Bali Travel Guide: Essential Overview for First-Time Visitors

February 12-21, 2025. Embark on a ten-day independent adventure in Bali! I’ve crafted this overview to help first-time visitors quickly grasp the essentials for planning an unforgettable itinerary.

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Introduction to various regions:
Bali is a treasure trove of diverse landscapes and experiences, primarily divided into several distinct areas. To the north lies the tranquil Lovina area, known for its black sand beaches and thrilling dolphin watching tours. The central Ubud area, nestled in the mountains, offers a serene escape with no sea view but is rich in cultural and natural attractions.

It’s a haven for digital nomads, featuring terraced fields, waterfalls, and temples. Activities here include yoga, ATV off-roading, rafting, and waterfall hiking.

The southern and southwestern coasts, including Uluwatu, Seminyak, Canggu, and Kuta, are part of Denpasar and offer a mix of bustling city life and beach relaxation. These areas are perfect for surfing and other water sports. Seminyak, in particular, is a vibrant hub with a lively nightlife. Just south of the airport, Uluwatu is a luxurious resort area with high-end resorts, the iconic Pura Luhur Uluwatu (Uluwatu Temple), and breathtaking cliff roads.

Adventure seekers can enjoy skydiving, surfing, and kayaking.

Off the mainland, Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan are idyllic islands accessible by boat, ideal for snorkeling. Nusa Penida boasts stunning sites like Angel’s Billabong and Diamond Beach, which has been featured in Apple wallpapers. However, the road conditions on these islands can be challenging, making day trips quite tiring.

Software preparation:
To stay connected and navigate Bali seamlessly, download and register essential apps like WhatsApp (a local communication app similar to WeChat), Grab (for rides and food orders), and Gojek (another ride-hailing option, sometimes cheaper than Grab). You can set up these apps domestically using a VPN and your domestic phone number, or register them locally after purchasing a SIM card or connecting to local Wi-Fi.

Both mobile and telecom numbers are accepted, but Unicom numbers won’t work. Consider buying a local phone number at a service center or a data-only SIM card online, which usually doesn’t come with a phone number.

For those who only need data and prefer not to change their SIM card, China Mobile offers a convenient Roaming Pass. Simply search for roaming in the China Mobile app, where you can find an Indonesia package priced similarly to online-purchased data SIM cards.

Transportation:
Navigating Bali’s roads can be an adventure in itself. The local traffic is dominated by motorcycles, with only one lane per direction, and motorcyclists often weave through the gaps between vehicles. Generally, car drivers follow traffic rules and give way to motorcycles. The Denpasar area frequently experiences traffic jams, and motorcycles tend to be faster.

For long-distance travel, such as from the Denpasar area to the northern Lovina or southern Uluwatu, it’s recommended to take a car for comfort. The roads can be congested, and sidewalks are generally poor, making long city walks less enjoyable. Public transportation is virtually non-existent, so having a reliable ride-hailing app is a must.

For solo adventurers, renting a motorcycle (typically ranging from 70-100k per day) or hailing a GrabBike via the Grab app is both convenient and cost-effective. These motorcycles can comfortably seat up to two people. For larger groups or families, hiring a car or taking a taxi is the way to go. You can find car rental options through a variety of channels, including popular platforms like Ctrip, Fliggy, and other domestic apps, as well as international sites such as Klook and Xiaohongshu.

Additionally, local travel agencies, your Grab driver, or even the host of your accommodation can often provide recommendations and assistance. It’s always wise to compare prices from different sources and don’t forget to negotiate. The average cost for a full-day car rental usually falls between 200-300k.

Note: Grab services are not available in the Lovina area, so it’s essential to arrange a driver in advance for the return trip from Lovina to Denpasar.