Bali Essential Travel Guide

 Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel      2
Baliguide
Table of Contents
Title Page
Dedication
About this Guide
Welcome to Bali
Travel Planning Essentials
Bali Guide & Good to Know
Useful Maps
Accommodation
Where to Stay
Weather & Seasons
Visa & Immigration
Visa requirements and Immigration
Visa requirements
Staying longer than 30 days
Working Visa & Residency
Top 100 Insider tips
Transportation & Trafﬁc
Taxis & Ojeks
Scooters & Motorbikes
Car Rentals
Uber & other apps
Public Transport 
Communication & Internet
Cash & Payments
Cash
Money changers 
ATM Machines
Credit cards 

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 3

Bali local time and time zones

Health, Doctors & Accidents

Most Common Diseases

Hospitals & Emergencies

Accidents

Dentists and dental clinics

Safety & Crime

Safe on the road

Crime and Scams

Drugs

Prostitution

Emergency Numbers

More Important Numbers

Embassies & Consulates

LGBT travelers

Arriving & Bali Airport (DPS)

Location of Bali Airport, DPS

Tips for Arriving at the Airport

Airport Taxis in Bali

Key Facts about DPS

Families with Children

Your Special Packing List

Traveling with a disability

Traveling as a backpacker

Plugs and electricity voltage

Etiquette and manners

Indonesian - Bahasa Indonesian

Most Important words in Bahasa

In case of emergency

Traveling, Eating and Drinking

Numbers

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 4

Mix and match

Packing Check List

The Checklist

Things to Do

Beaches in Bali

Nusa Dua Beach

Geger Beach - South Bali

Dreamland Beach

Nyang Nyang Beach

Balangan Beach

Bingin Beach

Jimbaran Beach

Kuta Beach

Double Six Beach

Dhyana Pura Beach

Canggu Beach

Echo Beach

Pererenan Beach

Balian Beach

Serangan Beach

Sanur Beach

Pasir Putih Beach

Padangbai Beach

Keramas Beach

Amed Beach

Pemuteran Beach

Lovina Beach

Tours and daytrips

Temples in Bali

Balinese Arts and Handicrafts

Movie Eat Pray and Love - check anita

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 5

Traditional Dances

Surﬁng

Diving

Trekking & Cycling

Museum and Art Galleries

Shopping Paradise

Where to go

What to buy

How to pay and bargain

Traditional Music

Golf

Choppers and Planes

Water Sport Activities

Major festivals & events

Bali Spirit Festival

The Bali Live International Jazz Festival

Ubud Writers & Readers Festival – UWRF

Ubud Food Festival

Bali Arts Festival

International Film Festival/BALINALE

Body and Soul

Spa and Beauty

Spa and salon treatments

Street spas

Mid-range Spas

Luxury spas

Yoga

CosMedical Spas & Rejuvenation

Anti Aging and Well-Being

CosMedical Tourism

Popular CosMedical treatments

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 6

Body art

Going Out

Cuisines, Styles, Places to Go

Nightlife & Clubbing

Area Guide

Main Region 1: South Bali

Denpasar

Tuban

Kuta & Kuta Beach

Legian

Seminyak & Petitenget

Kerobokan

Umalas

Canggu

Sanur

Tanah Lot

Main Region 2: Bukit Peninsula - South Bali

Nusa Dua

Jimbaran

Tanjung Benoa

Ungasan

Uluwatu

Pecatu

Main Region 3: Central Bali

Villages of Artists

Silver and Gold in Celuk

Wood Carvings in Mas

Stone Carvings in Batubulan

Paintings in Batuan

Bamboo & Lontar in Bone & Belega

Gamelan music instruments in Tihingan

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 7

Ubud & Ubud area

Sayan

Mas

Batubulan

Batuan

Tegallalang

Sukawati & Puaya

Tampaksiring

Kintamani

Bangli

Munduk

Main Region 4: North Bali

Lovina

Pemuteran

Menjangan Island & National PArk

Main Region 5: East Bali

Gianyar

Klungkung

Candidasa

Manggis

Tulamben

Padangbai

Amed

Main Region 6: West Bali

Tabanan

Negara

Medewi

Pekutatan

Main Region 7 – The Nusa Islands

Nusa Lembongan

Ceningan

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 8

Nusa Penida & Toyapakeh

Culture

Major Religious Festivals in Bali

Nyepi & Balinese New Year

Galungan

Kuningan

Saraswati

Pagerwesi

Lebaran or Idul Fitri

Balinese Traditional Dances

Kecak Dance

Barong and Kris Dance

Legong Dance

Baris Dance

Sanghyang Dances

Janger Dance

Topeng Dances

Pendet Dance

Balinese Culture and Religion

Traditional Music

Thank you

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 9

Bali%Travel%Guide

By%Bali.com

The%Essential%Travel%Guide%to%the%Island%of%Gods.%All%you%

need%to%know%for%your%travel%planning.%

Bali%is%rated,%for%many%good%reasons,%the%no.%1%tropical%

tourist%destination%in%the%world.%Millions%of%visitors%hav e%

had%an%amazing%time%in%Bali%and%keep%coming%back%to%re-live%

the%magic%of%the%island.%

In%this%guide,%we%have%put%together%the%core%information%

you%will%need%on%your%visit.%Our%goal%is%to%help%you%make%the%

best%out%of%your%limited%and%valuable%days%in%Bali.%

This%e-book%is%an%excellent%companion%to%our%website%

(Web:)%www.bali.com,%where%you%can%Jind%even%more%up-to-

date%information%and%can%book%online%activity%tickets,%a%car%

with%driver,%tours,%hotels,%villas,%and%much%more.

Bali.com%-%smart%travel%planning

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 10

About this Bali Guide

Each traveler has different expectations, unique desires, and varying budget when he or

she comes to Bali. Some of you will be seasoned travellers, while others will explore for

the first time a tropical island far away from home. Some of you come alone, some with

a partner, some with friends and some with your families.

