Let me start by saying: Bali is magical. After just a few weeks here, I’m already head over heels in love with the place. I came to work on my latest project for Love Connection, figuring I’d balance out my hours tapping away at my laptop with trips to the beach and maybe some yoga. But Bali has given me so much more than that. Between the exotic food, the laid-back vibes, and the constant warmth—from both the people and the climate—it’s easy to see why so many travelers come here and never want to leave.
Still, there are some things I wish I had known before packing my laptop, my sunscreen, and my sense of adventure. So, here are nine things no one tells you about traveling to Bali (but absolutely should). Trust me: read these tips, and you’ll be one step ahead of the game when you arrive.
1. The “Visa Shuffle” Is Real
You might think you can just land in Bali, soak up the sun, and call it good. But Indonesia’s visa rules can be a bit tricky depending on where you’re from and how long you plan to stay. Many nationalities can get a 30-day Visa on Arrival (commonly called VOA) right at the airport. It can be extended for another 30 days if you do some paperwork and pay the necessary fees. If you’re planning to stay longer—like many of us digital nomads who end up never wanting to leave—you might want to explore the social visa or a business visa.
Why does this matter? Because you don’t want to spend hours standing in line or risking an overstay fine (which can cost a lot per day!). Look into visa options before you get here, or get help from a reputable visa agent in Bali to make sure all your documents are in order. Believe me, I’ve seen more than a few travelers scramble because they didn’t do their homework.
2. The Weather Can Be a Mood Swing
Bali is known for its warm climate all year round, so you might be thinking, “Great, I’ll just pack my swimsuits and a few T-shirts.” That’s mostly true, but keep in mind there’s a dry season (roughly May to September) and a rainy season (roughly October to April). In the dry season, you’ll get lots of sun, but it can also get hot—like, “drink-all-the-coconut-water-you-can-find” hot. In the rainy season, expect sudden downpours that can be intense but often short-lived.
Don’t get me wrong, a Bali downpour is an experience of its own—there’s something romantic about the sound of raindrops on those lush tropical leaves. But make sure you have a light rain jacket or an umbrella if you’re going out in the rainy season. And if you’re riding a scooter (which you probably will be), bring a rain poncho. Trust me, you’ll thank me later when a surprise storm hits.
3. Scooters Are the Main Way to Get Around—But Be Careful
You’ve probably seen the Instagram photos of travelers on scooters, winding through rice paddies without a care in the world. Truth be told, riding a scooter is definitely the easiest way to get around Bali, especially in areas like Canggu, Seminyak, Ubud, and Kuta. Taxis can be expensive if you’re making multiple trips each day, and the traffic here can be quite busy.
Important tip: If you’re not familiar with riding a scooter, practice on a less crowded road (or take a lesson) before hitting the main streets. Also, always wear a helmet—even if the locals often ride without one. The roads can be chaotic, and the last thing you want is an injury. If you plan on staying for a while, consider getting an International Driving Permit (IDP) before you arrive. It’s technically required by Indonesian law if you want to drive legally.
4. Don’t Drink Tap Water (But Do Stay Hydrated)
Bali’s tap water isn’t safe to drink, so you’ll need to stick to bottled or filtered water. Many accommodations offer free refill stations or jug systems, so you can reduce plastic waste. Drinking enough water is key in Bali’s heat—especially if you’re doing yoga, surfing, or simply walking around in the midday sun. If you forget to hydrate, you could quickly find yourself dealing with headaches or even something more severe.
On a related note: Some people get what is jokingly called “Bali Belly,” aka an upset stomach from unfamiliar bacteria. To reduce your chances of this, wash your hands frequently, eat at places with good hygiene, and maybe skip the dodgy roadside stands until your stomach fully adjusts. That said, local warungs (small, family-run eateries) can be perfectly safe and are one of the best ways to sample authentic Balinese cuisine.
5. Temple Etiquette Matters (And It’s Fascinating)
Bali is known as the Island of the Gods for a reason. Hindu culture is at the core of everyday life, and you’ll see it in the temples, ceremonies, and the little offerings (canang sari) placed on sidewalks and in doorways. These small palm-leaf baskets filled with flowers, rice, and incense are made daily as part of religious devotion.
