Bali is one of the most popular travel 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. If this is your first time Bali travel experience, knowing what to expect can help you plan your trip more comfortably and avoid common surprises along the way.
Not to mention that gullible tourists could be scammed at tourist 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!
Also read: Indonesian Cultural Habits (a.k.a. All You Need to Know to Avoid Causing Offence)
What to Expect for Your First Time Bali Travel Experience
If it is your first time visiting Bali, a little planning will give you more confidence when navigating daily expenses, transportation, local customs, and typical tourist situations. Here are some practical things to keep in mind before and during your trip.
1. The Challenging Exchange Rate
If you’re used to using dollars or pounds as a currency, you may be shocked when finding out that Indonesia’s currency has a lot of zeroes.
The Indonesian rupiah (IDR) uses relatively large denominations, so prices can look surprisingly high at first glance. Rather than relying on a fixed exchange rate, check the current rate before your trip and use a currency converter when you need to calculate larger purchases.
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. For currency exchange, always stick to reputable money changers or banks and count your cash carefully before leaving the counter. Also, avoid unofficial-looking booths that offer unusually attractive exchange rates.
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.
Keep in mind that restaurant bills in Bali may include separate service charges and government taxes, depending on the establishment. The percentage is not universal, so don’t assume that every restaurant adds the same amount.
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.
If you’re a foreign visitor, also remember to budget for Bali’s foreign tourist levy of IDR 150,000, which is separate from your everyday spending. The levy is paid once per visit and can be paid electronically through the official Love Bali system.
3. Everything is Negotiable
One thing you should always remember for your first time Bali travel 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.
Rather than following a fixed bargaining percentage, start by making a polite counteroffer and see how the seller responds. Bargaining is generally more appropriate at traditional markets and some small local businesses, while fixed-price shops, supermarkets, restaurants, and shopping malls generally don’t expect it.
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.
Also read: How to Choose the Type of Accommodation in Bali That Suits You
4. Lack of Public Transportation
For your first time Bali travel, you need to know that Bali’s public transportation is almost nonexistent. Most Balinese have their own vehicle or use ojek services, where someone will pick you up on a motorbike and drive you to your destination.
This can be a little inconvenient if you’re traveling with your partner or family.
For first-time visitors, ride-hailing apps such as Grab and Gojek, metered taxis, private cars with drivers, and motorbike rentals are among the more practical options. However, app-based rides may have restrictions in certain tourist areas, so a pickup point or private driver can sometimes be more convenient.
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
Another tip for your first time Bali travel is that 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.
Instead of relying on unfamiliar drivers, use reputable taxi companies or established ride-hailing services where available. Keep in mind that some tourist areas restrict app-based car pickups, so check the designated pickup location in the app or ask your accommodation for guidance.
To have a much safer and more transparent pricing system, you can download Grab and Go-Jek for taxi and delivery services.
Even when using an app, always check the driver, vehicle, and fare details before getting into the car. This simple habit can make getting around Bali much easier, especially during your first trip.
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.
If you plan to rent a motorbike, make sure you are legally permitted to ride in Indonesia and are comfortable handling Bali’s busy, narrow, and sometimes unpredictable roads. Always wear a helmet and avoid renting a motorbike simply because it seems like the cheapest option if you are not an experienced rider.
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 made by foreign tourists.
Instead of drinking directly from the tap, you should get bottled water instead. You can get it at convenience stores or ask your accommodation if they provide free drinking water.
For a safer first-time Bali travel experience, use bottled or properly treated drinking water rather than drinking directly from the tap. Be mindful of water used for ice, brushing your teeth, and washing raw produce as well, particularly if you have a sensitive stomach.
With these practical tips in mind, you will have a better idea of what to expect—from handling Indonesian rupiah and navigating Bali’s roads to understanding local customs and choosing transportation. A little preparation can make your first trip in Bali feel much less overwhelming and leave more time to enjoy the island.
Also read: 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, this 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!
For booking and more information, download the Bobobox app now!
Header image by: Guillaume Marques via Unsplash
