How to Plan Your First Trip to Bali

Plan 7-10 days minimum, book flights 2-3 months ahead, and choose between Ubud for culture, Seminyak for beaches, or Canggu for surf. Get a visa on arrival ($35), pack light cotton clothes and reef-safe sunscreen, and budget $40-80 per day depending on your style.

  1. Decide when to go. April-October is dry season with less rain and lower humidity. Avoid July-August and December-January when prices spike and crowds peak. May-June and September-October offer the best balance of good weather and reasonable prices.
  2. Choose your base areas. Pick 2-3 areas max. Ubud for rice terraces and temples (3-4 nights), Seminyak or Legian for beaches and nightlife (3-4 nights), and Canggu for surf culture (2-3 nights). Each area has different vibes - don't try to see everything.
  3. Book flights early. Book 2-3 months ahead for better prices. Fly into Ngurah Rai Airport (DPS). If you're from Australia, expect 3-6 hour flights. From the US, plan 20+ hours with stops. Consider arrival time - landing late means expensive airport taxis.
  4. Sort accommodation by area. Book 2-3 places rather than moving every night. Budget guesthouses start at $15/night, mid-range hotels $40-80/night, luxury resorts $200+/night. Book popular places early, especially in Ubud and Seminyak.
  5. Plan transport between areas. Download Gojek and Grab apps for short trips. For longer distances, hire a driver for the day ($40-60) or rent a scooter ($5/day) if you're comfortable with chaotic traffic. Don't rely on public transport - it barely exists.
  6. Research temple etiquette. Bring a sarong or rent one at temples ($2-3). Shoulders and knees must be covered. Don't point your feet at shrines. Some temples charge entry fees ($2-5). Tanah Lot gets crowded - go early morning or late afternoon.
Is Bali safe for solo female travelers?
Generally yes, especially in tourist areas. Use common sense - don't walk alone late at night, watch your drinks, and trust your instincts. Many solo female travelers visit without issues.
Do I need vaccinations for Bali?
No required vaccinations, but consider hepatitis A, typhoid, and Japanese encephalitis depending on your activities. Consult a travel doctor 4-6 weeks before departure.
Should I rent a scooter?
Only if you're an experienced rider comfortable with chaotic traffic. Many accidents involve tourists on scooters. Consider hiring drivers or using Gojek/Grab instead.
What's the WiFi situation?
Most hotels and cafes have WiFi, but it can be slow. Buy a local SIM card at the airport ($5-10) for reliable internet and local calls.
How much should I tip?
Tipping isn't expected but appreciated. Round up taxi fares, leave 10% at nice restaurants if no service charge, and tip hotel staff $1-2 per day.