Dates Visited: July 16 2023 – July 22 2023
Tour Agencies/Guides/Fixers
I recommend working with Bagus as your driver in Bali – he can be reached on WhatsApp at +62 812-4636-6923 – he was able to coordinate a mini-van for my large group of 16 and drove us around Bali for our week there. He is very friendly, professional and speaks fluent English.
Arriving
Denpasar International Airport (DPS)
This is a relatively nice airport for Southeast Asia and has adequate facilities for all your needs.
Immigration/Customs
Make sure you get an “e-Visa on arrival” in advance from the government website at https://molina.imigrasi.go.id/ – this will save you time at the airport. Also, fill out the eCustoms declaration in advance and have the QR code screenshotted. https://ecd.beacukai.go.id/
Proof of return flight is required and is inspected at immigration and at airline check in.
Currency
Credit cards are accepted at major restaurants and shops throughout Bali. However there are some smaller vendors and stores that will only take cash. Indonesian rupiah is the only currency accepted and exchange counters can readily be found at the airport or in town around touristy centers. I would suggest bringing US dollars or Euros to get the best exchange rates. The largest bill (100,000 rupiah) is only worth US$6 so expect to have a wallet full of bills.
Taxis/Rideshare/Local Transportation
Grab is your main app here, GoJek works too. But for long day trips or drives, I recommend hiring a private driver like Bagus. Private drivers in Bali are inexpensive and save you time and energy dealing with taxis/rideshare apps.
SIM Cards/Wi-Fi
Plenty of options at the airport – prices are higher of course but still very reasonable to get a SIM card. You can also get one in town for cheaper or have them delivered to your accommodation.
Sightseeing
Nusa Penida Day Trip
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
Discovery Beach Mall
Beachwalk Shopping Center
Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud
Downtown Ubud
Bali Swing
Mirror Nightclub
Food/Drink
De Danau Lake View Restaurant
Nude
Waroeng Bernadette Seminyak
Sun Sun Warung
Tlaga Singha