Bali Tourism

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  • Bali Weather in December: What It’s Really Like (From a Local Driver Who Drives Around All Day)

    Bali Weather in December: What It’s Really Like (From a Local Driver Who Drives Around All Day)

    Alright, let’s be real here — if you’re googling Bali weather in December, you’re probably asking one of three things:

    1. Is it raining non-stop?
    2. Should I still come?
    3. Can I still get nice pics for the ‘Gram?

    And as someone who drives tourists, surfers, couples, and the occasional adventure-junkie every day across this island… let me tell ya, December’s weather in Bali ain’t as simple as “wet season equals bad.”

    Spoiler alert: it’s still a good time to come. You just need to know how to do December right.

    Read also: Problems with Living in Bali

    So, Does It Rain a Lot in Bali in December?

    Yeah, it rains. But hold on — it’s not what you think. It’s not like the sky’s falling 24/7. Most days, it goes something like this: sunny in the morning, then around 3–4pm the clouds roll in like they’re planning something… and boom, you get that classic tropical downpour. Heavy rain, maybe thunder, but usually done in an hour or two.

    In places like Ubud or Munduk, it rains more often and a bit earlier in the day. But down in Seminyak, Canggu, or Uluwatu? You’ll often get long stretches of dry mornings — perfect for beach-hopping or scooter-cruising. Just don’t forget a poncho, trust me. I’ve seen way too many people try to outrun Bali rain on a scooter. Never ends well.

    Quick local tip: If you’re planning a temple visit, go early morning. Like real early. Most ceremonies happen early, and you beat both crowds and clouds. Win-win.

    What’s the Temperature in December?

    Hot and humid, baby. Think mid-to-high 20s°C (77–86°F) most of the time. Some days it touches 30°C (that’s like 86°F+), and the humidity makes it feel warmer. The kind of weather where you step outside and immediately question your choice of dark T-shirt.

    But hey, that’s part of the charm. December’s heat makes that first coconut or cold Bintang taste like a gift from the gods.

    Nights are warm, but not unbearable. You won’t need a jacket unless you’re up in Kintamani or Bedugul. Those mountainy areas get a bit chilly at night, like 17–19°C. I once had a couple from Sydney wearing shorts up there… they didn’t look happy.

    Is December a Good Time to Visit Bali?

    Honestly? Yeah. But you gotta manage expectations.

    Here’s the deal: December, especially mid-to-late, gets busy. Like, Aussie-school-holidays-and-Christmas-season kinda busy. Prices for hotels go up, traffic gets heavier, and you might wait longer for tables at popular warungs. But it also means everything’s buzzing. Beach clubs are alive, DJs are out, restaurants stay open late — Bali feels festive, even if it’s raining.

    Now, if you’re the type who dreams of peaceful rice paddies and no queues… maybe early December is better for you. Before the Christmas crowd hits. From Dec 1–15, it’s quieter, cheaper, and still plenty to do.

    Oh — and don’t worry, even in the rainy season, Bali doesn’t shut down. People still surf, hike, party, shop, and chill. I’ve driven honeymooners up to waterfalls in the rain, and they said it was the most romantic thing ever. Go figure.

    What Should You Pack for Bali in December?

    Don’t pack like you’re going to Europe. Leave the heavy jeans at home. Bring:

    • Light clothes that dry quick (linen’s your friend).
    • Waterproof bag for your gadgets.
    • Flip-flops and something more sturdy for hikes or slippery sidewalks.
    • Poncho or foldable umbrella (you can buy them here, but local shops will upcharge during rainstorms).
    • Mosquito repellent — yeah, more rain means more mozzies.

    I’ve seen people bring rain boots… nah. Don’t do that. Just be smart and plan indoor stuff in the afternoons when it rains more.

    Oh, and pack some patience. Rain can mess with traffic. I’ve been stuck in Ubud for 2 hours during a flash flood once — not fun.

    What About Surfing in December?

    Good question. Bali’s dry season (May–Sept) is technically better for surfing on the west coast (Canggu, Uluwatu, Kuta). But in December, things shift.

    Now the east coast lights up — spots like Keramas, Nusa Dua, and Serangan are where it’s at. Winds blow from the west, making the east coast glassy and sweet. If you’re a surfer, it’s actually a solid time to go east. Fewer crowds too, since not everyone knows the season’s flipped.

    I drove a German couple down to Keramas last year. Dude surfed for 3 hours straight, came out grinning like he won the lottery. Said it was “way better than expected.”

    So yeah — still surf season. Just different spots.

    Can You Still Get Good Photos in December?

    Totally. Just plan right. Rainy season skies are actually pretty dramatic. Think big clouds, lush green landscapes, and those steamy vibes that make Bali feel like a jungle movie set.

