Travel to Bali: A Complete Guide for Your Next Adventure

Bali is one of the most popular destinations in the world and consistently ranked as one of the best islands in Asia. Known as the Island of the Gods, it attracts millions of visitors each year with its stunning beaches, lush rice terraces, rich culture, and vibrant nightlife.

If you are planning to travel to Bali, this guide will help you prepare, from choosing the right time to visit, to understanding the culture, to exploring must-see attractions across the island.

Getting Around in Bali

When you travel to Bali, transportation is something to plan ahead. Public transport is limited, so most visitors choose one of these options:

• Scooter rental: Affordable and flexible, but suitable only for confident riders.     
  Private car and driver: A convenient option for day trips, allowing you to explore multiple attractions without stress.

• Ride-hailing apps: Services like Grab and Gojek are widely available for short distances.

• Trans Metro Dewata bus: Recently back in operation, this service connects key areas such as Denpasar, Ubud, Sanur, and Ngurah Rai Airport, making it a practical choice for budget-friendly travel.

Traffic can be heavy in popular areas such as Seminyak and Ubud, so plan your journeys accordingly.

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Cultural Highlights of Bali

One of the most rewarding reasons to travel to Bali is to immerse yourself in its rich culture and traditions.

Temples

Bali is home to thousands of temples, many with striking sea or mountain backdrops. The most famous include:

• Tanah Lot Temple: A sea temple perched on a rock formation, especially magical at sunset.

• Uluwatu Temple: Known for dramatic cliffside views and the evening Kecak fire dance.

• Besakih Temple: The largest and most important temple, located on the slopes of Mount Agung.

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Festivals

Balinese festivals are colourful, full of meaning, and closely tied to daily life. Nyepi Day, the Balinese New Year, is unlike anywhere else in the world, with the whole island coming to a complete stop for a day of silence, reflection, and stillness. The night before, villages hold lively ogoh-ogoh parades, featuring giant papier-mâché demons that are carried, danced, and later burned as a symbol of cleansing negative energy.

In some areas, you may also come across traditional performances and rituals, such as the dramatic Calonarang dance, the unique perang pandan in Tenganan, Karangasem, or lukat geni in Paksebali, Klungkung, where people walk through fire as an act of purification.

Galungan and Kuningan are also major celebrations, where families honour their ancestors and villages come alive with beautifully decorated streets lined with tall bamboo poles called penjor. 

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Art and Craft

A trip to Bali is not complete without experiencing its rich artistic traditions. Ubud is the cultural heart, home to galleries, dance performances, and local crafts. In Celuk, silversmiths create intricate jewellery that has been passed down for generations. Mas village is famous for its skilled woodcarvers, producing masks, statues, and furniture that blend spirituality with fine craftsmanship.

Beyond admiring the art, you can also take part in hands-on experiences. Join a cooking class to learn Balinese recipes, visit traditional weaving centres where artisans create beautiful textiles, or try your hand at batik painting. These activities not only give you a deeper appreciation of local culture but also allow you to bring home a piece of Bali’s artistry in a more personal way.

Top Places to Visit in Bali

Ubud: Cultural Heart of Bali

Ubud is the place to experience traditional Balinese culture, surrounded by rice terraces and jungle. Highlights include the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, Tegallalang Rice Terraces, Ubud Palace, and countless art galleries. 

Yoga and wellness retreats also make Ubud a global hub for spiritual seekers. Beyond sightseeing, you can take cooking classes, visit craft villages such as Celuk and Mas, or simply enjoy the serene atmosphere that makes Ubud a must-visit.

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Seminyak and Canggu: Modern Beach Lifestyle

For travellers looking for beach clubs, boutique shopping, and trendy cafés, Seminyak and Canggu are top choices. Canggu in particular has become a hotspot for digital nomads, offering co-working spaces and a laid-back surf culture. Both areas also feature stylish villas and vibrant nightlife, making them ideal if you want to combine relaxation with a lively social scene.

Uluwatu and Jimbaran: Stunning Coastlines

For travellers looking for beach clubs, boutique shopping, and trendy cafés, Seminyak and Canggu are top choices. Canggu in particular has become a hotspot for digital nomads, offering co-working spaces and a laid-back surf culture. Both areas also feature stylish villas and vibrant nightlife, making them ideal if you want to combine relaxation with a lively social scene.

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Nusa Islands: Tropical Escape

A short boat ride from Bali, the Nusa Islands (Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan) are perfect for those seeking turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and incredible snorkelling or diving experiences. 

Nusa Penida is home to iconic viewpoints like Kelingking Beach and Angel’s Billabong, while Nusa Lembongan and Ceningan offer quieter vibes, seaweed farms, and crystal-clear lagoons. These islands are ideal for a day trip or a few nights away from the mainland.

Mount Batur: Adventure and Sunrise Views

Climbing Mount Batur for sunrise is a popular adventure that rewards visitors with sweeping views over Lake Batur and Mount Agung. The trek is moderately challenging, usually starting in the early hours of the morning, and often includes breakfast cooked using volcanic steam at the summit. It is one of the most memorable ways to experience Bali’s natural beauty and a favourite for adventure seekers.

Food and Drink in Bali

Balinese cuisine is flavourful, spicy, and diverse. Must-try dishes include:

• Nasi Goreng: Indonesian fried rice, often served with fried egg and satay.

• Babi Guling: Balinese roast suckling pig, a ceremonial dish often enjoyed during celebrations.

• Satay Lilit: Skewered minced meat mixed with coconut and spices.

• Lawar: A traditional mix of vegetables, grated coconut, and minced meat or fish, seasoned with rich spices.

• Bebek Betutu: Slow-cooked duck stuffed with herbs, wrapped in banana leaves, and roasted until tender.

Beyond traditional dishes, Bali is also home to world-class restaurants and beach clubs, from fine dining in Seminyak to healthy vegan cafés in Ubud. Coffee lovers can explore plantations and sample Bali’s famous kopi luwak, while dessert fans can enjoy treats like pisang goreng (fried banana) served with palm sugar or ice cream.

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Tips for First-Time Travellers to Bali

1. Respect local customs: Always dress modestly when visiting temples and follow rules such as wearing a sarong.

2. Stay hydrated: The tropical climate can be hot and humid, so drink plenty of water.

3. Beware of monkeys: At places like Ubud Monkey Forest, keep your belongings secure.

4. Currency and payment: The local currency is Indonesian Rupiah. ATMs are common, but carrying small notes helps for markets and small shops.

5. Safety: Bali is generally safe, but take standard travel precautions such as avoiding unlicensed transport and being cautious of strong ocean currents.

Plan Your Journey to Bali

Bali continues to inspire travellers with its unique charm and endless possibilities. You can relax on pristine beaches, hike through volcanic landscapes, or dive deep into centuries-old traditions. As you plan your next adventure, remember that to travel to Bali is to experience one of the most extraordinary islands in the world.

For a stay that combines comfort, privacy, and authentic Balinese charm, consider booking with Red Lotus Bali Property. From serene villas in Ubud to elegant retreats near cultural landmarks, our properties provide the perfect base to experience the island at its best. Start exploring today and let the Island of the Gods capture your heart.