If you come from a Western country, be ready to be overwhelmed by a very different and colourful culture. Be respectful and remember that locals are very peaceful, welcoming and smiling people. It's simply the way they are.
Best Time To Go
As Balinese people say, in Bali, there are 2 seasons, 1 hot and 1 very hot 🙂. Since it's located in the southern hemisphere, the very hot season coincides with the summer months, from November to March. But, due to the higher temperatures (around 35°C), it turns out to be the rainy season too. Therefore during those months, especially between December and February, expect to have heat, humidity and frequent rains. Climate conditions are more accentuated in the inner land villages, for example in Ubud.
Usually, in December and January, there are many tourists from Australia and New Zealand who come over for their summer holidays.
As you guess already, the rest of the year is the hot season. Usually, temperatures are below 30°C, at night temperatures can be sweetly chill sometimes, especially in the inner land villages.
From June to August many tourists are coming from Europe, because of it's holiday time there.
I love the month of May. When the rainy season passes over, it lets a nourished and lush nature behind. Beautiful sun lights are reflected all over the streets and rice paddies. Temperatures and humidity are just perfect, and not so many tourists around.
Getting In
Bali is one of the million islands of Indonesia. The country has established good and stable relationships with many other countries around the world. For this reason, most tourists usually can get in simply through a free tourist Visa released directly at the arrival airport (i.e. Bali, Jakarta). This Visa is usually valid for 30 days.
Bali international airport has many direct connections. The most important ones are, among others, Singapore, Sydney, Dubai, Doha, Istanbul, Tokyo and Beijing.
Getting Around
As you will see, due to the small roads, busy traffic is a constant especially in touristic areas and in the main city, Denpasar. That's why is highly recommended to use a motorbike to go around. There are many rental shops, but usually, you can find one directly with your host where you stay.
In case you don't know how to ride a motorbike, or you just don't feel comfortable facing such traffic, there are plenty of moto or car taxis as well.
Top Destinations
Tips
- Drive safe and always keep your attention high while you are riding around. Even though roads are generally safe and well-paved, dangerous situations can pop up suddenly and at every moment. Dogs use to go, play and lay down in the streets. Other riders or cars can go very fast or not respect general driving rules. Soil can be found on the road, probably lost by a truck, making it slippery. General advice is to always ride slowly and grab a taxi if you drank too much ;)
- Remember that an International Driving License issued by your country is required, even for driving a motorbike. In case the Police stop and find you without, you will be fined.
- Subscribe travel insurance prior to your trip. Usually, for a very reasonable price, you will get a large or full coverage of medical costs (very high for foreigners) in case of emergency and/or accident.
- Use always common sense when you go around and interact with locals, especially at night. Scams and thefts, even if rare, may occur. Keep valuable objects (ex. phones, jewellery) and bags out of sight when you are riding, or inside the moto saddle.
Enjoy yourself
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