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Traveling to Bali? Here's everything you need to know before you go.

 There are a few strategies to getting the most out of a trip to Bali, from managing crowds to being monkey-savvy. We've compiled a list of 10 great suggestions for your next trip towards the Island of the Gods.



1. Be prepared for crowds

In non-pandemic periods, Bali, being one of the most visited islands on the planet, is far from an unspoiled paradise. It might be tough to get away from the crowds in southern Bali and Ubud, but dedicated solitude seekers will be delighted to discover a plethora of lonely spots outside these key tourist areas. Go to the middle mountains or the more relaxed north and west shores of Bali.

2. Select your base with consideration

It pays to choose your Bali base ahead of time, as busy traffic and hot weather are likely to keep you close to your hotel or guesthouse rather than wandering far on foot or sitting in stuffy cabs. If you're seeking for true relaxation, Kuta is probably not for you. If you want to go shopping and consume more than your body weight in good food, a week on Nusa Lembongan is unlikely to satisfy you. Use Lonely Planet's 'first time in Bali' advice to choose your ideal location.

3. Don't be concerned about "Bali belly."

Strict dietary restrictions are no longer necessary to avoid spending your Bali vacation within two steps of a toilet. Salads, sliced fruit, ice cubes, and most meats were once dangerous, but cleanliness standards have improved dramatically across the island, and many cooks now serve high-quality organic products. While shady prawns will always exist, the infamous Bali belly can be avoided by staying hydrated, avoiding famed native liquor arak, and eating street cuisine with prudence.


4. Dress appropriately for the event

Beachwear isn't always appropriate in Bali; many upscale pubs, restaurants, and clubs have a dress requirement. If you're unsure, call beforehand to avoid the embarrassment of being turned down.

5. Obey religious practices

In Bali, religion reigns supreme. Don't get your panties in a bunch when a street is closed off for a ritual or your driver stops in the middle of the road to make a blessing — it's all part of the island's enchantment. If your vacation dates fall on Nyepi, when everything in Bali (including the airport) closes for the day, plan accordingly, and always dress modestly (covering the shoulders and knees) and comport yourself correctly when visiting temples and sacred places.

6. Expect a diverse bag of price tags.



You may still visit Bali on a budget by living in guesthouses, eating at warungs, and buying at local markets, but you can also waste your whole life savings. Drinks, dinners, spa services, and accommodation rates at high-end venues are priced comparable to those found in Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. To keep your financial account happy, look for internet discounts and happy hour offers.

7. Be wary of stray and wild animals.

Give stray and feral animals a wide berth. Although they appear to be charming, rabies and other illnesses are real threats in Bali, and monkeys are infamous for their stealing methods. Bali has a large number of stray dogs, many of which are in poor condition. If you want to assist, try donating a "doggy gift" to Bali Dog Refuge, which rescues and rehabilitates the island's stray puppies.

8. Avoid using plastic water bottles.

The heat and humidity of Bali necessitate continuous hydration, but think about the environment before buying another bottled drink. Lots of plastic debris washes up on Bali's beaches, and local authorities claim that during the monsoon season, they collect up to 60 tons each day. Reduce this amount by purchasing a stainless steel bottle that you can refill; most decent cafés and restaurants have a water filter available for free or for a little price.

9. Pick up some local slang.



A few simple Bahasa Indonesia words will go you far in Bali. To begin, try selamat pagi (good morning), tolong (please), and terima kasih (thank you).

10. Keep in mind that low season is sometimes synonymous with rainy season.

When planning your vacation to Bali, keep the rainy season in mind (January to April and October to November). Discounts are fantastic, but if you wind up spending your holiday cooped up indoors, you may question if the trip was worth it. Fortunately, the rains are usually restricted to brief afternoon downpours, so your vacation won't be ruined.
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