Want to travel to Bali and Indonesia? Here's everything you need to know before heading off to Bali, Java, Lombok, Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, Gili Meno, Gili Asahan, Nusa Lembongan, Flores, Komodo and Sulawesi. Dream islands in the Indonesian archipelago where we've been lucky enough to travel regularly since 2011.
In fact, we've been on 5 trips to Bali and Indonesia in general. Our last trip to Bali? In fact, we moved there altogether in March 2020 and set up a local travel agency called MimpiGO - "Mimpi" meaning dream in Indonesian - which offers authentic, eco-responsible and solidarity-based tailor-made trips. 100% made-to-measure trips to Bali and the entire Indonesian archipelago. To find out more, join MimpiGO on Instagram and send us a message to info.mimpigo(@)gmail.com to request a quote.
Following all these trips to Indonesia and all the questions you have been asking us on our travel blog OneDayOneTravel since 2011, we are publishing this file which we hope will help you to prepare and organise your future trip to Bali and Indonesia.
Blog article: Where to sleep in Bali? All our tried and tested addresses on the Island of the Gods (and those of our readers) listed in 1 single article!
Here's the outline of our practical guide to Bali and Indonesia.
What are the administrative formalities for travelling to Bali and Indonesia? What about visas?
Vaccinations and first-aid kits in Bali and Indonesia
Pharmacies, vaccines, mosquito repellents and first-aid kits
What travel insurance should I take in Bali and Indonesia?
What about safety and volcanoes when travelling to Bali and Indonesia?
Beliefs in Bali
Religions in Java, Lombok and the Gilis
Religions in Flores and Sulawesi
Where to sleep at the beginning and end of your trip in Bali and Indonesia?
The seaside resorts of Kuta Bali and Legian
Staying in Bali: The seaside resort of Seminyak
Canggu or paradise, with the added bonus of rice paddies
You'll love our 4 Indonesia travel itineraries. See you at the end of the article.
Tips for travelling to Bali: Everything you need to know, see and do in Indonesia
Bali is shaped like a fish, with its head facing east. Java lies to the west. To the east are the Gili islands, followed by Lombok, Sumbawa, Komodo, Flores, etc. To the north, Sulawesi, shaped like an orchid, is the link between Indonesia and the Philippines.
When it comes to travelling to Bali, it's best to think about visiting Bali as well as the other neighbouring islands, whether you're planning a 10-day or 2-week trip. And it's even truer for trips of 3 weeks or more. And why is that? Because each Indonesian island has its own culture, beliefs, traditions and way of life. So many tourist attractions that we can never resist.
Today's Bali has a lot to offer, from warm seas and rice paddies to impressive waterfalls, jungles and volcanoes. Bali offers a wide variety of landscapes and a wide choice of places to discover by the day or longer.
But Bali is also about authenticity and traditional villages (because there are still some!) that live to the rhythm of the ceremonies and offerings that adorn the pavements and temples.
It is this very special atmosphere that contributes to Bali's unique character.
Paradise beaches in Indonesia.
In Indonesia, there's Bali, but not only Bali. There are also the the beaches of southern Lombok with its perfect crescents, the dreamy beaches of the Gilis, which are coral atolls of varying degrees of tourist appeal, Java and its volcanoes, theisland of Flores with its Kelimutu volcano and its 3 lakes, authenticity and dreamy beaches, and Sulawesi with its mix of ancestral cultures, lush jungle and dreamy islets.
The coral reefs of the Gili Islands (Trawangan, Air and Meno) are the most famous for their heavenly beaches. There's an island for every type of traveller. From the very popular Gili Trawangan, which is more for party-goers, to Gili Air, which is more for families and senior citizens, and Gili Meno, the best-preserved of the 3 coral atolls, which attracts lovers from all over the world, there's something for everyone.
The trick is not to choose the wrong dream island.
Find all our advice on choosing your Gili island here
Finally, never short of good deals, if you think Gilis Trawangan, Meno and Air are too touristy, we unearthed a little nugget off the beaten track during the summer of 2017: Gili Asahan.
A trip to Bali and Indonesia is also an opportunity to explore some exceptional natural sites. Climbing the volcanoes of Java, Kawah Ijen and Bromo, is a must. The equation is right: human adventure and the incomparable beauty of the sites visited.
You'll also get to see the world's largest acid lake and visit a sulphur mine in the middle of the crater, all at night and at sunrise. Spectacles guaranteed!
A unique, unmissable and unforgettable experience!
The Kelimutu crater in Flores, with its 3 lakes of different colours, is also a spectacular sight. And that's not all. Flores also offers the chance to visit traditional villages such as Bajawa and to go in search of secret beaches.
Climbing Mount Rinjani in 3 days on the island of Lombok is a beautiful and breathtaking adventure. Why not combine it with a bit of idleness on the beaches of Kuta Lombok in the south or a cruise to Flores and a visit to the Komodo dragons?
Many readers have been asking us for years where we think the best beaches in Indonesia are. Of all the islands we've visited, our hearts go out to Sulawesi and the Togian Islands in particular.
