THE COUNTRY
Breathtaking hikes, a massive surfing culture, majestic temples, lavish parties, lush surroundings, mesmerizing waterfalls and more! Is there anything Indonesia doesn't have? (well.. snow).
Comprised of over 17,000 islands, this country prides itself on its natural beauty. No matter what activity you're into, be ready to come and play in this country. A country filled with many adventures waiting for you to make it happen.
Aside from surfing, in Bali, the digital nomad life is massive. Many foreigners base themselves on the island of Bali and operate their business from here. With good wifi, plenty of beautiful modern places, rich landscape, surrounded by beautiful beaches, these are just some of the reasons digital entrepreneurs have called Bali home.
VISA/ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Before entering Indonesia, be sure that your passport is valid for the next 6 months from the date of entry. A 30 day tourist visa on arrival is available at no cost. There is an overstay penalty fine of $20 per day and a maximum of 60 days. If you do end up staying for more than 60 days, the fine is $1,900 USD or 5 years in prison. So make a note, avoid jail time by not overstaying. Before you catch your flight to Indonesia, you need an onward ticket. I've gone to Indonesia twice and both times I didn't get asked for an onward ticket but I have met a lot of people who tried to pull what I did and was forced to buy a ticket on the spot. It is good practice to have one prepared just in case they do ask. Buying a refundable or a cheap ticket flight out would be my suggestion if you're like me and don't want to have a set date to leave the country.
CURRENCY
Rupiah is the currency in Indonesia. ATM's are available everywhere. Debit/Credit cards are accepted in the majority of the well established places.
You think Laos and Vietnam is bad in terms of currency? Well, be prepared to carry loads of bills as well when you're in Indonesia. As an example, $1 USD is equivalent to about 15,000 IDR. $200 USD is about just over 2,900,000 IDR. Yes, you can be a millionaire in this country.
Take extra caution and make sure you're giving the right amount during a transaction. A 50,000 IDR note can be mistaken for a 5,000 IDR note if you're not paying attention so double check every single time to make sure you're not giving too much.
TRANSPORTATION
Grab - In most of the cities (in Bali), Grab is the CHEAPEST way to get around when you're travelling with multiple people because you get to split the cost. Just download the app (you need an Indian SIM card/number for this) order a type of vehicle and set your destination.
Scooter - The most used means of transportation by tourists in the country. This is definitely my preferred option. Scooters are available for rent everywhere and they are very cheap. Be sure to bargain when renting one.
Bicycle - The cheapest way to get around the city/town. In Gili Trawangan, motor powered automobiles are illegal meaning this is the only way to get around the island. Of course depending on how far your destination is or where you're trying to get to, within cycling distance, then this option makes sense.
Car rental - I would recommend this option if you're traveling with 3-5 people. Splitting the cost of a car may be cheaper than getting shuttles or renting a scooter to get from one place to another. Make sure the driver carries an international license and is used to driving right hand drive vehicles.
Shuttle service/boat service - Hostels and travel agencies typically sells tickets for these. Fairly reliable and sometimes it may be the only option for you to get from one island to the other or from a city to another.
Taxis - I barely used the taxi when I was in the country as they are expensive! That being said, I can't really share much about this other than just be sure to agree on a price before getting in the taxi.
THINGS TO DO
Mount Batur - Standing at 1,717 m high, you need to wake up super early to catch the sunrise on top of Mount Batur. As touristy as this hike may be, it's still worth doing. Once you get to the top to soak in the views, you will know what I'm talking about.
Gili Trawangan - Gili Trawangan is a party island compared to its neighbouring islands Gili Meno, and Gili Air. This island is cool in a sense that powered automobiles are illegal here so the main transportation on the island is a bicycle! Really cool island to explore on a bike. Snorkelling, freediving, and diving are also one of the main activities here.
Bali Swing - There are many swings in Bali located in a dreamy spot with lush surroundings. Bali Swing is one in particular I would highly recommend you to check out. It's safe, fun, and it also includes a buffet style meal with the entry fee!
Ubud Market Place - For all you shoppers out there, this is the place to be. Also a great spot to get your souvenirs as there are many random things you can find here that you won't be able to find anywhere else.
Monkey Forest - Stop monkeying around and visit this place in Ubud!
Kuta (Lombok) - Here you can relax by the water or catch the waves.
Mount Agung - This is the highest point in Bali at 3,031 m high. A sunrise hike that is less touristy than Mt. Batur.
Tanah Lot Temple - An iconic temple that sits on a unique rock formation right at the shore. Here, you will find a natural spout that provides holy water for all the temples in the area. Highly recommended for sunset.
Tegallalang Rice Terraces - Take a stroll on one of the most picturesque rice fields in Indonesia.
Campuhan Waterfall - One of the very few, natural waterfalls in Bali. I say natural because there are many waterfalls in Bali that has turned into an amusement park. Nothing wrong with that as locals in the area need some source of income.
Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep - This is a hike that leads to 2 waterfalls. Well worth it for all the nature lovers.
Seminyak - Sit down by the water, have a cold one and catch a fiery sunset.
Pura Titra Temple - A Hindu Balinese temple famous for its holy spring water. You may explore and walk around the temple and/or you may also take a dip in the holy water. Many foreigners and locals come here to cleanse their mind, body, and soul by having a dip.
Campuhan Ridge Walk - This is an awesome trail for a good little walk to soak in the green surroundings in the area.
Nusa Penida - This is probably one of the most iconic and recognized islands. It's just a beautiful piece of paradise!
Mount Bromo - One of the most popular sites in Java and there's a good reason why!
Go "Glamping" - If you must, spoil yourself for a night or two and stay at a place with an infinity pool or with your own private pool. "Glamping" is a term that came from glamorous and camping. Combine the two and you get glamping!
Uluwatu Temple - A beautiful temple located on steep cliff on the seaside.
Pura Lempuyang Temple - Also known as Heaven's Gate is one of the most Instagrammed photos in Bali. A temple with a beautiful backdrop of Mount Agung. Make sure you get here before 9 am to avoid the crowd.
Ulun Danu Temple - Probably one of the most important and iconic temples in Indonesia.
Nasi Goreng - A traditional Indonesian fried rice served typically with meat, fried egg, and vegetables.
Mount Ijen - There are 2 volcanic blue flames in the world. One is in Iceland, and the other is located here!
I see myself going back to Indonesia over and over again. There's a lot to be explored in this country and a lot more adventures to be had. Check out my video down below to see one of my vlogs the last time I was in Bali, Indonesia. I would love to hear from you so if you have any questions or feedback, drop me a line in the comment section. Happy adventuring and safe travels everyone!