A Quick Guide to Bali

Population: 4,225,384
Climate: Tropical climate
Currency:  Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
​Official Language(s): Indonesia, Balinese

Before you Arrive

Luckily to visit Bali most countries are NOT required to obtain a visa if your stay is for 30 days or less. ^~^

Arrival/ Getting Around

Bali's airport is located in the capital, Denpasar. Bali is a small island so getting around is very easy. Most people use public transportation to get around because it's cheaper. From the airport it will take about 1-2 hours to get to Ubud because of the traffic. To get to Kuta or other areas it will take under an hour. Mini buses are the best way to get around but if you are brave enough you could rent a scooter. There are also metered taxis, but be careful, some tend to add on extra charges.

Phrases

Most Balinese people are able to speak English because there is so much tourism. Here are some phrases to use while you visit:
                
               Hello- Om Suastiastu
               Goodbye- Titiang lungsur mapamit dumun
               Thank you- Matur Suksma

What to See

Bali is know for their beautiful beaches and temples. Balinese temples are very beautiful! Must see temples include Tanah Lot, Uluwatu, Ulun Danu, Tirta Gangga, Batuan, Goa Gajah. If you love nature Bali is very mountainous so you could go hiking.  Make sure to visit the Sacred Monkey Forest to see monkey's in their natural habitat. Even though Bali is a small island there are tons of things to do. You could also visit other islands and spend time at the beach or chasing waterfalls.

Mini Rijsttafel

What to Eat & Drink

When I was planning my trip to Bali, I didn't even know what Balinese food was. When I actually had it I found it reminded me of Thai food with the curries. You can book a Balinese cooking class to get a better idea of what kind of ingredients they use in their foods

                           Must try Dishes:

Nasi Goreng
Fried rice with a fried egg, and salad.

Satay
Mashed season meat grilled on a stick.

Mini Rijsttafel
A mound of white rice with different side dishes like chicken, beef, pork or shrimp satay, tofu, mixed vegetables and potato croquettes.

Gado Gado
Potato and mixed vegetables with peanut sauce. 

There are many other dishes like fried rice, fried noodles and curries.

Where to Stay

When figuring out where to stay in Bali, you need to figure out your needs. Do you want to be by a beach? Do you want somewhere peaceful? Are you looking to party?

For people who want more of a peaceful atmosphere staying in Ubud would be the best option for you. Whilst there are things to do in Ubud, for the most part it is a pretty quiet place. If you are looking for more action Kuta or Semiyak would be the place for you. Kuta is where the party people flock to hence to sleezy atmosphere.

Bali as a whole is really affordable. Hostels/hostels range from $8 and up. Don't forget you get what you pay for. I stayed in a hostel with no AC and would not recommend it!

Places Nearby

Here are some other great places to visit!

Gili Islands-- The Gili islands are an exotic group of three small islands. They offer white sand beaches and are great places for diving. To get to the Gili islands it will take about 45 mins- 5 hrs depending on how much money you are willing to spend.

Nusa Islands-- The Nusa islands are much closer to Bali. Ferry rides are about 30 mins. These islands are a great place to dive, see archaeology, kayak or just go to the beach.