From the stunning beaches of Bali to the ancient temples of Borobudur and the lush jungles of Borneo, Indonesia has something for every type of traveler.
Bali is just one of Indonesia’s many islands (there are more than 17,000 of them), but it’s easy to see why it’s also the most popular. It’s still one of the best places in Asia to visit on a budget.
$40 dollars a day should be manageable for the most thrifty travellers, though prices do vary greatly depending on where you are on the island.
One way to save money in Bali is to travel there outside peak season (which means avoiding the school summer holidays and the period around Christmas and New Year).
Another way you can keep to a tight budget is to eat in warungs – cheap local restaurants that serve a wide variety of delicious Indonesian dishes. And to keep travel costs to a minimum, you might consider renting a motorbike for just $5 a day!
Bali is surprisingly diverse and has something to satisfy all kinds of travellers.
The southern part of the island sees the most tourists as it is home to the main city Denpasar and to the surf resort Kuta Beach. If you like crowds and parties, these destinations are for you.
If you prefer a less hectic and more authentic experience, venture further away and see what else Bali has to offer. Like Central Bali, which is the cultural heart of the island and full of Hindu temples, traditional villages, verdant mountains and gorgeous waterfalls.
Ubud is a great place to see a cultural dance performance, visit a spa (sometimes you need to splash out and treat yourself) or buy Balinese arts and crafts.
For wild nature, empty beaches, great diving and top-class surfing, make your way to West Bali – the least populated and visited part of the island.
East Bali boasts the mighty Mount Agung, lush rainforest, traditional fishing villages, an active volcano and stunning rice terraces. It’s also where you can take a ferry to the nearby island of Lombok.
Other islands you may want to visit while you’re in Bali are Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Penida – all great destinations to enjoy everything beach life has to offer (which in Bali also means awesome surf, diving and snorkelling).