Before You Go
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Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your planned arrival date in Bali. Many airlines will not allow boarding if this requirement isn’t met.
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U.S. Citizens: For passport renewal information, visit the U.S. Department of State's passport renewal page.
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Canadian Citizens: For passport renewal procedures, refer to the Government of Canada's passport services page.
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- Visa Requirements: Most visitors can get a Visa on Arrival (VOA), valid for 30 days and extendable for another 30 days. You can do this online beforehand, OR, you can get the VOA upon arrival in Bali. I would recommend using a VIP service (information in the next bullet point) to assist with an expedited experience at the airport, as it makes things very stress-free and you avoid long queues. If you want to proceed with applying for the VOA online beforehand, please ONLY apply via this website HERE, as there are a lot of scam websites. Check Indonesia’s visa policies before your trip. Currently the VOA costs around 500,000 IDR ($30 USD/ $45 CAD). There is also a Bali Tourism Levy of 150,000 IDR ($9 USD/$13 CAD)
- VIP Airport Express Service (Balion Vacation Info): My friend recommended this company, which can assist with many things. They offer a VIP Arrival Service for 600,000 IDR ($37 USD/$53 CAD). With this, they meet you when you get off the plane and take you through the whole process of going through Immigration, luggage assistance, Customs, and meeting your driver. I'd also recommend getting the Pre-VOA through them, which costs 600,000 IDR ($37 USD/$53 CAD). This is only 100,000 IDR more than purchasing yourself at the airport, and you are paying to avoid the potentially long queues. They arrange the VOA prior to your arrival and give to you when they meet you at the airport. If traveling stresses you out, I would definitely opt for this service. You can contact them via Whats App at +6282140746200 to arrange this service. You can also check out their instagram @balionvacationinfo.
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Travel Insurance: Purchase travel insurance that includes medical coverage and trip cancellation/interruption protection. This is important! If you are planning on renting a motorbike, you will also need to obtain an International Driver's License and wear a helmet (or else your insurance will not cover you if you get in an accident).
- Currency and Exchange: Familiarize yourself with the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Notify your bank of your travel dates and locations to avoid card freezes. Most places accept credit cards (sometimes with a 2-3% fee), but it is recommended to carry IDR cash as well. You can withdraw cash at ATMs, though you will likely incur bank fees for this. You can also go to a Money Changer. Depending on where/when you need more cash you can google search 'Money Changers' and see what is available near you. Be sure to read the reviews, and also read this list of things to be aware of: Money Changer Tips
- Power Adapters: Indonesia uses Type C and F plugs (European style) with 220V voltage. Bring a compatible adapter. If there are certain electronics that you can't live without for the trip, make sure they can handle 110-220V. If they can't, then you will either need to leave them at home, or get a voltage converter (which can be expensive). I fried my hair straightener when I first moved to Bali...
- Weather: Bali has a tropical climate. Pack light, breathable clothing (cotton and linen are best). You can buy sunscreen here, but if you have a specific brand you like, bring it with you.
- Medications: Indonesia has extremely strict laws regarding drugs, with severe penalties for violations. Do not bring any drugs into Bali, including medications that may contain THC, CBD oil, or any other substances classified as drugs or drug-related. Always check the legal status of your medications before traveling. If you are unsure, you can email/call the Indonesian Embassy in your country to check before you travel.
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Local SIM Card: I would suggest purchasing a local SIM or e-SIM card for your phone (e.g., Telkomsel or XL) for times when wifi is not available, such as during transit, at the beach, etc. You will also need this if you intend to use the GoJek app. We can help arrange an e-SIM for you ahead of time so that you have it when you arrive in Indonesia, especially if you use the VIP Airport Express Service mentioned previously.
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Mobile Apps: You will want to download these before your trip
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WhatsApp: Widely used for communication, including with businesses. People don't 'text' in Bali/Asia, they use 'Whats App', so you'll definitely want to download this. If you want to book a spa appointment, for example, you will likely be contacting them via Whats App.
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Grab and Gojek: Essential for transportation and food delivery services. Also great for sending things. For example, if you forget your hat at a cafe, you can Whats App the cafe to see if they have it. If they have it, you can arrange a GoSend via the GoJek app where someone will deliver your hat to you. Amazing! In order to sign up for GoJek you will need an Indonesian number (which you will have if/when you get a local SIM or e-SIM).