In this book we have gathered information for you from local sources. We share with

you information from the tourism industry in Indonesia, from local Indonesian's and

from foreigners living on the Island for decades. We want to share with you tips,

advise and guidance that will help you understand the Island and its

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 11

culture, before you decide on where to stay and what to do.

This Guide is powered by the editors and contributors of our holiday portal

www.bali.com. In some articles in this book, we have set links to the website

marked with (Web:). You can follow these links, if you have internet connection. This

will direct you to more specific information. You will be offered listings of hotels, villas,

restaurants, activities and options to book handpicked services directly online.

However, to work with this book, you do not need any internet connection. You

can sit comfortably in the airplane or on a deck chair at the pool side and browse

through the chapters. It might work best for you, to read through the book from

beginning to end. In the case of special interests, follow the internal links or go to the

Table of Content and navigate to a different topic.

This book will help you to plan a smooth, safe and fun holiday, where you can

visit some interesting places and enjoy the incredible variety Bali has to offer. We start

by focusing on general must-know information, before diving into the details. Why? It's

smarter to understand the overall culture of a holiday destination before you decide how

many days you want to visit, where you want to stay, what you want to do and what you

want to eat. Things can go wrong very quickly if you are not careful and alert about the

specifics of the place you are visiting. Bali is very safe and easy to handle, but it's good

to know some insider-tips. Where there is light, there is also a shadow. Not everything

that happens on Bali is legal and peaceful. Like in other tourist destinations, Bali also

has tourists looking to drink, party and be loud.

For a traveller it is important to know where to stay, how to get around and what to do.

Particularly, the choice of accommodation in relation to the area will have a massive

impact on your experience. Every area in Bali is different and offers distinctive qualities

that make it unique. Before booking your hotel or villa, take a few minutes and read the

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 12

"Travel Planning Essentials"- Article.

Before we go further, we would like to mention that Bali's environment, like in so many

other areas in the world, is under some pressure. Indonesia is still a developing country,

with a long list of things that need to be implemented to protect nature and resources.

Bali has no heavy industry, which is a good thing. However, rubbish and traffic is

steadily increasing. The fact that Bali is a rather small island compared to Java or

Sumatra adds to the problem at hand. Consumerism is on the rise in Bali. The big food

and consumer conglomerates spend billions on advertising, to lure Indonesians to buy

their products, which are also sold in the "developed world". However, the packaging

industry produces no special packaging for these developing countries. They lack

infrastructure for rubbish collection and recycling. What might get recycled or properly

collected in developed countries could end up in the ocean, valleys, or in semi-

professional landfills at best in Indonesia. We can be part of the problem or we can be

part of the solution. There are things Bali visitors can do, in order to minimize their

ecological footprint.

Thank you very much. We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to help you to ENJOY

BALI!

Team Bali.com

If you need any assistance with your travel plans or wish to give us

feedback, we would love to hear from you. You can reach us at

[email protected].

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 13

Welcome to Bali - Island of Gods

Unique, Fascinating, Vibrant, Diverse

Located in the middle of the world's largest archipelago, Bali is Indonesia's most

well known island. Its rich traditions, breathtaking nature, colorful ceremonies, and

unique culture make it stand out from its neighbors. With an average year round

temperature of around 27C (80F), an open-minded culture, access to modern bars,

luxurious spas and sandy beaches it is no wonder that many simply get addicted to the

Island.

Balinese Dancer

Although Indonesia is the largest muslim dominated country in the world, Bali is unique

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 14

with its mostly Hindu culture which permeates all aspects of everyday life.

Ceremonies are held almost every day, celebrating the cycles of the moon, holidays,

birth, marriage, coming of age, and passing away. Traditional clothing is still commonly

worn, and visitors are often surprised by the daily 'canang sari' offerings to Gods and

demons that are found everywhere on sidewalks, shrines, stores, and homes.

Bali is the wellness capital of the world. Tired travelers can pamper themselves

with highly affordable massages and spa treatments, or simply relax on the beach with a

cocktail and watch a beautiful sunset.

Whatever your interest, Bali will have something amazing for you. With so many

choices on offer, a travelers' only problem is figuring out, where to stay, what to do and

how to do it. We are excited to support you in taking these decisions and be your one-

stop travel experts.

Traditional dances and plays are regularly performed for locals and visitors alike, to

the accompanying sound of the gamelan orchestra. Balinese culture is part of life

everywhere on the island. It has found a center in Ubud, which, despite being one of the

world's most liveable places, is still run according to traditional village principles. Here,

rituals, traditional medicine, and magic are still a part of everyday life. Those wishing to

explore their spiritual side can find meditation programs and yoga classes that will help

them achieve inner peace.

Watersport is amazing. World-class (Web:) scuba diving and snorkeling is available

in a number of locations around the island, from the protected natural reserves of

Menjangan, to the shipwreck of the USS Liberty at Tulamben, to the more challenging

waters of Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan and foremost Nusa Penida, where manta

rays and the rare mola mola are sighted regularly.

Surfers will be very happy with the wide range of waves Bali has to offer. Beginners

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 15

can give the sport a try at the forgiving sandy beach breaks of Kuta, while the size and

power of waves at Uluwatu, in the Bukit region, provide a challenge for even the most

experienced surfers. Fans of trekking and mountain biking can take a trip up to the

mountains around Kintamani or Munduk, exploring trails, waterfalls, and rice fields in

cool comfort, or perhaps enjoying whitewater rafting on a range of rivers in the area.

Party all night long. In contrast, the Southern region of Bali is a perfect home for

hedonistic fun. Kuta is the center for visiting party animals, drawn by the hundreds of

bars and nightclubs on offer. A stone's throw north, the Seminyak area offers more

refined nightlife options, with popular bands and DJs performing regularly, as well as

a host of dining choices run by the renowned international chefs who have made Bali

their home. Bali is a paradise for anyone who loves food. The variety of restaurants

and cuisines available is stunning. A tasty meal can cost as low as 2USD.

