Buzz
Bali, the island in Indonesia, is renowned as a 'tourist paradise' globally, with mesmerizing beaches, lush tropical forests, and vibrant nightlife.
Generally, Indonesia is an affordable tourist destination. However, alongside its national and international fame, prices and living expenses in Bali have skyrocketed amidst challenging economic conditions.
To still fulfill the dream of traveling independently to Bali in these conditions, carefully consider the travel information below.
Cheap Airline Tickets
There are several airlines operating flights to Bali, Indonesia, but according to experienced travelers, Lion Air, Airasia, and Tiger Airways still offer the cheapest tickets to Bali.
Accommodation Options in Bali
In Bali, there are hotels and resorts catering to the affluent, with prices steadily increasing over the years.
However, if you're on a tight budget, you can still find affordable accommodation along Kuta and its nearby alleys, leading to ultra-cheap guesthouses.
Typically, to cut living expenses, some young travelers opt for fan-only rooms instead of air-conditioned ones, priced at only 10 – 12 USD (200,000 – 240,000 VND). Although the living conditions may not be top-notch, such budget rooms often get fully booked on weekends.
If you want slightly better accommodation, you can check out tourist areas like Seminyak, where hotels like Grandma’s Hotel offer rooms for around 30 USD per night (600,000 VND).
Around famous beaches like Balangan and Bingin, there are also budget guesthouses priced at around 10 USD (200,000 VND) per night, and if you stay longer, you might even negotiate.
Tips for Booking Budget Accommodation
Getting Around the Island
One of the major challenges for travelers exploring Bali independently is how to navigate the island affordably and safely. Bali lacks adequate public transportation options, but there are plenty of motorcycle taxis and taxis available.
The best way to explore the island is by renting a motorcycle. Tourist areas like Kuta or Seminyak have rental spots for travelers.
You can venture to remote beaches, less frequented spots on the Bukit Peninsula, or drive to Munduk to trek and enjoy the scenery.
Typically, renting a motorcycle costs around 3 USD per day if you bargain. You'll need to refuel the motorcycle yourself, costing approximately 1.50 USD for a day's worth of travel.
Consider Renting a Car for Island Exploration, But Be Aware of the Costs and Risks
Affordable Activities in Bali
There are plenty of activities you can enjoy when in Bali. One of them is swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling at the pristine beaches here. These are enjoyable activities that won't break the bank.
Bali also boasts many beautiful temples and shrines for you to explore, allowing you to admire the surrounding natural scenery while delving into the local culture.
However, it's important to remember that there are many intermediaries in Bali. As soon as you step off the plane, taxi drivers and touts will approach you offering various services. It's advisable to head to your hotel before engaging in any services.
Exploring the Gili Islands is another exciting activity in Bali. Typically, tour guides will charge you around 150 - 200 USD (3 million - 4 million VND) per trip, but you can definitely negotiate for a lower price.
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Source: Travel Guide by Mytour – Courtesy of: Xzone.
MytourOctober 1, 2015
