more complicated, with flights that can be very long. But it’s worth it! Many airlines offer great deals, and you can search for them on websites like Hopper, Kiwi USA, Kiwi UK , Omio.com, or, if you prefer to book a whole package, check LoveHolidays or Expedia
Check if you need visa
When planning your trip to Indonesia, it’s important to check visa requirements. While many nationalities enjoy visa-free entry or can obtain a visa on arrival, others may need to apply for a visa in advance. Research your specific visa requirements well ahead of your travel dates to ensure a hassle-free experience upon arrival. I do recommend getting an e-visa before travelling if you need one; that will save you a lot of time at the airport once you arrive
Booking your hotel
Booking a hotel in Bali can feel overwhelming, given the array of recommended areas and diverse accommodation options available. With so many regions to choose from, ranging from vibrant beach towns to tranquil inland retreats, it’s understandable to feel uncertain about where to stay. I usually book my hotels via Booking.com and Expedia .
Here are my suggestions to help you find the best fit for your needs:
Kuta – most popular with young travellers, backpackers, surf enthusiasts, and those seeking a lively atmosphere with easy access to nightlife, shopping, and beach activities.
Seminyak – known for its upscale feel, trendy beach clubs, and fancy shops, attracting visitors who enjoy a more sophisticated and luxurious atmosphere.
Canggu – offers a laid-back vibe, attracting surfers, digital nomads and those looking for a relaxed vibe with beachfront cafes and rice fields nearby.
Ubud – a peaceful place surrounded by green rice fields and known for its art and culture
Jimbaran – known for its beautiful beaches, fresh seafood restaurants, and stunning sunset views
- Balangan Inn Surf Homestay ($)
- Karma House ($$)
- Ayana restort ( $$$) ( read review of Ayana Segara here and Ayana Rimba here )
Nusa Dua – perfect for families and honeymooners, with its beautiful beaches, calm waters, and luxury resorts offering a relaxing and memorable experience.
Sanur – known for its laid-back atmosphere, shallow waters, and stunning sunrise views.
While there are certainly other areas in Bali that offer seclusion away from tourists, the ones mentioned are the most popular destinations on the island.
Travel insurance
Let’s talk about an important aspect of your Bali trip – travel insurance. Exploring Bali’s beautiful sights and activities requires careful planning, considering potential risks such as traffic accidents, water-related incidents, natural disasters, or even encounters with monkeys or dogs. Anything can happen on this beautiful island. I suggest checking out Visitors Coverage for insurance options. Their policies cover various situations like cancelled trips, medical emergencies, and lost luggage, giving you peace of mind during your Bali adventure
Vaccine
While I’m not a medical professional, it’s important to consider vaccines when planning your trip to Bali. I strongly recommend consulting a travel clinic before your journey for personalised advice. From my research, certain vaccines are generally advisable for Bali, such as Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Rabies, and Japanese Encephalitis. However, there’s currently no mandatory vaccine required for travel to Bali; the decision is entirely based on your personal preferences and health considerations.
Upon Arrival
Getting a sim card
In Bali, having a reliable SIM card can make your travel experience much smoother. While many cafes offer WiFi, it’s important to have constant internet access on your phone, whether for emergencies or to look up nearby attractions and dining options. Although you can purchase SIM cards at the airport, the process can be time-consuming, especially after a long flight. That’s why I always opt for Airalo when travelling. Not only does Airalo offer the best deals, but its strong and dependable connection ensures I stay connected throughout my adventures without any hassle.
Getting to your hotel from the airport
Arriving in Bali can be quite an experience. Six years ago, during my first visit, I remember being bombarded with offers for rides as soon as I stepped out of the arrival door. Although, during my recent landing, I noticed a slight improvement as they’ve organised the taxi drivers a bit better, preventing the overwhelming rush right at the door. However, as soon as you step outside the airport, the chaos ensues once again.
My best suggestion is to book transfer ahead of time . Alternatively, you can order a taxi from Grab or Gojek, but you’ll need to walk to a designated spot. However, if you have an idea of how much your ride should cost, you can choose and negotiate with one of the drivers waiting at the arrival hall.
