Bali is without a doubt a popular travel destination in the world. Boasting of beautiful architecture, beaches, waterfalls and museums, this gorgeous island in Indonesia is fondly called as the ‘Island of the Gods’. Right from history to modern day hubs, Bali has a lot to cater to the interests of all. The Balinese traditions is always a delight to be a part of, and there’s no greater pleasure than that of tasting the local Balinese cuisines. Here’s a guidepost on the vital things to do, traditional and cultural etiquette and must eats of Bali. Take a read and get in touch with Pickyourtrail if you want the perfect Bali package to be handpicked for you.
Top things to do in Bali
> Visit to Tirta Empul Temple
There’s an undeniable touch of uniqueness when it comes to the Tirta Empul Temple. This is the praying centre for the Balinese Hindus. The temple is also a famous attraction spot in Bali. The large pool at the centre of the complex is where the views of the temple are amazing. Multiple worshippers enter this water arena for praying purposes, thus one must be very careful when it comes to paying respect to the locals or worshippers.
> Surfing in Kuta
Surfing is always a delight. For those of you who haven’t tried on surfing even once, what better place than Kuta Beach to get some water action! The waves move pretty gently and since the beach is located on a dense sandy arena, sharp reefs wouldn’t be much. Relaxing on the beach with a bottle of beer and enjoying the views also works great at Kuta Beach.
>Visit to Jimbaran
What used to be a charming fishing village with a beautiful shoreline, is now one of the popular destinations in Bali. Famous for luxurious resorts, Jimbaran is also home to top seafood restaurants and sandy shorelines. The ideal time to chill here would be during the sunset when the weather sets a tone with the surrounding and offers mind blowing views.
>Visit to Nusa Dua
Lying on Bukit Peninsula’s eastern side, Nusa Dua is almost similar to Jimbaran when it comes to luxury hubs. However, it is special for its own reasons which are inclusive of the numerous golf course centres, relaxation spas and an ample number of luxury resorts (St. Regis and Conrad Bali in particular). The Geger Beach is also a great place to check out in Nusa Dua.
The best time to travel to Bali
Bali maintains an average temperature of 30 degrees Celsius all through the year. Heavy showers can be expected from December to March. July, August and December have the attention of the crowd. May, June, September will be good to visit Bali, for the weather is perfect – making them the shoulder months.
Stay And Duration
Bali is the perfect holiday destination. So if you are planning on a leisure trip, make sure it extends up to 8 days at least. For honeymooners, relaxing at Kuta beach or enjoying a spa session at Ubud and of course, enjoying the ever romantic candlelight dinner at Jimbaran should consume about 5 days.
Cost of living in Bali
Staying cost isn’t much in hotels which have concierge services. The rates will start from 1800 Rs for a night to 6000 Rs per night in case of luxurious ones.
Best suggested hotels/resorts in Bali
Luxurious:-
The Chedi Club, Ubud ( 5 star property )
Viceroy Bali, Ubud ( 5 star property )
The St.Regis Bali, Nusa Dua ( 5 star property )
Kayumanis Jimbaran, Jimbaran ( 5 star property )
The Legian, Bali ( 5 star property )
Mid-range:-
Dash Hotel, Seminyak ( 4 star )
Swiss Belinn, Legian ( 3 star )
The Haven Bali, Seminyak ( 4 star )
Four Points By Sheraton Bali, Kuta ( 4 star )
Horison Seminyak, Seminyak ( 4 star )
Eating in Bali
If you are willing to settle for a nominal meal, for a couple it may charge upto 350 Rs/ per head. Fine dining has options starting from 1500 Rs per couple. Beer and alcohol will cost around 200 rs per bottle.
> Top restaurants to dine in:
Fine Dining:
Kubu at Mandapa – Ubud ( $$$$)
Kaum Bali- Kuta ( $$$$)
Bali Pearl Restaurant – Seminyak ( $$$$)
Piasan Restaurant – Seminyak ( $$$$)
Local Eateries:
Tapa Nusa Dua – Nusa Dua ( $$$)
Bebek Tepi Sawah Ubud – Ubud ( $$$)
Made’s Warung – Kuta ( $$$)
Warung Mina Seminyak – Seminyak ( $$)
Must eats in Bali
Bebuk betutu – Non Veg
Mie Goreng( fried noodles) – Veg
Pisang Goreng(Fried bananas) – Veg
Babi guling – Nov Veg
Arak – Non Veg
Cultural Etiquette
Visitors should wear fully covered dresses if they are taking a visit to the temples
Folding hands and wishing people in public with a ‘namasthe’ is very common.
Tips
Carry an unlocked phone which is not bound to a single carrier.
The major mobile operators in Bali are Telkomsel (Simpati), Indosat, and XL.
Shop wisely by bargaining to the optimal levels
Avoid plastic water bottles
Watch out for wild and stray animals
With more intricate details giving you an overall insight of Bali, read the Bali Guide right here – Bali Travel Guide