As for the most beautiful seabed, we saw it without hesitation in Tumbak, once again in Sulawesi. Remark still valid in 2019!
1. How do I travel to Bali and Indonesia from France? How do I get to the other islands in the archipelago?
To get to Bali, it's best to take a return flight to Denpasar international airport. There are no direct flights from France. Depending on the ticket prices we find on the internet each time, we vary the airlines and therefore the stopovers (Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Dubai, Singapore). By the way, we recommend that you read our advice on how to find cheap plane tickets online. After reading our advice, you might just start travelling as much as we do.
The comparator we use first and foremost is Skyscanner to find cheap plane tickets to Bali.
For internal transfers, it's best to book before you leave. Details of transport are given in our itinerary articles.
In brief:
Bali-Lombok: By ferry, speedboat or plane.
Bali-Gilis: By fast or slow boat or plane via Lombok + road + boat.
Bali-East Java: By ferry and road.
Bali-Flores: By plane to Maumere or Labuan Bajo or by cruise from Lombok.
Bali-Sulawesi : By plane to Manado (cheap flights to Manado) in the north or Makassar in the south (cheap flights to Makassar). Sulawesi is also accessible from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.
One last point: airport taxes on international and domestic flights are included in the price of the plane ticket. So there's no tax to pay when you leave the country.
2. What are the administrative formalities for travelling to Bali and Indonesia? What about visas?
As far as administrative formalities are concerned, you don 't need a visa to visit Indonesia if you are staying for less than 30 days and are a French citizen. Otherwise, you'll need to buy a visa from theIndonesian embassy. (This can also be done at Denpasar international airport on arrival at the "Visa on arrival" counter).
An up-to-date passport with an expiry date of more than 6 months after the planned date of return is required.
To find out about the situation in Indonesia (volcanic risks, health risks, political situation, earthquake risks, etc.), visit the website of France Diplomatie before your trip and register with Ariane. As we write this post, we have just experienced an earthquake in Bali (not destructive, but still a 5.8). During our trip in 2017, it was the Ayung volcano that erupted. So it's best to be prepared before you set off on your trip to Indonesia. When you're informed, you're bound to have a better holiday.
3. When should you travel to Bali and Indonesia?
Let's not forget that Bali is located close to the Equator. The climate is therefore tropical.
The best time to go to Bali and Indonesia is from May to October, with a high season in July and August. The rest of the year is the rainy season. Even so, you can never be sure of getting a shower at the end of the day, even during the peak tourist season.
In the higher areas, such as Ubud, Munduk, Sidemen and Mount Agung, it's always wetter. The same applies to all the islands and volcanoes. When you're lucky enough to get a day of sunshine up there, you'll be jumping up and down! Of course, this has consequences for what you need to take with you: fleeces, gloves, trousers, rainwear and hiking boots, as well as the essential swimming costume and beach towel.
By the sea, it may rain but it's always warm, without becoming suffocatingly hot either. It can happen, but it's rare. In any case, there's always a little sea breeze to help you breathe. Otherwise, you have to climb to higher altitudes. The coolness of the mountains is not bad either.
For the other Indonesianislands, such as Java, Sulawesi and Flores, we invite you to join us in the articles linked to the different itineraries below.
4. How do I get around Bali and Indonesia?
4.1 Exploring Bali by scooter
We have already devoted a long article to visiting Bali by scooter. We invite you to read this travel blog post, updated in March 2019 (as are all our blog posts, by the way ^^), which answers the many questions you may have on the subject.
If you plan to hire a scooter in Bali without having passed the motorbike driving test in France, your usual insurance won't cover you in the event of an accident. Fortunately, we've come up with a solution ^^
How do I hire a scooter in Bali? What are the driving rules? What licence and papers do I need? How much does it cost to hire a scooter in Bali? How are police checks carried out?
We'll be sharing our experiences and giving you our top tips for visiting Bali on a motorbike. In the meantime, take a look at our article before you set off. It'll give you enough information to know if you're ready to ride a scooter in Bali. And contact your insurer to find out what your position would be in the event of an accident.
All our advice also applies to the other islands of the Indonesian archipelago, with the exception of the Gilis, which are closed to motor vehicles. Please note: scooter hire companies are often harder to find outside Bali and Lombok. It's even almost impossible on some of the stages of our trips to Flores and Sulawesi, although things are changing over the years. You then have no choice but to share a chauffeur-driven car with other travellers (or not) to get around.
4.2. Visiting Bali with a chauffeur-guide
You can travel to Bali independently without any problems. Some people prefer the comfort of a car and the services of a guide and driver for part or all of their stay. The key is to get organised and contact the drivers well in advance, as French-speaking drivers are often fully booked weeks or even months in advance.
We know a passionate Balinese guide who speaks French very well (he's already had the chance to discover our beautiful country, which is rare) and who knows his island like the back of his hand. In particular, he showed us the most beautiful waterfall in Bali, and not only that!
