Bali tour packages from Singapore offered by travel agencies are many and varied. The tour package ranges from a 2-day to a 7-day program and the accommodation type and price range usually differ. The type of Bali tour package from Singapore also comes in a variety of choices, such as theme parks package, golf package, resort/villa/or beach package/sightseeing and other kind of attractions.
Whichever tour package you choose, there are travel tips that you should bear in mind about Bali, which may be valuable to you on your vacation, especially for first-time visitor to this Island of God.
1. Expect crowds
Bali is one of the most popular islands for tourists on earth, so it can be difficult to escape the throngs of tourists especially in the primary tourist centres. If you don’t like crowds, head to the central mountains or the north and west coasts which are more chilled-out areas in Bali.
2. Choose your base carefully
Just like other major tourist destinations in Indonesia, Bali has its own share of heavy traffic jam. The chaotic traffic and hot weather will likely make you stick close to your hotel or guesthouse rather than wander far on foot or sin in stuffy taxis. So, if you like shopping and eating, Nusa Lembongan is the best place to be.
3. Don’t fret about 'Bali belly'
Food adventure is common to most travellers. So strict dietary habits or fear of stomach upset are no longer required. There are many kitchens or eateries in Bali that offer good quality organic produce. At the end of the day, however, it is still your decision whether to indulge yourself in different local delicacies.
4. Dress for the occasion
Beachwear doesn’t always cut it in Bali – many high-end bars, restaurants and clubs enforce a dress code. Hence, it is advisable to pack at least one formal outfit - casual dress and casual footwear, just in case you need it.
5. Respect religious customs
Religion rules in Bali. Always dress modestly (covering the shoulders and knees) and conduct yourself appropriately when visiting temples and holy sites. Aside from wearing appropriate clothes, don’t make any noise when you’re inside the temples. Respect is the key.
6. Different price tags
It’s still possible to visit Bali on a shoestring by staying in a guesthouses, dining at warungs and shopping at local markets, but you can just as easily blow your life savings as drinks, meals, spa treatments and room rates at high-end establishments are priced similarly to that in Australia, the UK and the US. So, you should set a budget for your Bali tour package from Singapore to avoid overspending.
7. Be cautious of wild and stray animals
Keep wild and stray animals at a distance. They may look cute and adorable, but rabies and other diseases are serious risks in Bali and monkeys are notorious for their thieving ways. Bali’s stray dogs are numerous, and often in pretty bad shape. Be vigilant always.
8. Avoid plastic water bottles
Bali’s heat and humidity calls for constant hydration, but consider the environment before purchasing another bottled drink. An estimated three million plastic bottles are discarded in Bali each month; help reduce this figure by investing in a stainless steel bottle that you can refill; most good cafes and restaurants have a water filter available that you can use for free or for a small fee.
9. Learn some local lingo
A few basic words of Bahasa Indonesia will take you a long way in Bali, such as selamat pagi (good morning), tolong (please) and terima kasih (thank you), for starters. Learning a few of their mother tongue can help you communicate with the locals.
10. Take note of the weather
Be mindful of Bali’s rainy season (January to April and October to November) when planning your trip. Obviously, you can’t enjoy the beach and sunbathing if it rains all day. Check the weather before booking the package.
11. Bargain respectfully
You can bargain for many items and services in Bali, but do so respectfully and with a smile on your face. You’ll know when the vendor has reached their limit, and at that point don’t push it. If the seller doesn’t come after you, you can be sure they aren’t prepared to drop their price any lower.
12. Respect the ocean
Bali's powerful waves, strong currents and exposed rocks can be treacherous, so take care, and don't swim alone unless you are completely confident in doing so. If you are going on an island hopping with a group, don’t try to leave the group without informing the guide - you might be left behind.
13. Don’t stress
Bali is generally safer than most newspaper headlines suggest, but with close to four million tourists hitting its shores every year, it’s statistically natural that some travellers may have problems. Party safe; always wear a helmet when riding a bike or scooter; be respectful; and don’t do anything you wouldn’t do in your home country; and you're on track for a memorable travel experience through Bali tour package from Singapore.