With the name ‘Bali’ in the forefront of so many Kratom users’ minds, it’s little surprise that at some point it might have crossed their minds to go there and see it for themselves.
With exportation banned, Bali Kratom doesn’t actually come from Bali, but is so named because of the association with this Indonesian island. Still, such a tropical paradise might well be on your bucket list of places to visit, Kratom production or not, so we’ve put together this brief guide to some of the delights this paradise has to offer.
About Bali
Bali is a small island in the Indian Ocean which measures just 95 miles across and 69 miles from North to South, but for such a small island it has a lot to offer. Part of Indonesia, Bali is one of the most popular of the 17,500 plus islands which make up the archipelago, and is certainly one of the most beautiful.
Although a popular tourist destination, with its fair share of ‘touristy’ attractions, Bali is also home to some spectacular scenery, including temples, corals, mountains, and of course, the famous Balinese beaches. It’s no wonder so many people flock to this incredible island every year.
Timing is Everything
As with most holiday destinations, Bali has a high season and a low season, and it pays to make sure you know which is which before you book your vacation, or you may not get as much out your time there as you would like.
April to September is the best time to visit, as it tends to be hot and dry, giving you ample hours of sunshine throughout the day in which to explore all of the island’s delights. With temperatures averaging a balmy 27C, and the sea temperatures even higher, it’s the perfect time to take a well-earned break and experience everything it has to offer.
From October to March, however, Bali’s rainy season arrives, and as the rain can range from torrential to monsoon, visiting at this time is probably best avoided. That said, if you are looking for a cheaper deal, September to December will get you the best price.
Rainfall aside, the temperatures in Bali rarely fluctuate, so it’s very warm all year round.
Be Prepared for the Crowds
Bali enjoys a huge tourist influx, which is great for the local economy but not so great if you’re looking for a quiet, relaxing vacation. Temper this by mixing up your itinerary. Spend one day in a popular attraction (if that’s what you want to do), followed by a day in the Central Mountains, or make your way to a less-populated beach such as those on the West Coast and then visit one of the beautiful but much-visited temples the following day.
Travelling on Bali
It might be a small island, but with so much to see you are going to want to get around as easily as possible. Public transport is scarce on Bali, but there are plenty of taxis, or you could rent a motorbike if you’re feeling adventurous, and mosey your way around the island. Getting about on two wheels is a popular mode of transport, and will enable you to go at your own pace and see the things you want to see.
Food Glorious Food
While eating on the island used to come with something of a health warning, things have progressed exponentially and it is now pretty safe to dine out. With the growth of tourism, hygiene standards within hotels and restaurants have improved massively, meaning it is no more dangerous to eat there than many other places. Exercise caution, especially with street vendors (which is the case anywhere in the world), and you will be able to enjoy a rich variety of delicious, spicy dishes which really shouldn’t be missed.
Dress to Impress
While Bali conjures up images of sarongs and swimwear, there will be occasions when more dressy attire is required. Being largely Hindu, there are many religious festivals and dates, as well as temples to visit, all of which would require a modicum of modesty. Likewise, if you are flying all the way to Bali you will want to experience the lively nightlife, so something more appropriate (i.e. dressy) will likely be needed.
Decide on the Type of Vacation you Want
Bali can be as expensive or as cheap as you want, and in fact, many people prefer the back-packing and guesthouse deals to the more upmarket hotel affairs, purely because they feel they may have a more authentic experience. Decide on your budget and then do your research – find out the places to eat, things to see, and attractions to visit which fit within your price range and stick to it, that way, you won’t be stressing about finances during the second week when you’ve blown your budget on the first!
Watch your Language
While English is widely spoken just about everywhere, and certainly in Bali, it pays to learn a few basic words and phrases, if for no other reason than to see the delight on the Balinese people’s faces when they realize you’ve taken the time and trouble to learn a few words of their language.
We’ve started you off with a few here, just to whet your appetite:
Hello – Swastyastu
My name is… – Tiang…
Pleased to meet you – Angayu bagia kacunduk sareng ragane
Goodbye – Rahajeng memargi
Yes – Inggih
No – Ten
Do you speak English? – Bapa bisa basa Inggris?
How much is this? – Aji kuda niki?
Please – Tempat
Thankyou – Suksema
Make sure you take a phrasebook with you, if only to show to the bewildered Balinese person who can’t understand what you’re trying to say!
As with anything, you will get out of a trip to Bali what you put in, so do your research, know what to expect, and you’ll have the trip of a lifetime.