Bali Travel Guide (Indonesia/Southeast Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Bali

Located in Indonesia, Bali is an island that attracts millions of tourists every year with its stunning beaches, unique culture, and natural beauty. Known as the Island of the Gods, Bali offers something for everyone, from adrenaline junkies seeking outdoor adventures to culture enthusiasts seeking to immerse themselves in a rich and diverse heritage.

List of Places to Visit in Bali

Here are the top places to visit in Bali:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Ubud Palace - a palace complex located in Ubud that showcases traditional Balinese architecture.
Bali Museum - a museum in Denpasar that displays Bali’s rich history and culture.
Goa Gajah - an ancient archaeological site in Ubud that features ornate rock carvings and a cave.
Tirta Empul - a Hindu temple in Tampaksiring that is famous for its holy spring water.
Besakih Temple - Bali’s most important temple, located on the slopes of Mount Agung.

Natural Attractions of Bali: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Mount Batur - an active volcano that offers one of the best sunrise views in Bali.
Tegalalang Rice Terrace - a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases Bali’s traditional rice farming.
Sekumpul Waterfall - a picturesque waterfall located in Singaraja that is surrounded by lush forest.
Tanah Lot Temple - a popular spot to watch the sunset while enjoying the stunning view of the temple perched on a rocky outcropping.
Bali Safari and Marine Park - a wildlife park that lets visitors experience Bali’s wildlife up close.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bali

Bali offers some of the best hiking and biking routes, allowing visitors to experience its stunning natural beauty up close. Here are some of the best hiking/biking routes in Bali:

Mount Batur Sunrise Trekking - a four-hour trek beginning in the early morning to witness the stunning sunrise.
Campuhan Ridge Walk - a scenic and easy hike through lush greenery and rice paddies.
Mount Agung - Bali’s highest mountain that offers a challenging hiking experience for adventurous visitors.
West Bali National Park - a popular spot for mountain biking through forests and coastal villages.
Bali Eco Cycling - a cycling tour that takes visitors through Bali’s rural countryside and rice paddies.

Best Things to Do in Bali: Activities and Tours

There is no shortage of things to do in Bali. Here are some of the best activities and tours to experience in Bali:

Surfing - Bali is known for its world-renowned surf spots such as Padang Padang, Bingin, and Uluwatu.
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling - Bali’s waters are teeming with aquatic life, including colorful coral reefs and exotic marine creatures.
Cooking Classes - learn how to prepare traditional Balinese dishes and discover the secrets to Bali’s delicious cuisine.
Yoga and Meditation - Bali is the perfect place to nourish your mind, body, and soul through yoga and meditation retreats.
Balinese Dance Show - watch traditional Balinese dance performances that showcase the island’s rich culture and heritage.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bali

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long visit to Bali:

Day	Activity
1	Explore Ubud and visit Ubud Palace, Bali Museum, and Tirta Empul.
2	Hike Mount Batur for a sunrise view and visit Kintamani village.
3	Visit Bali’s beaches such as Seminyak, Canggu, or Uluwatu.
4	Experience Balinese culture with a cooking class or Balinese dance show.
5	Visit the Bali Safari and Marine Park or Bali Bird Park.
6	Go temple hopping and visit Besakih Temple, Tanah Lot Temple, and Pura Lempuyang.
7	Relax and rejuvenate at a spa or yoga retreat.

Food and Drink Scene of Bali

Bali’s food and drink scene is a reflection of its cultural diversity, featuring a mix of local and international cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages in Bali:

Must-Try Dishes

Nasi Goreng - traditional Indonesian fried rice served with various meat or vegetable toppings.
Satay - skewered meat or seafood that is marinated and grilled.
Sate Lilit - a Balinese version of satay made with minced meat, coconut, and spices.
Babi Guling - Bali’s famous roast suckling pig that is marinated in spices and cooked over an open flame.
Lawar - a traditional Balinese salad made with vegetables, spices, and minced meat.

Local Beverages

Bintang Beer - Bali’s most popular beer that is a refreshing drink on a hot day.
Arak - a local drink made from fermented rice that can be mixed with fruit juice or soda.
Kopi Luwak - Bali’s famous coffee that is made from beans that have been ingested and excreted by civet cats.

Where to Stay in Bali: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bali offers a wide range of accommodation options for all budgets, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some of the best places to stay in Bali:

Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan - a luxurious resort located in Ubud that offers stunning views of Bali’s lush forests and river.
Kuta Paradiso Hotel - a four-star hotel located in Kuta that is famous for its comfortable rooms and excellent service.
Villa Sonia Ubud - a budget-friendly villa located in Ubud that offers comfortable rooms and scenic views.
Uma Karan Guesthouse - a budget-friendly guesthouse located in Seminyak that offers clean rooms and friendly service.
The Onion Collective - a hip and eco-friendly hostel located in Canggu that offers comfortable and affordable accommodation.

