Bali Travel Guide: Things that will Surprise First-time Visitors

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Bali is known for its tropical beauty and exotic culture. It is one of the most popular island destinations in Indonesia and there are various reasons why. To simplify, it’s amazing! From its pristine beaches, great hiking trail, friendly locals, world-class cuisines and rich culture, Bali is the total package. If this is your first-time visiting Bali, one important reminder is to make sure you catch your flight on time. Flightradar Online gives you the opportunity to monitor commercial flights in real-time. You can also view important information such as flight cancellations or delays, what terminal and gate have it departed from, what terminal and gate will it arrive.

Are ready to discover the myriad charms of this island paradise? This guide will show you how to make the most out of your visit to the magical paradise of Bali.

You’ll sweat like there’s no tomorrow

Bali’s average temperature is 32 degrees, with that, the weather here is hot year-round. Forget about your jeans or heavy jackets. Pack comfortable clothing like those which are made of cotton fabrics and even open-toe shoes. Here, you’ll probably live in your swimmers. The best time for you to visit Bali is from May until July.

Bali’s beaches are spectacular

Stunning beaches in Bali range from palm-fringed white sand coasts that can be found in the southern part, around Jimbaran, Kuta, and the Bukit Peninsula to the cliff guarded shores like in Uluwatu, Padang Padang, and Bingin. These beaches offer exceptional views and solitude, definitely a good spot for snorkeling and offer a sense of adventure. And nonetheless, these are the best place to chill. These beaches are known for its glistening clear blue waters paired with white sand which is an ideal backdrop for a remarkable getaway.

Culture is everywhere

Bali’s culture is indeed rich, with its rituals and festivals to the presence of thousands of temple, everywhere you look, and you will see a glimpse of Bali’s culture. Here, be sure to witness the ceremony and sacred offerings. Balinese has this religious obligation that is being carried out with pride and they see to it that from the youngest child to the grandparents, they all dress appropriately for the temple. Some of the most popular temples are the following:

  •    Tanah Lot Temple

It the most photographed and visited attractions in Bali that can also be seen in postcards. This site is the best spot to witness the sunset.

  •    Uluwatu Temple

This temple is situated at the top of a steep cliff. It is believed to be one of the six key temples of the island’s spiritual pillars.

  •    Besakih Temple

It is located at Mount Agung’s south-western slopes and is popularly known as the mother temple. It is considered as the holiest and even the largest temple that can be found on the island.

  •    Goa Gajah

Goa Gajah means Elephant Cave when translated into English. Like any other temples, this site was built for prayers and meditation. Apart from that, you will see here numerous old stone carvings, rice fields, small streams and a pool with five statues of Hindu angles.

Don’t forget to pack a sarong

Since there are numerous must-visit temples in Bali, you are required to wear a sarong and a sash upon entry. If you forgot, don’t worry, you can also rent one or buy one. For men and women, it needs to cover their legs below the knee with the use of sarong while the sash is being worn around the waist.

Shop all you want

As you visited the markets, haggling is expected. It will be a fun experience for first-time visitors. Some of the best places to go shopping are in Seminyak, Legian, Canggu, and Ubud. You can find here numerous locally made goods that are hand-crafted like hats, baskets, woven bags, statues, silk scarves, shirts and more. Visitor of these markets will surely admire the artistry of the Balinese. Amazing and high-end boutiques can also be found in the area.

Don’t forget to wear a helmet

Tourists in Bali can hire motorbikes that enable them to drive and explore around Bali at their own pace. Just be sure to wear protective gears for your own safety and to further enjoy your vacation without any hassle and unwanted experiences.

There are a lot of Ketuts

In Bali, all of the people share the same four names – Wayan, Made, Nyoman or Ketut regardless of their gender and they are named by order of birth. For example, if a family has a fifth child, it will start over again and he will be called Wayan.

Dishes every visitor in Bali needs to taste

Balinese cuisines are indeed tasty. Some of the must-try cuisines are babi guling or suckling pig, nasi goring, an Indonesian fried rice, and sate which is a popular street food dish in Bali. Nasi goring is Bali’s fragrant rice dish inclusive with chicken, shredded omelet, and prawns. It is said to be the ultimate comfort food for spice lovers. On the other hand, the babi guling are being served with sliced meat, pieces of satay and even caramelized crackling plus some obscure parts like the crispy intestines.

There’s truly gob-smacking scenery

Don’t forget to see Bali’s World Heritage Sites like those listed under rice terraces. It is good to witness a farmer herding his flock of ducks, or even see a woman riding a motorbike on her way to the temple. Roam around the area. Don’t be afraid to meet locals and interact with them.

You will be back

Don’t be surprised if you find yourself returning again and again in Bali. There’s something in Bali that is magical and there are more things to discover in this island.

Ready for your ultimate Bali vacation?

 

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About the Author: Donald Phillips