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Renting a Self-Drive Car in Bali: A Complete Guide

Looking to rent a self-drive car rental in Bali? Bali is renowned for its countless tourist attractions, such as beautiful rows of beaches, stunning landscapes, shady forests, breathtaking views, and captivating historical buildings.

However, joining a Bali cruise can be quite challenging depending on the schedules of other group members. If you're part of a tour group, it may not be possible to change the itinerary to suit your needs. Fortunately, you can avoid this by obtaining an international driving license. Without one, renting a car of your own on the island may prove to be a difficult task.

If you're an experienced driver and are planning to invite friends and family, renting a car yourself is a great idea. With a self-drive car rental in Bali, you can explore the island at your own pace and enjoy the views on your own time with your loved ones. So, go ahead and plan your Bali itinerary and make the most of your trip with a self-drive car rental!

If you're planning on renting a car in Bali, there are a few requirements that you need to keep in mind. Firstly, it is mandatory to present your international driver's license when renting a car. If you don't have one, don't worry, as you can obtain a driving license at the police station in Denpasar. However, do note that this license is usually only valid for one month.

When it comes to self-drive car rentals in Bali, they typically have manual transmission and always go straight. So, make sure you're comfortable with driving a stick shift before renting a car.

It's important to note that car rental packages in Bali don't always include insurance coverage. Therefore, you should inquire with the rental car company about the insurance coverage they offer. Often, insurance coverage is billed as an additional item on top of the rental fee, so it's best to clarify the details beforehand.

Before You Start Choosing A Self Drive Car Rental In Bali, Please Note The Following:

Before choosing a self-drive car rental in Bali, there are a few important things that you should keep in mind. Firstly, make sure to thoroughly inspect the vehicle for any existing damage or issues before signing the rental agreement. If you fail to bring any issues to the dealer's attention, you may be held liable and charged for any damage that was already present in the car.

Additionally, it's always a good idea to test drive the rental car before paying for it. This way, you can make sure that the brake pedal, handbrake, and clutch are all functioning properly.

Keep in mind that fuel costs are typically not included in the rental price, so you will need to factor in this additional expense.

Driving conditions in Bali can be quite different from what you might be used to in the United States or Europe. Drivers tend to follow their own set of rules, and it can sometimes seem like there are no rules at all. During festive processions, roads may be arbitrarily closed, and during seasons like Galungan, drivers who are unfamiliar with normal road rules may only give way if their vehicle is smaller than yours. Additionally, motorcycles in Bali often change lanes without warning, so it's important to stay alert and cautious while driving. The road network in Bali can also be confusing, especially if you are not familiar with the area.

Essential Advice for Renting a Self-Drive Car in Bali

Proper driver's license. If you're planning on driving in Bali, it's important to have a proper driver's license. Even if you're just planning on renting a motorbike, you'll still need a license. To be on the safe side, it's a good idea to obtain an international driver's license before you leave for Bali. You can get one from AAA in the US for around $15 USD, and you'll need to bring your regular driver's license and two passport photos. Alternatively, you can get a temporary Bali driver's license (also known as a tourist driver's license) for around US$30 at the Denpasar police station. If you need help finding the station, your hotel or guest house should be able to provide directions.

Start slowly and drive safely. The speed limit when driving in Bali ranges between 40 to 70 km/h due to hazardous road conditions, including large potholes and loose rocks. It's recommended to drive slowly and steadily to avoid any mishaps. As a tourist, you definitely don't want to end up in an accident. Shockingly, over 150 motorcycle accidents are reported daily in Bali, and it's likely that a significant number of those involve inexperienced tourists who have never ridden a motorcycle before.

To honk is to let others know that you are there or that you will succeed The Balinese are known for their politeness and patience, even when it comes to slow drivers. They won't honk their horns to rush you, but rather, they'll simply go around you if necessary. However, if they need to alert you of their presence, such as when passing you on your blind side, they'll use their horn to ensure your safety and avoid any accidents.

Always put a seat-belt on During my first night in Bali, I witnessed a car accident. Although Bali's traffic is generally calm and not very intimidating, taking precautions such as wearing a seat belt is always a wise decision when planning to rent a car for self-driving in Bali or any other country.

