Bali Travel FAQs

Bali is great to visit all year-round. The dry season (April-October) has the best weather for beaches, tours, and outdoor activities. The wet season (November-March) is quieter (except during the Christmas holiday period) and still has periods of fine weather and is very enjoyable.

Most visitors need either a Visa on Arrival (VOA) or an e-Visa (e-VOA) before entering Indonesia. Traveller’s also have to complete the All Indonesia Declaration Form and pay the Bali Tourism Levy. Requirements vary by nationality, so always check the latest guidelines before you fly. Check out my travel tips blog post for more info on this.

eSIMs are the easiest option for data (you can make calls using apps like WhatsApp). They are fast to setup and have great coverage (I have used Klook and Airolo which work well). You can avoid the hassle and queues by setting the eSIM up before you go and activating on arrival. Physical prepaid SIMs are also widely available on arrival - purchase from official airport kiosks. Free wifi is also available in most resorts, cafes, and restaurants, but only for when you're stationary, not for exploring. Check out my travel tips blog post for more info.

A pre-booked airport transfer is the most reliable, comfortable and stress-free option, especially if you’re arriving late or travelling in busy periods or with kids. Bali Blessings has trusted, English speaking local drivers available and can arrange this for you.

Bali has something for everyone. Sanur offers a relaxed, family-friendly vibe; Seminyak is great for shopping, dining, and nightlife; Ubud is perfect for culture, wellness, and nature; Canggu is known for cafés, surf, and a younger crowd; Jimbaran has quieter beaches and excellent seafood; Uluwatu is famous for surf breaks and stunning clifftop views; Bedugul (Lake Beratan) is ideal for gardens, lakes, and temples; and Nusa Dua is home to family-friendly resorts and adults-only luxury. Check out our Bali Day Tours page to help you with your Bali planning!

The best way to pay in Bali is a combination of cash (Indonesian Rupiah) and credit/debit or travel card to cover all situations. Carry cash for small vendors, markets and taxis. Use your credit/debit/travel card for larger expenses like hotels and restaurants where cards are widely accepted. ATMs are easy to find, but use reputable ones attached to banks.

Private drivers are the easiest and most comfortable option for day trips. Taxis and rideshare apps work well for short distances. Scooter hire is common but only recommended if you’re confident riding. Check out my travel tips blog post for more information.

Drink bottled water and avoid ice from questionable places. Eat in reputable, well frequented restaurants. Practice good personal hygiene, wash your hands often and carry some hand sanitiser. Taking probiotics before and during your trip may also help.

Yes 100%. Bali is a very family orientated culture. The Balinese love children and most areas offer safe, welcoming environments with plenty of activities for kids. Areas like Sanur and Nusa Dua are particularly great for kids and families.

Bali’s culture is warm and welcoming, and a little etiquette goes a long way in terms of showing respect. While the Balinese are pretty chill, you should still dress modestly when visiting temples and always follow instructions from temple staff. Don’t touch someone’s head as it’s considered sacred. Use your right hand for giving and receiving items, remove shoes when entering homes or sacred spaces, and be respectful during religious ceremonies - don’t block procession paths or take intrusive photos. Mostly, be friendly, considerate and respectful and learn a few words of Bahasa Indonesian - that always goes a long way.

Most visitors use private hospitals and international clinics in Bali. Some facilities take online bookings or you can just walk in. Most offer both general and emergency care and staff typically speak good English.

Private hospitals are more expensive by Bali standards but the standard of care is better. Before any treatment begins, you’ll generally be given an estimate of the total cost and asked to either make a deposit or provide your travel insurance details to cover the expected amount.

If you have a medical emergency, call an ambulance on 118 or 119 using a local phone.