How to get around the island
Getting around Bali is simple: you can book transport, rent a scooter , hire a car with a driver, or use ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek. Taxis are also an option, but it’s best to use metered ones or negotiate fares upfront.
What to do in Bali
Bali offers a plethora of activities and experiences.. Here are some popular things to do in Bali:
- Explore cultural sites: Visit ancient temples like Uluwatu Temple or Tanah Lot, explore the historic Ubud Palace, or attend traditional dance performances. Book here
- Visit Nusa Penida: Take a day trip to Nusa Penida for stunning sights like Kelingking Beach and Angel’s Billabong. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters and hike to Instagram-worthy spots like Broken Beach and Crystal Bay. Book a tour here
- Go surfing: Bali is renowned for its world-class surf breaks, with spots suitable for beginners and experienced surfers alike. Book a lesson here
- See sunrise at Mount Batur– at one of the most active volcanoes in Bali! Book a 4WD Jeep tour here
- Visit rice terraces and waterfalls: Explore the iconic Tegalalang Rice Terraces, discover the beautiful Tegenungan Waterfall, plus visit a monkey forest in Ubud! Book a private tour here
- Book an Instagram tour: Capture Bali’s most picturesque locations and create lasting memories by booking an Instagram tour. Explore iconic spots like rice terraces, waterfalls, and hidden beaches, and let professional photographers capture your adventures in stunning photos. Book here
- Visit local markets and shopping areas: Explore vibrant markets like Ubud Art Market or Sukawati Art Market, shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, and local artwork, or browse boutique stores in Seminyak and Ubud.
- Relax with spa and wellness treatments: Treat yourself to a rejuvenating Balinese massage, indulge in a spa day at one of Bali’s luxurious wellness resorts. Book here
- Watch Dolphins – Experience the thrill of dolphin watching at Lovina Beach in North Bali, followed by an exciting snorkelling adventure. Book here
Where to eat/drink in Bali
In Bali, you’ll find plenty of cute cafes, international eateries, and amazing beach bars to enjoy delicious food and drinks against stunning backdrops. Here are few of my recommendations:
Breakfast/Brunch – Milk & Madu ( Canggu ) , Ruko Cafe ( Canggu ), Revolver ( Canggu ), Touché ( Canggu ), BAKED. ( Seminyak ), Grain ( Seminyak ), KYND community ( Seminyak )
Lunch/Dinner – M. MASON Bar | Grill ( Canggu ), YUKI ( Canggu ), Penny Lane ( Ungasan ), Arte ( Canggu ), Motel Mexicola ( Seminyak ), Rock Bar ( Jimbaran ), Natys Restaurant ( Seminyak ), Un’s Restaurant ( Kuta ), Ultimo Restaurant ( Seminyak )
Beach Clubs – White Rock Beach Club ( Ungasan ), Atlas Beach Club ( Canggu ), Palmilla Bali Beach Club ( Ungasan ), La Brisa ( Canggu ), Potato Head ( Seminyak ),
Best Take Away – Tony’s New York Pizza, Daeng Burger
Useful tips:
- Avoid drinking water from the tap and eating raw vegetables or salads from street vendors to minimise the risk of getting Bali belly.
- Carry a photocopy of your passport and keep the original in a safe place, as it may be required for certain activities but you wouldn’t want to risk losing it.
- Renting a scooter is a popular way to get around, but ensure you have an international driving licence to avoid potential fines if stopped by the police.
- Be cautious of overly aggressive monkeys in tourist areas like the Ubud Monkey Forest, as they may snatch belongings or become aggressive if provoked.
- Use insect repellent, particularly during the rainy season, to ward off mosquitoes and other pests to avoid Dengue fever and other mosquito-borne illnesses.
- If you have extra time at the airport and value comfort, convenience, and access to amenities like complimentary food, beverages, and Wi-Fi, get a Priority Pass membership ( UK link ) ( USA link ) , granting you access to a global network of airport lounges regardless of your airline or ticket class.
Travelling to Bali ? Don’t forget to pack those essentials
No matter when you go or what you choose to do, one thing’s for sure: you’re bound to have an incredible time in Bali. It’s truly a magical place that never fails to enchant its visitors.
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