Top 10 Bali Travel Tips: Scooters, Monkeys, and Avoiding "Bali Belly"
“Bali is more than a place. It’s a mood, it’s magical. It’s a tropical state of mind.”
Bali is a dream destination featuring emerald rice terraces, incredible surf, and a spiritual culture unlike anywhere else. But let’s be real: paradise has a chaotic side. The traffic is insane, the humidity is intense, and if you aren't careful with what you eat, you might spend three days in your hotel bathroom.
Here is your essential survival guide to navigating the Island of the Gods safely, cheaply, and with your stomach intact.
1.
The Scooter Warning (Don't Be a Hero)
Rentals are cheap ($5/day), but Bali is not the place to learn how to drive a motorbike. The roads are chaotic, and accidents involving tourists are daily occurrences.
The Rule: If you don't have a valid motorbike license from home (and an International Driving Permit), your travel insurance will not cover you if you crash. If you are unsure, use Gojek or Grab cars instead.
2.
Don't Drink the Tap Water (Bali Belly)
"Bali Belly" (traveler's diarrhea) is famous and miserable.
The Rule: Never drink tap water. Even when brushing your teeth, use bottled or filtered water. Be cautious with ice in cheap roadside stalls, although most established restaurants use safe, government-regulated ice.
Pro Tip: Carry activated charcoal tablets just in case your stomach starts feeling weird.
3.
Download 'Gojek' or 'Grab' Immediately
There is no Uber in Bali. Instead, we have Gojek and Grab.
The Hack: These "Super Apps" are lifesavers. You can order a motorbike taxi (GoRide) to beat traffic, a car (GoCar), or have food delivered from almost any restaurant on the island for a tiny fee. Link your credit card for cashless payments.
4.
Watch Your Card at ATMs (Skimming)
Card skimming is a massive problem in Bali. Thieves place devices on ATMs to steal your data.
The Hack: Only use ATMs located inside a bank branch or a secured lobby with a security guard. Avoid standalone ATMs in dark minimarts or on the street. Also, tap your card (contactless) if the machine allows it, rather than inserting it.
5.
The Monkeys Are Not Your Friends
The Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud is famous, but the macaques are aggressive thieves.
The Warning: Do not look them in the eye (it's a threat), do not hide food in your pockets (they will smell it and unzip your bag), and hold onto your sunglasses and phone tightly. If they jump on you, stay calm and walk away slowly—don't scream.
6.
Pick Your Neighborhood Wisely
Bali is huge, and every area has a different vibe. The Guide:
Ubud: Jungle, yoga, culture, rice fields (Quiet/Spiritual).
Canggu: Surfing, beach clubs, digital nomads, parties (Busy/Trendy).
Seminyak: High-end shopping, luxury villas, fine dining (Posh).
Uluwatu: Cliff views, best beaches, surf pros (Relaxed). Choose the one that fits your style; getting from one to the other can take hours due to traffic.
7.
Temple Etiquette: Wear a Sarong
You cannot enter a Balinese Hindu temple (like Uluwatu or Tanah Lot) with exposed legs.
The Rule: Both men and women must wear a Sarong (a wrap-around cloth) and a waist sash. Most temples rent them at the entrance, but buying your own beautiful Batik sarong is a great souvenir and allows you to bypass the rental line.
8.
Use WhatsApp for Everything
Balinese businesses run on WhatsApp. From booking a restaurant table to arranging a driver or contacting your hotel, everyone uses it.
The Hack: Get a local SIM card (Telkomsel is best for coverage) at the airport so you have data, and don't be afraid to message businesses directly for reservations.
9.
Respect "Nyepi" (Day of Silence)
Once a year (usually in March), Bali shuts down completely for Nyepi. No lights, no noise, no going outside, and even the airport closes for 24 hours.
The Rule: If you visit during Nyepi, you must stay inside your hotel grounds. It is a magical, starry night, but ensure you have enough food and supplies as stores will be closed.
10.
Bargain, But Be Kind
In markets (like Ubud Art Market), bargaining is expected.
The Tip: Start at 50% of the asking price and meet in the middle. However, remember that $1 might mean nothing to you but a meal for the seller. Don't fight aggressively over small amounts. Buy with a smile—it’s good karma.
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