Shopping is great. Every day until 8pm (sometimes 10pm), thousands of shops sell

almost everything your heart desires. Souvenirs, decoration, food items and of course

cloths and fashion: a range of boutiques sell designs by local and global designers,

whose cutting edge fashions at reasonable prices attract travelers from all over the

world.

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 16

Bali - Smart Travel Planning

The essentials for your travel planning

You might be thinking about coming to Bali, you might have booked your flight, you

might even be as far as looking for things to do and accommodation is decided and

booked, or you might already be on the Island. Whichever stage you are on your travel

plan, you will find lots of interesting facts and insights about the Island in the Bali

Guide. We share here, valuable information and tips that will help you to have a great

time on Bali and to avoid some of the traps one could step into, but would rather avoid.

Based on our experience it is advisable to start with the following when planning your

trip to Bali:

1. Know your Budget

Allocate your rough budget for accommodation per night and room. Estimate how much

money you will be willing to spend for food and drinks, and activities. You will need to

calculate some costs for getting around, by scooter, taxi or car rental with driver.

We will talk a bit later in this book about general costs. In Bali you can travel on a

shoestring budget or the sky is the limit. Everyone can find what he/she is looking for

and within each segment Bali is famous for it's amazing value for money. Whether you

spend $20 or $1000 per night, in most cases you will get much more than you bargained

for.

2. Define your general Interest

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 17

Whether you travel alone, with friends and family, or with children, you should have a

general idea about what you are looking for. Culture, Nature & Sightseeing, Action &

Sport, Watersport & Diving, Culinary Adventures, Chilling, Party & Clubbing, Shopping.

Some of it? All of it?

3. The Areas

With this in mind we suggest you read up on the areas and what they offer or better

"what they stand for". First read about the 7 main areas and look at the map. Then dive

into the smaller areas such as Seminyak, Kuta, Ubud, Sanur etc., once you know

generally what area suits you. Depending on your length of stay you might consider to

move a few times within Bali. This is actually an excellent way of getting around and

exploring the different "faces" of Bali.

For a 2 weeks holiday, following itinerary is a kind of a magic mix that

worked for many travellers extremely well over the years:

• 3 -5 nights in the south or South East (Kuta, Seminyak, Legian, Canggu, Bukit,

Ungasan, Sanur, Padang Bai, Candi Das, etc); getting used to climate, arriving,

some beach time, maybe water sport, one temple visit, going out, wine and dine

• 3-5 nights Ubud or near Ubud; time for sightseeing, art and nature. Explore

culture and art, day trips to volcano, temples, rice fields lakes, some shopping

and chilling in cafés, yoga, rafting

• 2-3 nights Lembongan or Ceningan Island (30min by speed boat from Sanur); for

snorkelling, diving, exploring "Bali" like it was 30 years ago

• 2-4 nights in another place in the South different from first stop; for some dining,

shopping, days at pool and beach, leisure

If you have more time or wish to experience a more remote and quiet Bali you could

consider going to the north. This part of Bali is very remote, quiet, with black volcanic

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 18

beaches and the opportunity to visit Bali's Nature Reserve Park. The area of Sidemen, in

the southwest, offers some spectacular nature and rice field, only a few get to

experience.

If you have special interests such as trekking, scuba diving, surfing then other areas,

than the ones we suggested might be interesting for you, depending on seasons and

weather.

4. Weather and Seasons

Depending on the time of the year you wish to travel, or can get your days off from work,

you can experience a different Bali altogether. The best time to travel is the dry season:

mid March to mid October. Although even during rainy season you can sometimes

have fantastic weather with almost no rain.

Avoid if you can: Easter, Christmas, July and August. These are Bali's high season,

prices are up and the island is much more crowded.

More on Weather and Seasons

5. Look for Accommodation Options

The Island of the Gods offers a wide range of accommodation. From the basic home-

stays run by very friendly Balinese families to luxurious, privately serviced beachfront

villas. The choices of places to stay can be simply overwhelming. We work with two

partners who we have tested thoroughly: Booking.com and Agoda.com. Both offer great

deals and are extremely reliable when it comes to handling reservations, cancellations

and payments. The hotels themselves offer the same prices to all the portals through a

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 19

centralized source. Some portals offer cheaper prices at first glance, however there are

usually handling fees added on later at the checkout. You are in safe hands with our two

partners above.

When you book through us, we get a small commission, which does not cost you

anything, but helps us to do the things we do for this e-book and our portal. If you are

happy with our services, we would appreciate your support by you booking through the

above links.

The main question, after you have decided on area/location and budget, is whether you

wish to stay in a hotel or a villa. Bali is a villa paradise and if you are wiling to spend

100USD or more per night, then you should consider the option to book a villa for a few

nights. Most villas are fully serviced and if you are ready to pay more, you can rent a

home that will remind you of heaven on earth.

• Villas with direct booking facility

• Handpicked Luxury Villa selection

6. Things to do

The range of activities Bali has to offer is numerous. Once you get tired of the sun and

beach, there is so much more to do and explore. Bali is relatively small and if you decide

to stay in the center around Ubud or in the south around Kuta/Seminyak, most of the

attractions and sightseeing spots can be reached with a day trip. For example, if you

wish to go to Bali Zoo which it's located near Ubud, no need to stay in Ubud to get there.

You can manage that while staying in Seminyak.

Main Chapter about things to do

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 20

Note: If you plan specifically to explore scuba diving, surfing, trekking and

hiking then it's advisable to plan ahead and also read the corresponding

chapter, as this might also effect your choice of location.

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 21

Bali Guide & Good to Know

Essential Tips and Advice

In this chapter we will cover some of the main topics that we feel are most helpful. The

majority of articles should probably be read before you arrive on Bali, as they will help

you to take some decisions about your trip, and also give you some background

information on what to expect.

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 22

Accommodation Choices

The most important choice of your travel planning

Bali's hotels, villas, and rental properties offer incredible comfort and value, and are as

diverse as the travelers that visit them. From budget guesthouses to five-star luxury

hotels, Bali offers great deals that suit any budget.

