From avoiding crowds to knowing how to deal with monkeys, there are a few tricks to get the most out of your trip to Bali. We've rounded up 14 tips that will come in handy on your next trip to the island of the gods.
The temple of Pura Ulun Danu Bratan at sunrise, Bali. ©Guitar photographer/Shutterstock
Expect crowds
Bali is not exactly a pristine paradise, being one of the most touristy islands in the world. But although it may be difficult to avoid the crowds in the southern area or in Ubud, the more determined can find plenty of hidden corners beyond these tourist centres.
To be sure to enjoy the island in peace, head for the central mountains, or to the quieter areas of the north and west coasts.
Sunrise in Tirta Gangga, Bali ©John Harper/Getty Images
Choose your base carefully
It's worth taking some time to choose your base in Bali, as the traffic and high temperatures will mean that you'll prefer to stay around the hotel, rather than wander around on foot or hot taxis.
If you need a full immersion in relaxation, Kuta is what you need. If you want to indulge in shopping and gorge on delicious food for a week, Nusa Lembongan is sure to leave you satisfied. Whatever your idea of a holiday, choose a place that will satisfy it.
Fruits and vegetables should be chosen carefully, but you can find great produce and avoid the Bali Belly, Bali. ©Edmund Lowe Photography/Shuttersto
Don't fret about the Bali Belly
Don't be afraid of the intestinal disorders known as 'Bali belly'. It is no longer necessary to drastically restrict food options to avoid spending the holiday in the bathroom. Salad, chopped fruit, ice and most meat used to be at risk, but hygiene standards have improved dramatically all over the island and many restaurants offer organic produce of the highest quality. Although it is always possible to run into bad shrimps, if you stay hydrated, avoid the celebrated local liquor and choose your street food stalls with some care, you will certainly keep the dreaded stomach ache at bay.
Dress appropriately
Contrary to what you may think, it is not enough for you to live in a swimming costume. Many bars, restaurants and clubs of a certain standard require a dress code. If you are not sure, call ahead to avoid potential embarrassment or the hassle of not being admitted.
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Balinese girls dance during a religious ritual, Bali. ©Affendy Soeto/Shutterstock
Respect religious customs
Religion is at home in Bali. Don't get upset if a road is closed for a ceremony or if your driver drops you off mid-stride to perform a ritual: it's all part of the magic of the island. Plan your trip knowing that if it coincides with Nyepi, everything (including the airport) will be closed for a day; dress respectfully, covering your shoulders and knees, and behave appropriately when visiting temples and sacred sites.
Be prepared for prices of all kinds
It is possible to visit Bali on a budget, staying in guesthouses, eating at warungs and shopping at local markets, but it is also possible to see all the savings fly away between drinks, meals, spa treatments and stays in luxury hotels, where prices are more like Australia than the rest of Asia. It is possible to find online discounts or happy hour deals.
Beware of monkeys, they are cute but can carry diseases and are skilled thieves, Bali. ©Emma Shaw/Lonely Planet
Beware of wild and stray animals
Stay away from wild and stray animals. They may look cute and sweet, but rabies and other diseases are a real danger in Bali. Monkeys, in particular, are known for their thieving skills. Bali's stray dogs are numerous and often not in the best shape. If you want to make a mark, make a donation to the Bali Dog Refuge that helps save the island's puppies.
Avoid plastic bottles
Bali's heat and humidity will make you thirsty all the time, but think about the environment before buying yet another bottle of water. Every month about three million plastic bottles are thrown away in Bali: help reduce waste by investing in a water bottle to fill up. Almost all bars and restaurants offer filtered water for free or at a very low cost.
Learn some words of the local language
A few basic words in Bahasa will come in very handy. To start, try selamat pagi (good morning), tolong (please) aned terima kasih (thank you).
An incoming storm at Sanur beach, Bali. ©Bento Photography/Getty Images
Remember that low season means rainy season
When planning your trip, be aware that the rainy season in Bali is January to April and October to November. You will find many discounts during this period but you will probably spend your holiday holed up indoors and can only wonder if it was worth it. However, the rains are sometimes limited to afternoon downpours, so the holiday may not be completely wasted.
Treat, but with respect
It is possible to negotiate on prices for many goods and services, but do so respectfully and without forgetting a smile. When you realise that the trader has reached the limit price, do not go further. If you are in doubt walk away, if he follows you it will mean that he is willing to lower the price some more.
Follow the rules
The Indonesian legal system may seem confusing and contradictory, but it is best not to contradict the local police if you are accused of breaking a law. Even if it seems unfair and senseless, pay the fine. Do not expect preferential treatment for being a foreigner and, of course, dealing with drugs of any kind is a bad idea.
Respect the ocean
Even if you are a beach lover and avid surfer, be aware that Bali's powerful waves and currents, as well as the rocks emerging from the seabed, can be dangerous, so be careful and don't swim alone. Show the same respect for the beach by avoiding litter and cigarette butts, because at high tide they will be sucked up by the waves and end up right in the marine ecosystem.
Relax
Bali is generally a safe place, but with around four million tourists arriving on its beaches every year, it is natural that some travellers will have problems. Have fun, but be careful, wear a helmet if you are travelling by bike or scooter, be respectful and don't do anything you wouldn't do at home - relax and enjoy a dream trip.
