Know the sacred days
Hindu custom has deep roots in Bali, and the island hosts quite a few spiritual ceremonies and festivals all year long. On these sacred days, many retailers, eating places, and companies could shut, so it’s clever to think about this when planning your journey. Even in case you’re not observing the rituals your self, guests are anticipated to respect native customs and alter their actions accordingly. While ceremonies are sometimes vibrant and open to statement, guests must be respectful: Ask permission earlier than taking pictures, gown modestly, particularly when getting into temples, and keep away from blocking processions or interrupting rituals.
The most vital of those occasions is Nyepi, the Balinese Day of Silence, which is able to subsequent be noticed from March 19 to March 20, 2026. During this 24-hour interval, all the island comes to an entire standstill—airports shut, roads are empty, and even web and broadcast providers go offline. Everyone, together with vacationers, should keep indoors or inside resort grounds, preserve lights dimmed and curtains drawn at night time, and keep away from making loud noise.
Go past Canggu
There’s a lot extra to Bali than Canggu and Ubud—and even the well-trodden paths of Seminyak, Uluwatu, and Nusa Dua. Venture past these vacationer hotspots and also you’ll discover areas that supply simply as a lot, if no more, in nature and cultural richness with out the crowds. Pererenan is Bali’s up-and-coming spot, providing laid-back seashores and a meals scene which may simply be redefining island dining. On the japanese coast, Manggis is right for these looking for solace, the place big-name manufacturers like Amankila and Alila overlook the Lombok Strait. Further northeast, Amed is understood for diving, snorkeling, and volcanic black sand seashores, whereas Munduk within the highlands is blessed with cool mountain local weather, waterfalls, and scenic treks. Just off the mainland, the Nusa Islands—Ceningan, Lembongan, and Penida—supply a special form of beachside escape with dramatic coastlines and a slower tempo that feels worlds away from Bali’s bustle.
Beware Bali stomach
For those who haven’t heard of “Bali Belly,” or those that haven’t skilled it, think about your self fortunate. Bali Belly is kind of actual and a standard nickname for traveler’s diarrhea, typically brought on by consuming contaminated meals or water main to gastrointestinal misery. It sometimes resolves in just a few days with relaxation and hydration. You can keep away from it by sticking to bottled or boiled water and saying no to iced drinks (until you may affirm that that ice was constructed from purified water). Many clinics additionally present cell IV drip providers straight to your resort or villa.
Tourists pay greater than locals
Tourists sometimes pay greater than locals at many points of interest on the island. Temples, nationwide parks, and a few seashores typically have official twin pricing, with foreigners sometimes paying larger entrance charges than Indonesian residents. For instance, locals would possibly pay IDR 10,000 (0.60¢ USD) whereas vacationers are charged IDR 50,000 ($3 USD) or extra. In casual settings like markets, taxis, or excursions, costs may also be larger for vacationers until negotiated.
Don’t feed the animals
Stray canine and cats are a frequent sight throughout Bali and wild monkeys freely roam jungle areas and temple grounds. While they could appear innocent, it’s greatest to observe from a distance and keep away from them. Bali monkeys are recognized to pickpocket vacationers, so preserve your telephones, glasses, hats, and snacks in your bag.