Travelers can dive into the busy social scene in popular areas or enjoy an exclusive

getaway in the boutique hotels, tranquil private villas, and vacation rental properties

found all over the island. Backpackers will be surprised by the clean and relaxing

accommodation available on a tight budget, while those who want luxury can live like

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 23

royalty at a reasonable price.

Whatever your accommodation needs, Bali has it on offer, and the small size of the

island and incredible range of hotels, guest houses, and villas means that no matter

what you have planned for your vacation, you can be sure to find the perfect place to rest

your head. If you need help to find the ideal place for you, you're in the right place.

Our best Hotel and Resort deals:

(Web:) Booking.com / Bali.com

(Web:) Agoda.com / Bali.com

Some Important Tips - Before you book your room

• We strongly suggest you get familiar with the main areas of Bali first

• We have selected booking.com and agoda.com as our premium partners. Why?

Overall they have the best prices and great cancellation terms. Hotel price

comparing sites often DO NOT show you the net prices, therefore during the

booking process additional costs occur. So it might look cheaper at first, but at

the end it is not. Most hotels feed the same prices into ALL THE BOOKING

ENGINES through one system anyhow. So prices are same because they are

mentioned from one source (hotel), just the way they are presented is different ;-)

• We do get a small commission if you book through our website, which does not

change your price at all. If you want to support us, we appreciate you booking

through our website. Thank you.

• Make use of the filters in the sidebars when looking for an accommodation.

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 24

Particularly area, price, and rating are helpful in boiling down the long list of

hotels and resorts

• Don't get dazzled by the hotel names. A hotel with Seminyak in the title might not

exactly be in Seminyak - or just "at the edge of Seminyak". And a hotel that is

called Royal Kuta, might not be royal nor in Kuta.

• Location, location, location. Once you selected the main tourist area such as

Ubud, Kuta, Seminyak, etc, then zoom in with the map! A hotel positioned near

the coastline could make you believe it's just a short walk to the beach. But roads

are tricky here on Bali. Zoom the map and look at the roads closely, that will give

you a clearer picture on what to expect.

• Have a look at the number of rooms, of a property (at the bottom of the

description on our booking partner site) to get a feeling for the size of the

property, and the number of fellow guests you might share breakfast with in the

morning.

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 25

Where to Stay

What to expect

In this article: Overview of main areas

Kuta & Legian

The Kuta and Legian area is the most developed part of Bali. It's an ideal place to find

accommodation on a budget and is within easy reach of most of the southern parts of

Bali. Small hotels and 'losmen' offer basic rooms with a lot of personality for a few

dollars per day, while some larger budget hotel chains have sprung up in Kuta and

Legian in recent years, with clean standard rooms available at great rates. Prices here

depend upon whether hot water, air conditioning, or a pool is included, and asking for

better rates is common. Cheaper prices are almost always available for longer stays.

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 26

Kuta and Legian are not quiet, by any means, and visitors who stay here should be

prepared for action and even crowds at all times of day and night. Packed into the alleys

running through this area are an incredible number of busy restaurants, bars, and

nightclubs, and the beach is never more than a short walk away. Kuta is a great place to

learn to surf, let your inner party animal run wild and meet new people.

Seminyak

Farther north you will find the more refined Seminyak area. If you want to be close to

the heart of things, but enjoy a bit more sophisticated accommodation and

surroundings, this is the place for you. Hotels here are slightly more upscale, ranging

from affordable and stylish to luxurious and opulent. Seminyak also has an incredible

number of private villas available for short and long-term stays, often including staff

that will cook, clean, and look after your every need. The hotels and villas in this area are

often tucked away from everything else, offering serenity, calm, and a unique Balinese

aesthetic. Seminyak is great for families, with many world-class but affordable

restaurants, clean and pleasant beaches, and fashionably funky boutiques that will drive

shoppers wild without hurting their bank accounts. Kids' clubs and indoor play areas are

also available, as are nannies at very reasonable prices.

Canggu

North of Seminyak, beyond Petitenget the upcoming area of Canggu is gaining ground.

For the travellers, who love the west coast of Bali, enjoy the beautiful sunsets, love

taking long strolls at the beach, and look for excellent waves for surfing, and who feel

that Seminyak became a bit too busy and expensive, Canggu is the place to be.

Hotels and villas of all segments have opened in the last couple of years, and restaurants

and shops are popping up every where. It feels as if you visit Seminyak 15 or 2o years

ago. The massive Canggu Club with its bowling and waterpark, and the trendy Finn's

Beach Club are now major attractions in this area, where travellers, locals, and

expatriates mingle. Echo Beach, Batu Bolong and Nelayan are part of Canggu.

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 27

Ubud

In the mountains around Ubud, the guesthouses, hotels, and villas share the village's

peaceful atmosphere and focus on culture and art. Backpackers can stay in comfortable

losmen that have been run by local families for decades, and get a true feeling for rustic

traditional life in Bali. Chickens, playing children, and perhaps the odd monkey are

included. Yoga retreats and other spiritually focused accommodation can also easily be

found by the soul-seeking traveler. Many mid-range hotels offer families comfort and

style, with local stonework, wood-carvings, and fish ponds as all part of the deal.

Meanwhile, some of the world's most luxurious hotel chains have created havens in the

surrounding mountains, offering incredible style and world-class comfort for travelers

seeking peace and serenity. Ubud has long been the home of choice for artists and free

thinkers from around the world, so there is no shortage of longer-term accommodation

available. Vacation rentals can be found for a wide variety of budgets. The center of

Ubud, though focused on meditation, traditional arts, and culture, is lively, with some of

the best restaurants on the island and shopping options for all ranges. Families can

enjoy plenty of activities among the rice fields and rivers in the area.

