Bali is a favorite destination for many people around the world and it’s easy to see why! From its list of unending idyllic beaches, captivating spiritual energy, terraced rice fields and exotic sunsets. There is so much to see and experience on this magnificent island paradise!
Bali what to expect
Language: The main languages spoken in Bali are Indonesian, Balinese and English.
Currency: The currency of Bali is the Indonesian Rupiah. 1 USD is equivalent to about 14.583,50 IDR.
Credit Cards and ATMs: There are plenty of ATMs in Bali’s main cities like Ubud and Canggu. As long as you’re not eating at local ‘warung’ restaurants, you can pay for your meal with your credit card, but cash is preferred.
Safety: Bali is one of the safest destinations even for solo travelers! The biggest thing you need to watch out for is road safety, especially if you’re renting a motorbike. Take a taxi if you’re not a confident rider. It will always be cheaper than a hospital bill.
Bali travel tips
Money and Currency Changing Tips:
Travelers trying to get their money changed in Bali run the risk of being fleeced by dishonest money changers. Fortunately, there are several establishments where you can change your cash without worry. Try changing your currency at one of Bali’s more reputable banks, or even better, try using their ATMs to withdraw cash directly from your credit card or bank account. Hotel front desks often permit currency exchange, but with lower exchange rates compared to banks and money changers.
Trust only money changers that have been recognized by Bank Indonesia; these establishments advertise their status as Pedagang Valuta Asing Berizin or PVA Berizin (Indonesian for "Authorized Money Changer") with a green PVA Berizin shield where customers can see it.
Transportation Tips:
Bali provides several transportation options for travelers, with speed, comfort, and range relative to the price you’re willing to pay for it. The possibilities include bicycles, scooters, automobiles, vans (self-drive or with driver), and public transportation. Not all of the transport providers are honest, though. The most honest taxis in Bali are the blue taxis marked "Bali Taxi" (known as Blue Bird Taxis); everybody else is hit or miss. They’re so honest, other taxi operators hate their guts and collude with some hotels to exclude Bluebird taxis from their area. Catch a Bluebird taxi in Bali if you can.
Health tips:
Tourists in Bali run a number of health risks. Travelers might catch “Bali Belly,” or traveler’s diarrhea, from dodgy meals. Or they might look at a macaque the wrong way and suffer a monkey attack. Or they might forget the sunscreen and suffer sunburn. The right precautions can help you avoid these problems entirely. Follow the dos and don’ts in this article to stay healthy during your Bali vacation. Or take a look at this list of Bali Hospitals and Clinics in case you need to make an unscheduled visit. Drink a lot of water to avoid getting heatstroke. Just don’t get your water from the tap. Bali tap water is often blamed for many a bad case of “Bali belly,” so avoid it entirely. Stick to canned drinks or bottled water.
Bali overall
As a European traveler, Bali has always been warm and welcoming. I have been there multiple times and one of those trips was solo. The locals are kind and greet you with a smile. I’ve truly fallen in love with the people, culture, food, landscape, and love that Bali has to offer.