There are so many things that we wish we knew before going to Bali. Like many people, we did some research and read some blogs to help us prepare for our trip. There are plenty of lists on what to eat, see, and do, in Bali, but we want to give you some tips that will help you enjoy your trip to the tropical island a little better. We hope that our tips will also give you some helpful information that we wished someone had told us before our trip. Looking back at our trip now, we had the time of our lives on this beautiful island. Keep reading to find out what we wish we knew before going to Bali.
This is our top tip for you. We’re glad that taking a cooking class is already a must-do activity for us when we travel. We had booked a cooking class in the middle of a Balinese organic farm in Ubud. Honestly, this is one of the best things that you can do while you are in Bali. You will get to visit local markets, and get to meet some like-minded travelers. Now we can say that we know how to make nasi goreng!
Don’t fall for cheap exchange rates
This is a more practical tip that we want to share with you. We had a bad experience after being reeled in by attractive exchange rates on the streets of Seminyak. We walked down a narrow and dark alleyway (this is when we should have walked out!) and to a sketchy counter where a topless guy was counting money. Here’s the deal. These guys can afford good exchange rates because they end up giving keeping a few bills for themselves while they distract you. Make sure that you go to a reputable place to exchange your money in Bali!
We wish we knew this before we went to Ubud! There are so many drivers trying to get us to ride with them, but bargaining became such a hassle for us that we decided to befriend one of the drivers that we especially liked. When you have one person that you can depend on to pick you up and get you from place to place, it will make you feel more comfortable during your time in Bali.
All the amazing things to do and see in Bali
You probably have a rough idea of what you want to see in Bali already. Believe us, there is so much to take in while you are there. Decide on how you want to spend your time on the island. Is it a relaxing yoga retreat that you’re into? Or is it hiking an active volcano? Make sure you plan accordingly to your interests before you get to Bali because the options that you will be exposed to are endless!
What do you think of when you think of Balinese food? Satay or Nasi Goreng might come to mind, but there are some delicious dishes that you have to try when you are in Bali! Our favorite dish from Ubud is babi guling. This famous dish draws people from near and far. The local suckling pig roast is so delicious because of its tender meat and crispy skin. You have to try it while you are in Bali!
These are the 5 things that we wish you know before your trip to Bali! Plan ahead you will have a smooth and enjoyable vacation, guaranteed! If you are interested in taking a cooking class when you are in Bali, visit Cookly to find the right cooking school for you!