Sanur

Sanur is one of the oldest tourist regions in Bali, and yet has remained calm and quiet,

run according to traditional principles by a tight-knit group of Balinese villages. Once

the preferred choice of the stars, Sanur is now more focused on tranquility and

relaxation. It is ideal for families, with a peaceful white sand beach fronting a calm

section of the Indian Ocean that allows for water sports of all types. Sanur is also a base

for diving and snorkeling. It is a great place to find mid-range accommodation, an

affordably priced beachfront hotel, or a villa for longer stay. Tradition is strong in the

area, which is known as a center for magic, meaning that visitors get a true taste of Bali

while still having access to modern amenities.

Nusa Dua

Those in search of beachfront luxury will appreciate Nusa Dua, on the southern tip of

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 28

the island. Here, the world's foremost hotel operators have set up lush beachfront

compounds, each with its own system of swimming pools and restaurants. Massages,

spa treatments, kids' clubs, and tasteful boutiques can all be found within the grounds of

these spacious properties. Surfing and water sports are also available in the stretch

reaching up to Benoa. While some mid-range options and private villas are found in this

area, Nusa Dua is really for those who want to enjoy the finest accommodation in a

uniquely Balinese way.

Bukit, Pecatu, Uluwatu, Ungasan

West of Nusa Dua, on the tip of the southern Bukit Peninsula, is the Uluwatu area.

Lovers of beaches and sun will enjoy this area, but the focus here is clearly the world-

class surf breaks on this cliff-lined stretch of coast. Surf-hungry backpackers travelling

on a shoestring can find the most basic accommodation here, often offering only a bed

and a fan, but those who want to enjoy their time out of the water can also find many

mid-range choices, often owned by local families and including a restaurant or bar and

swimming pool. An increasing number of luxury hotels are also springing up along the

cliffs of the Bukit area, offering upscale accommodation and incredible views, as well as

magnificent villas of the utmost luxury.

Jimbaran

North of Uluwatu is Jimbaran, home to the tallest hotel in Bali; The Jimbaran View.

Jimbaran was a small fishing village before it grew into a tourist resort, offering

spectacular seafood restaurants and luxury 5star hotels. There are also many high-end

villas in this area, particularly on the ridges of high ground above Jimbaran Bay. This

has resulted in monikers such as the "Beverly Hills of Bali" or "Millionaire's Row".

Lately the area is developing more affordable accommodation. There is however little in

the way of budget accommodation. The bay itself has a pleasant white sand beach and is

very safe for swimming. The three clusters of grilled seafood restaurants on the beach

are a major tourist draw in the evenings, as is the truly stunning sunset. The customers

can select live seafood that they wish to eat, and it is immediately prepared, generally

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 29

grilled over a for of coconut husks rather then charcoal. Jimbaran has an increasing

number of rather chic shops but there is little or no nightlife here. It has the advantage

of being a little closer to Kuta and Seminyak and the cultural highlights of Central Bali.

Candidasa

Want to get off the beaten path? Accommodation in regions like Candidasa and Amed is

comfortable and suited to families, couples, or relaxed singles. Here, there is a wide

range of mid-level options, often fronting the beach and offering snorkeling and diving.

These areas are still quiet, and offer an amazing opportunity to get away from the hustle

and bustle and enjoy low-key Bali tranquility. Farther north, in Lovina, where dolphins

can be sighted, and the calm waves lapping the black sand beaches are ideal for

swimming. Hotels here are comfortable and peaceful, offering plenty of quiet and local

charm.

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 30

Top 100 Insider tips

Save yourself some time and money

In this Article: Tips, that can really make a difference

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 31

It will take you probably 10 minutes to run through this list. But in many cases it will

save you valuable time, money and hassle. Bali is a wonderful island, but it's not a

tourism destination that is designed by tourism managers like on the Maldives or

Bahamas where everything is streamlined and predictable.

Bali is unpredictable. This is the beauty and fascination that attracts so many people

who come here regularly and fell in love with this place. It's a vibrant and dynamic

island that is home to more than 4mio Indonesians who live and work here. Bali is ever-

changing. Knowing some tricks will make things easier for you :-)

Visa and Passport

Free entry stamp and Visa on Arrival both valid 30 days. Remember: day

of arrival and departure day count as full days each

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 32

Your passport must be valid for 6 months when arriving. Otherwise you

won't be allowed to travel (happens to quite a few)! There are NO

EXCEPTIONS

3 One page must be empty for the visa stamp

Keep your boarding pass when you arrive, you MIGHT have to show it to

the immigration officer

5 Free Entry stamp CANNOT be extended

Visa on Arrival is not needed for most travelers, but if you wish to stay

between 30 and 60 days, then this is a good choice

Accommodation & Going Out

7 Most prices are subject to tax (10%) and service charge (6-11%)

Value for money is incredible on Bali. Whatever you decide to go for. Streetfood

or fine dining. The choice is endless. (Web:) List of places

9 Ice cubes in restaurants are generally safe and government controlled

10 For 3-5US$ one can have already a decent meal

Vegetarian and healthy food on the rise, epicenter Ubud. Try the detox

smoothies.

12 Roof Top bars and Beach clubs are getting more popular, for good reasons.

Don't trust the name of the place. Always check the map. The "Kuta Hotel"

might not be exactly in Kuta :-)

Look at the maps closely. A hotel near the coastline could still be far to the next

beach, due to lack of road access.

15 One can still stay for 10-15US$ per night in homestays

New budget hotels offer clean rooms with AC in larger hotel complexes for

20US$

17 Price for hotel room in 4 star hotel or resort 70-120US$

(Web:) Private, serviced Villas are a great alternative offering stunning value

for money

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 33

Areas: Every area is distinctively different in Bali. Better get to know the areas

first before booking rooms and check out the maps

Room Payment: Even if prices are quoted in US$, the bill will be converted

into Rp. First.

Traffic & Transport

21 Left-hand traffic on Bali. Tips on handling traffic.

Scooter rental costs 5-8US$ per day. Always put safety and reliability first.

