Bali is an island and province of Indonesia. There are approximately 4 million inhabitants on the island. The majority of the population are Balinese and they practice Hinduism – which they term “Balinese Hinduism”.
The island is relatively small with an area spanning approximately 5000km². The length and width of the island is 145km and 80km respectively. Due to the short distance, one would expect to travel across the island relatively quickly, if it weren’t for the traffic delays.
Bali has two seasons – wet and dry. Between October and April, they experience significant rain, and more so from December through to March. Outside of this period, rain is unlikely. High season seems to be during July and August, which is the so called “dry season”. Because Bali is situated in close proximity to the equator, average temperatures are high with a humidity level of around 85% all year round.
Public transport options are limited to taxi’s and Uber. More about this later…
South Africans do not require a visa for travel to Bali.
We flew Singapore Airlines from Johannesburg and had a short layover at the Changi airport before reaching Bali some 13 hours later. You may find the in-flight meals between Singapore and Bali inedible so suggest you eat at the airport.
Recommended tourist attractions
- The rice terraces of Bali – Jatiluwih or Tegallalang
We visited the Jatiluwih rice terrace and stopped for lunch here. The views are spectacular and it’s no wonder the area is a UNESCO world cultural heritage site. Most tourist attractions charge an entrance fee, this one being no exception. The fees on average are 50000 Bali Rupiah per person. Most tour companies will take you to an appropriate restaurant for a lunch buffet. Unfortunately the buffet is not appealing and I would suggest that you insist on seeing the ala carte menu.
- Uluwatu temple
The photos of Uluwatu temple don’t do it justice. Whilst the temple is a small structure on a huge cliff, the views are incredible.
- Tanah Lot temple
There are three temples in this complex. Sunsets are pretty amazing so it is very popular in the afternoon. Great spot for a bit of shopping too.
- Mount Batur
Mount Batur is north of the island so if you are staying in the south then expect to travel for 2 to 3 hours. Most travellers hike Mount Batur however we opted to go to the lookout points and have lunch overlooking the valley.
- Luwak coffee tasting
This was such a lovely experience. We stopped for coffee a short drive from Mount Batur, and welcomed by a young lady who explained how coffee is made. She then provided us with a selection of coffee and teas to taste. The only coffee we had to pay for was the luwak but it was only 50000 Bali Rupiah for a cup. If you are a coffee lover, then I’m sure you’d be keen to tick this off your bucket list.
- Kuta
Kuta is the party capital of Bali. It is also a shoppers paradise and has a great beach for surfing enthusiasts.
- Balinese massage
There are spa’s everywhere and the treatments are relatively affordable. Go on, spoil yourself.
Tips and traps
- Most travel packages offer a 7-night stay. If you plan on touring the island and keen on partying, I would suggest staying in Ubud and/or Kuta, in addition to Nusa Dua.
Nusa Dua Beach - The 5-star beach resorts are situated in Nusa Dua. If you unlikely to leave the resort, I would suggest an all-inclusive package as food and drinks are expensive. We stayed at the Nusa Dua Beach Hotel and Spa and really enjoyed it. Breakfast was included and we had no complaints given the variety. We also had spa treatments on the house and thoroughly enjoyed it.
Nusa Dua Beach Hotel and Spa - If you are staying in Nusa Dua, the Bali Collection shopping centre is within walking distance via the promenade where you can find shops, spa’s and restaurants.
- No public transportation system exists so taxi’s and motorbikes are the way to go. Although most taxi’s are metered we preferred to agree a fare upfront due to the traffic, proximity between attractions and our hotel etc.
- Uber is banned in most tourist areas. With that said, we used the service a few times. Be weary of the drivers who attempt to make contact with you directly to enquire about your destination and/or requesting the fare in cash.
- Jimbaran Bay – brochures for dinner at Jimbaran Bay are deceiving to say the least or perhaps we were just unlucky. Whilst the food is fresh and prepared well, the weather was rather unpleasant so we didn’t dine on the beach.
Dinner at Jimbaran Bay - Almost every taxi driver will approach you for island tours. You itinerary starts with a barong dance show followed by a visit to a batik painting and silver jewellery workshop. By this time you would have spent half the day seeing things that are a waste of time. Don’t do it. If you do utilise their services, then be sure of what you would like to see and agree your route upfront. Please note it is impossible to see more than 3 tourist attractions per day especially if they not in close proximity to each other. Suggest you book a tour with a reputable tour guide/company instead.
In the midst of our week long break, we experienced an earthquake which left us slightly shaken. It reaffirmed my belief that life is short and what’s meant to happen will be. I continue to create memories every opportunity I get and reminded of how blessed I am to be surrounded by such amazing family and friends.
We had a fantastic holiday with family in Bali. And it will be remembered as our most eventful trip to date.