Stay on the highway’s left side In the US, making left turns can be intimidating due to parked cars, but in Bali, it's a breeze thanks to their left-side driving. However, if you're not confident in your driving abilities in Bali, consider using a car rental service with a driver or hiring a private driver to make navigating the roads stress-free.

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Choosing the Perfect Location for Your Bali Vacation: A Comprehensive Guide

If you're planning a trip to Bali, you're in for a treat. This magical island is a true paradise with endless things to see and do, including rice fields, volcanoes, waterfalls, beautiful beaches, temples, and amazing restaurants and bars. However, with so much to offer, it can be difficult to decide where to stay on the island.

As a seasoned Bali traveler, I've put together a comprehensive guide to help you choose the perfect location for your tropical vacation. Whether you're on a budget or looking for affordable luxury, Bali has something to offer everyone.

One important thing to keep in mind when planning your Bali vacation is the island's weather. Bali has warm weather all year round, with two main seasons: the dry season (April to September) and the wet season (October to March). During the wet season, it typically rains every day, although the rain is usually short-lived and followed by lush greenery. However, it can also be very hot and humid during this time.

To ensure the best experience possible, it's best to avoid traveling to Bali in February, as heavy rainfall can put a damper on your outdoor activities. By choosing the right time to visit and the perfect location to stay, you'll be well on your way to experiencing the best that Bali has to offer.

If you're planning a trip to Bali, choosing the right time to visit is crucial. While the high season in Bali is during July and August, which is the peak of the dry season, the island becomes extremely crowded, and hotel prices skyrocket compared to other months.

For a more relaxed and affordable experience, the best months to visit Bali are May, June, and September. During these months, the weather is still beautiful, but the crowds are much thinner, making it easier to enjoy all that Bali has to offer without feeling overwhelmed. Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or an action-packed adventure, Bali has something to offer during these months.

Best Places To Stay in Bali

Are you planning a trip to Bali, but don't know where to stay? With so many options, choosing the right area can be a daunting task. Each area offers a unique experience, and it's important to find the one that best fits your interests and preferences.

For those looking for a surfer's paradise with a vibrant party scene, Kuta is a great choice. However, it can be overcrowded with tourists and construction, and the beaches have become quite polluted.

Seminyak is a central area that boasts sunset beach bars, luxury restaurants, great shopping, and accommodations ranging from budget to luxury. Although it can be a bit overcrowded and pricier than other areas, it's the perfect place for affordable luxury accommodation.

Canggu is an up and coming area that offers stunning views of rice fields, affordable private villas, and great cafes and restaurants. Although it's a bit calmer than other areas and online taxis or bikes are not allowed, it's the perfect destination for laid-back boho-chic beach lovers.

Uluwatu is famous for its upscale clifftop resorts and beach clubs, perfect for those seeking peace and serenity. Although it's secluded and a bit of a drive from the main area in Seminyak, it offers amazing luxury resorts with views of the Indian Ocean.

If you're looking for a peaceful getaway surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, Ubud is the place to be. With endless rice fields, monkeys, temples, waterfalls, and volcanoes, it's the cultural hub of Bali. However, it's 2 hours away from the beach areas, and there isn't much to do at night.

Nusa Dua is a great option for families and water sports lovers. With loads of all-inclusive resorts and activities such as diving, snorkeling, and parasailing, it's perfect for those seeking a family getaway.

For a quiet escape away from the crowds, North Bali is the place to be. With stunning natural landscapes and friendly locals, it offers the most beautiful waterfalls, rice fields, and volcano views. Although it's far away from everything else, it's worth the trip.

Finally, Sanur is ideal for those seeking a relaxing beach getaway. With some very relaxing beaches that are great for families, it's perfect for a low-key vacation. However, there isn't much to do in the area.

Seminyak and Canggu are situated adjacent to each other, offering convenient access to Kuta, Uluwatu, and Nusa Dua.

If you're planning to explore Ubud, it's recommended to spend at least a few nights there instead of just a day trip. The area boasts numerous attractions such as breathtaking waterfalls and stunning temples, which are easily accessible from Ubud. Thus, it makes sense to make Ubud your base and discover other areas of Bali during your trip.

North Bali is an ideal destination for those with more than 10 days in Bali and who can spare at least 2 nights to visit there. The travel time from either Ubud or Canggu/Seminyak usually takes around 2-3 hours to get there. It's worth the extra travel time as North Bali is a beautiful and unique region of Bali that's worth exploring.