Never compromise. Enough people have serious or fatal accidents. Never hire

run down scooters to save a buck.

23 Keep the mobile no. of the bike rental shop with you. You might need it.

Car with driver for 8-10 hours costs 40-70US$ per day. Make sure they

have a driver's license and the permission to be a driver (izin, insurance issues)

to avoid trouble with the police.

25 Taxis are safe and cheap, but ask them to switch on the meter, always!

Ubud no meter taxis available, transport is organized by licensed drivers

from the village. It's important to bargain!

27 Renting a scooter or car? Bring international driving license

Yes, there is UBER and GRAB in Bali. But in many areas drivers are afraid to go

to, because the local communities are against it and create major trouble.

Motorbike Taxis can be arranged through the app Go-Jek. Works well, although

also they are restricted in some areas.

Communication & Internet

30 Get a SIMCard in one of the mobile shops for your smart phone (ca. 3US$)

Mobile Surfing Internet. Get a SIMcard and ask for internet package /4GB, 1

month ca. 10US$

32 Many restaurants have free wifi

33 At the international airport just when you exit, you can buy a simcard

34 Prepaid Credit is called pulsa

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 34

Hardly anybody is using phones in hotels anymore. Whatsapp and Skype are

the best and cheapest way to stay in touch with your loved ones at home

Most hotels offer free wifi. Better check before you book and make sure it is

available in your room and not only in the lobby and restaurant

Internet connections are often still slow. Don't expect to be able to stream

movies or transfer huge amounts of data

Activities & Wellness

Bali is a scuba diving paradise. Amed, Tulamben, Padang Bai, and the Nusa

Islands (Penida), etc. (Web:) Dive spots and centers

39 Bali has the highest spa density in the world

Full body massage are available at 7US$ per hour, but can go up to

60US$/h in 5 star hotels and luxury spas

Nail & Hair Salons, Massage parlours of any quality and even cosmedical

centres of the highest standards are available

42 Surfing for beginners at Kuta, Legian and Seminyak Beach

43 Bali has a wave for everyone, all year around

44 Top Temples: Uluwatu, Tanah Lot, Besakih (Web:) List of main temples

Climbing a volcano, downhill cycling or a hike through traditional villages will

get you closer to nature and Balinese culture

46 Ubud should be part of your tour program.

It's a Shopping Paradise; art work, handicrafts, oils and essence, clothes,

shoes, furniture, accessories

Day of Silence, (Web:) Nyepi, no check-in or check-out from hotel. Entire

island incl. airport is shut down

49 Manta Rays and Mola Mola fish Nusa Penida and Lembongan

50 Getting married in Bali is easy; wedding companies offer full service.

Don't smile at the monkey in the monkey forest or temples, showing teeth is

a sign of aggression for them

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 35

Water sport activities can be found at Benoa (jet ski, para gliding, water ski

etc)

Neighboring Islands Lembongan, Ceningan and Nusa Penida less than 1h by

boat from Sanur. PARADISE.

SAFETY & Manners

54 When it's raining the sidewalks can be extremely slippery

55 Sidewalks can have large and deep holes, that can't be seen at night.

56 Driving a scooter. Never go too fast. Fatal accidents happen daily.

Loose chippings are everywhere on the road. Expect cats, dogs,

chicken...anything can cross your way. And any vehicle can come towards you

from any direction, anytime.

58 Never drink and drive if you want to leave Bali in one piece.

Currents in the sea can be dangerous, and change depending on the

weather and wind conditions; also good swimmers have drowned on Bali

Night swimming (under the influence of alcohol and drugs) seem like fun, but

will most likely lead to Bali being your last destination.

Ocean and beach hazards. Nature is unpredictable. Watch rip currents,

undertows, and waves in general. Particularly when you have kids.

62 Don't do drugs - it's not worth it, when you get caught.

There is crime in Bali, although not much compared to many other

destinations), so stay alert

64 Prostitution is illegal in Bali

65 HIV is widespread among prostitutes

Kuta Night Clubs can get rough at times. Some security guys here might not be

as calm and objective as you expect

67 Topless sunbathing on the beach is not allowed

Balinese are open-minded but they don't like: people using their streets as

toilets, topless guys in restaurants and shops, disrespectful and loud behavior,

somebody touching their head, overly public display of affection

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 36

69 Use mosquito net and repellent when possible. Dengue fever is widespread.

The red light district and night life areas attract criminals of all sorts - like in

any other place in the world, so always stay alert and don't drink too much, stay

with friends if you can

ATM machines: always put your hand above the keypad when typing your code.

ALWAYS!

General rule - like in any other place in the world. If a place looks dodgy and you

can avoid it and go somewhere else, do so.

Environment & People

Bali is a fragile island. Trash, Water and Traffic are big problems, like in any

other part of the developing world.

74 Try to take short showers and avoid wasting water.

Everything you throw away stays in Bali or will be washed into the sea. Rubbish

management in this part of the world does not really exist.

Plastic is problem no. 1. Avoid plastic bottles, straws, plastic bags when

shopping.

Most workers you will meet have a salary of around 130 to 150US$ per month

and work hard for their money, travel long distances and share their income

with other family members.

Balinese are super friendly and welcoming. They are also proud and are happy if

you respect their customs and island.

Being angry and shouting is not appreciated. If you have a complaint, be polite,

calm and insist on a solution in a friendly manner if you wish to get any result.

Areas

80 Kuta is wild at night

81 Seminyak has most clubs and beach clubs, more upper class

82 Ubud is laid back, art, small shops, great food, healthy life style, yoga

83 Lembongan Island is easy to get to and like Bali 40 years ago. Paradise

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 37

Sanur is more quiet, a bit upper class in general, calm beaches, great

restaurants at the beach side (pantai sindhu). Lots of live music.

