Bali Travel Guide for First-Timers

Bali is one of the most special places in the world and a highly popular tourist destination. There’s a great reason for that, and it all comes down to the fact that Bali offers a unique blend of local mysteries and a global sense of comfort we’re all looking for. In other words, there’s something for anyone there, which is why Bali is so popular with tourists across the globe, including those who have never been to this amazing island before. If you’re one of those people as well, you need to come prepared if you want to make the most of your time here, so take your time and energy to get ready for Bali and everything there is to see, enjoy, and experience.

So, for all first-time visitors, here are a few tips and tricks that will help you maximize your time in Bali and make sure that you have an adventure you’re never going to forget!

When to Visit: Best Time for Weather, Prices, and Events

This is the first thing you have to focus on when planning a visit to Bali, especially if you want to have a great time and explore everything this island has to offer. Your trip to Bali can turn into a disaster in the blink of an eye if you choose to come here during the wrong season, so make sure you get informed and make the right decision.

There are essentially two seasons in Bali – the dry and the wet season – with the former lasting from April to October, and the latter from November to March. If you want to have a great time, the dry season is the time to come, no matter what you’re planning on doing, because all available activities on Bali, from swimming and snorkeling to hiking and camping, are available during those dry months.

However, if you want to avoid being surrounded by tons of other people, make sure you avoid July and August, because there are tons of tourists from Australia and Europe coming here during the summer. Still, if you choose to come during the dry season, keep in mind that you may end up spending a bit more money on accommodation and flights, but it’s all going to be worth it in the end. If you love being risky, on the other hand, and not knowing what might be waiting for you around the corner, feel free to visit Bali in the wet season, and you’ll either have a great time or end up being wet all day long.

Understanding Balinese Culture and Etiquette

If you want to enjoy your time in Bali, you need to learn a bit about the things you may experience and see there. Balinese culture is very unique and quite different from the things most of us are used to seeing, particularly when you compare it to Western culture. So, first you have to remember that Hinduism is very popular in Bali, so over 80% of people practice it and organize their day following these practices. This means that you have to show respect to the locals and their beliefs, especially when visiting temples and other places of culture, so don’t forget to pack a sarong and sash.

Another thing you have to remember is that pointing feet at religious objects and stepping over offerings is strictly forbidden. Being polite and modest is a must here, and doing this will show your hosts that you understand their culture and respect their norms. This isn’t just a sign of politeness and kindness, but also a gesture of goodwill and understanding, so do your research and show the people of Bali that you appreciate them just as much as they appreciate you.

Choosing Where to Stay: Ubud, Seminyak, and Beyond

As one of the most popular and desired tourist places in the world, Bali is ready to welcome different types of visitors. No matter where you’re coming from and how long you’ll stay here, you’ll surely have a great time in one of the many accommodations that are available to tourists, but it’s still a great idea to explore these options in advance and make the right choice before you reach the island.

For instance, you can stay in Ubud, the most popular place in Bali, which is perfect for all those who want to explore the cultural life of the island and enjoy its slow pace. This location is surrounded by rice terraces, rainforests, and spiritual sites, so you’ll surely have a great time here and enjoy the natural vibe.

You can also pick another location that’s far from urban life and opt for an eco resort instead. These places are amazing if you want to live like a local and make your visit to Bali a bit more luxurious. Finding a comfy bamboo house in Bali will give you a chance to do that, so enjoy this retreat and relax your mind and your body to the fullest. Of course, you can go in the opposite direction and go to a luxurious and upscale place where you can enjoy shopping, world-class dining, and modern living. Picking Seminyak is the right thing to do if you wish to do that, but you can also pick places like Canggu, Sanur, Jimbaran, Nusa Lembongan, and Amed. Still, don’t forget that you’ll surely have a great time in Bali, whichever place you end up choosing, so don’t worry about making the wrong choice.

Getting Around the Island: Transportation Tips

Coming to Bali is quite easy and safe via plane, but navigating around the island is very simple as well. All you need to know is that there’s no public transportation system like in other popular tourist destinations, so you have to find a way to get from point A to point B on your own. Some of the most popular choices include taxis, ride-hailing apps, and private drivers, and you might be surprised to learn that the last option is probably the best because hiring a private driver for a full-day tour is a quite cheap and very common thing to do, so it makes much more sense than being stuck in a taxi for hours.

Another thing you can choose is getting around Bali on scooters because renting these rides is also a popular and cheap way to be adventurous and practical. Still, if you decide to go with scooters, pay attention to the road since roads on Bali can be crowded and chaotic. Wear a helmet, get an international driver’s licence, and keep your eyes open at all times, especially during the busy tourist season.

Top Attractions and Activities Not to Miss

Bali is full of amazing spots and places you need to visit, so making an itinerary in advance is a great way to make the most of your time. From natural wonders and historical sites to urban areas and places for exciting activities, there are tons of things to do and see for those enjoying a modern lifestyle, so start your research as soon as possible.

The amazing Pura Luhur Uluwatu temple is a cool way to start your visit, and the best thing about it is the picturesque cliffside view that’s special and unique. You can also visit the mysterious Tanah Lot temple, especially if you’re into photography and love taking tons of photos during your travels. The same goes for the Mount Batur volcano, which offers something for everyone, whether you’re a hiker or just want to take a moment and relax. Finally, if you want to spend your time swimming and checking out different underwater activities like diving and snorkeling, go to Menjangan Island and check out everything waiting for you there.

Food and Drink: Balinese Cuisine and Dining Tips

Food lovers are going to have a blast in Bali because this place is perfect for those who love checking out new flavors and revisiting their favorite local meals. Food here is more than something you do – it’s something you enjoy and explore, regardless of your background and your culinary preferences.

Things like mixed rice with vegetables, meat, and egg, suckling pig, and slow-cooked duck are very popular here, especially if you mix them with some of the most exciting local spices and aromatic herbs. Even if you’re a vegetarian or a vegan, you can enjoy tons of cafes, smoothie bars, and restaurants around Bali, particularly in places like Ubud and Canggu. Street food is also very popular here, so take your time and energy to explore the local street food scene without worrying about its quality. Everything cooked here is safe, fresh, and very tasty, so you’ll surely enjoy some of the best food you’ve ever tasted in your life.

In the end, if you’re going to Bali for the first time, make sure you follow the safety rules as well. Pack some of your most common home medications, and don’t be afraid to use them whenever you feel like it. Also, get some travel insurance, which might be quite helpful in case something bad happens. Finally, wear a lot of sunscreen, stay hydrated, and enjoy all the things you’ve never enjoyed before. If you manage to do everything right, you’ll most certainly have a smooth and enjoyable trip you’re going to remember in the years and decades to come!