Everything You Must Know Before Traveling To Bali
Even for those who are not accustomed to traveling well, Bali is a top recommendation to visit. But before you step foot in a new place, it’s always helpful to be aware of any quirks, local knowledge, and unwritten regulations, just like it is anyplace else in the world.
That is why we have created this list specifically for you. From someone who has visited Bali and returned three times, full of helpful advice!
1. Book Everything In Advance
The more certain you plan your vacation, the more money you save while visiting Bali. The prices are up crazily when you book a week before your landing day so be sure to make a reservation before at least two months. Some agents allow you to book a vacation package with a combo of flight, hostel, experience, and rental car which are so reasonable or many a half if you book every single service. Booking.com is one of the trustworthy agents that have hundreds of purchases each day, especially during the travel season. Take a quick look and make use of Booking.com $25 off or Booking.com 10% to save some fees for your Bali vacation.
2. Prepare For Visa
As of 2016, citizens of 169 countries can travel to Indonesia without a visa for a period of 30 days; otherwise, a USD 35 visa on arrival fee would apply. One extension is permitted for the Visa on Arrival. Before you depart, you can also apply for a 2-month visa at the Indonesian embassy in your nation. I received mine after only two weeks, and the procedure was quite simple.
3. Get Used To Bali Crowd Traffic
Bali has absolutely insane traffic, so even outside of peak hours, a short distance will take considerably longer to go than anticipated. It’s crucial to be aware of this even if it’s somewhat inevitable, especially if you’re planning day vacations, trying to get there in time for sunset, or trying to catch a flight! Before making a cab reservation, always request a rough journey time estimate from your accommodation.
4. Choose The Right Transportation
Unless you’re traveling in a big group, renting a moto-taxis can be far less expensive than renting a car. Just remember that not all motorists operate their vehicles safely. Unfortunately, accidents happen frequently here, so be sure to tell your driver if he is acting in a way you don’t like. Another very common habit in this area is renting your own scooter for the day or week. Rent ranges from 30,000 to 50,000 rupiah per day.
Regarding Uber’s legal status in Bali, there are several conflicting reports. So, both locals and visitors have started using the “Go-Jek” app. In addition to getting you where you need to go, the men and women in green jackets and helmets who are driving around will also handle your shopping, acquire meals for you from one of the more than 2000 eateries that have registered, and deliver items. They’ll essentially fulfill whatever request you have. What a fantastic service—definitely check it out!
5. Discover Bali Culture
Even with the increase in tourists, Balinese culture is still quite strong. It just takes a few steps down the street to come across a “canang sari,” one of the vibrant daily offerings produced by Balinese Hindus. Even if the neighborhood dogs might not pay them any attention, be extra careful to avoid trampling on them or otherwise harming them. In addition, you should also always dress modestly (covering your shoulders and knees) and behave properly when visiting temples and other sacred places.
6. Be Aware Of Drug Laws
Indonesia’s extremely severe drug regulations should be spread to your team when being caught smuggling is equivalent to receiving a death sentence, after the extensive reporting of the “Bali 9”.
7. Save Money On Laundry
Every service from a hotel is far more expensive than using a local service. Taxis, food, and especially laundry fall under this category. Expect to pay roughly Rp. 7000 per kilogram from a local laundry in the town, compared to substantially more than that for a single item in hotels! Much cheaper than expected, right?
8. Avoid Rainy Season Before Travel Bali
When making travel plans, keep in mind that Bali experiences two rainy seasons (January to April and October to November). Discounts can be fantastic, but if you wind up spending your holiday stuck indoors, you might wonder if it was really worth it. Fortunately, rainstorms are often limited to afternoon downpours, meaning your vacation isn’t likely to be completely ruined.
9. Haggling Before Purchasing Something
You shouldn’t be scared to negotiate because, aside from boutiques, restaurants, and convenience stores, the first price you are given is frequently at least double what the vendor will let the item go for. Some booth owners may even entice you to do so by advising you of the price they believe you ought to offer when you return. Haha, it can be really enjoyable!
10. Enjoy Your Trip By Learning A FEW LOCAL WORDS
Nothing is better than being able to communicate in the native tongue. Though people from travel locations can speak English, some local ones are not, or only at a basic level, knowing how to say “hello,” “thank you,” and “please”. If you’re really interested, you might want to buy an Indonesian phrasebook and practice with the locals, especially while bartering. It will be fun!