85 Indonesian Clove cigarettes are called Kretek and are smoked everywhere

86 Rainy season, October to February, Dry season March to September

87 Bali (incl. Lembongan) are one of the best surf destinations in Asia

Amed is the place where most scuba divers stay and where you can dive

around the famous Japanese shipwreck

89 Nusa Dua, 5 star resort area

Jimbaran - seafood restaurants and BBQ directly on the beach, every night

(busy, fresh seafood, tasty)

Bukit Penisula in the south, surfer's paradise and still a little bit off the

beaten track. Padang Padang Beach, Bingin Beach, Dreamland, Uluwatu,

Balangan

Money

Visa and Master Card are widely accepted. Credit Card payment in hotels

and most restaurants and shops is possible. A surcharge of 1 - 4% is applied

when using credit cards. Street vendors: only cash and best in IDR

93 You can pull money from ATM easily (remote areas not so much).

94 US$, AUS$, EUR will be changed almost anywhere.

Make sure to go to official money changers. If the place looks small and dodgy,

it most certainly is dodgy.

Payment is done in IDR (Indonesian Rupiah). Even if many hotels publish their

prices in US$, the actual payment will be done in IDR and the exchange rate will

usually not be very good in the hotel

97 Bring some cash, your credit card and a normal bank card.

Max amount you can withdraw in one go at an ATM is around 1.500.000

(machine with a 50.000 sticker) or 3.000.000 (machines with a 100.000

sticker)

99 Traveler cheques seem to be a relic of the past

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 38

100

Bargaining with street vendors is a must. But also good to respect their work

and not to overdo it. Live and let live!

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 39

Transportation & Traffic

Getting around

In this Article: Main options to move from A to B and must-know tips when

driving scooters or car.

Transportation is one of the major concerns when going to a foreign country, and is

often overlooked during the travel planning process. Bali's public transportation system

is very weak and almost non-existent. It is smart to know of other services that can get

you from A to B, apart from taxis.

In major areas like Kuta, Seminyak or Sanur, you can walk around by foot quite easily.

The distance between one touristic area to another can be quite far at times, and the

heat, traffic, and sidewalk conditions can be stressful. If your hotel or villa is not very

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 40

near to the beach or restaurants, then you need some form of transportation to get

there.

Almost everywhere on Bali, you will be continuously asked if you need transport. Be

prepared to hear, 'transport? transport?' very often. It sometimes seems, as if every

Balinese is a driver, who owns a car or a motorbike. Even though, it can get a bit tiring to

constantly say "no thank you", it might be a blessing in disguise. Almost anywhere, at

anytime you can, in fact, get a transport service. Whenever you use a service that is not

priced through an app or with a taxi meter, make sure you bargain!

Driving in Bali

Trafﬁc in Bali

Indonesia, like many other Asian countries who were colonies, has a left-hand side

traffic system. Driving in Bali is extremely different from driving in Australia, Europe or

USA. Traffic in South East Asia is something one needs to get used to and Bali is no

exception. If you have never driven a car or scooter in cities like Jakarta, Bangkok or

Kuala Lumpur then you might need some time to adapt. It's not as easy as it looks,

neither is it that hard. You might need to allow a little time to get adjusted.

Good to know

Drivers continuously enter a main road from a side street often without looking. The

main rule people follow is: Whatever you can see in front of you is your responsibility.

So a motorbike driver cutting into your main road believes that you will notice him and

that you would make space or slow down. If you want to overtake somebody you

definitely should use your horn, so they know you are coming, otherwise they might

move right or left unexpectedly. Again here, the unwritten rule applies, you need to

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 41

notice and adapt to what is or appears in front of you.

You are better off driving a bit slower than too fast.

NEVER drink and drive!

• Horn means: Please notice me!

• Many narrow roads, not many signs

• Share roads with dogs, chickens, cows

• Changing lines without notice is normal

• Road conditions can be bad

• Roads get closed off for processions

• Traffic flow is rarely faster than 30-40km/h

• Main roads (Jl. Bypass....) ca. 60-70km/h

• During rush hour roads can be jam packed

Fun Stuff: Bali.com's "Spiritual" Traffic Principles

Bali is a spiritual island and if you ever manage to make it to Ubud and enjoy yoga and

meditation classes, you will realise, that the basic spiritual principles can wonderfully

applied in Bali's traffic :-)

• Don't get angry

• Don't get offended

• Don't take yourself too seriously

• No need to rush things

• Nothing is what it seems

• Anything can happen anytime

• Let things flow naturally

• Don't insist

• Accept others how they are

• Feel, sense, anticipate

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 42

• Stay respectful

• Always be alert, aware and fully "conscious"

Driving License in Bali

You will need an international driving license, for which you can apply for in your home

country. This is usually only valid with your "real" driving license. Bring both along. You

can get a temporary Balinese driving license (tourist driver's license) from the police

station in Denpasar within a day. Check with your hotel or homestay, they will know

how you can get there. The cost is approx. US$30. You will have to fill in a multiple

choice form (sometimes with the answers right next to you!), bring a passport picture

and the money. Anybody between the age of 18 and 70 is eligible!

Getting stopped by the police without license or without helmet:

If you get stopped by the police for speeding, driving without a helmet, driving without a

valid driving license, or for simply something you think you did not do, always stay calm

and friendly, that will help the situation. The police might say things that make you

scared, like 'Oh...really really bad...expensive...court hearing...judge'. Tell them you did

not know and you are sorry. They will usually charge you a fee and let you go. Expect to

pay between US$10 or US$30. Sometimes, when they are strict and you have indeed

broken the rules, they will ask you to come to the police station the next day to report

and pay the fee.

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 43

Internet, Phone and SIM cards

Staying connected

In this Article: How to get online and communicate with your loved ones at

home

Imagine it is your first day in Bali and you have already taken plenty of pictures, which

you are eager to share with friends back home. Or maybe you are just wondering how to

stay in touch without having to pay a crazy amount of money for roaming. The question

is: how do you stay connected in Bali without spending a fortune?

Local SIM cards are very affordable and can be used as long as you have an

unlocked phone.