The programme is completely up to you. Visit temples, waterfalls, beaches, meet the locals, etc. Everything is possible, as the trip can be organised à la carte. We called on her services for a day off the beaten track in the summer of 2017 and also in July 2019. These were wonderful days of sharing and discovery, just the way we like them. He now works with us at our local travel agency MimpiGO, which we set up in January 2021. To organise your tailor-made trip, send an email to info.mimpigo(@)gmail.com. A website linked to the MimpiGO agency will soon be online.
Here's a typical day that we concocted with our Balinese guide friend in July 2019 between the Tukad Cepung waterfall and 2 temples, the first off the beaten track and the other better known to travellers. Watch the video to find out more.
We also discovered the sublime Sekumpul waterfall with him in July 2017.
On the other islands, we suggest you read the articles dedicated to each itinerary. In Sulawesi, for example, we visited part of the Toraja country with a driver and guide.
4.3. Using an Uber in Bali (or a Gojek)
In Bali, it's best to be careful with the services offered by the Uber application. From the airport, it's no problem if you're heading for the south of Bali, for example.
For your first ride, use this Uber promotional code: pzfp6q
However, to get to Ubud or to leave the town, we strongly advise against using Uber. Uber drivers are not welcome at all in Ubud and are hated by taxis. They are even punished sometimes very violently (never in front of tourists). The posters posted in all the streets and alleys of Ubud bear witness to this. So it's best to take a taxi to get to or from Ubud. Once there, the same applies, unless you're comfortable on a scooter.
We've never tried this service on the other Indonesian islands. But what about you?
4.4. Visiting Bali with local agencies
Our unique local agency is made up of several English and French-speaking Balinese guides who love to help you discover their region off the beaten track. And they do it very well! The programmes are à la carte and totally personalised. Here are 2 examples from July 2019 that we can now offer you directly.
Near Ubud, for example, Nyoman took us on a trek to discover first his rice fields and then the Ayung River like no one else. We then had lunch at his house, with a delicious meal prepared by his wife. It was a great opportunity to get a better idea of how a Balinese family lives. In the afternoon, we set off 30 minutes from the village of Nyoman to discover one of Bali's most beautiful waterfalls.
Another example was an evening spent with Agung, another Balinese guide who gave us a unique and intense experience. We were able to meet a healer, in other words a clairvoyant healer, with whom we spent a long time between personal questions or with the deceased and energy massage.
The evening continued in a temple, at night and without tourists, where we were able to experience purification according to Balinese Hindu traditions.
Interested in this unique experience?
Contact our local travel agency MimpiGO directly by email, which offers tailor-made excursions that you won't find anywhere else , by the day or more, with Balinese guides: info.mimpigo(@)gmail.com
4.4.2. Local agency Indotravelteam
During our trip to Bali, Java and Gilis, we were not disappointed. Far from it!
There are always highlights to look forward to on a trip to Bali.
A 3-day excursion in Java to the top of the craters of the active Kawah Ijen and Bromo volcanoes, an experience we're going to tell you about again and which gave us some intense, magical and unforgettable moments (there's no shortage of words!) on our trip to Bali and Java.
When we use local agencies, it's also to make life easier, because we're on holiday after all! The package is all-inclusive and the itinerary includes the minivan or chauffeur-driven car, accommodation if required, food during the experience, and the guide. Pretty cool.
No more transport issues to worry about. The expedition is tried and tested and is carried out in complete safety. You're picked up in the morning at your accommodation (or at a nearby meeting point) and off you go to enjoy your experience, no questions asked. Except that we're curious and we ask our guides a lot of questions! We've always had our answers, right down to the sulphur mine in the crater of the Kawah Ijen volcano!
Going on an excursion is also often an opportunity to meet and talk with other travellers and to learn a lot more about a country's habits and customs. This is what happened during our 3 days with the team from theIndotravelteam and the other French-speaking adventurers.
You can find us on other great excursions in our articles linked to each itinerary. (links to be found at the bottom of the article)
4.4.3. Shanti Travel
The local travel agency in Asia Shanti Travel offers to manage your trip to Indonesia from A to Z. Depending on your tastes and budget, you can come and experience the Island of the Gods, and not just thanks to experts who know the destination inside out. Bali, Java, Flores, Komodo - there's no shortage of paradise islands in the Indonesian archipelago.
5. Telephone, electric socket and Wifi in Bali and Indonesia
There are 2 ways to buy a SIM card
Either when you arrive at the airport, but don't be afraid of the language barrier, or by prepaying in advance on a site we've tested and loved, particularly as the packages on offer are pretty cool when it comes to data!
If you choose to buy your SIM card at the airport
We recommend that you pick up a local SIM card at Denpasar airport as soon as you get off your plane, so that you can communicate locally for the duration of your stay. Depending on the package you choose, you'll be able to surf the Internet, make calls to local people or make international calls.
Alternatively, you should know that Wi-Fi is now available at no extra charge in most villas, hotels and guesthouses that have internet access, of course. But at peak times, it can sometimes become complicated. As for large files, forget it. Off the beaten track, that's another story. But the government seems to be banking on fibre for all in the next few years. Stay tuned.
At the end of June 2017, a 12 Gb SIM card with 80 international phone minutes included cost us Rps 450,000 or around €28 (Telkomsel). In 2019, a whole range of packages are on offer for datas. For example, we paid Rps 200,000 for 20 GB valid for 30 days. You can also buy a SIM card on the island, which is often cheaper. Remember to have your phone de-locked before you leave so that the replacement SIM card is valid. More information is available on your telephone operator's website.
We recommend that you take a nomad charger like the one you'll find by clicking on the link. You can't do without it. It's really practical, so you don't run out of mobile phone power in the middle of a day's sightseeing.
If you choose to buy your SIM card in advance on the internet
We tested Explod's international SIM cards, which offer very good value for money. There are 2 options.
The first SIM card allows you to make calls, send SMS and MMS messages with moderate internet access. (packages between €35 and €95)
The second SIM card is exclusively reserved for data and is based either on a 12 GB SIM card valid for 1 year and single use (€65) or on a renewable DATAS package with 500 MB/day at €55 for 15 days. Heavy users of internet data abroad like us will be delighted.
Sockets are easy to find, as they are in France, but it's always better to have a universal adapter with you just in case. It's cheap, it doesn't take up much space and it's always handy, even when you're on layover in an airport. You should also always take a multiple socket with you to plug in all your chargers and electronic devices.
Last but not least, don't forget to pack a torch. It's always very useful, especially as street lighting is not a strong point in a country like Indonesia. The headlamp (this can be recharged via USB, which is very practical) is also a good option, especially for night-time excursions to volcanoes. The torch built into the mobile phone also helps out a lot.
6. What about vaccinations, first-aid kit and travel insurance?
6.1. Pharmacies, vaccines, mosquito repellent and first-aid kits
Although it's easy to find pharmacies in Bali and Indonesia in general, you absolutely must pack a complete first-aid kit when travelling in Bali and Indonesia in general.
See our blog post on the ideal first-aid kit to take when travelling. You're sure to find the best advice on not forgetting anything about your health when travelling to Bali and Indonesia in general.
In any case, it's essential that you visit the Pasteur website to find out about any vaccinations and diseases present in Indonesia.
Mosquitoes are a priority every time we arrive in Bali. As soon as we got off the plane, local SIM cards in hand, we rushed to the minimarket in the lobby to buy our first tropical mosquito sprays. Our favourite brand: Soffel (orange or geranium). We haven't had a single bite in 3 weeks, spraying mainly at the beginning and end of the day, but also whenever we're out hiking in the countryside. (10,000 to 15,000 rupees per spray).
Don't forget the spray at sunset by the sea. It's also the mosquitoes' favourite time of day!
Our final tip: Don't buy anything in France for mosquito repellent. After an initial emergency purchase at the airport, stock up the next day in a supermarket for the rest of your trip to Bali, Java and Gilis. It's cheaper than cheaper. Otherwise, you'll find it on many stages in small local shops. If you prefer creams, they also exist under the same brand and with the same essences.
Finally, always remember to pack your beauty products and medicines in ZIP pouches. It's always very practical and limits the number of disasters that can happen if your bag is opened. Passports and other important papers are no friend of humidity or salt. Protecting them in ZIP pouches has become a habit in our country.
Several private hospitals in Denpasar Bali are recommended for first aid. These include Prima Medika, Surya Husada, Kasih Ibu, Bali Royal Hospital, Siloam Hospital and the Wing International ward at Sanglah General Hospital. The SOS and BIMC clinics near the Simpang Siur roundabout in Kuta Bali may also be useful.
For medical problems more serious than broken bones or first aid emergencies, opt for repatriation. Before you go to hospital or are repatriated, contact your insurance company to arrange cover and possible reimbursement.
Which brings us to a quick look at travel insurance.
6.2. What travel insurance should I take in Bali and Indonesia?
We strongly advise you to read our article on travel insurance, even for stays of less than 90 days, and especially if you plan to hire a scooter in Bali without a motorbike licence!
You'll realise that you may not be as well insured as you think during your travels. Credit card insurance covers you, as does your civil liability insurance. But have you ever studied and compared the ceilings and, ultimately, all the benefits offered by travel insurance such as those offered by Chapka Assurance? In any case, it costs nothing to ask for a quote online ^^.
If you're planning to hire a scooter in Bali without having a motorbike licence in France, your usual insurance won't cover you in the event of an accident. Fortunately, we've found the solution ^^
We've come up with 2 travel insurance options that might interest you.
CAP ASSISTANCE 24H/24 from €22
CAP ADVENTURE from €36/month
Like you probably still do, we used to think of insurance as a two-way street. But when we got down to it, we realised that we weren't necessarily that well covered. Chapka Assurances is an expert in online travel insurance. They insure thousands of travellers all over the world all year round, including us since early 2018. We highly recommend them. What's more, refunds are reputed to be quick.
7. What about insecurity and volcanoes when travelling to Bali and Indonesia?
As far as physical assaults and theft are concerned, there are no particular worries as long as you always take care of yourself and your belongings, as you would when travelling anywhere. No more and no less than elsewhere. A solo traveller will avoid following a local for no reason and without warning in the middle of the Indonesian pampas, far from everything, as happened this summer 2017 in Lombok. All ended well for her, we assure you.
