Plan
your Bali adventure with our complete travel guide. Discover
essential information on visas, safety, weather, transport, and
culture to help you explore Indonesia’s most enchanting island with
confidence and ease.
Country: Indonesia (Island of Bali)
Continent / Region: Asia / Southeast Asia
Capital City: Denpasar (Bali Province)
Government Type: Republic
Population: Approx. 4.4 million (Bali)
Official Language(s): Indonesian (Bahasa Indonesia), Balinese
Percentage of Population Who Speak English: ~40% (high in tourist areas)
Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
Time Zone (GMT): GMT+8
Driving Side: Left
Electric Plug Type / Voltage: Type C/F – 230V
Adapter Needed: UK travellers require a plug adapter
Emergency Numbers: 110 (Police), 113 (Fire), 118/119 (Ambulance)
Travel Time from the UK (London): 16–19 hours (1–2 stops)
Best Time/Months to Travel: April–October (dry season)
Main International Airports:
- Visa Requirements: Varies by nationality
- Visa Needed for UK Citizens: Visa on Arrival (VOA)
- Visa Duration / Cost: 30 days; approx. IDR 500,000 (~£30)
- Vaccinations Needed: Hepatitis A, Typhoid recommended; check Dengue & Rabies advice
Embassy Information (UK Embassy in Indonesia):
Average Daily Costs: £25 / £50 / £150+
Tipping Culture: Small tips appreciated (5–10%)
Public Transport Options: Taxis, scooters, private drivers, Grab, Gojek
Approx. Cost of Single Fare: 3,000–5,000 IDR per km (Grab/Gojek)
Internet / SIM Availability: Good 4G/5G; Telkomsel, XL Axiata
Main Climate Type: Tropical monsoon
Average Temperature: 26–32°C year-round
Major Cities: Denpasar, Ubud, Kuta, Seminyak, Sanur
Natural Attractions: Volcanoes, rice terraces, waterfalls, coral reefs, beaches
Popular Destinations: Ubud, Seminyak, Canggu, Uluwatu, Nusa Dua, Nusa Penida, Amed
Main Religions: Balinese Hinduism (dominant in Bali)
Cultural Etiquette / Customs:
Cuisine Highlights: Nasi goreng, mie goreng, babi guling, satay, pepes ikan, fresh tropical fruit
Local Festivals:
Famous Landmarks: Tanah Lot, Uluwatu Temple, Tegallalang rice terraces, Mount Batur, Besakih Temple
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe; take care on roads and beaches
Common Scams: Taxi overpricing, money-changing scams, rental motorbike scams
Health Risks: Mosquito-borne illnesses, heat, dehydration
Recommended Clinics: BIMC Hospital, Siloam Hospitals, International SOS
Insurance Recommendation: Essential — medical and scooter coverage recommended
Internet Speed: Strong 4G/5G in towns; weaker in remote areas
Useful Phrases:
Must-See Attractions: Uluwatu Temple, Tanah Lot, Ubud Monkey Forest, Mount Batur sunrise, Nusa Penida viewpoints, Tegallalang rice terraces
Unique Experiences: Balinese cooking classes, yoga retreats, water temples (Tirta Empul), surf lessons, traditional dance shows
Hidden Gems: Sidemen Valley, Munduk waterfalls, Menjangan Island, Sangeh Forest, Amed dive spots
Popular Areas to Stay: Seminyak, Canggu, Ubud, Uluwatu, Sanur, Nusa Dua
Average Hotel Prices: £15 / £40 / £150+
Book A Hotel: You can book your accommodation right here.
Nightlife Areas: Seminyak, Canggu, Kuta, Uluwatu beach clubs
Local Drinks: Arak, Bali Hai beer, fresh juices, cocktails
Entertainment: Beach clubs, fire dance performances, live music, beachfront bars
Car Rental: Available; hiring a driver is common
Scooter Rental: Popular but requires confidence and caution
Domestic Flights: Limited within Bali; common for other Indonesian islands
Taxi / Rideshare Costs: Cheap; Grab and Gojek widely used
Best Markets: Ubud Art Market, Seminyak Village, Kuta Art Market
Popular Souvenirs: Batik, silver jewellery, wooden carvings, essential oils, handicrafts
Local SIM Card Providers: Telkomsel, XL Axiata, Indosat
Typical Business Hours: 10 a.m.–10 p.m. (shops)
Tap Water Safety: Not drinkable; use bottled water
Local Apps to Download:
Did You Know?
Bali has over 20,000 temples, earning it the nickname “The Island of the Gods.”