Ultimate Bali Travel Guide: Discovering the Hidden Gems of Paradise (Part 1)
—Summary of multiple experiences, from preparation to details, all packed for you!
I’ve been to Bali many times, and each experience has been different. It’s a place that blends rich culture, stunning sea views, high-end resort hotels, vibrant nightlife, and unique SPA experiences. However, Bali also has some frustrating drawbacks, such as poor infrastructure, bad water quality, and congested traffic.
This guide includes pre-trip preparations, climate, attraction reviews, hotels, dining, transportation, and SPA information. Due to limited space, the content is divided into three parts.
❗️See P2 for the Bali map guide
📋Preparation:
1️⃣ Passport (valid for more than 6 months): You can get an e-visa in advance, with a smooth 30-second entry
2️⃣ Cash 💵: $200 or equivalent in Indonesian Rupiah. The visa on arrival fee is 500,000 IDR, $35, or 250 CNY; it’s recommended to carry US dollars
3️⃣ VISA card 💳: Very convenient for card payments
4️⃣ Common medications 💊: For colds, fever, diarrhea, mosquito repellent, motion sickness, disinfectant alcohol, etc.
5️⃣ Daily necessities
⭐️Filtered shower head + 2 filters (definitely bring these! The water in Bali is really dirty, and my filter turned yellow in just one day)
⭐️Sunscreen (Indonesia is near the equator, so UV rays are strong all year round)
⭐️SIM card: Don’t believe in “island-wide coverage” cheap cards
⭐️Power adapter
[太阳R]Climate:
Indonesia is hot all year round (make sure to protect yourself from the sun! ❗️)
⭐️Dry season (April-October): Go for it! More sunny days, clear seawater, perfect for beach activities, surfing, and diving
⭐️Rainy season (November-March): Frequent showers, mountain roads turn muddy, but hotels are cheaper
🏝️Attraction introductions and recommendation ratings by area
(Ranked by recommendation, full score is five stars, don’t be fooled by filters!):
1️⃣ Ubud ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Cultural center, rainforest yoga + terraced waterfalls + spiritual healing
🪧Distance from airport: About 3 hours, recommend reserving 2-3 days.
Perfect for those who want to experience the original scenery and peaceful life of Bali
🙋🏻♀️Hidden tips: Get up early to visit the traditional market, bargain for souvenirs (cut the price in half! ❗️)
2️⃣ Uluwatu ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Cliffside sea view, gathering place for luxury hotels. Romantic Lovers’ Cliff, popular cliff road, dreamy beaches, and Uluwatu Temple
🪧Distance from airport: About 2 hours, recommend reserving 2 days.
Ideal for couples to check-in and enjoy the sea view
3️⃣ Nusa Dua ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Quieter, suitable for relaxing at the hotel, enjoying private beaches & SPAs
🪧Distance from airport: About 2 hours. Recommend reserving 2 days, suitable for those who prefer a laid-back vacation
❗️In my opinion, Ubud, Uluwatu, and Nusa Dua are the most worth visiting places in Bali. Due to limited space, the remaining reviews of attractions, hotels, dining, transportation, and SPAs will be covered in the middle and last parts of the Bali travel guide.