Indonesia, a land of beautiful encounters.
In Indonesia, the danger can come from animals. Be careful with all the animals on the Indonesian islands, especially monkeys and dogs (rabies).
As everywhere in South-East Asia, volcanic and seismic activity must be taken into account. Indonesia is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, where the earth trembles regularly. And with its hundreds of volcanoes, the Indonesian archipelago is often in the headlines, particularly between the eruptions of the Agung Bali volcano and the earthquakes that are common on the Island of the Gods and more widely in Indonesia.
As with any trip abroad, we recommend that you take a look at the France Diplomatie website and toregister with Ariane. That way you'll be alerted if anything goes wrong during your holiday, and above all your family can be warned by the French embassy in the event of a major disaster.
We also advise you to follow this official Indonesian Twitter account official Indonesian account.
8. Religions practised in Indonesia
More than 87% of Indonesians are Muslim. The richness of the country lies in the "living together" between communities. Founded on animism, i.e. ancestral beliefs linked to Nature, there are many different religions and cultures on the different islands of the Indonesian archipelago. From Flores to Java, from Sulawesi to Bali, this is what our various trips to Indonesia have taught us. And that's what makes this dream destination so unique and exciting for us.
Travelling is also about learning about ourselves and others.
8.1. Beliefs in Bali
Bali is an island apart, as the Island of the Gods is predominantly Hindu. That's why the island is full of public and family temples. It's all part of the island's Zen atmosphere and charm. In Bali, Hindus give thanks to the gods, not to a single god. The cycle of nature is at the heart of their religion.
Muslims tend to live in the west of the island. Mosques are more numerous along the roads to the north and south, heading west (nicknamed the " highway of death " because of the large number of lorries travelling back and forth between Java and Bali, leading to tragic traffic accidents).
8.2. Beliefs in Java, Lombok and the Gilis
Java, Lombok and the Gilis are Muslim islands. You can never miss the muezzin's call to prayer.
A word of advice: always find out where the minaret is before choosing your accommodation if you want to sleep in peace and quiet. If you want to get some shut-eye, don't sleep in the areas close to the piers, like Gili Trawangan for example.
8.3. Religions in Flores and Sulawesi
The long island of Flores is Catholic on one side and Muslim on the other. In the middle of the island, the church and the mosque are built next to each other. A fine example of how all religions can "live together" while respecting the beliefs of each individual.
The island of Sulawesi is Muslim, but between the culture of the sea nomads, the Bajau, and that of the Toraja country, the reality is often more complex than you might think. And that's what makes travelling to Indonesia so interesting.
It all adds up to a kind of fulfilment and inner beauty that is so unique to each of the islands. It's what amazes us on every trip to South-East Asia, and has done ever since we first travelled to Bali. It's also what we felt on our first trip to Indonesia in 2011. Mireille, Richard's mum, who discovered Indonesia for the first time in June and July 2017, is still in awe as we write this Indonesia travel guide.
9. What budget to travel to Bali and Indonesia?
Here's how much a trip to Bali costs on average for 2 people in high season, excluding airfares.
Low budget: €40/day or €280/week. This means nights in cheap dormitories and guesthouses, local transport by slow boats and local buses only, meals in local markets, free activities and visits.
Average budget: €75/day or €525/week. Accommodation in standard hotels, transport by scooter, bus and taxi, low-budget restaurants, limited paid activities and visits.
High budget: From €150/day or €1050/week. In top-of-the-range hotels and luxury villas, private transport, meals in restaurants and aperitifs by the pool, paid activities and visits on a daily basis. But the price can quickly go up when you're looking for the exceptional, like at theHoshinoya Bali (booking link to compare) where we were lucky enough to stay.
Blog article: Where to stay in Bali? All our tried and tested addresses on the Island of the Gods (and those of our readers) listed in 1 single article!
In the rest of Indonesia, you can considerably reduce your accommodation budget, particularly in Flores and Sulawesi, where the basic accommodation is less comfortable. The same applies to food. More detailed information can be found in our itinerary articles.
We prefer to withdraw cash with our Visa cards, even if it means paying commission (check with your bank for details of charges), rather than bothering to change money before leaving and on the spot. We always found a way to withdraw cash on the spot from ATMs just about everywhere. Even in Gili Meno and Labuan Bajo! The most popular banks are BNI, BCA and Mandiri. Don't be surprised if you often have to agree to pay commission on each withdrawal with BNI and BCA banks. If you withdraw from Mandiri banks, there will be no local commission. That's great!
But be careful! Bank card scams are widespread, especially since 2018 in Bali and particularly in the south of the island. Choose ATMs that are guarded by a security guard and not inside shops.
We advise you toalways have a few million rupiahs inadvance with you. You never know, especially if you're travelling to more remote areas. Withdrawals are limited to 1,250,000 Rps (in 50,000 Rps notes) or 2,500,000 Rps (in 100,000 Rps notes) depending on the ATM.
