Bali, Indonesia’s most famous island, is a dream destination for many Australians. Boasting stunning beaches, lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and world-class surfing, it’s not surprising that Bali attracts millions of visitors each year. If you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or cultural or culinary experiences, Bali really does have something for everyone. It’s great for kids too. Many families visit Bali and make use of the many affordable activities and generous sized hotel rooms and suites available.
If you’re planning your first trip to Bali, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your time in this wonderful island paradise.
Why Bali is an Absolute Must-Visit Destination
1. Breathtaking Landscapes – From the iconic cliffs of Uluwatu to the emerald-green rice paddies of Ubud, Bali offers vast natural beauty at every turn. You can hike up Mount Batur for a gorgeous sunrise view or explore hidden waterfalls in the island’s lush jungles.
2. Rich Culture and Spirituality – Bali is deeply rooted in Hindu traditions, with many temples and daily offerings to be seen across the island. Visitors can experience traditional Balinese dance, visit ancient temples like Tanah Lot, or take part in a relaxing yoga retreat.
3. Affordable Luxury – Whether you’re after a budget-friendly guesthouse or a five-star private villa with jungle views, or an infinity pool looking out to the ocean, Bali offers incredible value for money. Dining, spa and massage treatments, and family activities are all surprisingly affordable.
4. World-Class Surfing and Diving – Bali is a paradise for surfers, with famous breaks in Canggu, Uluwatu, and Padang Padang. Divers can explore underwater shipwrecks, coral reefs, and marine life in Amed, Nusa Penida, and Menjangan Island.
5. Lively Nightlife and Beach Clubs – From the many laid-back beachfront bars to more high-end beach clubs like Finns and Potato Head, Bali’s nightlife scene is diverse and vibrant. Seminyak and Canggu are top spots for a good night out.
Understanding Balinese Culture
Bali’s culture is a unique blend of spirituality, tradition, and hospitality. The Hindu religion plays a significant role in people’s daily lives, with ceremonies, offerings, and temple visits being a regular part of their routine. You’ll often notice small offerings (canang sari) placed outside of homes and businesses as a form of gratitude to the gods. If you do see offerings, please don’t touch them and be careful if taking photos outside people’s homes as you may cause offence.
Balinese people are generally very warm and welcoming, however it’s important to be mindful of local etiquette and traditions. Bargaining is commonplace in local markets, but always done with a smile and in a polite way. Avoid raising your voice or losing your temper, as maintaining harmony (known as “Tri Hita Karana”) is a central principle in Balinese life. If you are not happy with a price, there will likely be other vendors near by who you can seek a better deal from.
Tipping in Bali is not expected, but it is appreciated, especially if you receive good service in the tourism and hospitality industry. You can choose to leave a small tip as a kind gesture, but it’s not required and people will not be offended if you don’t tip.
Top Travel Tips for Bali
• Visa Requirements: Australians can enter Bali with a Visa on Arrival (VOA) obtained at the airport when you land, the visa will be valid for 30 days and is extendable once. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your arrival date.
• Transport: Traffic in Bali can be chaotic. Renting a scooter is an option but comes with risks, so if you’re not an experienced rider, it’s safer and easier to use ride-sharing apps, Grab and Gojek are the two most commonly used in Bali now so are generally your best options.
• Money Matters: The local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). ATMs are widely available, but always use official exchange counters when converting currency to avoid scams.
• Health Precautions: Bali Belly (traveller’s diarrhoea) is common—it’s best to avoid tap water altogether and stick to bottled or filtered water. Many hotels do provide bottled water or have it readily available to buy nearby. Bottled water is not generally expensive to buy in Bali and very easy to find while you are out and about. Mosquito repellent is an essential luggage item to pack to prevent dengue fever. You will be able to buy it there if you run out or forget, but it’s best to bring your own to ensure you have a high quality and effective product.
• Respect Local Customs: Be sure to dress modestly when visiting temples, wear a sarong/head covering if required, and avoid touching people’s heads, it is considered disrespectful in Hindu culture and religious teachings to touch someone else’s head.
Why You Need Travel Insurance for Bali
Travel insurance is essential when planning a trip to Bali, unexpected events or accidents can turn your dream trip into a costly nightmare. Here’s why you should never travel without it:
1. Medical Emergencies – Bali’s healthcare system is different from Australia’s. Private hospitals offer better care but come with high costs, and medical evacuations to Australia can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Travel insurance ensures you won’t be left with a massive bill if you need treatment.
2. Motorbike Accidents – Scooter accidents are one of the most common incidents among tourists. If you plan to ride, ensure your policy covers motorbike use and that you have a valid Australian motorbike licence.
3. Cancelled Flights and Travel Disruptions – Volcanic eruptions, bad weather, or airline strikes can delay flights. Insurance can cover things like additional accommodation and rebooking costs if you’re stuck, as well as any money lost from non changeable tickets.
4. Lost or Stolen Belongings – Petty theft can occur, especially in tourist hotspots. A good policy covers lost luggage, stolen phones, laptops, and any other valuables.
5. Adventure Activities Coverage – Many travellers visit Bali for diving, surfing, or hiking. Standard policies may not cover high-risk activities, so choose a policy that does.
Get Covered with Go Insurance
Before you jet off to Bali, make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance set up. Go Insurance offers flexible and affordable travel insurance options tailored to Australian travellers heading to Bali. Choose the coverage that suits your needs and fits best with your destination. No one needs more to worry about while overseas, getting cover with Go Insurance is fast, easy, and affordable. Protect your possessions, your health and your peace of mind.
For more information on travelling to Bali, check out these trusted resources: