Bali Island City Guide

Food is diverse and good quality. Local dishes like Nasi Goreng and Babi Guling are must-tries. Plenty of international options and strong vegan/vegetarian presence. Late-night food is available in tourist hubs.

Nightlife is lively with many bars, beach clubs, and clubs in Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu.

Strong coffee scene with many third-wave and specialty cafes. Traditional Balinese coffee is also popular.

Tipping is optional since service charges and taxes are often included. Small tips are appreciated for good service and rounding up taxi fares is common.

Buy SIMs at the airport or provider shops. Telkomsel offers best coverage, with XL and Indosat as alternatives. Passport required for registration; phone IMEI must be registered if staying over 90 days.

Cleanliness varies; tourist areas are cleaner, some places have litter and sanitation challenges.

Minimarts are mostly open 24/7. Some pharmacies and clinics have extended hours but full 24/7 services are rare. Late-night food is accessible via delivery apps.

Supermarkets stock many international products. Traditional markets sell local produce and spices. Supermarkets open 8 AM to 10 PM; markets close by early afternoon. Bargaining works only in markets and small shops.

Card payments work in big tourist spots and hotels. Cash is needed for smaller shops, markets, and taxis.

ATMs are common in tourist areas. Expect local withdrawal fees and possibly foreign bank fees. Banks like BCA, Mandiri, and BNI are reliable.

Several international schools teach mainly in English. Popular schools include Green School Bali and Canggu Community School. Admissions should be planned ahead.

Large, active nomad community with regular meetups, co-living, and networking mainly in Canggu and Ubud.

Limited large parks; green areas mostly in rice fields and temple grounds. Shaded walks exist in Ubud and some temples.

Popular running routes along beaches and rice fields. Traffic can be heavy; mornings are best.

Modern gyms are common in tourist areas, often with day passes available.

Tennis courts are at resorts and clubs, especially in tourist areas.

Padel is growing, mainly in Canggu.

Many yoga studios in Ubud and Canggu offer varied styles and wellness retreats. Most instructors speak English.

Training available in BJJ, Muay Thai, Boxing, and local Pencak Silat. Many gyms offer drop-in classes with English-speaking instructors.

No skiing; Bali is tropical.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing available in Sanur and Nusa Dua.

World-class surfing with spots for all levels. Beginners go to Kuta and Seminyak; advanced surfers prefer Uluwatu and Padang Padang. Surf schools and rentals are everywhere.

Excellent dive sites around Nusa Penida and Tulamben, with rich marine life. Certified dive centers widely available.

Private hospitals like BIMC and Siloam have English-speaking staff and good services. Public hospitals are more basic. Pharmacies are common, some open late, with basic English-speaking pharmacists.

Do not drink tap water. Use bottled or filtered water instead.

Family-friendly with playgrounds in villas and resorts. Kid-friendly cafes are common in tourist areas. Baby supplies are easy to find. Attractions include Waterbom Bali and Bali Safari Park.

More tolerant than other parts of Indonesia, especially in tourist areas. Some LGBTQ+ venues exist but discretion is advised.

Pet-friendly stays and eateries are growing. Veterinary clinics and pet supplies are available. Dog walking is common on beaches off-peak.