Essential Things Every Visitor Needs to Know Before Traveling to Bali

December 26, 2024

Bali is one of the most beautiful and popular destinations worldwide. Whether you’re coming for a relaxing beach holiday, cultural experiences, or thrilling adventures, it’s good to know a few important Bali travel tips before you arrive; climate, culture, transportation choice and Bali visa.

Here’s a quick guide to help you enjoy your trip to the fullest!

Know This Before Traveling to Bali

1. Location & Areas to Explore

Bali lies in the heart of Indonesia, nestled between the islands of Java and Lombok. Despite its small size, Bali offers a diverse range of experiences. The southern areas like Seminyak and Canggu are hotspots for surfers, food lovers, and party-goers, while Ubud in central Bali is the perfect retreat for nature lovers and yoga enthusiasts. On the island’s southern tip, Uluwatu is known for its dramatic cliffs, ancient temples, and some of the best surf waves in the world. Each part of Bali offers a unique vibe, so it’s worth planning which areas suit your travel style.

2. Language

Bali locals speak Balinese, but the national language is Bahasa Indonesia. Fortunately, English is widely spoken in tourist hubs, making it easy for travellers to communicate. Learning a few local phrases, however, can leave a positive impression. For instance, saying “Terima Kasih” (thank you) or “Selamat Pagi” (good morning) is always appreciated. If you plan to explore remote areas where English might be less common, using translation apps like Google Translate can help bridge the language gap.

3. Best Time to Visit

Bali enjoys a tropical climate with warm weather throughout the year. The dry season, from April to September, is ideal for outdoor activities like sunbathing, snorkelling, and hiking, with clear skies and little rain. The wet season, from October to March, brings frequent showers, but the island remains warm. Even during the rainy season, mornings are often sunny, with rain falling later in the day. If you prefer fewer crowds, visiting during the shoulder months of October or November can be a great option.

4. Culture

Bali’s rich culture is deeply rooted in Hinduism, and locals take pride in their traditions. Temples are an integral part of daily life, and it’s common to see offerings placed on sidewalks and in doorways. When visiting temples, you must wear a sarong and cover your lower body parts to show respect. One of the most unique cultural events is Nyepi Day, the Balinese New Year, when the entire island shuts down for 24 hours to observe silence and reflection—hotels restrict outdoor activities, and even the airport closes.

5. Getting Around

Getting around Bali is part of the adventure. Renting a scooter or motorbike is a popular and affordable way to explore, but make sure you can drive and have an international driving permit to avoid fines. For longer trips, hiring a private driver is convenient and gives you the flexibility to visit multiple places in a day. Ride-hailing apps like Grab, Gojek, or Maxim offer taxis and motorbike rides, but these services may not operate in all areas, especially in traditional tourist zones like Ubud, where local transport unions prefer to manage transportation.

6. Staying Safe

It’s always good to be prepared for emergencies while travelling. Bali has several international hospitals and clinics, especially in areas like Denpasar, Canggu, and Nusa Dua, where healthcare standards are high. The local emergency numbers are 110 for the police, 118 for an ambulance, and +62 361 754 599 for the tourist police, who are specifically trained to help visitors. Make sure to have travel insurance that covers accidents or medical emergencies, and it’s also a good idea to carry some basic medication.

7. Visa Options

Visitors from many countries can enter Bali with:

Visa on Arrival (VOA): Typically, it costs IDR 500,000 (~USD 35) and allows you to stay for 30 days.
Single Entry Visa: Allows for a 60-day stay and can be extended several times.
Multiple Entry Visa: The choices of validity are for one year, two years, or five years.

Smart Tips

To make your stay more enjoyable, it’s worth keeping a few extra tips in mind.

Tap water is not safe to drink in Bali, so stick to bottled or filtered water to avoid any stomach issues that can be found easily in any mini markets or warung.
If you need to exchange currency, use official money exchange counters to avoid scams—avoid offers that seem too good to be true.
Pack light, breathable clothing suitable for warm weather, and bring a raincoat or waterproof bag if you’re visiting during the rainy season.
Lastly, don’t forget sunscreen, as Bali’s tropical sun can be intense, especially on the beach.

Bali Visa Guidance

With a little preparation and these essential tips in mind, you’ll be ready to fully enjoy your time on the island. If you’re planning a longer stay or need Bali visa assistance, Usaha Expat offers expert guidance to make the process hassle-free.

Enjoy your trip and Selamat Liburan! (Happy Holidays!)