Conversion (as at 05 July 2020): EUR 1 = IDR 16,342
10. Food in Bali and Indonesia? What about alcohol?
Thefood in Bali is very good and you can find everything, even cheese, croissants, wine and strong spirits. From local food in the warungs and popular markets to vegetarian restaurants and fast-food outlets to the biggest restaurants offering menus prepared by top international chefs, there is something for every taste and budget when you decide to travel to Bali.
On the other islands of the archipelago, it's a different story. Food is often limited to noodles, rice, chicken, toffu and fish. The recipes are more or less the same everywhere. Mie goreng, nasi goreng and chicken kebabs are the most popular dishes. It's always fresh and very tasty. We fell in love with it.
The choice of desserts, on the other hand, is often limited or non-existent, especially when you leave the beaten track. Indonesians usually only eat one dish at each meal. And so do we!
Finally, breakfast can be continental or local, depending on what you want and where you're staying.
Fruit, local coffee (or tea) and toast with butter and jam are the staples of all continental breakfasts in Indonesia. If you prefer to eat locally, eggs, noodles and rice are also a staple at breakfast.
One last point on the subject of drinks: as soon as you leave Bali and the Gilis, everyone switches to local beer, water and fruit juices. Strong alcohol is very rare, with the exception of Arak and other derivatives. Be careful with local drinks and your health. Always drinkbottled water.
11. Where to sleep at the beginning and end of your trip in Bali and Indonesia?
This question is a roundabout way of telling you about Bali's much-maligned South Bay, and therefore about Kuta, Legian, Seminyak and Canggu.
Full article: Where to stay in Bali? Hundreds of addresses tested by us and our readers.
Whenever we go on a trip to Indonesia, we always start and end with a few nights in Seminyak or Canggu Bali, in a guesthouse or renting a villa. We'll tell you more about that below. Staying in Bali's southern bay is above all a way of making a smooth transition on arrival and before leaving, just 30 minutes maximum from Denpasar international airport. You'll see that there's also a wide choice of options to suit all budgets, and contrary to popular belief, a magnificent villa isn't that expensive, especially when you're with friends or family.
Another great thing about staying in Bali's South Bay is that you can visit the famous Tanah Lot temple or spend the day with the surfers at Uluwatu beach, unless you'd rather tease the monkeys in the nearby park. Bali's southern bay is also the starting point for many excursions and expeditions to the more or less authentic areas of the Island of the Gods, as well as Lombok, the Gili Islands and Java and its volcanoes.
The southern bay of Bali is also home to endless shops, fine sandy beaches, sumptuous sunsets, delicious cocktails and restaurants for everyone, and beers such as Bintang, the favourite drink of travellers. It can be found all over Indonesia.
11.1. The seaside resorts of Kuta Bali and Legian
Bali's most popular tourist area is the south of the island, particularly Kuta Bay.
Party-goers and surfers who come to Bali usually limit themselves to this seaside town, which was the first tourist area to develop from the 1960s onwards.
Like Kabul and Kathmandu at the time, Kuta Bali attracted many hippies (the '3Ks'). Add to this the waves, which are ideal for surfing, and its dream beach for sunbathing, which stretches for miles, and there's no need to look any further for the recipe for Kuta's success. In fact, over the years it has become the number one tourist spot for Australians in Indonesia. Today, tourists from all over the world flock here.
The south coast of Bali, love it or hate it.
Backpackers and budget travellers usually start their trip in this bustling seaside resort, which has the advantage of being just 15 minutes from Denpasar international airport, the gateway to Bali by air.
We visit Kuta Bali at the beginning or end of every trip to Indonesia to do a bit of shopping while wandering through the narrow streets lined with stalls of wares that sometimes seem endless. However, we really shun this beach.
The tourist development of Kuta and the bay has continued to accelerate, reaching saturation point a few years ago. In fact, Kuta is where you'll see the most traffic on the island and a beach packed with fine sand, where vendors and tourists are just as numerous.
Fortunately, the bay is huge. As a result, other former fishing villages such as Legian and Seminyak, further west, have undergone unprecedented development in recent years, welcoming a slightly more affluent section of mass tourism. Over the last 2 years, tourism has begun to spread to the town of Canggu, but fortunately this is only the beginning. Each seaside resort attracts and welcomes its own type of traveller, with a host oflocal agencies that have been able to adapt their tours to the demands of the ever-increasing numbers of tourists every year.
11.2. Staying in Bali: The seaside resort of Seminyak
Continuing west along the seaside road from Kuta and Legian, you come to Seminyak. 10-15 years ago, Seminyak was just a small hamlet with a few dwellings for peasants in the middle of rice fields. Today, it is one of the tourist areas with the most villas and mid-range and top-of-the-range hotels.
We love staying in Seminyak at the beginning or end of a trip to Bali because it's easy to find magnificent villas with swimming pools at very attractive prices, often in quiet, little alleyway locations, with easy access to the bustle of the seaside resort on foot, by taxi, by Uber (Uber promotional code: pzfp6q), or even by scooter. Restaurants, shops, the beach and its bars are never far away. Neither are nature and rice paddies!
