Bali is one of the most popular traveling destinations for a reason. It has wonderful nature and a great selection of activities. With so many places to visit, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why you need to know what to expect when visiting Bali for the first time.
Not to mention that gullible tourists could be scammed at tourism hotspots. It’s best to know what to look out for before going to keep yourself and your loved ones safe during your travels.
Get Balinese to truly welcome you, and open yourself up to a more authentic experience. Here are a few things you should know before visiting Bali for the first time!
Read Also: Indonesian Cultural Habits (a.k.a. All You Need to Know to Avoid Causing Offence)
What to Expect When Visiting Bali for the First Time
1. The Challenging Exchange Rate
Source: EVG Kowalievska via Pexels
If you’re used to using dollar or pound as a currency, you may be shocked when finding out that Indonesia’s currency has a lot of zeroes.
As of now, the exchange rate is about 14,000 Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) to $1 USD. When you’re out shopping and need to do the math quickly in your head, it can certainly get quite challenging.
Budget your trip so you can keep track of your spending. Then, exchange just enough to go about your days, even if withdrawing millions can sound weird.
Some tourist destinations only accept cash, so be sure to always carry some bills around.
2. Expect Additional Fees
Restaurants and cafes don’t actually include service tax on the menu. This could be a problem—paying an extra 5-20% charge can mess up your well-planned budget.
Most menus usually include a small note stating the amount of taxes you have to pay. You can find the information either at the top or the bottom of the menu.
This way, you can still choose some foods and drinks that will fit your budget.
3. Everything is Negotiable
One thing you should always remember is that every price is negotiable. When you’re looking to buy a souvenir, the first price mentioned is usually driven up high, especially for tourists.
Since Bali is a famous tourist destination, the price can even be more inflated than in other neighboring countries.
If you generally end up paying around 75% of the initial price in other places, aim for 25-50% of the initial price in Bali.
When you’re not sure if you can negotiate the price, try politely declining the offer first. If they yell out “discount!”, then that’s your cue to start bargaining.
Note that you can only do this with local businesses and services, not in shopping centers.
Read Also: How to Choose the Type of Accommodation in Bali That Suits You
4. Lack of Public Transportation
Source: wirestock via Freepik
Bali’s public transportation is almost nonexistent. Most Balinese have their own vehicle or use ojek services, where someone will pick you up with a motorbike and drive you to your destination.
This can be a little inconvenient if you’re traveling with your partner or family.
However, other transportation options are available. You can either use a taxi or rent your own vehicle during your stay in Bali.
5. Taxi Mafia
Before you settle with traveling by taxi everywhere you go in Bali, you should be wary of Taxi Mafia
Some taxi drivers are self-employed. They can be rather aggressive and refuse to put you on the meter to drive up the price.
To have a much more safe and transparent price system, you can download Grab and Go-Jek for taxi and delivery services.
Some taxi mafias are determined to keep them off the streets though, so sometimes you can’t hire a driver in certain areas.
In spite of that, you can still use the app to find out the rate and avoid getting scammed by irresponsible taxi drivers.
6. Driving on the Left Side
Another way to get around Bali is to rent a vehicle, but you should know that they drive on the left side.
So, if you come from a country that drives on the right side of the lane, pay extra attention when driving or crossing the mostly chaotic roads.
For safer travel, you can consider hiring a driver who oftentimes also doubles as a tour guide. This way, you get to explore more interesting destinations without risking safety.
7. You Can’t Drink from Tap Water
Last but not least, before visiting Bali for the first time, note that tap water is not safe to consume. This is easily one of the most common mistakes done by foreign tourists.
Instead of drinking directly from the tap, you should get bottled water instead. You can get them at convenience stores or ask your accommodation if they provide free drinking water.
Read Also: Ultimate Bali Itinerary Ideas: From Beaches, Pottery, to Wine Tasting
Want to Enjoy the Beautiful Nature of Indonesia?
Escape from the bustling streets of the city and enjoy the beautiful nature at Bobocabin.
Available at various scenic destinations all over Indonesia, here is the place to enjoy the greenery and rest well in this homey cabin after a long day of exploration.
You can give yourself some privacy with our smart window, adjust the lighting to enhance your comfort, and put on some music for a great ambience—all at your fingertips.
Or, if you don’t want to turn in for the night yet, you can enjoy the warmth of your very own campfire. Feeling like grilling? Go make some BBQ with your loved ones under the clear sky!
Bobocabin Ubud is also opening soon. You’ll soon be able to witness the grand beauty of Mount Batur with a stunning view of the green rice field up close.
For booking and more information, download the app here.