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Travel Logistics
- Flights: Plan for long travel times, with 1-2 layovers. We usually fly Qatar, but I have also flown a number of different airlines and all have been great. Feel free to reach out to us if you have questions about flights. Wear comfortable clothing - I usually fly wearing leggings, a t-shirt, sweatshirt, and a neck pillow. I find it is best to be very tired before flying, so if you can fit in a good workout the day of flying, this will help. Also, don't forget to check your credit card points (if you have them), as you can sometimes find great deals via the PointsYeah website. Some credit cards also include lounge access at the airports, so definitely look into this.
- Airport Arrival: Bali’s airport (Ngurah Rai International Airport, DPS) can be busy. We will help arrange a driver to pick you up from the airport and take you to your accommodation. If you choose the VIP service mentioned previously, they can also arrange a driver for you.
- Transportation: We highly recommend hiring a driver for day trips or even for your whole trip, especially if you are a group of 2 or more. We can help arrange this! The cost for a driver per day for 8 hours is around 750,000 - 1,200,000 IDR ($46-74 USD/$66-106 CAD), depending on the size of the car. This includes driver, car, and gas. For additional hours is 50,000-100,000 IDR per hour ($3-6 USD/ $4.50-9 CAD). Apps like Grab and Gojek are great for short distances, like a taxi service via car or the back of a motorbike, and are quite cheap. This is a fabulous option if you are riding solo. My preference is always to drive or be on a motorbike as it is the quickest form of transportation. IF you want to rent a motorbike while you are in Bali, you will need an international drivers license. You should also have experience driving a moped/motorbike. I would NOT advise renting a bike if you don't have proper experience. You will also need to wear a helmet, which they provide. Reach out to me if you are interested and I can help arrange a rental for you.
During Your Stay
- Cultural Respect: Balinese culture is rich in traditions. Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples, and avoid stepping on ceremonial offerings (canang sari) on the streets.
- Food Safety: Avoid tap water and be cautious with street food.
- Tipping: Tipping is absolutely not mandatory but appreciated. For good service, tip 10–15% or just round up the bill.
- Time Zone: Bali is in the Central Indonesia Time (WITA), which is GMT+8.
- Cash: While credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, carry cash for smaller establishments or markets. Many places will charge a 2-3% service fee for using credit cards, so cash is always best.
- Haggling: Bargaining is common in local markets. Start low and negotiate respectfully.
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Overall Prices of Things: Bali offers a wide range of options to suit any budget, from food to accommodation. For example, you can enjoy a meal at a reputable local stall (warung) for as little as $0.75 USD, or indulge in a fine dining experience at a luxury restaurant for over $100 USD, including food and drinks. On average, a satisfying meal at a charming café—complete with a drink, main dish, and dessert—will cost under $15 USD or $19 CAD.
Accommodation options also vary greatly. For a modest yet comfortable room, you can expect to pay around 500,000 IDR ($30 USD/ $44 CAD) per night. There are also more affordable choices, as well as high-end luxury accommodations that can cost upwards of 25,000,000 IDR (~$1,500 USD/~$2,150 CAD) per night. Once you share your travel dates with us, we’ll be happy to help you plan activities and accommodations tailored to your budget!
Things that may surprise you
- Traffic: It's bad. It can be chaotic and slow-moving, particularly in southern Bali. If you are traveling in a car, you will very likely hit traffic. Luckily, you will be sitting in AC. Driving either early morning or later at night will help you avoid some of the traffic. Sometimes this isn't possible, so schedule plenty of time between activities. Catching a ride on the back of a GoJek is going to be much quicker than being in a car, but isn't fun if it is raining or you need to travel somewhere far. Assess each trip to see if it is better to go by car or by GoJek (we can also advise on this, too!)
- Crowds: Popular spots like Ubud, Uluwatu, and Canggu can get very crowded. Medewi and some of the other areas we are traveling to won't be very crowded.
- The Sun: The sun is very strong here, so be sure to apply enough sun screen!
- Stray Dogs and Monkeys: During your trip you will see stray dogs on the streets and Monkeys in a few areas. Some dogs will look very haggard. It's best to avoid petting them, especially if they seem unwell, skittish or aggressive. Rabies does exist in Bali, so it is something to be aware of. Same goes for monkeys. They will likely want to steal your glasses, water bottle, etc., so be vigilant the few times when you are around them.
- Vegan Food: The food in Bali is very good, and the vegan food especially is unique and flavorful. The vegan ice cream is supreme as it is coconut milk based (I prefer it over gelato!)
- The Locals: Most Balinese are very friendly and always wearing a smile. Don't be surprised if a random local asks you "where are you going" or "Where are you from" (in bahasa indonesia) as this is a common question you will be asked.