MileHacker Logo
Practical Tips & Hacks

Practical Tips & Hacks

Indonesia

Money-Saving Strategies

Spending wisely supports your travel budget.

Discount Cards

  • Not widely available for general tourist attractions or transport in Bali/Nusa Dua.
  • Some resorts might offer package deals bundling accommodation with meals.
  • Look for deals including spa treatments or specific activities at a reduced rate.
  • Actively seek out these value offerings.

Free Activities

  • Enjoy Nusa Dua Beach and stroll along the promenade.
  • Visit Waterblow, with free entry for a dramatic natural spectacle.
  • Explore Puja Mandala, a complex of five religious sites, also with free entry.
  • Indulge in window shopping at Bali Collection or see a serene sunrise/sunset.

Dining Deals

  • Many resorts and restaurants in Bali Collection offer happy hour promotions.
  • These deals include drinks and sometimes food.
  • Look for early bird dinner specials.
  • Fixed-price menus can also represent good value.

Transportation Options

  • Use Grab or Gojek for rides; fares are below metered taxis.
  • Scooter rental for experienced and licensed riders is an independent travel option.
  • For day trips, hiring a private driver for a group is often effective.
  • For budget stays, consider Tanjung Benoa or Benoa, outside the main Nusa Dua complex.

Time-Saving Tips

Efficient travel lets you relax or explore more.

Efficient Entry

  • For popular attractions like the Devdan Show, pre-book tickets online.
  • This approach avoids queues at the entrance.
  • It manages crowds for a smoother experience.

Faster Travel

  • For inter-island travel (e.g., to Gili Islands or Nusa Islands).
  • Fast boats are quicker than public ferries.
  • They come with a higher cost.

Visiting Times for Attractions

  • Waterblow: High tide visits show the most dramatic sprays.
  • Avoid midday sun. Early morning or late afternoon see fewer people.
  • Temples (e.g., Uluwatu): Go early morning or late afternoon to avoid tour bus peak times.
  • For sunset views, arrive early to secure a good spot.

Advance Bookings

  • Flights and Accommodation: Book early, especially in high season.
  • Airport Transfers: A driver waiting upon arrival offers a smooth start.
  • Popular Tours and Activities: Pre-booking secures your spot.
  • Plan your itinerary geographically to reduce travel between sites.

Local Insights

Understand subtleties of Balinese life for better interactions.

Avoid Tourist Mistakes

  • Overpaying for Taxis: Insist on the meter (Blue Bird) or use ride-sharing apps.
  • Not Bargaining: For market purchases, always bargain politely.
  • Drinking Tap Water: Always use bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth.

Common Tourist Mistakes

  • Ignoring Sun Protection: Bali sun is strong; use high SPF sunscreen frequently.
  • Underestimating Traffic: Allow ample travel time, especially for airport transfers.
  • "No Taxi Zone": Be aware some areas prohibit Grab/Gojek by local taxi associations.
  • You may need to walk a short distance to a main road or use a local taxi.

Cultural Norms

  • Right Hand: Use your right hand when giving or receiving, or when eating.
  • Head & Feet: Do not touch anyone's head; do not point your feet at people.
  • Canang Sari: Be aware of small offerings on the ground. Step around them.
  • Smile: Balinese people are warm. A smile goes a long way.

Local Interactions

  • "Hello, where are you going?" is a common greeting from transport touts.
  • A polite "No, thank you" or "Sudah ada transportasi" (I already have transport) suffices.
  • Phrases that impress locals: Using basic Indonesian greetings.
  • "Terima kasih" (thank you) shows respect and is appreciated.

Traveler-Specific Advice

Tailor your trip planning to suit your travel companions and their needs.

Solo Traveler Focus

  • Safety: Nusa Dua is very safe due to its controlled environment.
  • Solo female travelers generally feel secure within resorts and main tourist areas.
  • Social opportunities: Nusa Dua is resort-oriented, so socializing might be limited.
  • For more social interaction, consider spending time in Canggu or Ubud.

Family Travel Hints

  • Resorts: Nusa Dua is excellent for families with kids' clubs and pools.
  • Many offer dedicated family pools and babysitting services.
  • Food: Most resorts and restaurants cater to children with international menus.
  • Activities: Water sports in Tanjung Benoa, Devdan Show, Turtle Island, Waterbom Bali.

Group Logistics

  • Accommodation: Book rooms or villas for your group size.
  • Consider interconnected rooms or multi-bedroom villas.
  • Transport: For groups, hiring a private driver for excursions is effective.
  • Dining: Make reservations for larger groups, especially at popular restaurants.

Family Packing & Accessibility

  • Packing: Bring enough sunscreen, insect repellent, and children's medications.
  • A Kids Travel Journal and Activity Book can keep younger travelers engaged.
  • Accessibility: Confirm specific facilities directly with hotels and tour operators.
  • Not all attractions or transport options outside resorts will be fully accessible.

Plan Ahead for Value

Researching package deals and local transport apps before your trip assists in managing your travel budget.

Digital & Print Resources

These tools support your travel planning and on-the-ground experience.

Essential Apps

Utilize these for navigation and services.

Useful Websites

Access official information and local deals.

Print Resources

Reliable information without connectivity.

