Planning on heading on My Adventure Project’s Bali Adventure tour? Get ready for the trip of a lifetime, filled with stunning beaches, vibrant culture and more colourful smoothie bowls. But before you jump on that flight, let’s talk about some common mistakes that could turn your dream trip into a logistical nightmare.
Here are 10 things NOT to do before (or on!) your Bali Adventure…
- Forget to apply for a visa
You will most likely need a visa to enter Bali and can either apply for a 30 day single entry visa on arrival or you can find options for a multiple entry visa and 60 day visa online, which can be applied for in advance.
If you have booked your trip with MAP, we will send you a full document breaking down the process of applying for a visa, and how to make sure you are applying for the right visa for you!
- Skip your travel vaccinations
It’s always a good idea to check advice for vaccinations before visiting any new country. You can check the most up to date advice easily by visiting the Government foreign travel website for Bali.
- Forget to pay the tourist tax
Since February 2024, the Indonesian government has implemented a tourist tax for entering Bali. The fee is IRD 150,000 which is approximately £7.60 and its goal is to provide funds for social, ecological and cultural preservation efforts across the island. You must pay the tax before entering the country – this can be done online, and if you have booked your trip with MAP, we can send you a direct link to make sure you are paying the right tax!
- Pack the wrong clothes
Although shorts and tank tops are fine for the majority of your trip around Bali, you will need to cover both your shoulders and knees if you are wanting to enter temples or religious places. If you are travelling light, a sarong or shawl is an easy fix and you can pick these up cheaply from local markets (and they also make a lovely souvenir!).
- Forget bug spray
Like many countries with warm climates, there are mosquitos in Bali which can carry diseases which can put a dampener on your trip. Make sure you pick up some strong insect repellent from home, apply often and you should be absolutely fine!
- Drink the tap water
Drinking water in Bali can lead to some stomach issues so we would recommend steering clear, and even brushing your teeth with bottled water. Better safe than sorry!
- Just bring your card
Although Bali is very card friendly, we would always recommend having a stash of cash on you just in case. We’d especially recommend this for when visiting Gili T, where a lot of smaller cafes and eateries won’t take card!
- Rely on Uber
You won’t find Uber in Bali but we would recommend downloading Grab, the Indonesian equivalent. It works exactly the same way as Uber, and is reliable and affordable.
- Underestimate the Bali traffic
Bali’s roads can be very busy and chaotic and in peak times, journeys can take a lot longer than planned due to dense traffic. Leave yourself extra time for important journeys (like getting to the airport!) and if you are renting a scooter, make sure you have given yourself time to get used to the somewhat hectic roads in Bali!
- Ignore the local language
Although many people will speak English, it’s always a good idea to learn some local phrases such as “terima kasih” (thank you) and “tolong” (please). Locals will appreciate the effort, and you’ll feel more connected to the culture!
There you go! Steer away from these common travel mistakes and your trip to Bali will be as smooth as the cocktail you’ll soon be sipping on the beach.
If you are planning a trip to Bali but not sure where to start, My Adventure Project can help! Find out more about our Bali Adventure Tour or chat to us with any questions you may have.
Happy exploring!
Saz
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