Bali Guide: Travelling on the island of digital nomads

Bali is an Indonesian island renowned for its diverse and vibrant culture, stunning scenery and friendly people. It is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world seeking adventure, relaxation and inspiration.

Location

Bali is located in the centre of the Indonesian archipelago, nestled between the islands of Java to the west and Lombok to the east. The island is approximately 153 kilometres wide and stretches approximately 112 kilometres from north to south, covering an area of approximately 5,780 square kilometres, making it the largest tourist province in Indonesia. It offers an immense variety of landscapes, from rice fields and dense jungle to majestic volcanoes and beautiful beaches.

Seasons and climate

Bali enjoys a tropical climate with two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season, from April to October, is the most popular time to visit as the weather is warm and sunny. Temperatures during this time range from 25 to 32 degrees Celsius. The rainy season, from November to March, brings frequent but usually short and heavy showers. Temperatures are similar, but humidity is much higher.

Regions

Bali is divided into several regions, each with its own unique charm:

South Bali: Here you will find some of the island’s most famous beaches, including Kuta, Legian and Seminyak. This region is also known for its lively nightlife and shopping.
Central Bali: This region is home to the town of Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali. Here you will find art galleries, handicraft markets and the famous Monkey Forest.
West Bali: This region is home to the West Bali National Park, a protected area that is home to a variety of wildlife.
North Bali: Known for its tranquil black sand beaches and coral reefs, this region is a popular spot for diving and snorkelling.
East Bali: Here you will find the Mother Temple of Besakih and the beautiful Water Palace of Tirta Gangga.
The Islands: Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Penida and Nusa Ceningan are small islands off the southeast coast of Bali, known for their stunning scenery and water sports.

Culture and religion

Bali’s culture is unique and diverse. Reflected in the island’s many temples, rituals and festivals, it is a mixture of Hindu, Buddhist, Javanese and ancient indigenous beliefs. Hinduism in Bali is unique and pervades all aspects of daily life. Temple ceremonies, religious festivals and daily offerings are an integral part of Balinese life. With a rich tradition of dance, music, painting and crafts, Balinese culture is also strongly influenced by the arts.

Clothing

Balinese clothing is generally casual and comfortable. The climate is warm and tropical. Light clothing such as T-shirts, shorts and dresses are ideal. For the beach, swimwear and flip-flops are common. It is important to note, however, that when visiting temples and holy sites, you will need to dress appropriately. This usually means wearing a sarong, which is often provided at the entrance to temples.

Language

The official language in Bali is Indonesian, but many locals also speak Balinese, a Malayo-Polynesian language spoken by around 3 million people. English is widely spoken and understood by most people, especially in tourist areas.

Our top 5 spots

Pura Tanah Lot

Perched on a rocky outcrop off the coast, the Tanah Lot Temple is one of the most sacred sea temples in Bali. It is a popular place to watch the sunset and offers breathtaking views of the sea.

Tegallalang Rice Terraces

These picturesque rice terraces offer breathtaking views and are a perfect place for hiking and photography.

Ubud

The cultural heart of Bali, Ubud is renowned for its art scene and spiritual atmosphere. There are many art galleries, museums and traditional dance performances.

Goa Gajah

Also known as the “Elephant Cave”, this archaeological site is renowned for its intricately carved entrances and historical value.

Sacred Monkey Forest

This forest is a sacred place and home to hundreds of wild monkeys. The Ubud Monkey Forest is a popular spot for tourists to get up close and personal with the monkeys.