Digital Resources

Essential Apps for Bali

  • Grab / Gojek: For ride-sharing, food delivery, and services.
  • Google Maps: For navigation and directions. Download offline maps.
  • Google Translate: For language translation, download Indonesian pack.

More Digital Tools

  • WhatsApp: Widely used for communication with locals.
  • Traveloka: A Southeast Asian app for booking flights, hotels, activities.
  • Currency Converter App: Quickly check exchange rates.

Smart Travel Planning

Planning your activities and bookings ahead streamlines your trip experience.

Safety & Information

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Numbers

  • Police: 110
  • Ambulance: 118
  • Fire Department: 113
  • Search and Rescue (BASARNAS): 115

Hospital Locations

  • BIMC Hospital Nusa Dua: Jalan Bypass Ngurah Rai No. 100X. Tel: (0361) 3000 911 (24/7).
  • Siloam Hospitals Denpasar: Jalan Sunset Road No. 818, Kuta. Tel: (0361) 779 900.
  • These are international standard hospitals for tourist preference.
  • A larger hospital offers a wider range of services.

Document Procedures

  • Passport: Report loss to local police immediately for a report.
  • Contact your embassy or consulate for emergency travel documents.
  • Credit Cards: Call your bank's emergency line to cancel your cards.
  • Report loss or theft promptly.

Online Resources

Official Travel Sites

Social & Cultural Insights

  • Social Media Accounts: Follow official tourism or reputable travel bloggers for updates.
  • Podcasts and Digital Content: Search for Indonesian culture, Balinese history, or travel experiences.
  • Language Learning: Utilize apps like Duolingo or Memrise for basic Indonesian phrases.

Print Resources

Guidebooks & Maps

  • A physical guidebook provides a comprehensive overview.
  • Physical maps work without internet.
  • Look for recent editions from reputable publishers (e.g., Lonely Planet).

Books & Local Reads

  • Books on Balinese Hinduism or Indonesian history for cultural insight.
  • Fiction set in Bali for atmosphere and local life perspective.
  • Free local tourist magazines (airport/hotels) for event listings.

Further Reading & Exploration

Documentaries & Films

  1. Watch documentaries on Balinese culture.
  2. Explore Indonesian history films.
  3. See films set in Bali.
  4. Gain visual and contextual insight.
  5. Deepen understanding of island charm.

Music & Art / Online Communities

  1. Listen to Balinese Gamelan music.
  2. Explore Balinese art for craftsmanship.
  3. Join Bali travel Facebook groups or forums.
  4. Seek peer advice and recent updates.
  5. Ask specific questions for valuable insights.

Emergency Preparedness

Tourist Police

Hotline: (0361) 224 111 for tourist-specific issues.

Embassy & Consulate

Locate your country's embassy in Jakarta and/or consulate in Denpasar, Bali. Keep contact details.

Natural Disaster

Familiarize yourself with hotel emergency procedures. Follow local authority instructions.

Important Safety Notice

Always prioritize your well-being. Keep emergency contacts accessible. Familiarize yourself with hotel emergency plans.

Pre-Trip Knowledge

Before You Go

Documents & Health

  • Passport Validity

    Six months validity from entry date. Renew immediately if needed.

  • Visa Requirements

    Research visa needs for your nationality. Apply for e-VOA early if eligible.

  • Health Consult

    Speak to your doctor about vaccinations and prescription refills.

Bookings & Plans

  • Flights & Stay

    Book international flights and Nusa Dua accommodation early, especially for peak season.

  • Travel Insurance

    Arrange comprehensive travel insurance. Confirm medical and activity coverage.

  • Bank Notification

    Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card issues.

Planning Activities

Major Activities

Pre-book specific tours like the Devdan Show.

Day Trip Planning

Plan day trips and potential multi-day extensions in Bali or nearby islands.

Document Copies

Make physical and digital copies of important documents. Store them securely.

Packing & Connectivity

Packing & Tech

  • Pack your bags using the guide.
  • Charge all electronic devices and power banks fully.
  • Download essential apps (Grab, Gojek, Google Maps offline, Google Translate).
  • Confirm your airport transfers to your Nusa Dua accommodation.

Currency & Customs

  • Exchange some local currency (IDR) or have ATM access upon arrival.
  • Purchase a local SIM card at an official kiosk in the airport arrivals hall.
  • Complete the Electronic Customs Declaration (e-CD) online.
  • Review local customs, basic Indonesian phrases, and health/safety for Bali.

Departure Prep

Souvenirs & Refunds

  • Plan your souvenir purchases to avoid last-minute rushing.
  • If buying large items, arrange shipping with the vendor.
  • Indonesia has no general VAT refund for tourists.
  • Keep all receipts for customs regulations.

Airport & Flight

  • Confirm your flight status 24-48 hours before departure.
  • Arrange your airport transfer well in advance, accounting for traffic.
  • Arrive at Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) 2-3 hours before your international flight.
  • Pack liquids in checked luggage according to airline regulations.

Checklist Overview

This timeline assists in managing pre-trip tasks, ensuring a smooth journey.

← Previous
Time-Based Itineraries
← Back to Nusa Dua
Next →
Resources & Planning

Next Up: Resources & Planning

Continue to Resources & Planning