Bali, an Indonesian island known for its forested volcanic mountains, iconic rice paddies, beaches, and coral reefs, offers a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Whether you are looking for cultural immersion, outdoor activities, or simply a beautiful place to unwind, Bali has something for everyone.
How to Get There
From Amsterdam to Bali
Traveling from Amsterdam to Bali typically involves a long-haul flight with at least one layover. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Flights:
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- KLM: Direct flights are rare, but KLM offers flights with a layover in Singapore or Jakarta. Prices range from €600 to €1000 for a round trip.
- Singapore Airlines: Offers a one-stop flight via Singapore, priced similarly to KLM.
- Emirates: Another option with a layover in Dubai. Prices vary but generally stay within the €600-€1000 range.
- Booking Tips:
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- Book 2-3 months in advance for the best deals.
- Consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (April-June, September-November) for better prices and fewer crowds.
- Arrival: You will arrive at Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Denpasar, Bali.
Getting Around Bali
Airport Transfers:
- Taxi: Available at the airport, costing around IDR 150,000-200,000 (€9-12) to popular areas like Kuta or Seminyak.
- Ride-hailing Apps: Grab and Gojek are popular and often cheaper than taxis.
Local Transport:
- Scooters: Renting a scooter is a popular and economical option. Prices are around IDR 60,000 (€4) per day.
- Cars: Renting a car with a driver for a day costs approximately IDR 500,000-800,000 (€30-50).
- Buses: Kura-Kura Bus is a tourist shuttle service covering major areas, with fares starting at IDR 20,000 (€1.20).
Things to See
1. Ubud
- Ubud Monkey Forest: A sanctuary for Balinese long-tailed monkeys. Entrance fee is IDR 80,000 (€5).
- Tegallalang Rice Terraces: Famous for its stunning rice paddies. Small entrance fee of IDR 15,000 (€1).
2. Beaches
- Kuta Beach: Known for its surfing and vibrant nightlife. No entrance fee.
- Nusa Dua: Perfect for water sports and luxury resorts. Public access is free.
3. Temples
- Tanah Lot: A beautiful sea temple, best visited at sunset. Entrance fee is IDR 60,000 (€4).
- Uluwatu Temple: Perched on a cliff, offering stunning ocean views. Entrance fee is IDR 30,000 (€2).
Things to Do
1. Adventure Activities
- Surfing: Lessons available in Kuta, starting at IDR 350,000 (€22) for a 2-hour session.
- Diving and Snorkeling: Explore the coral reefs of Nusa Penida or Menjangan Island. Prices start at IDR 1,200,000 (€75) for a full-day dive trip.
2. Cultural Experiences
- Balinese Dance Performances: Watch traditional dance shows in Ubud or Uluwatu, with ticket prices around IDR 100,000 (€6).
- Cooking Classes: Learn to cook Balinese dishes. Classes cost around IDR 400,000-600,000 (€25-38).
3. Relaxation
- Spa Treatments: Indulge in a Balinese massage. Prices vary but start at IDR 150,000 (€9) for a one-hour session.
- Yoga Retreats: Ubud is the hub for yoga enthusiasts, with classes and retreats available at various price points.
Typical Food and Drinks to Try
Must-Try Dishes
- Nasi Goreng: Indonesian fried rice, usually served with a fried egg on top.
- Mie Goreng: Fried noodles with vegetables and choice of meat.
- Babi Guling: Traditional Balinese roast pork.
- Satay: Skewered and grilled meat, served with peanut sauce.
- Gado-Gado: A salad of boiled vegetables with peanut sauce.
Popular Drinks
- Bali Coffee: Strong and flavorful, often served with sugar.
- Teh Botol: Sweetened jasmine tea served cold.
- Bintang Beer: The most popular local beer.
- Arak: A traditional Balinese spirit made from rice or palm sap.
Conclusion
Bali is a destination that promises a rich blend of cultural, natural, and culinary experiences. Whether you are surfing the waves of Kuta, exploring the spiritual heart of Ubud, or simply relaxing on a pristine beach, Bali offers a memorable adventure for every traveler. Make sure to plan your journey and activities ahead to make the most out of your trip to this Indonesian paradise.