"Bali Healing Guide: Find the Lost Slow Time Between Sunset and Waves"

Bali: The Perfect Way to Enjoy the Island of Paradise

1. Preparation Before Departure

Visa:
Chinese citizens can enjoy a visa on arrival, valid for 30 days, requiring a passport with at least 6 months validity, round-trip tickets, and hotel booking confirmation.
It is recommended to apply for an electronic visa on arrival (e-VOA) in advance to save time at immigration.
Currency:
Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) is the local currency; it is advisable to exchange money beforehand or withdraw from ATMs.
Most merchants accept credit cards, but small stalls and taxis may require cash.
Language:
The local languages are Indonesian and Balinese, but English is widely used in tourist areas.
Learning simple Indonesian phrases like "Thank you" (Terima kasih) will be appreciated.
Climate:
Tropical climate, warm all year round; dry season is from April to October, ideal for travel.
Rainy season is from November to March, with short and concentrated showers, and lower travel costs.
Communication:
Buying a local SIM card (Telkomsel or XL) is cost-effective, available at the airport or convenience stores.
Essentials:
Sunscreen, mosquito repellent, swimwear, power adapter (European standard), lightweight clothing, waterproof phone case.

2. Transportation Guide

Airport: Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) is the main airport, about 15 minutes by car from Kuta.
Taxi:
Look for Blue Bird taxis with meters or use the Grab ride-hailing app.
Avoid unlicensed airport taxis; pre-book airport transfers for peace of mind.
Car Rental:
Suitable for groups or sightseeing, about 300-400 RMB per day, with options for Chinese-speaking drivers.
Motorbike:
Rental costs about 50 RMB/day; helmets and international driving permits are required; be cautious of chaotic local traffic.
Others: Walking or cycling is suitable for exploring small towns like Ubud.

3. Area and Accommodation Recommendations

Kuta/Legian/Seminyak:
Suitable for those who enjoy lively nightlife and shopping.
Recommended hotels: Hard Rock Hotel Bali (music-themed), The Legian Bali (luxury resort).
Uluwatu:
Cliff sea views, luxury hotels, and surfing hotspots.
Recommended hotels: Bulgari Resort Bali (celebrity favorite), Alila Villas Uluwatu (infinity pool).
Ubud:
Cultural center with terraces, temples, and rich artistic atmosphere.
Recommended hotels: Kamandalu Ubud (jungle pool), Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan (mountain retreat).
Nusa Dua:
High-end resort area with fine sandy beaches, ideal for family trips.
Recommended hotels: The St. Regis Bali Resort (private beach), Mulia Resort (family-friendly).
Jimbaran:
Famous for sunset seafood BBQ and fishing village charm.
Recommended hotel: Ayana Resort and Spa Bali (home of Rock Bar).

4. Must-See Attractions

Tanah Lot: Sea temple with stunning sunsets.
Uluwatu Temple: Cliff-top temple; beware of monkeys stealing items.
Tirta Empul: Holy spring temple for water purification rituals.
Tegallalang Rice Terrace: Famous swings and pastoral scenery.
Ubud Palace: Traditional architecture and cultural performances.
Besakih Temple: Bali’s "Mother Temple," the largest in scale.
Kintamani: Mount Batur volcano and lake views, recommended with hot spring experience.
Nusa Lembongan: Clear waters, great for snorkeling and diving.
Nusa Penida: Instagram-famous spots like Kelingking Beach and Angel's Billabong.

5. Unique Experiences

SPA Massage: Recommended Bodyworks (Ubud) or Spring Spa (Seminyak), try hot stone or traditional Balinese massage.
Cooking Classes: Learn to make Balinese dishes like dirty duck and satay.
Surfing: Kuta Beach is suitable for beginners; Uluwatu for advanced surfers.
Diving: Tulamben’s USAT Liberty shipwreck dive is a must.
Rafting: Ayung River or Telaga Waja offer thrilling rides with scenic views.
Balinese Dance Performances: Legong or Kecak dances showcase traditional culture.
Silverware/Batik Workshops: Make your own crafts in Ubud as souvenirs.

6. Food Recommendations

Must-try dishes:
Dirty Duck (Bebek Bengil)
Roasted Pork Ribs (Babi Guling)
Indonesian Fried Rice (Nasi Goreng)
Satay (Sate)
Balinese Salad (Gado Gado)
Popular Restaurants:
Naughty Nuri's Warung (roasted pork ribs)
Bebek Tepi Sawah (dirty duck)
Locavore (high-end Indonesian cuisine)
Rock Bar (cliffside bar)
Night Market Snacks: Try local snacks at Kuta or Ubud night markets.

7. Shopping Guide

Handicrafts: Buy wood carvings, silverware, and batik fabrics at Ubud Market.
Clothing: Seminyak boutiques offer stylish designs with many bikinis and long skirts.
Supermarkets: Discovery Mall or Carrefour for souvenirs like kopi luwak and Indonesian shrimp chips.
Duty-Free Shops: Airport DFS has a full range of brands but limited price advantages.

8. Important Notes

Cultural Etiquette:
Wear a sarong when entering temples; women should avoid entering during menstruation.
Do not use the left hand to pass items or touch someone's head.
Safety:
Beware of motorbike bag snatching; keep valuables safe on the beach.
Choose reputable companies for rafting or diving.
Environmental Protection: Reduce plastic use and participate in beach clean-up activities.
Tips: Not mandatory, but tipping drivers or service staff appropriately shows appreciation.

9. Suggested Itineraries

5 days 4 nights classic itinerary:
D1: Kuta Beach - Seminyak shopping - Jimbaran sunset BBQ
D2: Ubud Palace - Tegallalang Rice Terrace - Tirta Empul - Ubud Night Market
D3: Tanah Lot - Uluwatu Temple - Kecak Dance performance
D4: Nusa Lembongan day trip (snorkeling + Devil’s Tear)
D5: SPA relaxation - departure
7 days 6 nights in-depth tour:
Add Nusa Penida, Kintamani volcano, or Ayung River rafting.

10. Hidden Activities

Dolphin Watching: Early morning boat trip from Lovina.
Waterfall Adventures: Tibumana or Sekumpul waterfalls.
Volunteer Experiences: Participate in sea turtle conservation or teaching at local schools.

Bali’s charm goes far beyond sunshine and beaches; its diverse culture and rich activities make every trip full of surprises. Tailor your itinerary according to personal interests to deeply experience the magic of this "Island of the Gods."