Bali travel guide
Bali has earned the nickname, the Island of the Gods, due to Bali’s enchanting combination of beautiful landscapes, rich tradition, and gracious warmth. Walk among the sprawling Ubud rice terraces and soak up beautiful coastline views in Jimbaran.
Every nook, cranny, and crevice of this island is filled with cool, quirky, breathtaking stuff! Visitors can take advantage of the year-round tropical weather, perfect for thrilling outdoor adventures or a relaxing day by the beach.
With its punchy flavors and beautiful presentation, traditional Balinese cuisine is another huge draw of the island. Providing the ultimate trifecta of art, history, and adventure, Bali is an extraordinary experience for solo travelers, couples, and families alike.
Our complete travel guide to Bali will get you started planning the trip of a lifetime. It points out major attractions, indispensable travel tips, and recommended places to see while traversing the island.
Our guides bring Bali's food and culture to life.
Overview of Bali
Bali is a magical island where Bali’s culture, nature, and adventure intersect beautifully. Bali tempts visitors with its picturesque beaches, such as Kuta Beach. There are stunning tranquil rice terraces like the Tegallalang Rice Terrace in Ubud and a colorful bohemian scene in Seminyak, so there really is something for everyone on your Bali vacation.
The island’s distinctive culture, based on Balinese Hinduism followed by 83% of its population, adds an exotic authenticity. Local traditions remain alive through art forms like the Kecak Fire Dance, performed weekly in Ubud, and through culinary delights such as Balinese food like Babi Guling, a must-try dish.
Globally recognized as a top bucket-list destination, Bali now hosts nearly 500,000 tourists per month. Its natural beauty is breathtaking, featuring warm, tropical weather year-round, making it an ideal spot for a tropical holiday.
April through October the dry season brings sunny days and clear skies, making the island perfect for outdoor adventures. Though the island has been a sought-after tourism hotspot since the 1980s, Bali has managed to retain its authenticity, with customs and practices meshing effortlessly into everyday life.
From the warm hospitality to the incredible festivals, travelers are lured back time and again, ensuring that every Bali trip is filled with unforgettable experiences.
Local Cuisine and Dining Tips
Must-Try Balinese Dishes
Balinese cuisine is steeped in tradition and spice, with dishes that showcase the island’s diverse culinary heritage. You’ll love to try Nasi Goreng! This aromatic, turmeric-colored fried rice is served with a fried spread egg, tasty chicken satay and a crispy, crunchy shrimp cracker.
Another favorite is Babi Guling, a spit roasted piglet marinated in turmeric, lemongrass and other spices. It’s often served in the form of Nasi Campur, a mixed rice plate of different side dishes.
Sate Lilit gives a new spin on the conventional satay. It consists of minced meat mixed with coconut milk and spices, all artfully wrapped around lemongrass sticks.
Slow-cooked perfection is epitomized in Bebek Betutu, a long-stewed duck dish that is marinated in delicate herbs. Don’t skimp on dessert—Pisang Goreng, fried bananas drizzled with honey, is a local favorite.
Popular Indonesian Foods in Bali
Aside from local Balinese dishes, Indonesian cuisine is rich and vibrant particularly in its diversity. You’ll see Rendang, a spicy beef stew, on the menu everywhere.
Gado-Gado, a mixed vegetable salad with peanut sauce, is another common favorite. This is how regional specialties introduce a colorful, delicious variety of tastes to your plate.
Fusion dishes expertly mix Indonesian spices with international influences for a fresh, innovative take. Make sure to match your meals with traditional drinks!
Try the sweet bottled tea, Teh Botol, or treat yourself to the thirst-quenching dessert drink, Es Cendol, made with pandan jelly, coconut milk, and palm sugar syrup.
Signature Drinks and Local Beverages
With Bali’s tropical climate, you’ll want to find some thirst-quenching drinks to cool you down. Famed island-wide, jamu is Indonesian’s traditional herbal tonic and it’s as delicious as it is reputedly good for you.
Fresh coconut water, served straight from the coconut, is a delicious, natural way to hydrate. For a taste of Indonesian brewing culture, enjoy local beers such as Bintang or spirits such as Arak.
Finally, the island’s rich abundance of tropical fruits lends themselves to irresistibly fresh fruit juices, from mango to dragon fruit.
Frequently Asked Questions Bali travel guide
What documents do I need to enter Bali?
Before your Bali adventure, ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months and check visa requirements. Most travelers can take advantage of a Visa on Arrival (VOA) for 30 days, so look up the specifics based on your nationality.
What’s the best way to get around Bali?
Scooters are undoubtedly the most preferred mode of transportation for a Bali vacation. Alternatively, for more convenience and cost-effectiveness, you can rent a private driver or use rideshare apps like Gojek or Grab.
What are the best areas to stay in Bali?
Seminyak is perfect for luxury lovers, while Ubud offers a rich cultural experience, making it a top choice in any Bali itinerary. Canggu attracts surfers and digital nomads, catering to diverse vacation needs.
What are Bali’s must-visit attractions?
Explore Uluwatu Temple, Tegallalang Rice Terraces, and stunning beaches like Nusa Dua Beach for unforgettable Bali adventure experiences.
What local dishes should I try in Bali?
Don’t leave your Bali vacation without trying Nasi Goreng (fried rice), Babi Guling (suckling pig), and Satay Lilit (balinese fish on lemongrass), as these are essential Bali travel tips for enjoying the local culture.
What’s the best time to visit Bali?
Mid-April to mid-October, the dry season is the best time to visit Bali, a tropical island known for its stunning beaches. You can count on sunny, warm weather that’s ideal for outdoor pursuits and discovering all the wonders Bali’s natural beauty can offer.
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