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As the dawn of 2023 approaches, Bali remains an enchanting destination that beckons travellers from all corners of the globe. From its verdant terraced rice fields to its pristine beaches, this tropical region of the world never ceases to captivate. In this post we share 11 things to know for your upcoming trip to Bali.
- Travel insurance – The Golden Rule. Travel insurance is an essential safeguard for anyone embarking on a journey, whether it’s a short weekend getaway or an extended international adventure. It provides peace of mind, financial security, and a safety net in case unexpected events disrupt your travel plans. With this said, always have all travel documents printed out and neatly sorted in a file. Be sure to keep a digital copy too. This makes things a lot easier when moving through customs and other regulated spaces.
- Familiarise yourself with the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR), the currency used in Bali. Most money exchanges in Bali only accept cash in exchange for IDR and accept limited foreign currencies. They do not accept cash ZAR in exchange for IDR. You can pay with your debit card at most restaurants and tourist attractions, although we suggest carrying cash when shopping, for bargaining purposes. The exchange rate differs depending on where you’re exchanging money. We felt the safest option was to draw cash at the ATM, this way the conversation rates are based on the agreement between your local bank and the Balinese bank.
- The IDR currency is presented in hundred thousands and it’s typical to spend 1 million IDR at any time. Bali is the one place that everyone can call themselves millionaires. Yay to this feeling!
- Tourism plays a pivotal role in Bali’s economic landscape, and the lasting impacts of the pandemic are evident. As the island strives to regain its former glory, construction activities are bustling throughout Bali. Many global tourist destinations we’ve visited in the last three years reflect this scene. We don’t aim to dissuade visitors with this observation, but to raise awareness.It’s intriguing to ponder the transformation Bali will undergo in the upcoming two years with all these enhancements in progress.
- Beware of Dengue Fever caused by mosquitos. Dengue Fever can be contracted after being bitten by female Aedes mosquitoes, most active at dusk and dawn. Be sure to lather yourself in quality insect repellent. If you’re wearing sunscreen, only apply your insect repellent after.
- Some restaurants and establishments include taxes and service charges in the advertised price, while others may not. Always enquire whether the taxes and service charges are included in the amounts being advertised, to avoid utter shock when your bill arrives. Government tax is 10% and service charges can range between 5% – 11% depending on the establishment.
- Peak season is between May – October. Off Season is between Nov – April. Everything is more affordable during off season (shoulder season). We initially wanted to travel during their dry season, but after receiving quotes for accommodation in both seasons, we decided to travel during the off season, as rates were significantly cheaper. However, off season is also monsoon season (rainy season). Honestly though, I don’t know if I’d want to visit Bali during their summer. Their rainy season was already warmer than I could’ve imagined, and the rain didn’t help with any cooling down. The rainy weather didn’t keep us cooped up indoors and we were able to do everything that we had initially planned. We found that the rain is momentary and once it passes, it’s as though it never happened.
- Be prepared to splurge on activities and attractions. All those pretty Instagram shots, adventures and cultural activities don’t come cheap. Everything you want to participate in will cost you. I would recommend that you only splurge on the things you want to do, and not everything simply because you’re in Bali.
- For the ladies especially – don’t forget to save some spending money for shopping. Bali has an abundance of markets and boutique stores with the most gorgeous garments, at affordable prices. The best part about it all – BARGAINING. Shopping in Bali is all about bargaining. You can probably bargain up to 20 – 40% off the initial price. There are also many vendors selling the same items, so you should always scout around to see which vendor is willing to give you the best price. With this being said, it is notable to mention that this is most local’s livelihood, so be mindful of that when you’re bargaining.
- Be aware, and use your discernment. While Bali is generally safe, with some of the friendliest people, it’s crucial to be aware of common tourist pitfalls and how to avoid them. Some locals may engage you in conversation with ulterior motives. Typically, the method begins with a friendly chat, leading to an offer to “show you around”. While this might seem harmless and enticing at first, but you’ll quickly find out that you need to pay for entertainment and celebrations for both you and them. We are not saying that you shouldn’t make friends. After all, travel is all about making connections with people all around the world. We are saying that you should be aware. Exercise caution and discernment when engaging people and first assess if someone is genuinely trying to make a connection with you, or trying to exploit you. We would recommend that you book yourself a guided tour instead. This way you know what you’re getting yourself in for and there are no hidden agendas. Activities and festivities can become expensive to pay for yourself, let alone unexpected guests.
- Take extreme caution when it comes to wild and stray animals. These little fluff balls might look cute, but they often carry rabies and other serious diseases you’d want to avoid during your trip.The stray dogs in Bali are everywhere! We avoided a few restaurants because of this. Stray dogs would be lying right at the foot of your table and restaurant staff couldn’t be concerned with hushing them away. The monkeys in Bali are also notorious for their thieving mannerism, so make sure you don’t have any loose items when getting up close to them.
Now that you’re informed, all you need to do is enjoy your time in Paradise!
If Bali is on your travel bucket list, what have you read on this list that you didn’t already know? Share your feedback with us in the comments. And if you’ve already been, please share your must-knows and tips so we can all stay updated and informed.
Until our next post!
With love and appreciation,
The Kolbes
*These tips are based on our personal experiences during our travels. You may have different experiences and alternative opinions based on your own travels. These are not meant to act as directives, instead they are suggestions which may be helpful to someone planning their first trip.
