Travel
The Complete Travel Guide — Bali
Bali is one of many hidden gems you have to experience in your lifetime. Through social media and word of mouth, Bali has become one of the top destinations to visit. So grab your pen and paper (or notes app for my tech-savvy wanderlusts) and takes notes. I’ve got the complete Bali travel guide that will make your trip planning so much easier!
We have no art. We do everything as beautifully as possible. This reflects my philosophy of practice. I try to remember daily what a gift it is to have the privilege of living in this wondrous world. —Sam Keen
Tips before Traveling
- Language: Bahasa Bali (Indonesian). English has been widely used thanks to many travelers from American and Australia.
- Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IRD) – $1 USD = 14018.50 IRD (round to 14,000). There are cheaper places to exchange your currency outside of the airport.
- Entry & Visa Information: FREE entry. If you wish to stay longer than 30 days, but less than 60, you may apply/pay for the Visa on Arrival ($35). More information on types of visas can be found at Bali.com.
- Best time to visit: April, May, June, and September – Just before and just after high season. It’s still considered the dry season and slightly less humid, plus room prices and villa rentals can be 30-50% cheaper than during the high season.
Balinese Traditions You Will Encounter
- Canang Sari – As you make your way around Bali you will notice these beautiful baskets of flowers, treats and incense burning at the entrance of most businesses and homes. This is called Canang Sari. It is the symbol of thankfulness to the Hindu God, Ida Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa. It is offered every day as a form of thanks for the peace that was given to the world.
- Saput Poleng – These are special cloths that are used to drape/cover the statues, trees, and people in ceremonies. It is a religious tradition known to be sacred. Balinese believe that there are 3 spiritual layers (mandalas), the outer layer (jaba mandala), the middle layer (madya mandala), and the inner layer (utama mandala). These 3 layers are also evident in the architectures of Balinese temples (pura), and even homes. Every color symbolisms something different. White = holy, Yellow = highness, Black & White = good and evil, right and wrong, or happiness and sorrow.
Transportation
Getting around Bali was pretty easy and affordable. Many taxi drivers offer to use their service for the day or even your entire visit. Don’t hesitate to bargain if they start at a higher price. Ask your hotel or villa if they can pick you up from the airport for a discounted price.
- Go-Jek – Taxi service and food delivery. Their version of Uber and Ubereats. Must have a local SIM card in order to download.
- Hotel shuttle/taxi – Most hotels and villa rentals offer a taxi service for your convenience. Just note that your hotel’s main line may not work. Try the fax number, call a business nearby, or have a business where you’re being picked up from try to reach them.
- Walk – Some places are closer than you think.
- Taxi – Either jump in a car or hop on a scooter. Be mindful that they charge higher the later it is. Obviously, you may not be able to bargain as much if it’s 2 am and no one else is around.
- Scooter Rental – There’s no better way to exploring the island by riding freely on your own time. Daily rentals range from $4 – $10. Weekly rentals from $22 – $28.
Where to stay?
Finding a place to stay is just one of those stressful parts of planning a vacation. You’re conflicted on whether the pictures are accurate and if the price is right for what you’re getting. I suggest renting a villa in Bali. They are reasonably priced and have complete privacy. Here are a few places to consider, depending on your budget, which I found in the Ubud and Canggu areas. Airbnb is always a great alternative.
Where I stayed in Ubud:
Arma Museum & Resort – Superior Suite $230/night (includes free breakfast)
The Superior Suite at Arma Resort has everything all in one. Private pool with fountains, outdoor bathroom and shower, and a cozy cabana. It’s the perfect combination of privacy and beautiful scenery. Embedded in lush Balinese gardens, the Arma Resort provides you with an elegant, tranquil and serene environment. The wonderful accommodations and amicable staff alone are two reasons why I recommend staying here.
Other Ubud Hotels:
- Amora Ubud
- Hanging Garden Bali
- Kamandalu Ubud
Where I stayed in Canggu:
Villa Sabana (Airbnb) – Private Bungalow $129/night (includes free breakfast)
Villa Sabana is a delicate and beautifully designed getaway that will literally take your breath away. From modern architecture to the stunning pool and backyard, this place will feel like home. The Bungalow at Villa Sabana was the perfect fit – most spacious, secluded and romantic suite available. And of course, a private outdoor shower. Guests have access to common rooms such as the entertainment room, dining area, pool, and gazebos. We were welcomed by a lovely Australian couple (filling in for Juan & Geoff) and the house manager who showed us nothing but wonderful hospitality and amazing energy. Highly recommend staying at Villa Sabana. Be sure to let them know Melissa sent you!
Other Canggu Hotels:
- Saba Villas
- Theanna Eco Villa and Spa
- Lalasa Villas
What to do?
If Instagram hashtags aren’t helpful enough, here are a few of my favorite things to do in Bali.
Temples
- Tanah Lot (water temple)
- Ulun Danu Bratan
- Tirta Empul (Holy Springs)
- Pura Luhur Lempuyang
Beach Bars
- Finns Beach
- Club La Brisa
- OMNIA Dayclub
- Potato Head Beach Club
Spa
- Heart Spa at Arma hotel (Orchid signature massage | 60 mins | $30 USD)
- Massage at Hanging Gardens hotel
- AWAY Spa at the W
- Stop by any spa/massage/nail salon for massages as low as $10 USD
Waterfalls
- Tegenungan Waterfall (Ubud)
- Peguyangan Waterfall (Nusa Penida)
- SingSing Waterfalls (Lovina)
- Sekumpul Waterfall (Singaraja)
Nightlife
- Old Man’s
- Ms. Sippy (also a beach club during the day)
- Sky Garden
- Mirror Lounge and Club
Other Activities
- Sunday brunch at the W
- Butterfly Park
- Monkey Forest
- Mason’s Elephant Park
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