We've already tested quite a few villas in Seminyak. We've chosen 2. Villa Chamade with its 3 bedrooms (6 people maximum) and Villa Zenitude with its 2 bedrooms (4 people maximum) are ideal if you're looking for a quiet, intimate place to sleep in Seminyak. Each has its own swimming pool with tropical plants surrounding it, a large outdoor lounge, and beautiful rooms decorated in Balinese style. There are even housekeepers on hand to provide breakfast, maintenance, security and housekeeping.
11.3 Canggu or paradise, with rice paddies to boot
If you drive on from Seminyak for another ten minutes or so, you'll reach Canggu, with its unspoilt rice fields and beach.
Canggu has become our HQ whenever we travel to Bali.
Here, there are still rice fields and beautiful natural beaches, ideal for watching the sunset, sunbathing and surfing. Canggu is on a human scale. It's far from the traffic of the rest of the bay. So it's easier to get lost in authentic Bali from Canggu.
Year after year, there are more and more new villas to rent in Canggu and guesthouses with swimming pools like the Papaya Guesthouse (and booking link to compare) open every year.
During the summer of 2019, we had the pleasure of testing the Putih Satu villa (and on booking to compare), a sublime villa that is ideal with friends or family.
Villa Shakti in Canggu, our good plan for 2020!
In the spring of 2020, we were lucky enough to spend 3 nights in a beautiful 3-bedroom Balinese villa that sleeps up to 6 people. It has a swimming pool, an outdoor space planted with trees and beautifully decorated bedrooms and outdoor lounge area.
We loved this peaceful stay, knowing that the villa is located in the rice fields just off Batu Bolong street, which is known as THE street not to be missed in Canggu, with all its shops and restaurants. This little corner of paradise is owned by a friend, Manuela, and we can assure you that she takes really good care of her little Balinese nest. Villa Shakti is adjacent to another villa with the same facilities. So if you're more than 6 people, no problem, you can rent the 2 villas, which can be connected! Pretty cool.
Finally, as far as services are concerned, Chichi, a Javanese lady with a big heart and always a smile on her face, can serve you an excellent breakfast at your request. There are several options to choose from. Massages, scooter hire, baby sitting and laundry services are also available for a small fee.
To contact Manuela and find out more about the rates for Villa Shakti and the other villas she manages, call her on Whatsapp: +6281238806021. Don't hesitate to tell her that you're contacting her on our behalf! (Franck and Richard from the travel blog OneDayOneTravel) Don't forget to follow their Instagram account Shakti & Tawa VILLAS BALI to receive regular updates.
Yoya retreat in Kerobokan near Canggu (also tested in 2020)
Still in the vicinity of Canggu, in Kerobokan to be precise, we also stayed for 3 nights at the Seed Gardens Bali (link to their Instagram account), a resort dedicated to the practice of yoga. There are several types of accommodation on offer, from flats overlooking rice paddies to pretty villas with swimming pools. There's a wide range on offer, so solo travellers in search of meditation, duos or groups can all come and stay at the Seed Gardens Bali (link to Airbnb).
We enjoyed a huge, sleek contemporary villa with an infinity pool big enough for a few lengths, and even a tropical garden where the birds come to sing. Everything is top-notch except for the breakfasts, which the establishment does not yet offer. So you'll have to plan ahead, but that doesn't stop you having that strange feeling of being in a Hollywood villa in the middle of Bali.
Rates in 2020 for this villa (there are plenty of rental options at different prices): $89/night for a double room or $210/night for the whole villa with its 2 bedrooms.
Be sure to read our article on where to stay in Bali, which includes all the accommodation we've tried out as well as that suggested by our readers. (published July 2020)
In the same spirit, we recommend you read this article where you'll find other ideas forexceptional accommodation and places to go out in Bali.
It's great to be able to try out so many great places to eat in Canggu! Read our article on this subject. We'll even tell you where to go for croissants and espressos, which aren't so common in Indonesia.
And what's after Canggu? Basically, as far as the famous Tanah Lot temple, there are rice fields and authentic Balinese villages where the tourists are absent or can be counted on the fingers of one hand. We just wonder how many years this area will remain untouched by mass tourism? In the meantime, we encourage you to get lost in the region.
After all these valuable practical tips for a successful trip to Indonesia, let's move on to our itineraries, all tested and approved!
12. Our 4 itineraries for travelling in Bali and Indonesia
4 trips to Indonesia, 4 itinerary ideas.
12.1 Itinerary for travelling to Bali, Lombok and Gilis
Link to our itinerary for a 1-month trip to Bali, Lombok and Gilis in 8 stages
Ideal length of stay: 3 weeks minimum (in 2 weeks, without Lombok)
It was during the summer of 2011 that we were lucky enough to visit Bali for the first time. 5 weeks to explore the Island of the Gods in 8 unforgettable stages.
