Travelers' pro tips for experiencing Bali

AngL

Yes, you do need to be careful crossing the road because the traffic can be crazy, however, I would have to be careful crossing a busy road near where I live.

Kieran

Taxis are so easy to get all-around Bali, so don’t stress about that. You’ll need cash for them though unless you’re using an app like Grab which is really popular.

ShutupGreg

Do a lot of research but don't micro-plan every minute of your stay... it will all fall into place.

In the words of those who've been there before ...

Rhonda C

Surfing, scuba diving, great eats, and very friendly people are what Bali is all about to me. And, of course, you can't go to Bali without a massage.

Rick M

Bali is a fantastic place for all travelers, young and old alike. I've been traveling to this fantastic tropical oasis for the past 30 years and I've seen a lot of changes in that time. It is my hope and wishes that you will find Bali to be one of your favorite places too.

Joannes Rhino

Beaches are Bali’s best asset, apart from its gorgeous cliff-side resorts, rooftop bars, and celebrity weddings. But have you ever heard of a beach with black sand, or one so exclusive you can find the rich and famous? This tropical island boasts many such secret places tucked away in its little corners, where you can enjoy the sun, sand, and sea far away from the crowd.

Lynne P

Sun, sand, tropical forests, luxurious resorts, heavenly spas, and a food lover's paradise — whether you're celebrating a wedding, honeymoon, anniversary, Valentine's day, or simply want to enjoy some quality time together away from the humdrum of day-to-day life, indulge in the best of what romantic Bali has to offer!

What is the best way to get there?

Flying:

Bali is served by one airport: the Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), just 13 km (~8mi) south of Denpasar, the capital of Bali and the main gateway to the island. Flights from major international cities regularly fly in and out of DPS. It is also well connected to most of Indonesia and has regular domestic flights connecting it to major cities within the country.

Bus:

Travelers can take a bus from Jakarta (the capital of Indonesia) to Bali, but only if you can brave the 23-hour bus journey.

Ship:

Bali is quite a popular port for most cruise liners traversing through Southeast Asia. To get into Bali through the sea route, take a flight to Singapore, Sumatra or Java and take a ship for your onward journey to Bali. The information desks at the airport will guide you thoroughly.

Do I need a visa?

Visa Regulations are based on your passport and nationality. Over 160 nationalities need no Visa and have free entry for a maximum stay of 30 days. Your passport must be valid at least 6 months out from the day of your arrival. For more information and the list of 160 countries, see here.

When is the best time to visit?

May to September: Bali’s tropical climate has two distinct seasons: dry (between May to September) and wet (between October to April). May, June, and July are generally considered to be the best time to travel to Bali in terms of the weather. That is when temperatures hover around 80 Fahrenheit (27 Celsius). However, depending on whether the traveler is a surfer or explorer, preferences may change. During the dry season, May to October, the western side of the peninsula creates some of the world's best waves. The best advice is to check the estimated weather during the time of travel and pack accordingly.

For more information on Bali’s weather and when to go, you can check out some tips here.

Driving

Most travelers are satisfied with either a bemo (chartered vehicles with driver) or taxi (metered). Travelers will hear the words "bemo, bemo, bemo" or "transport, transport" all over Bali. If the vehicle has a taximeter, travelers should insist that the meter must be turned on. Otherwise, the driver will offer a fixed fare, or say the meter is broken. If the vehicle is a "private" bemo and has no meter, it is typical to bargain for the cost of the charter before taking the ride.

Scooters

For adventurers, a motorbike is a quick, but often dangerous, way to get around town. Travelers need to purchase insurance and must have an international license. Wear a helmet at all times and keep your license on you.

Bicycle

A bicycle is an inexpensive and scenic way to travel through Bali. Many villages have a place to hire a bike for the day. When exploring the backroads in places like Ubud and around Lovina, travelers may find a bicycle an ideal form of transport. However, cyclists should keep on the smaller roads and plan out each trip since Balinese road conditions are not always suited to long bike rides, with its steep hills and thick traffic on some of the main roads.

Check out more tips on getting around Bali here.