Introduction
You finally made plans to go to Bali. You’re both excited and scared about going to the Island of the Gods. Where do you begin? What do you want to know? Don’t worry; we’ve got your back.
At Orivista Property Management, we have helped thousands of first-time travellers discover Bali’s beauty, culture, and hidden gems. This guide will give you all the information you need to make your first trip to Bali one you’ll never forget.
Before You Leave, Here Are The Most Important Things To Know:
Requirements for a Visa
For up to 30 days, most nationalities can enter Bali without a visa. You can also buy a Visa on Arrival (VOA) for 500,000 IDR (about $32 USD), which lets you stay for 30 days and then extend your stay for another 30 days. Before you travel, make sure to check the most up-to-date requirements for your nationality, as rules can change.
The Best Time to Go
From April to October, Bali has its dry season. This is when the weather is sunny and perfect for relaxing on the beach or visiting temples. The wet season, which runs from November to March, has afternoon showers, but it also has fewer people and better deals. July to August and December to January are the busiest times of year, so if you’re going during these months, book your villa early.
What to Bring
- Clothes that are light and breathable (it’s tropical all year)
- Dress modestly when you go to the temple (cover your shoulders and knees)
- Good sunscreen (the best kind is reef-safe)
- A light rain jacket or umbrella – insect repellent
- Shoes and sandals that are easy to walk in
- A universal power adapter (Bali uses Type C and F plugs and 230V)
Money Matters
The currency in Indonesia is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). There are a lot of ATMs, especially in tourist areas like Seminyak, Canggu, and Ubud. Most hotels, restaurants, and big stores will take credit cards, but you should always have cash on hand for smaller warungs (local restaurants), markets, and rural areas.
Tips: Let your bank know before you leave, and be aware that some ATMs charge a lot of money. For better rates, look for ATMs at big banks like BCA, Mandiri, or BNI.
How to Get Around Bali
Ways to Get Around
Bali doesn’t have a full public transportation system, so these are your best choices:
Renting a scooter: This is the most popular option for travelers. Costs between 50,000 and 70,000 IDR every day. You should already be able to ride well and have an international driving permit.
Driver for hire: You should expect to pay between 500,000 and 700,000 IDR for a full day. Your driver becomes your guide, giving you local knowledge and freedom.
Apps for getting rides: Gojek and Grab work in most places for cheap short trips.
Transport to private villas: Many of our properties at Orivista offer complimentary airport transfers and can arrange private drivers for your convenience.
A Reality Check on Traffic
The roads in Bali can be crazy, especially in the south. During busy times (7–9 AM and 5–7 PM), plan on spending more time on the road. A 30-minute drive on Google Maps might actually take an hour.
Where to Stay: Picking Your Base
First-time visitors often have trouble deciding where to stay. Here’s a quick summary:
Seminyak: High-end restaurants, beach clubs, and shopping. Great if you want polished luxury and easy access to the beach.
Canggu: A place where surfing and digital nomads meet. Cafes that are in style, views of rice fields, and a younger, more relaxed vibe.
Ubud: Is the cultural centre of Bali. Picture lush jungles, rice terraces, yoga retreats, and traditional arts.
Uluwatu: Has stunning beach clubs, world-class surf breaks, and dramatic views from the top of the cliffs. More far away, but still very beautiful.
Sanur: Quiet beaches that are good for families and have a more traditional, laid-back feel.
Orivista Suggestion: If you’re going to spend time in more than one place, you might want to start in Seminyak or Canggu for the beach and nightlife and then move to Ubud for the culture and nature. Our luxury villas in these places let you enjoy the best of both worlds without any problems.
Cultural Etiquette: Being Polite Goes A Long Way
Bali is mostly Hindu, and the people there are very friendly and welcoming, but it’s important to be aware of other cultures.
Going to Temples
- Wear clothes that aren’t too revealing (sarongs are often available at the door)
- Don’t climb on holy buildings
- Don’t go into temples when you’re on your period (it’s a cultural norm).
