Bali is one of the most popular exotic destinations in the world.
It is part of Indonesia, and the island’s economy is mainly based on agriculture and tourism.
Although Indonesia is a Muslim country, the main religion in Bali is Hinduism. There is also a small percentage of Muslims, Buddhists, and Christians, all living together harmoniously.
Bali is the ultimate destination if you want to experience beaches, temples, jungle, and amazing food all in one place.
However, before you start packing your bags, there are a few important things you should know to enjoy your trip without stress or unpleasant surprises.
Things you need to know before traveling to Bali
1. Visa on Arrival
One of the advantages of traveling to Bali is that you can obtain a Visa on Arrival as soon as you arrive at the airport.
The visa costs IDR 500,000 (approximately 30 USD). You can pay in cash (euros, US dollars, or Indonesian rupiah), and card payments are also accepted.
To obtain the visa, your passport must be valid for at least 6 months, and you must have a return ticket or an onward travel ticket. The visa has a specific duration and, in many cases, can be extended.
2. Do not drink tap water
One of the most important things to remember: tap water is not drinkable.
Only drink bottled water, and make sure to use bottled water even when brushing your teeth.
Avoid ice cubes in non-reliable places to significantly reduce the risk of stomach issues.
3. Watch out for “Bali Belly”
Many travelers experience what is known as Bali Belly, a mild food-related illness.
To avoid it, choose freshly cooked food and prefer restaurants that are busy and popular.
Avoid raw food and unwashed fruits, and wash your hands frequently — a little caution goes a long way.
Personally, I also avoided spicy food and many salads, as I was worried about the water used to wash the vegetables.
4. eSIM for Internet
To have mobile data and internet access, it is very convenient to get an eSIM before or upon arrival.
You can also buy a local SIM card, but an eSIM saves you from the hassle of changing SIM cards.
You will have internet access for maps, transportation, bookings, and of course social media.
I bought my eSIM through the Airalo app. With the code ELENI4690, you get €3 off any package you choose.
5. Vaccinations are not mandatory
There are no mandatory vaccinations required to travel to Bali. Of course, it is always a good idea to consult your doctor before a long-distance trip, but there is no specific vaccination requirement.
6. Getting around in Bali
Driving in Bali is chaotic, and traffic can be a nightmare, especially in tourist areas. Keep in mind that travel time is often longer than it appears on the map.
Most people choose to hire a driver with a car, but I would recommend renting a scooter. If you don’t drive, you can download the Grab app, which allows you to book taxis as well as motorbike taxis.
Through this app, you can easily call a scooter to take you anywhere at a very low cost. It’s best to pay by card directly through the app to avoid being charged extra in cash at the end.
In my opinion, moving around by scooter is the best option, as cars get stuck in traffic and you’ll end up spending most of your time on the road.
7. Money and payments in Bali
The currency in Indonesia, and therefore in Bali, is the Indonesian Rupiah. Most tourist places accept cards, but not all of them.
When traveling to Bali, you should definitely carry cash with you. In many shops and markets, you can bargain and get much better prices, but payment is usually in cash.
Additionally, many activities accept only cash, for example surf lessons in Canggu. Finally, in several stores, paying by card may include a small extra fee.
8. Accommodation in Bali
One of Bali’s biggest advantages is accommodation. Instead of staying in a hotel, it is worth choosing a private villa, as prices are very low compared to other destinations.
You can find a villa with a private pool for very little money, while enjoying more comfort, privacy, and a more unique experience.
In many cases, a villa can even be cheaper than a basic hotel, especially if you are traveling with more than two people.
9. Weather in Bali
Bali has a tropical climate year-round, meaning warm temperatures, high humidity, and plenty of sunshine. The average temperature usually ranges between 26°C and 30°C (79°F–86°F) throughout the year, with little variation between seasons. Days are generally hot and humid, while evenings are warm and pleasant.
The island has two main seasons: the dry season, from May to October, and the rainy season, from November to April. During the rainy season, showers are usually short but heavy, often occurring in the afternoon or evening.
The best months to visit Bali are considered to be May, June, September, and October, as the weather is dry, sunny, and less humid, while avoiding the peak crowds of July and August.