What to Buy in Bali: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Bali is famous for its unique and handmade products that make great souvenirs. Here are some popular souvenirs and local products to bring back from Bali:

Batik and Bali Sarongs - colorful and traditional Indonesian textiles that are perfect for clothing, wall hangings and bedspreads.
Handmade Jewelry - Bali is known for its unique, handmade jewelry made from silver, gold or other natural materials like shell and wood.
Wooden Carvings - Bali’s traditional wooden art is famous for its intricate designs and represents Balinese culture.
Natural and Organic Skin Care Products - Bali is home to many natural and organic skin care brands that use locally-grown ingredients.
Traditional Artwork - Bali has a thriving art scene, featuring traditional Balinese paintings, sculptures, and pottery, making them ideal souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Bali

Bali’s culture is a unique blend of Hindu-Buddhist traditions and contemporary western influences. Here are some local customs and culture of Bali that visitors should be aware of:

The Balinese believe in maintaining the harmony between the natural world and the spiritual world, hence the importance of offerings (known as Canang) which are placed on the streets, shops, and temples almost everywhere.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or temples. Cover your shoulders and wear long pants or skirts.
Respect the local customs and culture, and never disrespect religious sites or statues.
Tipping is not customary in Bali, but it is appreciated.

Best Time to Visit Bali

Bali can be visited throughout the year, but the best time to visit is during the dry season from April to September. The wet season starts in October and lasts until March, characterized by heavy rainfall, humidity, and unpredictable weather.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bali

Here are some essential do’s and don’ts of Bali:

Do:

Try the local cuisine and explore traditional Indonesian culture.
Respect the local customs and culture, and dress modestly when visiting religious sites or temples.
Always carry cash to pay for local transportation and small shops.
Learn a few basic Indonesian phrases to connect with locals.

Don’t:

Don’t litter the beaches or other public places.
Don’t be disrespectful to religious sites or statues.
Don’t expect the same level of infrastructure as western cities.
Don’t purchase drugs in Bali, as it can lead to severe legal consequences.

Safety and Health

Bali is a relatively safe destination for tourists, but visitors should still exercise caution and take necessary precautions to stay safe.

Safety in Bali

Beware of petty theft, especially in crowded areas like markets and beaches.
Use reputable taxi services instead of unlicensed transportation options.
Be careful when swimming in the ocean, particularly during the wet season when currents can be strong.

Health in Bali

Drink bottled water and avoid consuming tap water.
Wear sunscreen and protective clothing to avoid sunburn.
Get vaccinated before visiting Bali, particularly for hepatitis A and typhoid.

Getting to Bali: Transportation Options and Logistics

Bali is easily accessible from various parts of Indonesia and the world. Here are some transportation options to get to Bali:

Airports Near Bali

Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) - Bali’s main airport located in Denpasar. It is the fourth busiest airport in Indonesia and serves both domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Bali

Ubung Bus Station - Bali’s main bus station located in Denpasar. It serves various destinations on the island.

Other Options

Ferry - Bali is accessible by ferry from Java, Lombok, and the Gili Islands.
Private taxi - Visitors can hire private taxis on arrival at the airport or book in advance online.

How to Get Around in Bali

Bali offers several options for transportation, from taxis to motorbikes. Here are some transportation options to get around Bali:

Taxi - metered taxis are available in Bali, but visitors should make sure to use reputable taxi services.
Motorbike rental - an affordable and popular way to get around Bali, with many rental options available.
Car rental - a convenient way to explore Bali, with various rental options available.
Bicycle rental - a popular option for eco-tourists who want to explore Bali’s countryside by bike.

Where to Go Next from Bali: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bali is a convenient base to explore other nearby Indonesian islands such as Lombok, the Gili Islands, or Java. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions from Bali:

Lombok - a beautiful island that offers stunning beaches, world-class surfing, and vibrant local culture, just a short plane or ferry ride from Bali.
Komodo Island - home to the famous Komodo dragon, the world’s largest lizard. It can be reached by a short flight from Bali.
Yogyakarta - a fascinating cultural city, located in Java that’s known for its traditional batik art, and ancient temples of Borobudur and Prambanan.
Nusa Penida - a hidden gem where visitors can explore magnificent cliffs, stunning beaches, and tranquil bays.
Gili Islands - a group of three beautiful islands famed for their white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and world-renowned diving spots.

Conclusion

Bali is a paradise that offers a unique blend of culture, nature, and adventure. With stunning beaches, breathtaking landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage, Bali is a destination that every traveler should visit at least once in their lifetime. Make sure to explore Bali’s diverse attractions, indulge in its delicious food, and immerse yourself in its rich culture and customs to create unforgettable memories.