A guide to Bali

Bali isn’t just an island - it’s a mosaic of lush rice terraces, cliffside sunsets, beaches with perfect surf, and a cultural richness that leaves you wanting more. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, there’s something for every pace and style of travel. I recently spent three months exploring the island, soaking in both the iconic highlights and the quieter, hidden corners that make Bali truly unforgettable.

When to Visit:

Bali’s dry season runs from April to October, and the weather is perfect for beach days and sightseeing. July to September is peak tourist season and can be busy, while October and November are quieter months. The rainy season, from December to March, brings lush green landscapes and tropical downpours, especially in December and January. Even during the rainy months, mornings are usually bright, making Bali beautiful all year-round.

Where to Stay:

Choosing where to base yourself in Bali can completely shape your experience. Ubud is the island’s cultural heart, with riverside resorts, jungle views, yoga retreats, amazing temples, rice terraces, and the Monkey Forest.

Uluwatu is perfect for surfers and sunset lovers, with cliffside resorts offering incredible ocean views. Canggu blends café culture, co-working spaces, and beach clubs, while Sidemen provides a peaceful valley escape surrounded by terraced rice paddies. Seminyak balances chic villas, shopping, dining, and nightlife.

Nusa Penida is ideal for scenic viewpoints and quieter beaches. I’d recommend splitting your stay between at least two areas (one coast and one jungle) to give a rounded experience.

Must do Activities:

Bali is an island with a huge variety of activities. Surf at Uluwatu, hike to catch the sunrise at Mount Batur, or wander through the rice terraces of Sidemen.

Ubud offers the Monkey Sanctuary and the Campuhan Ridge Walk, while the Kecak Fire Dance at sunset in Uluwatu provides a mesmerizing glimpse into Balinese ritual and performance.

Water lovers can chase Gembleng Waterfall in Sidemen, snorkel in Canggu, or tackle the Kelingking Beach hike in Nusa Penida. For a hands-on cultural experience, try a Balinese cooking class or a silver jewellery-making workshop. Finally, after a long day of exploring, a traditional Balinese massage is the perfect way to relax.

Eating Like a Local:

Bali’s cuisine is as vibrant as its landscapes. I love staple dishes including Nasi Goreng (fried rice), Mie Goreng (stir-fried noodles), and Chicken Satay with its rich peanut sauce. For a true Balinese feast, try Babi Guling (roast suckling pig) or Bebek Betutu (slow-cooked spiced duck). Sweet treats like Pisang Goreng (fried banana) and Es Campur (shaved ice dessert) are perfect for afternoon indulgence, and don’t forget the sambal relishes - they’re spicy, tangy, and utterly addictive.

Getting Around:

Traffic is notoriously bad in Bali, so planning transport is key. Scooters are the fastest way to navigate and bypass congestion, but if you aren’t confident to drive yourself, then Grab/Gojek cars and motorbikes are reliable alternatives. 

Practical Tips:

Temples require you to cover your shoulders and knees, and sarongs and scarves are sold at most entrances if you forget. Always make sure you respect local culture - remove shoes, avoid touching offerings, and keep your voice low when in temples. Carry cash for markets, street food, and small transport, and be aware that midday sun can be intense, so plan sightseeing for early morning or late afternoon. 

Final Thoughts:

Bali isn’t just a place you visit -  it’s one you dive into. From surfing epic waves in Uluwatu, hiking sunrise trails on Mount Batur, wandering hidden rice terraces, to sipping fresh coconut water while watching the sunset, the island never stopped giving. Three months taught me that the best way to experience Bali is with curiosity, an open mind, and a little sense of adventure. 

Written by Megan d’Ardenne and Alexander Lee @megsandalex