" Once you visit Bali it becomes an addiction "

The following is purely based on my own experiences over the years. Of course everyone has different expectations and standards when they travel. I am by no means a fussy traveller so please keep that in mind. When I’m working I go for cheap and cheerful and then sometimes mix it up with some nice villas or hotels here and there. The hotels I will list are a mixture of standards. I’ve had great experiences at all of them and stayed many times. When it comes to Bali there are so many options for accommodation so I recommend doing your own research. I tend to book through Airbnb, Agoda or Booking.com

I recommend you definitely read the reviews, not just the first ones, definitely delve in further.

Arriving in Bali is always a buzz. Usually the airport is crazy busy so expect an hour or two to get through customs. Sometimes the queues are very long. Baggage collection can also take an incredibly long time depending on how many planes have just arrived. If you’re on a NZ passport you’ll be required to purchase a tourist visa. This can be done at the airport or online prior to arrival. I tend to just do it at the airport. There is also an online arrival form to fill out. This can be done on your phone or on computers provided at the airport when you go through to the baggage area. One really important thing to remember is to keep your boarding pass with you as this is a MUST for going through customs.

 Please refer to your booking airline or travel agent for visa requirements surrounding length of stay, especially if you are staying longer than 30 days. 

Many hotels provided courtesy transfers but if not expect to pay around $30 - $35 to get to Kuta/Legian or Seminyak. Not sure what the price is to other locations. It pays to have something organised before you land as it can be quite daunting when you arrive. I can also recommend a fantastic driver whose name is Gede. I’ve used him for many years and he is such a lovely guy. He can not only deliver you from the airport to your hotel he can also take you on days tours to wherever you wish.

GEDE - feel free to use my driver - Whatsapp +62 812 3658 922

GO JEK - This gives you a lot of freedom. Download the app on your phone and you can order a scooter or car to pick you up pretty much in any busy tourist location. Expect to wait about 5-10 minutes. It’s super cheap and easy to use.

BLUE TAXI’S - Go Jek has kind of taken over these however if you do decide to use one always make sure to ask them if they have a meter, if they’re not willing to put it on do not get in the car.

Unless you don't mind the hefty credit card fee's I strongly advise getting cash out before you travel. There's many great cash currency exchange facilities in the popular tourist areas. If you’re not sure, ask other tourists who they recommend. If you’re in Seminyak there’s a good one across the road from the Bintang supermarket. There’s also cash flow machines in most places. When using these I suggest you hide your pin entry by using your hand. Another thing to remember is in Bali the cash comes out first and then your card. Many tourists have left their cards in the machine including myself.

Fortunately Bali now has many 24 hour medical facilities in all the tourist areas and many pharmacies which have everything you need. When you purchase insurance if you plan to hop on a scooter make sure you purchase the additional excess to cover an accident.

Whilst in Bali I either use roaming on my phone if I’m not there for too long. For a longer stay I purchase a local SIM card which can be purchased at most Mini Mart stores. Most hotels and restaurants have free Wifi.

A rather lovely side to visiting Bali is to experience spa treatments/massages. Spas are everywhere. Expect to pay around $12 - $20 an hour for a balinese massage. Hotel spas tend to be more expensive. All spa’s offer the same services as in NZ but of course a lot cheaper. So indulge and spoil yourself !