If you’re visiting a temple, remember to wear modest clothing. Generally, this means wearing a sarong and a sash, which you can often rent or borrow at the temple. Don’t step on or disturb the offerings, and be respectful during ceremonies. It’s a beautiful chance to see the spiritual side of Bali, and it will give you a deeper appreciation for the island and its people.
6. Wi-Fi Is Generally Good—But Don’t Expect It Everywhere
As a digital nomad, one of my top concerns whenever I travel is, “Will I be able to get online reliably?” Bali is actually quite good in this department—especially in the main nomad hubs like Canggu and Ubud, where you’ll find co-working spaces with fast internet and cafes that cater to laptop-toting travelers.
However, if you venture off to more remote parts of the island (like certain areas in the north or the smaller islands around Bali), don’t be surprised if Wi-Fi drops or slows to a crawl. It’s a good idea to buy a local SIM card with a data plan for backup. Telkomsel is a popular provider with decent coverage across most of the island.
7. Balinese Hospitality Is Genuine—Embrace It
People in Bali are incredibly warm and welcoming. They’ll help you with directions, offer suggestions on the best local spots to eat, and share stories about their culture. Some travelers think, “Everyone’s trying to sell me something,” but that’s not always the case. While, yes, you might get hustled in heavily touristy areas for transport or souvenirs, genuine Balinese hospitality is real.
I’ve had local friends invite me to family ceremonies, take me on day trips to hidden beaches, and share traditional dishes with me. Being open and friendly back can lead to amazing experiences. Remember, though: always be polite and mindful of cultural differences. In many ways, the local people you meet will shape your Bali experience as much as the beaches and landscapes.
8. The Cost of Living Varies…A Lot
If you’ve heard that Bali is a cheap place to live and travel, that’s true—to a point. You can find really affordable accommodations, especially if you stay in guesthouses or monthly villa rentals. Eating at warungs can be super cheap, with local dishes costing just a couple of dollars. But if you’re hitting up trendy cafes every morning for organic smoothie bowls, sipping cocktails in chic beach clubs, or renting a luxury villa with a private pool, then your costs are going to jump.
It’s worth mentioning that some prices have risen over the years as Bali’s popularity has soared. Nonetheless, if you’re smart about your budget—mixing local experiences with the occasional splurge—you can have a fantastic time without breaking the bank.
9. You Might Never Want to Leave
I saved this point for last because it’s something I feel deep in my bones right now. So many of the travelers I’ve met came to Bali for a short holiday, only to extend their trip for weeks or months—or they left, only to come back. There’s a certain magic here that’s hard to put into words. The island has a vibe—between its spiritual undertones, the creative energy, the slow-living lifestyle, and the downright beautiful scenery—that makes you want to stick around.
I’ve found myself waking up early just to catch the sunrise over the rice fields, then finishing a day of remote work with a sunset surf session or a stroll on the beach. The tropical climate, delicious food, warm people, and the freedom you feel here are addictive. Plus, there’s a thriving digital nomad community where you can meet people from all over the world, all chasing the same feeling of wonder and inspiration.
Final Thoughts
If you’re reading this, you’re probably dreaming about Bali—or maybe you’ve already booked your flight. Either way, I can’t encourage you enough to come experience the Island of the Gods for yourself. Just keep these nine things in mind when you do. From navigating visas to temple etiquette, from the unpredictability of the weather to the joys (and occasional terrors) of scooter driving—there’s a lot about Bali that catches first-timers by surprise. But with a bit of planning, a healthy dose of respect for the culture, and an open mind, you can make your trip one of the most memorable experiences of your life.
And who knows? You might just wind up like me, extending your stay because you’re not ready to say goodbye to this slice of paradise. Whether you’re here for a couple of weeks, a couple of months, or you decide to join the ranks of nomads who call Bali home, I promise you’ll find something special here. If you do, drop me a line at Love Connection—I’ll be happy to point you in the direction of the best surf spots, the coziest cafés, or maybe even a hidden waterfall or two.
Life in Bali is an adventure, a blessing, and sometimes a roller coaster—but it’s absolutely worth every moment. Safe travels, and I hope these tips help you navigate the island with ease and excitement. Enjoy the journey—you’ll soon see why people can’t stop raving about Bali. And if you’re like me, you might just become one of those people who never quite leaves.
