Indonesia · Asia
Guide to Bali
One of Asia’s many paradises—culture, beaches, highlands
Overview
Bali remains Asia’s magnet: Hindu-Bali culture, rice terraces, beaches, and highlands. Pick your base to match the vibe—Ubud for calm, Canggu for digital nomads, Uluwatu for cliffs.
Highlights
Ubud & Tegallalang
Culture + terraces; arrive early to avoid crowds at the swings/terraces.
Uluwatu
Cliffs + sunset kecak dance—watch your belongings from monkeys.
Nusa Penida
Day-trip by boat; seas can be rough.
Mount Batur sunrise
Early-morning trek—choose a licensed guide.
Temple circuit
Tanah Lot / Besakih depending on your route.
Food
Babi guling & lawar
Seek out highly rated local warungs, not just tourist streets.
Seafood Jimbaran
Sunset grill—negotiate the package price before sitting down.
Kopi & smoothie bowl
Canggu and Ubud have a strong café culture.
Getting around
Scooter
Most common; helmet + international license ideal.
Private driver
Great for multi-stop temple hopping.
Grab/Gojek
Good coverage in main areas; remote temples can be tricky.
Frequently asked questions
Do Indonesian passport holders need a visa for Bali, and what about foreign friends traveling with them?
Indonesian passport holders only need an ID card or passport for domestic flights, with no visa required. Foreign friends from dozens of countries can use a 30-day visa on arrival or e-VOA at Ngurah Rai Airport and extend it once. All international arrivals must also complete an electronic customs declaration and pay the foreign tourist levy of 150,000 rupiah.
Is it safe to rent a scooter in Bali, and what’s required?
Scooter rentals run 70,000 to 150,000 rupiah per day and are the most practical for Ubud or Canggu. Bring a valid car/motorcycle license, wear a helmet, and photograph the scooter’s condition before riding. Police routinely check documents on tourist routes. Review your travel insurance policy—many exclude motorbike accidents.
What happens if my trip coincides with Nyepi?
During Nyepi’s 24 hours, the entire island shuts down: the airport closes, roads are empty, and lights are dimmed. You can still stay at your accommodation but must remain on the property and avoid beaches. Most hotels provide special meals that day. Check the Balinese calendar before booking flights to avoid arriving on Nyepi.
Where’s the best place to stay for a first-time visit to Bali?
Ubud is ideal for culture, rice terraces, and a peaceful vibe. Canggu and Seminyak offer cafés, beaches, and nightlife. Uluwatu delivers cliffs and sunsets, though it’s far from everything. Sanur and Nusa Dua are more family-friendly. If you have under five days, pick one base—south Bali traffic can eat up two hours in the afternoon.
Is a day trip to Nusa Penida worth it?
Worth it for Kelingking and Diamond Beach, but it’s a long day. Fast boats from Sanur take about 45 minutes, and seas can be rough in windy season. Rent a car with a driver on the island—roads are narrow and steep. If you get seasick easily, take motion sickness meds beforehand or stay overnight.
What about halal food and drinking water in Bali?
Bali is mostly Hindu, but halal eateries are easy to find in Kuta, Denpasar, Nusa Dua, and near local mosques. Larger restaurants usually label pork dishes clearly, so it’s fine to ask before ordering. Drink only bottled or filtered refill water, and be cautious with ice at small warungs to avoid Bali belly.