Essential Bali travel tips: things to know
One of the most touristic islands in the world, Bali is not an unspoiled paradise. But while escaping the thrones of southern Bali and Ubud can be difficult, those seeking resolute solitude will be pleased to find plenty of secluded corners beyond these main tourist destinations. Tip: head to the central mountains or make your way to Bali’s colder north and west coasts.
Choose your base carefully
You need to give your Bali base some thought, as chaotic traffic and hot weather conditions make you stay close to your hotel or guesthouse instead of sitting down on foot or in stuffy taxis. If you’re looking for real R&D, Kuta is probably not your thing.
Major developments in Bali’s food industry have allowed travelers to enjoy the local food scene. Strict eating habits are no longer necessary to spend your Bali vacation on the two steps of the toilet. At one time, salads, cut fruit, ice cubes, and most meats were on the danger list, but hygiene standards have improved markedly across the island, and many cuisines offer quality organic produce. While dangerous shrimp are always out, the dreaded Balinese belly should be kept at bay, along with staying hydrated, avoiding the notorious local booze, and consuming street food with some degree of caution.
Prepare for a mixed bag of price tags
By staying at the guesthouse, it’s still possible to visit Bali for a dinner at warungs and shop at local markets, but you can easily cut your life savings as drinks, meals, spa treatments, and room rates at high-end establishments are priced similarly to those in Australia, the UK, and the US. Check out online discounts and happy hour deals.
Beware of wild and stray animals
They may look cute, but rabies and other diseases pose serious risks in Bali, and monkeys are notorious for their way of stealing. Bali’s stray dogs are plentiful and generally in pretty bad shape. If you’re keen on making a difference, consider making a ‘dog donation’ to Bali Dog Refuge, which helps rescue and rehabilitate the island’s stray puppies.
Avoid using plastic water bottles
The heat and humidity of Bali require constant hydration, but before you buy another bottled beverage, consider the environment. An estimated three million plastic bottles are thrown away each month in Bali; Help reduce that figure by investing in a refillable stainless steel bottle; The best cafes and restaurants have a water filter that you can use for free or for a small fee. Stainless steel bottles are available for purchase at Earth Café in Seminyak.
Remember, low season usually means rainy season
Pay attention to Bali’s rainy season (January-April and October-November) when planning your trip. Discounts can be great, but if you spend your vacation blending in indoors, you may wonder if the trip is worth it. Fortunately, the rains are usually limited to short afternoon showers, so your vacation is unlikely to be fully recovered.
Pay attention to nature
Volcanoes of Bali are highly active and can have very minor or very serious impacts on flights, hotel stays or movement across the country. Follow the travel recommendations closely.
Play the rules
The Indonesian legal system may seem confusing and contradictory, but it’s best not to argue with the police if you’ve been charged and charged with a potentially unfair violation and paid fines well. Don’t expect any special treatment to be a stranger, and it goes without saying that doing anything with drugs is a very bad idea.
You can haggle for many products and services in Bali, but do so with respect and a smile on your face. You know when the seller has reached his limit, and at that point he doesn’t push it. When in doubt, walk away – if the seller doesn’t come after you, you can rest assured that they are not prepared to lower their price.
Respect the ocean
Even if you’re an avid beach-goer and surf fanatic, Bali’s strong waves, strong currents, and exposed rocks can be treacherous, so be careful and don’t swim alone unless you’re completely confident. Treat the beach with equal respect without leaving any trash behind (including cigarette butts) – when the tide comes, it will enter the ocean at great cost to the marine ecosystem.
Don’t stress
Bali is generally safer than headlines suggest, but with close to four million tourists hitting its shores each year, it’s statistically natural that some travelers may run into trouble. The party is safe, always wear a helmet when riding a bike or scooter, be respectful and don’t do anything you wouldn’t do in your home country and you’re on your way to the vacation of a lifetime.
