Over the last few years Bali has become a popular travel destination for many tourists all around the world. I cannot say that it really did good for the small Island. When I arrived, I stayed a few days in Kuta and had already feared that Bali had lost its magic. Kuta, Canggu and Seminyak are very touristic areas with a lot of resorts and so most of the locals job is to profit from the tourism. Everyone will offer you a ride by asking you “Taxi? Taxi?”, and sometimes they are very cunning, trying to overcharge you every time. Don’t go unprepared otherwise you will spend much more money, than you actually have calculated. For example, a Taxi ride to Kuta is never more than 90'000 RUPEES and to Ubud it’s around 300'000. Don’t show them you are the first time in Bali and always, really always bargain, especially at the market. They demand 3x the real prize. If you are not good in barging or, just like me, sometimes not in the mood, there are several stores that are around the same prices as the market and the ware is labeled, no barging just peaceful shopping.

I don’t want to lower your expectations, just know that Bali has become a really well-known travel destination for people around the world and it has tourists almost all around the year. Despite that, I truly think you should explore the Island and also the ones close by.

(if you like to travel to “unknown” destinations, check out my list)