10 Things You Need To Know Before Traveling To Bali

Bali, the most famous tourist destination in Indonesia. Known for its seductive beauty that blends with its  beautiful natural beaches, warm friendly people, scenic mountains,  world known  resorts and rich culture. Planning to visit Bali? Here are few things you need to know before packing your bags.

1. Expensive
Visiting Bali might not be expensive for some especially for people from western countries, but if you are a solo traveler from one of the Southeast Asian countries most likely, you will find Bali as an expensive tourist destination. Bali charges  its visitors quite expensively compared to other Southeast Asian countries.

2. Best For Group Travel
Since I found Bali as an expensive tourist destination for solo travelers, it would be best to visit the island with friends or in group tour to share expenses. A tour cost at least 600,000.00 – 500,000.00 IDR (2000.00 -1500.00 PHP) Compare the difference between group travel from solo travel. You can save a lot on group travel.

3. Religion
Most of the population in Bali are Hindus and Muslims. Christians and Buddhists are the minority. Though people thought that Bali is not tolerant about liquor, cigarette and partying, Bali is totally fine about it. Just make sure to respect their religion, especially when visiting temples. Dress up appropriately or bring a sarong with you.

4. Haggle 
Visiting Bali requires you to have the skill in haggling. I have been to few Southeast Asian countries but in Bali you need to be good at it. Locals know that you are new and not familiar with how Bali works, so make sure to hold onto your purse before purchasing something especially in souvenir shops.

5. Touts of Bali
Touts are everywhere in Bali, they offer tours, souvenirs or just anything. As much as possible book a tour or guide from a registered travel agency, though it’s a bit pricey but at least you are sure that it’s something legit. Some touts get aggressive sometimes. So as much as possible don’t ask about that nice postcard or how much that colorful sarong without the intention of buying. They won’t stop until you buy something from them.

6. Hospitable
I have visited few different countries and met a lot of people while traveling. Bali is a wonderful place with genuine and hospitable people. I admired hotel staffs the most. They make sure that you are comfortable while staying with them. There was never a hotel where I stayed that I felt uneasy. Even in restaurants and tour drivers, they are accommodating. I even made few Balinese friends and yes, they are very nice.

7. Tours
There are plenty of options around Bali to see the numerous points of interests. Regardless, if you are traveling solo or with other people, it would be best to book for a tour. Tours in Bali cost 600,000.00 – 500,000.00 IDR ( 2000.00 – 1700.00 ) for 1 day tour, it wouldn’t matter if you are alone or in a  group. It will be a private tour with a driver. Half day tour would cost around 350,000.00 – 300,000.00 IDR
( 1000.00 – 1200.00 PHP ) Private cars for rent with driver cost almost the same.

8. Never Do Drugs
Never do drugs in the whole of the Indonesian archipelago, not only in Bali. Indonesia take drug use and drug trafficking seriously. Severe consequences are waiting for those caught carrying illegal drugs. Around Bali, there are some locals who would offer some marijuana or other drugs, never buy from them. Remember that you are a tourist in a foreign country, you don’t want to be in deep trouble.

9. Internet Connection
Wifi connection in hotels, restaurants and random shops are reliable. However, if you are planning to use a local sim card, make sure that your phone is not locked mainly to your telephone provider. Local sim cards are available at the airport or cellular phone shops. There are some places in Bali that the internet is weak or no connection at all.

10. Watch Your Step
Offerings are usually found at the entrance door of local shops and houses. You will find rice on banana leaves with candles or sometimes with flowers. Make sure not to step on it. Offerings are part of Balinese culture and religion.

6 Comments Add yours

  1. maxymilano says:

    I’m Indonesian, Bali majority are Hindus, so liquor has no problem inside the cafe/restaurant/night club. Even in Jakarta that majority are moslems. As for expensive, compare to Thai, we are bit expensive due the goverment tax almost 21%. Drugs forbidden, dont even try, we have death sentences here.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. My Little Backpack Adventures says:

      Thank you for sharing Maxymilano. Yes, I did my research before I went to Bali so I was quite aware on the do’s and dont’s of the country. I loved Bali especially the temples. I am planing to visit Bali again and Ijen Volcano thie year. 😊

      Like

      1. maxymilano says:

        Visit Lombok guys.. I should do a research like u when traveling, good tips. Anyway nice to meet you..
        http://www.poshpackerteam.wordpress.com

        Liked by 1 person

      2. My Little Backpack Adventures says:

        Definitely, I will. Thanks for sharing the blog link too. 😊

        Liked by 1 person

      3. maxymilano says:

        Please drop by… Thank u

        Liked by 1 person

  2. raastha says:

    That was very informative. Thanks! Love, Vannie from India.

    Like

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