Bali Tips

There are 3 main methods of transport in Bali:

1. Motorbike

2. Cars

3. Walking!

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Gojek or Grab are Bali's Uber. We recommend downloading and setting up Grab and Gojek ahead of your trip. You can book Motorbike and Car trips on these apps. Most trips are very cheap. If you book a Motorbike, you'll be getting cozy with a local who is driving the bike.

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When leaving the airport, you will find lots of people wanting to offer you a ride. We recommend booking an airport transfer ahead of your trip to save you the headache (literally - the drivers are very loud and very persistent!)

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The only metered – and most recommended – taxi service on the island is Blue Bird taxis.

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Hiring Motorbikes is a fun time too, if you'd like to explore.

Bali Belly is very unpleasant, and can take the joy out of your trip. While it is extremely common, you can take precautions to avoid it. When we have taken these measures, we have been fine!

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• Only drink bottled water

  • Even at restaurants this is not always a given - so make sure you ask for this.​

• Stay hydrated

  • Keep bottled water with you always​

• No ice

  • Ice is made from tap water at most places. Even hotels and restaurants. ​

  • Rule of thumb: unless they call it 'tap water ice', don't drink it (or drink it very fast before it melts!)

  • This is why Bintangs are a popular drink option - no ice in beer

• Avoid watery vegetables, and prioritise cooked food

  • Veges like lettuce can hold the bacteria water​

  • Cooked food is the safest bet, the Bali Belly bacteria can't survive being cooked in high heat

Bali is a relatively safe country, but always use caution in public places! Keep valuables on your person, carry a bag (phones in pockets can be too tempting).

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There are some scams, so make sure you book everything directly (e.g. cars through Grab/Gojek, restaurant bookings direct with the restaurant).

We recommend organising your visa before you arrive. 

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New Zealanders can get what is called a Visa on Arrival in Bali.

You can do this ahead of time (despite the name) via the Immigration Website linked here.

 

Or if you're not planning on doing this ahead of time, you can also get it issued at the VoA counters at the airport on arrival. Be prepared for queues, and ensure you have card or cash (EUR, USD, AUD, GBP).

Different places in Bali are known for different things. 

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Uluwatu: known for the beautiful resorts, beaches, relaxing

Nusa Dua: resorts

Seminyak/Changgu: Shopping, eating, beach clubs

Ubud: Retreats, yoga

Gili T: beaches, snorkeling, diving
 

And so many other amazing places!

You can find a spreadsheet full of some of our recommendations here.​

We haven't tried everything in the spreadsheet, you can see what we have tried and recommend in the 'Tried & True' column

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Bali massages are a must-do, so put plenty of time aside for relaxation. You'll find massages everywhere you look,  be sure to look at Google Reviews before walking in.

Bali is a shoppers dream! But there is a lot of digging to get to the gold. 

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Best things to buy in Bali:​

• Leather Bags/Belts/Shoes

• Sarongs/Kaftans

• Jewellery

• Woven handbags

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Have a look at local markets and recommended places to buy in the spreadsheet above.