From Seminyak in the south and its surfers' beach to the rice paddies and temples of Ubud, from the authentic mountain villages of Munduk and Sidemen to Amed and Sidemen, from Nusa Lembongan to the 3 well-known islands of the Gilis (Trawangan, Meno and Air), not forgetting the dream beaches of southern Lombok, this road trip, which we did on a scooter, lived up to all its promises. Ideal for backpackers, but not only.
12.2 Travel itinerary for Flores and Bali, Lombok, Gili Trawangan
Link to our 1-month itinerary for Flores in 8 stages
Ideal duration of the complete tour: 4 weeks minimum
Ideal duration for visiting Flores alone: 10-15 days
We fell in love with Indonesia and went back in the summer of 2013. In order to learn more about this country so rich in ancestral landscapes and cultures, we decided, after a few days in Bali, to spend 15 days on the island of Flores from Maumere to Labuan Bajo. What a discovery! We won't soon forget the Kelimutu volcano and its 3 lakes of different colours, as well as the many encounters with the locals in the authentic villages of Maumere, Labuan Bajo, Moni, Ruteng, Riung and Bajawa.
Flores, an authentic island with many facets.
We then continued our trip to Indonesia with a cruise to Komodo, Rinça and finally Lombok. Finally, we spent a few days in Gili Trawangan and then Seminyak in Bali.
12.3 Itinerary for a trip to Sulawesi and Bali
itinerary for a 1-month trip to Sulawesi in 8 stages
Ideal length of visit to Sulawesi: 1 month
In 15 days, it's best to limit yourself to :
either the north (Makassar, Bunaken, Tomohon, Tumbak and the sea nomads) and the Togian islands, limiting yourself to 1 or 2 islets.
or to the south (Manado, Sengkang and Lake Tempe, Tentena, Rantepao for the Toraja culture) and 1 or 2 Togian islets.
Sulawesi is authentic Indonesia. Reserved more for backpackers and budding adventurers, this heavenly destination is not subject to mass tourism. The tourist infrastructure is underdeveloped. An island to avoid if you're not used to travelling independently. You should know that there are a few agencies offering tours, especially in the southern part of the island, such as Toraja country and Lake Tempe. Finally, it is not recommended to travel to Sulawesi with young children.
Sulawesi is an island that requires time and a minimum of preparation and organisation, as the journey times between each stage are very long. The roads are not always in good condition and the transport network is limited. We're talking here about shared cars, which you have to find locally to get around, and ferries to the Togian islands, which don't run every day. This is something to bear in mind, especially if you're in a hurry.
After Flores 2 years ago, we were delighted with this trip to an unknown land. Our 3rd trip to Indonesia took place in the summer of 2015. We headed for Sulawesi, an island shaped like an orchid. Located to the north of Bali and to the south of the Philippines, Sulawesi is the link between two countries with thousands of dream islands.
Travelling to Sulawesi means experiencing and sharing an unforgettable adventure at the end of the world.
Sulawesi's breathtaking scenery, dreamy islets with white sandy beaches, jungles, volcanoes, unusual experiences, encounters with locals and sea nomads (the Bajau), ancestral beliefs and traditions, Sulawesi's cultural wealth is mind-boggling and from another time.
To travel to Sulawesi is to travel back in time.
Our 1-month, 8-stop itinerary in Sulawesi took us from Manado in the north to Makassar in the south, via the Togian islands and Toraja country. It was also an opportunity to enjoy some unusual experiences, such as sleeping in a house on stilts isolated in the middle of a lagoon in Tumbak, or even sleeping in a floating house in the middle of Lake Tempe at Sengkang.
Sulawesi, a trip off the beaten track that we're sure we won't soon forget.
Exploring Sulawesi made us want to travel to the Philippines. We did just that in February 2017. Our articles are now online. We promise you some great adventures there too. Attention beach lovers!
12.4 Itinerary for travelling to Bali, Java, Gilis Meno and Asahan
Link to our 3-week itinerary to Bali, Java and Gilis in 5 stages
Ideal duration for this itinerary: 2 to 3 weeks
It was during the summer of 2017 that we returned to Indonesia for the 4th time. This time we travelled as a party of 3 with Mireille, Richard's mum, who discovered our favourite playground at the end of the world for the first time: Indonesia.
It was a dream trip that she won't soon forget. Neither will we!
In this travel guide to Bali, Java and Gilis, we've combined a 3-week, 5-stage itinerary between independent days out and excursions with agencies and driver guides.
We visited and stayed in Canggu Bali, Ubud Bali, explored the active volcanoes Bromo and Kawah Ijen with the agency Indotravelteamplayed Robinsons Crusoe on GiliAsahan, or the secret island lost in a sea of tranquillity, and finally took a breather on Gili Meno in dream villas such as villas Ottalia (booking link for comparison) and Avia ( booking link for comparison), one last little bubble of paradise before returning to Canggu to finish off this trip to Indonesia.
Between pool villas, seaside resorts and hotels secretly tucked away in the lush jungle, we've got something to surprise you with our brand new accommodation addresses. In terms of culture and nature, we've discovered Bali's most beautiful waterfall and the authentic Bali we love. If you want to treat yourself, you're sure to find what you're looking for in our articles!
