Essential Travel Tips for Bali & Indonesia

Choosing the Right Area

Where you stay in Bali can define your trip. Canggu & Seminyak are great for surfing, cafes, and nightlife. Ubud is the cultural heart, perfect for yoga and nature. Uluwatu offers stunning cliffs and world-class surf breaks. For a quieter escape, consider Nusa Lembongan or North Bali.

Where to Book

Using established platforms is the safest way to book. They offer reviews, secure payments, and customer support. We recommend:

• Booking.com: Excellent for a wide range of hotels, guesthouses, and villas. Great filtering options.
• Agoda: Very popular in Southeast Asia, often with competitive prices.
• Airbnb: Ideal for finding private villas with pools, perfect for groups or families.

Ride-Hailing Apps: Gojek & Grab

These are your best friends for getting around cities and tourist areas. You can order a car (`GoCar`/`GrabCar`) or a scooter taxi (`GoRide`/`GrabBike`) for cheap and efficient travel. You can also use them for food delivery (`GoFood`/`GrabFood`).

Pro Tip: Download and set up these apps before you arrive. While you can pay with cash, linking a credit card like Wise or Revolut is often more convenient. Link to official sites: Gojek & Grab.

Renting a Scooter

Renting a scooter offers the ultimate freedom to explore, especially in areas like Ubud or Uluwatu. However, traffic can be chaotic. Only rent a scooter if you are an experienced and confident rider.

Water & Food Safety

Do not drink tap water. Only drink bottled or filtered water. Be cautious with ice in drinks at smaller warungs (local eateries), though it's generally safe in established restaurants and hotels. Eat at busy places where food turnover is high.

Mosquitoes & "Bali Belly"

Dengue fever is present in Bali. Use a good quality mosquito repellent, especially during dawn and dusk. To avoid "Bali Belly" (traveler's diarrhea), wash your hands frequently and consider taking a probiotic. Carry basic medication like activated charcoal or Imodium.

Travel Advisories & Insurance

Before you go, check your government's travel advice for the latest safety information. For example, the U.S. Department of State provides regular updates. Comprehensive travel insurance is not just recommended, it's essential.

Temple Dress Code

When visiting any temple (`Pura`), you must cover your shoulders and knees. This applies to both men and women. You will be required to wear a sarong and a sash, which are usually available for rent at the entrance for a small fee.

Respect the Offerings

You will see small, beautiful offerings called `Canang Sari` on the ground everywhere. They are made of palm leaves, flowers, and incense. Be respectful and try not to step on them.