BALI TRAVELING TIPS

🌴 Before You Go

1. Visa Requirements
   
   • Most countries (including the US, UK, EU, Australia) can get a Visa on Arrival (VoA) for 30 days, extendable once.
   • Bring $35 USD (or equivalent) in cash or pay with card.
2. Travel Insurance
   
   • Highly recommended. Include coverage for motorbiking, water sports, and medical evacuation.
3. Currency
   
   • Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) is the local currency. 1 USD ≈ 15,000 IDR.
   • Use ATMs from major banks like BCA or Mandiri. Avoid money changers offering suspiciously high rates.

🏝️ Where to Go

• Ubud: Culture, rice terraces, yoga.
• Canggu: Surf, cafes, digital nomad scene.
• Seminyak: Shopping, nightlife, beaches.
• Uluwatu: Cliffs, luxury resorts, surf spots.
• Nusa Islands: Nusa Penida, Lembongan – great for snorkeling, scenic views.
• Sidemen / Munduk: Quiet, off-the-beaten-path nature retreats.

🛵 Getting Around

• Rent a scooter: ~60,000–100,000 IDR/day. Only do this if you’re confident and licensed.
• Private drivers: Good for full-day trips (~600,000–800,000 IDR/day).

🍛 Food & Water

• Eat at warungs (local eateries) for affordable, delicious meals.
• Avoid drinking tap water – stick to bottled or filtered water.
• Try local dishes: Nasi Campur, Babi Guling, Nasi Goreng, and Satay.

📱 Connectivity

• Buy a local SIM card at the airport or convenience store. Telkomsel and XL are reliable.
• eSIMs work well too.

🙏 Cultural Tips

• Dress modestly when visiting temples.
• Remove shoes when entering someone’s home or temple.
• Don’t touch people’s heads – it’s considered disrespectful.
• Carry a sarong – required at many temples.

💡 Other Useful Tips

• Avoid plastic: Bali has banned single-use plastics – bring a reusable water bottle and tote.
• Best time to visit: April–October (dry season).
• Scams: Watch out for overly helpful strangers, rigged money changers, and overpriced taxis.
• Stay flexible: Island time is real – things often run late.