Bali is a tropical paradise that conjures up images of pristine beaches, lush jungles, and unique culture. While it has a reputation for being an expensive destination, Bali can actually be experienced on a budget. Here are some tips to enjoy Bali for $30 or less per day.
Stay in a homestay. Homestays, or budget guesthouses, are popular in Bali. You can find basic but clean rooms with a fan for around $10 to $15 per night. Some homestays also offer bike rentals to get around.
Eat at a warung. Warungs are local restaurants that serve up delicious and affordable Indonesian fare, like nasi campur, gado gado, and soto ayam. A full meal will cost between $1 to $3.
Explore the countryside. Bali’s natural scenery is stunning. Go for a hike at Uluwatu, cycle through Ubud’s rice fields, or visit a waterfall like Gitgit. The entrance fees are minimal, ranging from $1 to $3.
Check out a temple. Bali is known for its many Hindu temples, like Uluwatu and Tanah Lot. While some temples charge an entrance fee, many are free to visit. Be sure to dress conservatively.
Relax on the beach. Bali is surrounded by beaches, from the popular Kuta and Seminyak to secluded spots like Amed and Pemuteran. Most beaches are open to the public and free to access.
Learn to cook. Take a cooking class to learn how to make Indonesian specialties. Classes typically last a few hours and cost between $15 to $30, including meals and recipes to take home.
Get a massage. After exploring the island, treat yourself to a relaxing Balinese massage. You can get an hour-long massage for as little as $5. Look for spas that use natural oils and employ traditional techniques.
Watch a traditional dance. Bali is known for unique dances, like the Barong dance and Kecak fire dance. Shows are performed regularly at many resorts and cost around $3 to $10 for entrance.
Shop at a local market. Bali’s colorful markets offer everything from beachwear and handicrafts to spices and fresh produce. Bargain hard and you can get good deals for under $10. Popular markets include Ubud Art Market and Sanur Night Market.
The key to experiencing Bali on a budget is to live like a local. Eat at warungs, stay in a homestay, and use public transit to get around. Take advantage of Bali’s natural scenery and cultural activities, most of which are very budget-friendly. By following these tips, you can easily enjoy the tropical paradise of Bali for $30 or less per day.