Affordable Hotels In Bali

Looking for affordable hotels with a private pool in Bali? Look no further! I've scoured the island and found the best options for under $150 a night.

Don't let a tight budget hold you back from experiencing the luxury and beauty of Bali. With these affordable accommodation options, you can soak up stunning views and relax in your own private pool without breaking the bank.

Whether you're traveling on a budget or just looking to save some money on accommodation, these hotels offer the perfect balance of luxury and affordability. So go ahead, book that dream vacation to Bali without the worry of overspending on accommodations.

Volcano trekking in Bali

Bali is a beautiful place with plenty of activities to choose from, but one experience that should definitely be on your list is trekking up Mount Batur to watch the sunrise. This incredible journey takes about 2 hours uphill and another 2.5 hours downhill, but the breathtaking views at the top make it all worth it. To catch the sunrise, you'll need to start your hike in the wee hours of the morning at 2 AM, so it's a good idea to book a tour ahead of time to make sure you have everything you need for this unforgettable adventure.

Bali Swing

The Bali Swing is an activity that has become increasingly popular among visitors to Bali. There are two main locations to enjoy the swing, both of which offer stunning views in the background. These spots are located near each other in Ubud.

One of the Bali Swings is located within an Airbnb property known as Zen Hideaway. However, visitors should contact the property directly to ensure they can visit on their chosen day, as the property may be fully booked. If the property is booked, outsiders are not permitted to enter the premises solely to use the swing. The other Bali Swing is called Bali Swing, and it requires a small entrance fee of $2 in addition to a $20 fee to try out three different swings. Although it may seem pricey, the experience is definitely worth it. For those interested in this activity, here is some additional information to consider.

Is Bali Safe to Visit?

Bali is generally considered a safe place to visit, and many travelers have reported feeling safe during their stay. The locals in Bali are known for their warm and welcoming nature and are always ready to help visitors in need. However, as with any popular tourist destination, there are a few things to watch out for. Scammers and opportunistic individuals may try to take advantage of tourists, but with a little bit of awareness and common sense, you can easily avoid falling prey to their tricks. Overall, Bali is a great destination for solo travelers and families alike, with plenty of things to see and do while enjoying a safe and enjoyable trip.

Bali Travel Tips

Currency

The official currency used in Bali is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). To avoid any inconvenience during your trip, it's recommended to always have cash on hand as some places, especially in the markets, don't accept credit cards. While some upscale establishments may accept credit cards, it's worth noting that some might charge a fee of 3% for using your card.

Fortunately, there's no need to carry a large amount of cash while travelling in Bali as there are plenty of ATMs available on almost every street. You can even find them in most 24-hour supermarkets for added convenience.

Language

Indonesian is the primary language spoken in Bali, but many individuals in tourist areas also speak English fluently. Communication with locals is typically effortless, as they are known for being welcoming and accommodating to visitors.

Transportation

Motorbikes and Scooters

Getting around Bali can be challenging, especially when traffic is at its worst. One of the most popular and affordable ways to navigate the island is by riding a scooter. Transportation apps such as Go-Jek and Grab offer scooter options, where a driver will arrive and provide a helmet for your safety. This convenient mode of transportation typically costs only around $1 per ride.

If you're feeling confident in your scooter driving skills, you can also rent a scooter for as low as $3.3. However, it's important to note that driving in Bali can be chaotic, so make sure you have experience and take extra caution on the roads.

Taxis in Bali

When traveling in Bali, it's important to know the different types of taxis available to get around the island. Firstly, there are local taxi drivers who can be found on crowded streets. However, they often charge overpriced fixed fees, which can be negotiated most of the time.

Alternatively, transportation apps like Go-Jek and Grab offer cheaper taxi options, but be aware that local taxi drivers do not like them and have banned them in certain areas such as central Canggu or Seminyak. If you do use the apps, keep in mind that some drivers may ask for an additional fee, so be sure to cancel the ride and order a different car if that happens.

Finally, there are metered taxis, easily identifiable by their blue cars with the name "Bluebird". It's important to ensure that the drivers turn on the meter as some may try to charge a fixed price that's much higher than the metered fare.

Knowing these options can help you get around Bali in a safe and affordable way.