By Alice Murray
Is Bali on your bucket list?
If it isn’t then it really should be.
Bali is fast becoming the ultimate holiday destination for travel bloggers and pack-backers alike. And it’s really not hard to see why. Stunning beaches, amazing temples, insanely good food, do I even need to go on?
If you are planning a trip (or would just like to give your wanderlust some inspiration) here are the things I wish I’d known before I hopped on a plane to Indonesia.
Bring bug spray
Trust me on this one. Like most hot and humid countries there are a lot of bugs and mosquitos in Bali. Save yourself the hassle (and the scratching) and pack some good quality bug spray with a high DEET factor. Your ankles will thank you for it.
Always haggle
It’s not considered rude to haggle at a local market, in fact, it’s expected. Do not shy away from a bit of bartering, the locals usually enjoy a good challenge and you will normally get quite a bit of money knocked off the original price.
Take in as many sunsets as you can
While you’re in Bali try to see as many sunsets as possible because they are actually spectacular. Find a nice sunset beach bar (there are literally hundreds) and sit back with a nice cocktail and watch the sun go down. If you’re looking for something really special go to the Ombak Sunset Hotel in Gili T for the evening, their views are spectacular and they have one of the famous Bali swings that you just need to get a photo on.
Go to the Gilis
Speaking of Gili T, try to visit some of the smaller islands during your Bali visit. Gili T and Gili Air are fantastic places to spend a few nights and really get away from it all (neither of the islands allow any cars). Accommodation is reasonably cheap, there’s great snorkelling, amazing food and even better yoga. Sure what more could you want?
Remember that timetables aren’t set in stone
If you do decide to travel to the Gilis from either Lombok or Denpasar then remember that the boat schedules aren’t always concrete. Boats only run from the morning until the afternoon and are often late so make sure you factor that into your travel plans.
The beaches are amazing…
But that doesn’t mean you should spend all your time there. The beaches in Seminyak and Nusa Dua are definitely worth a visit but you should also head in-land during your trip. A visit to the Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Ubud is an absolute must!
Watch out for the monkeys
If you travel to Ubud there are lots of amazing things to see including temples, traditional plays and palaces. Another popular attraction is the Monkey Forest. If you do decide to go then make sure your bag is zipped, your hair is tied up and you’ve had a tetanus shot, seriously! Those little guys might be cute but they can be vicious.
Don’t panic if your card doesn’t work at the ATM
While we were in Bali our cards were declined at ATMs all the time. Don’t panic. Usually, they are just out of money or there is a glitch in the system. Eventually, you will find one that gives you cash I promise.
Do you have any more Bali tips? Let us know on Twitter.
