Bali is a beautiful island in Indonesia. It’s highly sought after by many foreign and local Indonesian tourists because of its stunning beaches and rich culture. According to data collected by the Bali Central Bureau of Statistics, the island gets over 200,000 tourists monthly, arriving by air and sea.
One common problem many tourists face while in Bali is the heavy traffic. Due to the high volume of travelers, some people find this encounter overwhelming and too crowded for their taste, taking away the relaxing tropical experience they desire to have when visiting Bali. It doesn’t help that Bali has the narrowest streets, even on roads that lead to tourist hotspots like beach clubs, restaurants, and resorts.
However, despite these complications, many people still enjoy their time in Bali and keep the stress of heavy traffic and small streets from getting in the way of their dream vacation. Here are some of the best ways to go around Bali and enjoy the tropical paradise without dealing with too much traffic.
Book accommodation close to tourist hotspots
When looking for the ideal accommodation in Bali, find a place close to the attractions, beaches, clubs, and restaurants. Doing so will remove the need to hail a taxi or rent a car. Walking will be your best bet when going around Bali. It won’t only be good exercise but also a great way to immerse yourself in Bali’s solid cultural presence because anywhere you look, there’s always something captivating to see.
On top of the location, it is also vital to consider the facilities, the services, and the view. The accommodation can make or break your vacation experience because it will be your home away from home. Luckily, Bali has many accommodation options, from hostels and bed & breakfasts to luxury villas, hotels, and resorts – you just need to book the one that will satisfy you when you’re in and out of its walls.
Rent a motorbike
Many visitors in Bali rent and use a motorbike to get around Bali. For many, it is the ideal mode of travel around the island because it can get you into narrow streets and heavy traffic. It’s more accessible than a car and, similar to walking, you’d still have a chance to look around and be exposed to the streets of Bali and see the beautiful display of cultural expressions.
However, ensure you possess a valid international driver’s license before considering this option. Many, if not all, bike rental companies will require a look at it before they allow you to drive and operate their vehicle. If you don’t have an international driver’s license, there are other ways to utilize motorbikes as your way around the island.
Utilize ride-sharing apps
Ride-sharing apps are very popular in Bali. Locals and tourists alike utilize ride-sharing apps not only to travel around Bali but also to get food delivered. Two of the top-rated ride-sharing apps in Bali are Gojek and Grab.
These ride-sharing apps are accessible to anyone with a phone and internet connection. To utilize it, you will need to have the app installed on your phone, and it’s smooth sailing from there. You can use the apps to book a ride to any part of Bali – the vehicles available on the car range from motorcycles to 4-seater and 6-seater cars.
Gojek and Grab also offer food delivery. If you’re too tired to dine out after a long day of touring the island, you may use these apps to purchase food from any restaurant or fast-food establishment and deliver it to your accommodation.
Take the long way there
Most major roads that lead to famous restaurants, tourist attractions, and beach clubs would be filled with cars and motorcycles. At some point, all roads will lead to that street in front of the well-known establishment, swarming with people trying to get in; however, before that, you can find alternative routes that would have fewer cars and a smoother, more immersive journey.
These alternative routes will likely mean you’ll be taking the long way to your destination – a path fewer people would take because it might go all the way around the island. It doesn’t make sense to some, but to others, it may be the best way to experience Bali. Taking the long way to your destination means you’ll be able to see different parts of Bali – wander over rice fields, cliffsides, and forests. You will need the help of a navigation app on your phone so that you won’t get lost.
Hire a local driver who knows their way around
You may also seek the help of local professional drivers because they know their way around Bali and aim to get you to your destination through the most efficient route. These local drivers are also wise and well-informed about the best places to go in Bali. They will recommend where you can shop for souvenirs or have the best food on the island.
When visiting any country in the world, the locals are your best bet in getting your way around, whether they’re your driver, a hotel concierge, a supermarket cashier, or a random pedestrian you’re asking directions from. So it’s important to respect the locals as they welcomed you to their home and were more than willing to share the glory of their motherland.
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Featured Image: Ross Jones | Getty Images
