Bali is many things to many people — a spiritual retreat, a surfer's paradise, a digital nomad hub, a honeymooner's dream. The Indonesian island of the gods has an almost magnetic quality that draws travellers back year after year. Rice terraces cascade down hillsides, ancient temples cling to clifftops, and the warm hospitality of the Balinese people makes even the most seasoned traveller feel genuinely welcome.
When to visit
April to October is the dry season and the best time to visit. July and August are the busiest months. November to March brings the wet season — heavy afternoon rain but lush scenery and lower prices. Surfing on the west coast (Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu) is actually better in the wet season.
Top destinations
Canggu — Bali's coolest neighbourhood. Rice paddies sit alongside hipster coffee shops, world-class surf breaks, and some of the island's best restaurants. The digital nomad scene here is enormous.
Ubud — The cultural heart of Bali. The Sacred Monkey Forest, the Tegalalang Rice Terraces, traditional Kecak fire dance performances, and a remarkable food scene make Ubud unmissable. Stay at least three nights.
Seminyak and Kuta — The resort strip along the west coast. Great for sunsets, beach clubs, shopping and nightlife. Ku De Ta and Potato Head are the legendary beach clubs.
Uluwatu — A clifftop temple at the southern tip of the island, with extraordinary ocean views and some of Bali's best surf breaks. The Kecak fire dance performance at sunset here is one of the most spectacular shows in Asia.
Nusa Penida — A rawer, wilder island a short boat ride from Bali's east coast. Kelingking Beach — a T-Rex shaped cliff with turquoise water below — is one of the most photographed spots in Indonesia.
Mount Batur — Hike to the summit at 4am to watch the sunrise over the volcano and Lake Batur. A genuinely extraordinary experience that requires almost no technical skill.
Getting around
Hiring a scooter is the most common and liberating way to explore Bali — though exercise caution and always wear a helmet. Grab operates in most tourist areas and is reliable. Private drivers hired for a full day (around $40–60) are excellent value for covering multiple attractions.
Food you must try
- Nasi goreng — Indonesia's famous fried rice, topped with a fried egg.
- Babi guling — Balinese suckling pig, slow-roasted over coconut husks. Ibu Oka in Ubud is the most famous spot.
- Satay lilit — Minced fish or chicken wrapped around lemongrass skewers and grilled over coconut charcoal.
- Lawar — A traditional Balinese dish of minced meat, vegetables, grated coconut and spices.
- Jamu — A traditional herbal health drink made from turmeric, ginger and tamarind. Drink it for breakfast.
Practical tips
- Respect local customs — dress modestly when visiting temples (a sarong is usually provided at the entrance).
- Bargain respectfully in markets.
- Water: Drink only bottled or filtered water.
- The Bali belly is real — be careful with street food in the first few days.
- Indonesia e-Visa is available online for most nationalities before arrival.
Staying connected in Bali
4G coverage is good throughout Canggu, Ubud, Seminyak and the main tourist areas. Get an InstantESIMs Indonesia eSIM before you fly — delivered instantly to your email.
