Things to know

A few of the thing that we found useful on our trip to Bali

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Essential Bali Travel Tips: Things to Know Before You Go

When embarking on your Bali travel experience, it’s important to be prepared and informed. Here are some essential Bali travel tips to help you navigate this beautiful island and ensure a smooth adventure.

Hotel Mexicola
Ubud Villa pool
Potatohead shutters
Monkey Forrest

Language

The main languages spoken in Bali are Indonesian, Balinese, and English. While most locals working in the tourism industry speak English, learning a few basic phrases in Indonesian can enhance your interactions and show respect for the local culture.

Traffic Conditions

Bali is known for its chaotic traffic, which can be quite overwhelming. Even outside of rush hour, a short drive may take longer than expected. Patience is key when getting around, so plan your journeys accordingly.

Drug Laws

It’s critical to be aware of Indonesia’s super-strict drug laws. Penalties for drug-related offenses can be severe, with smuggling punishable by a death sentence. Stay informed and keep yourself safe by avoiding any illegal substances.

Health Precautions

While Bali is generally a safe destination, travelers should take precautions against mosquitoes. Although there is no malaria, it’s wise to bring mosquito repellent to protect against bites. Additionally, please avoid drinking tap water; always opt for bottled water to ensure safety.

Transportation

To easily navigate the island, download the Grab app, which allows you to conveniently order taxis. The currency in Bali is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR), with an approximate exchange rate of 1 USD = 14,016 IDR.

Bargaining

When shopping or dining in Bali, remember that the first price you’re quoted is rarely the final price. Don’t hesitate to haggle; it’s a common practice and part of the local shopping culture.

Dining Options

Bali’s culinary scene is diverse, with restaurants catering to every taste, including vegetarian and vegan options. You’ll have no trouble finding something to satisfy your palate.

Beach Safety

Always pay attention to the warning flags along the beach. Even in areas known for safe swimming, sea conditions can change suddenly. Rip currents can develop, making the ocean hazardous—even in shallow waters.

ATMs and Charges

You’ll find plenty of ATMs in Bali’s main cities, including Seminyak, Kuta, Canggu, and Ubud. Please note that by law, all bars and restaurants must charge an additional 21% on their food and drink prices. While some may include this in the menu price, others provide small print indicating that it will be added to your bill.

Food Delivery

For convenience, download the Go-Jek app, which allows you to order food and other services with ease.

Conclusion

By keeping these Bali travel tips in mind, you can have a more enjoyable and smooth journey on this beautiful island. Prepare ahead, stay informed, and embrace the richness of Balinese culture during your travels!

  • The main languages spoken in Bali are Indonesian, Balinese and English.
  • Bali is home to crazy, crazy traffic, and even out of rush hour, just a few kilometres of driving will take much longer than expected.
  • If you aren’t aware of the super-strict drug laws in place in Indonesia, a country where getting caught smuggling is tantamount to a death sentence. 
  • There are a lot of Mosquitos but no malaria, maybe take some repellent.
  • Down load the Grab App you can organise taxis using the app.
  • The currency of Bali is the Indonesian Rupiah. 1 USD is equivalent to about 14016,00 IDR.
  • This probably goes without saying, but please don’t drink the tap water in Bali.
  • The first price you’re quoted is rarely the actual price, so don’t be afraid to haggle.
  • Bali literally has a restaurant to cater to every taste – and that includes vegetarians and vegans.
  • Take notice of the warning flags along the beach, even along stretches of coast that are traditionally safe for swimmers, sea conditions can change a suddenly, rip currents appear and the ocean become quite dangerous – even in the shallows.
  • There are plenty of ATMs in Bali’s main cities like Seminyak, Kuta, Canggu and Ubud.
  • Balinese culture is very strong, and you can barely take a couple of steps along the street before you encounter ‘canang sari’ – one of the colourful daily offering made by the Balinese Hindus.
  • By law, all bars and restaurants must charge an additional 21% on their food and drink prices. Whilst some add this in to the menu price, others will include small print stating it will be added to the bill.
  • Download the Go-Jek as you can order foor via the App