- Do what your guide tells you to do
Interactions Every Day
When you give or get something, use your right hand. – Don’t touch people’s heads (it’s sacred). Take off your shoes before you go into a home or temple. – Bargain politely at markets, but know when the price is set. Gifts on the Ground There are small woven baskets with flowers, incense, and rice everywhere—on sidewalks, doorsteps, and even in the middle of the road. These are daily gifts known as *canang sari*. Never walk on them; always step over them.
Things You Have to Do the First Time
Watch the Sun Set in Bali
From a beach club, you can see the sun melt into the Indian Ocean. Savaya in Uluwatu has views from the top of a cliff that will leave you speechless. Atlas Beach Club in Canggu has great cocktails and a beachy feel. Our guests who are members of the OriCircle Privilege Programme get special discounts at both locations.
Visit a Temple
For the famous Kecak fire dance performance, go to Tanah Lot for sunset or Uluwatu Temple. For something less touristy, go to the Tirta Empul water temple for a traditional cleansing ceremony.
Hike Through Rice Terraces
The Tegallalang or Jatiluwih rice terraces near Ubud are some of Bali’s most famous sights. Go early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds.
Sign Up for a Cooking Class
Learn how to cook real Balinese food, like nasi goreng or satay. A lot of classes include tours of the market, which are really fun.
Going from Beach Club to Beach Club
The beach clubs in Bali are famous. There is something for every mood, from the famous design of Potato Head to the party vibe at Finns Beach Club.
What to eat in the food scene
Bali has everything from street food for 15,000 IDR to fine dining that is worthy of a Michelin star.
Local Foods You Have to Try:
- Fried rice (nasi goreng)
- Fried noodles (mie goreng)
- Babi guling (suckling pig), a Balinese dish
- Sate lilit (minced meat or seafood satay)
- Lawar, a traditional mix of meat, vegetables, and spices
Where to Eat:
- Warungs: Local restaurants that serve real, cheap food
- Beach clubs: Fancy restaurants with great views
- Seminyak/Canggu restaurants: International food done really well
- Ubud organic cafes: Healthy bowls and smoothies that look great on Instagram
Safety of Food: Usually safe, but stay away from places where food doesn’t stay fresh for long. Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water.
Staying Safe and Healthy
Bali is mostly safe, but be smart:
- Keep an eye on your things in crowded places.
- Only use registered drivers and tour guides.
- Be careful on scooters (there are helmet laws, and the roads can be unpredictable).
- If you want to rent a scooter, make sure your travel insurance covers it. –
- Bring some basic medicines from home for things like stomach problems, headaches, etc.
- Drink plenty of water in the hot tropics
Health Considerations: –
You don’t have to get any vaccinations to go to Bali, but you should get Hepatitis A and Typhoid shots. – Dengue fever is common here, so use mosquito repellent, especially in the morning and evening. – Sunburn happens quickly, so reapply sunscreen often.
The Internet and Staying in Touch
Most hotels, cafes, and restaurants have WiFi. Buy a local SIM card at the airport or in a convenience store for data on the go. XL and Telkomsel both have good coverage all over the island. A tourist SIM card with 20 to 30 GB of data will cost you between 100,000 and 150,000 IDR.
All our Orivista villas have fast WiFi, which is great for staying in touch or working from home.
Shopping and Bargaining
Where to Bargain: You can haggle at markets, beachside stands, and some stores in tourist areas. Start at 30% to 50% of the asking price and work your way up with a smile.
Fixed Prices: Most online bookings, supermarkets, established boutiques, and restaurants have set prices.
What to Buy: Handwoven textiles, silver jewellery from Celuk village, traditional paintings, coffee (Bali has great beans), and soaps or oils made by hand.
The Orivista Advantage For Newbies
It can be hard to figure out how to get around Bali for the first time, but staying at an Orivista villa makes planning easier. Our homes in Seminyak, Canggu, and Ubud all come with:
- Local knowledge: Our team can help you find everything from secret beaches to the best local warungs.
- Seamless logistics: We take care of airport transfers, private drivers, and tour arrangements for you.
- Premium experiences: The OriCircle Privilege Programme gives you special discounts at Bali’s best places.
- Comfort and privacy: You have your own luxury space to relax in after a busy day of exploring.
