Bali
Currency
The currency in Bali is the Indonesian rupiah. 1 Euro is equal to 17,000 IDR and 1 US Dollar is equal to 14,500 IDR.
Weather
Bali has a hot climate with a wet and dry season. The best weather will be during the months of June to August.
Language
The most widely spoken language in Bali is Balinese which is slightly different from the Indonesian language.
Quick Facts
Bali is Indonesia’s most popular island for tourism and represents an absolute hotspot for digital nomads, backpackers and tourists. It’s definitely very different from the rest of Indonesia and almost feels like a completely different country. The island is large and the parts which are popular among tourists are actually quite close together. Come to Bali for nightlife, a unique culture and very affordable prices. Most people who come here actually end up staying or returning again and again in the future.
Things To Do
When to go
Much like the rest of Indonesia, Bali has a distinct wet and dry season. Most tourists visit the island during the months of June, July and August. This is when the weather is warm and dry and it only rains very rarely. This is the peak tourist season in Bali so it’ll be very crowded on the island. September and October are usually a bit more quiet and can also be more affordable. The rainy season is between November and April. You’ll encounter a lot of tropical storms during this season but prices will be much lower. Come during this time if you want to avoid the crowds.
Travel Tips
Where to stay
Bali has a lot of great areas to choose from. The island is multifaceted so whether you prefer nightlife, nature or beautiful beaches there is something for everyone.
The most popular areas for tourists are Bali is arguably Kuta, Legian and Seminyak. These neighbourhoods kind of blend together and could be considered as one. Kuta is where all of Bali’s nightlife takes place. This is where you’ll find the big clubs, loud bars and lots of drunk tourists. For the best prices for drinks head to an all-you-can-drink BBQ on a rooftop. Seminyak is a lot quieter with a more laidback atmosphere. Both are located right on the beach which is perfect for surfing and relaxing.
A little further north lies Canggu which has become the place of choice for digital nomads and backpackers. You’ll find a fantastic mixture of nightlife, nicer restaurants, shops and surf spots here with plenty to see and do. Canggu is definitely a favourite in Bali!
Ubud is the place to go if you’ve had enough of beach life. Located inland, this is the best spot for lush jungles, yoga and walks through the rice terraces. You’ll love the alternative lifestyle and unique culture.
Uluwatu is located in the south of Bali and is known for its incredible surf breaks and amazing beaches. Come here to watersports, beach days or a day in a beach club. Nearby lies Nusa Dua which has fantastic resorts and great hotels.
How to get around
The best way to explore Bali is by scooter. You can rent one almost everywhere on the island and prices are very affordable. Traffic in Bali can seem overwhelming but you’ll get used to it after a while. Just make sure to go slow and don’t take any unnecessary risks. If you’re not comfortable driving a scooter yourself you should get a Gojek or Grab. These are ride-sharing services which will take you anywhere on the island for very low fares. Taxis are also widely available but they can be subject to scams so always use a Taximeter. You can also hire a driver for a day which is the most comfortable way to get around. Buses exist in Bali but only go to major hotspots around the island. They’re very affordable but might not be the mot comfortable transportation mode.
How to get to Bali
Bali has a large international airport in the city of Denpasar. You can catch both international flights as well as regional options to Bali. You can also take a ferry from the neighbouring islands of Java or Lombok to Bali. Java sits very close to Bali and the ferry ride is very quick. Lombok is located a bit further away so it will take much longer.
Top 10 Places
Tegallalang Rice Terraces
Mount Batur Vulcano
Taman Festival Abandoned Theme Park
Suluban Beach
Monkey Forrest
Tegenungan Waterfall
Amed
Tanah Lot Temple
La Brisa, Canggu
Nusa Dua
Hi, I'm Victoria
Welcome to Guide your Travel – a blog about South East Asia and how to travel on a budget.
I’m a blogger, writer and photographer and love to introduce my favourite destinations to others and encourage them to see the world.
I’m originally from Germany but spent four years living in the UK, quite a bit of time in Spain and Malaysia, and am now travelling full time with a home base in Bali, Indonesia.
