Paved Paradise: Easy and Exciting Ways to Get Around Bali
Bali is a very popular tropical destination for Australian travellers, who visit on holidays or backpacking adventures to enjoy the sights, beaches and beautiful weather.
When you travel here, you’ll be wondering about the best ways to get around. You have many options to choose from, and here are some of the best ways to see more of this beautiful island.
Hire a Car
Hiring a car is easy in Bali. You will need an International Driving Permit to drive anywhere in Indonesia, and you can usually arrange your car hire on arrival.
However, driving conditions are not quite like back home. Driving in the cities especially can be a challenge, so make sure you are confident and know the rules of the road before you decide on this option, or just stick to the quieter roads.
Drive on quieter roads.
A car will provide you with the freedom to go where you want, when you want, and the convenience makes up for the fact that it is more expensive than travelling by public transport.
Hire a Car with a Driver
Want to enjoy the freedom of your own vehicle but don’t want to drive yourself? Then hire a car with a driver.
This is a great option if you are not keen to negotiate the roads. The drivers tend to have good local knowledge, and some even work as guides, so they may be able to provide you with advice on things to see and do.
Travel By Motorbike
It’s easy to hire a motorbike in Bali because there are many rental shops in the cities.
You can rent your motorbike or scooter for a day, a week or longer, and again you will need your International Driving Permit.
Photo CC by Bart Speelman
The good thing about a bike is that it is cheaper than a car, and you can go anywhere you want. However, bikes come with more risks, so only do this if you have experience and make sure you wear a helmet, which is a legal requirement.
Pedal Power
Another great option for cheap travel is to hire or buy a bike. It’s harder work, but it provides a unique way to get around and you will spend a lot less on your travel costs.
Alternatively, go on an organised bike tour with other tourists, which you may be able to arrange at your hotel. If you travel in this way, you won’t want to lug all your purchases around with you, so export your souvenirs back home and travel lighter.
Hop In a Taxi
It is easy to travel by taxi in Bali, especially in the towns and cities. Always use your judgement before getting into a taxi.
For example, check that it has a meter before you get in, and insist that it is turned on. Alternatively, ask your hotel to book a taxi for you.
Use the Bus
You can travel to most places by bus in Bali, especially when you travel between the large towns and cities.
Photo CC by duncan_su
Buses here vary in quality, but the best companies are reliable, comfortable and affordable. Some even come with air conditioning.
Go On a Tour Bus
If you just want to head to a well-known tourist attraction for a day, you may want to join an organised tour. These can usually be arranged from your hotel, and all of your travel arrangements will be taken care of.
It is not the best way to experience the country because you are travelling with many other tourists, but it can sometimes be a convenient option.
Your Own Two Feet
Sometimes the best way to get around is to walk. If you are staying in a town or city for a while, walk around the cities and see the sights this way. Walking is a great way to experience new places at a slower pace, and it is a great option if the distances are not too great.
Travel Better in Bali
Getting around Bali can sometimes be challenging, but with so many transport options available, you should not have any real difficulty choosing the best way to see the country.
Travelling around takes some careful planning and research, so consider all your options for getting around, and then travel with greater ease when you arrive in Bali.
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Oliver Sherwin loves to travel, especially to Bali, and has done so for many years now. Once home, he shares his travel experiences with others online. You can find his engaging posts on many blogs, including travel and vacation sites.