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 44

Prepaid mobile packages

As a visitor, getting a prepaid local SIM Card will be your best option to stay

connected. The credits are called "Pulsa". The money you put on the card will be used

for for Calling and Text messaging. And, for buying internet packages. The card will

need to be topped up when you run out. Pulsa is easily bought (topped up) at all the

small and big supermarkets and the small phone shops that can regularly be found in

the tourism areas.

Most vendors charge a "top-up fee" of between IDR 2,000 to IDR 5,000

(0.15 to 0.35 USD).

You can purchase an internet package with a fixed amount of GB available to use. This is

not just great for using WhatsApp and other messenger services, but allows you to

access other apps such as google maps with your smartphone, which makes life much

easier in Bali.

We usually suggest to buy a 1 month internet access package with 3 to 5GB for

around US$7 -10. The staff, where you can buy also the Pulsa, are usually very friendly

and help you to buy the internet package, by sending a SMS with certain codes and your

number to the network provider of your new SIM card.

You can buy the SIM card, add Pulsa and purchase the internet package in

one go.

Where to buy SIM Cards

One of the big providers always has a booth at the airport arrival hall after the customs

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 45

section (see picture below). Unless you need internet connection quickly you might want

to wait till you get out of the airport, as rates here are significantly higher.

Mobile phone shops that sell SIM cards can be found in most of the main touristic areas,

however, they should not charge more than IDR 200,000, and even then it would be a

good deal for them see "Real Price" below. To find the one nearest to you, best ask the

staff at the reception or in your villa. They usually know. Shops are easily recognized by

the logo and big banner of the provider.

"Real Price"

SIM CARD - Empty: IDR 50,000

Top Up Pulsa IDR 100,000

Top-Up Fee: IDR 5,000

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 46

From the 100,000 you purchase 30days 5GB package for IDR

70,000-90,000, leaves you with IDR 10,000 for calling and sms (most likely

no need, if you use WhatsApp and Skype)

If a street vendor asks IDR 450,000 for an internet package, he is

overcharging you heavily.

Where to top up Pulsa

There are many small kiosks and supermarkets where you can buy pulsa/credits if you

run out. Just give the seller your phone number and the amount you wish to load. Keep

in mind that they will charge a small fee of Rp.1,000 to Rp.3,000. Pulsa/credits can be

bought for as little as Rp.5,000 till Rp.100,000.

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 47

The main phone providers

Indonesia has a mindboggling amount of providers you can choose from; each offers

prepaid packages at different prices and features (which can be confusing even for

Indonesians themselves). Below we have listed the two most popular providers:

Telkomsel

Telkomsel's most popular SIM card is called simPATI and although slightly more

expensive than SIM cards from other providers, it is currently said to offer the fastest

internet speed. Other SIM cards from Telkomsel are called Kartu As and Kartu Halo.

simPATI Flash is the name for the prepaid internet packages. A 4 GB quota package

starts at 7 USD, a 8 GB package is about 15-20 USD and there is even a 14 GB package.

XL Axiata

XL's most popular SIM card is called 'XL Baru'. It provides cheap domestic calls

combined with internet access. The prepaid internet package called Kartu Perdana

Super Hot Rod 4G is the latest and most popular package and starts at 8 USD for a

quota at 4 GB. XL also offers a 8 GB quota for around 16 USD.

Coverage

Telkomsel is considered the most stable and widest signal coverage provider. XL is a bit

limited in areas such as Ubud. It is stronger in the Denpasar and Badung area.

Internet coverage is not the same as your old-fashioned phone coverage. 3G internet is

available in the more populated areas but can drop to the slower GPRS or even Edge in

remote areas.

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 48

How to activate your SIM card

Writing how to activate your SIM card and current available prepaid packages would be

a book on itself. Ask your friendly sales person to do this for you. Sales people will do it

for you with a smile and within a few minutes.

Free WiFi

You may not feel the need to buy a SIM card as most hotels, restaurants and cafés offer

free WiFi access. Do not expect a superfast internet connection, as you will be sharing

access with all the other customers, however it will be good enough to keep family and

friends updated.

Some mini markets offer free WiFi to their customers. They are easy to recognize by the

table and chairs placed outside and filled with mostly local people glued to their mobile

phones.

When booking your accommodation you might want to make sure your hotel provides

free WiFi in your room, as some only provide access in common areas like the lobby or

the restaurant.

Co-working spaces

Digital nomads or people looking for a daily dose of good internet connection for work

or leisure, will be happy to know that Bali offers a growing number of co working spaces

who provide excellent internet connections.

The rates are usually based on a one-day pass or a fixed amount of hours, often

including printing and photocopy services.

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 49

Post Offices

The younger generation of Indonesians is likely not to have much experience with

stepping into a Post office (Kantor Pos). The idea to walk into the bright orange colored

building and buy stamps to send out a letter, is an outdated concept. Who needs to write

a letter and pay for it, when you can use your mobile phone to send text messages and

photos to your friends and family and receive a response instantly? Many of the

youngsters in Indonesia have never actually even used email, which to them is equally

outdated. To them the main form of communication is Facebook and WhatsApp.

People do go to the Kantor Pos to send and receive packages. People in very rural

areas still use the post office to send letters in the traditional way. Post offices are easy to

recognize by their iconic orange colored logo.

In Bali, Post offices are scattered in various areas such as Kuta, Denpasar and Ubud. Use

the larger offices for sending parcels, as some smaller ones don't offer the service. Seal

up your parcel tightly as these packages are not always handled very carefully on the way

to their destination, especially when sending them out to overseas. Another option is to

have it packed for a small fee, at the office.

Bali Essential Travel Guide/Strobel 50

Unlike the commercial mail services, when you receive a package from Kantor Pos, you

need to pick it up by yourself. A mailman will send you a slip to notify that your package

has arrived. You will need to sign the receipt and bring it with you to retrieve the parcel

at the post office. There are numerous shipping methods and fees. It's best to opt for the

track-able package. Kantor Pos is also an authorized agent of Western Union for sending

and receiving money.