    Rice terraces in December? Super green. Waterfalls? Way more flow. Beaches after the rain? Sometimes less crowded, especially if you catch that dry window in the morning.

    Just keep your phone or camera dry. I’ve seen influencers lose their gear trying to snap the perfect waterfall shot in a downpour. Not worth it, mate.

    Best time for golden light? Around 6am–7am. And again around 5:30pm before sunset — if the clouds don’t block it. But cloudy skies actually give softer light, which photographers love.

    What’s Christmas Like in Bali?

    It’s fun. Not “winter wonderland” fun, but palm trees with fairy lights, beach bars doing holiday cocktails, and restaurants offering Christmas dinner — from Aussie-style BBQs to full-on roasted turkey if you know where to go.

    Hotels decorate. Some villas hire Balinese dancers or put on gamelan shows for guests. I’ve even seen Santa riding a scooter in Legian once. No joke.

    Just book early. Like I said, hotels fill up. And prices spike closer to the 25th. I always tell my guests — if you want a beachfront villa for Christmas week, better lock it in by October.

    How’s the Traffic in December?

    I won’t sugarcoat it: it’s a bit of a mess, especially after the 20th. Kuta, Seminyak, and even Ubud get packed. Airport pickups can take double the usual time.

    But it’s manageable if you know a few tricks:

    • Leave early. Like, sunrise-early.
    • Use a local driver (like me 😎) who knows the shortcuts and side roads.
    • Avoid peak hour: 4pm–7pm is the worst.
    • Don’t overpack your day. Pick 2–3 things max, and give yourself breathing room.

    I once had a guest try to do Uluwatu, Ubud, and Tanah Lot in one day — during Christmas week. We spent more time in the van than out of it.

    Is It a Good Time to Shop?

    December’s actually a decent time for shopping — especially before Christmas. Markets are lively, boutiques offer end-of-year sales, and malls like Beachwalk or Mall Bali Galeria get festive.

    Rainy afternoons are perfect for browsing through local markets or sipping coffee in a shop while your partner tries on their 12th sarong. That’s my life half the time.

    And because it’s the wet season, you’ll see more artists and crafters hanging out in places like Ubud. Good time to buy paintings, woodwork, handmade bags… all that beautiful stuff.

    What Kind of Tours or Activities Still Work in December?

    Okay, you might wanna skip Mt. Batur sunrise hikes (cloudy mornings kill the view), but there’s still tons to do:

    • Waterfall hunting (Tegenungan, Sekumpul, Nungnung — all epic with more water flow)
    • Spa days — nothing like getting a massage while it rains outside
    • Cooking classes — get indoors and learn to make sate lilit
    • Temple tours (just bring a brolly)
    • Cultural shows — Legong dance is indoors in many spots
    • Surf lessons — still happening, just watch the tides

    I always suggest mixing outdoor and indoor stuff. That way, if it rains, you’ve still got a solid day planned.

    If you’re thinking about whether or not to visit during the Bali weather in December, just know it’s not as scary as some forums make it sound. You just need to go with the flow — literally.

    You’ll still sweat, swim, eat like a king, and see sunsets (between clouds). The island doesn’t stop because of a bit of rain. Locals keep living, ceremonies go on, and the beauty’s still here — just maybe a little more wet.

    Sure! Here’s the continuation of the blog post about Bali weather in December, written in your casual, helpful, persuasive tone — like a 40-something private driver chatting with a tourist friend. I’ll pick up right where we left off and continue to keep it detailed, human, and SEO-friendly.

    Is December a Good Month for a Beach Holiday in Bali?

    Alright, let’s not pretend December is some perfect beach month like July. But hey — don’t count it out either.

    Most mornings in December? Still sunny. That golden Bali sun still shows up. If you’re up early, you’ll catch long stretches of dry time, especially before lunch. I’ve driven people down to Melasti or Bingin for early dips, and the sand was warm, the water clear. No issues. Then around 2 or 3pm, clouds start getting bossy. Sometimes they just tease you, other times… yep, full-on downpour.

    So if you’re after lazy beach days, just time it right. I always tell my guests — get your tan in early, and save the afternoons for spa, lunch, shopping or just chillin’ in a cafe.

    Also, some beaches can get messy after a storm. West coast spots like Seminyak or Legian sometimes get debris from rivers after heavy rain. Nothing dangerous — just driftwood, leaves, that kinda stuff. But it can make the beach look less “Instagram-perfect.” East coast like Sanur? Usually cleaner this time of year.

    Good to know: Some beachfront bars bring out big umbrellas and beanbags no matter the weather. You can still sip your cocktail under cover, watching the rain hit the sea. Kinda romantic, honestly.

    What’s Nature Like in Bali During December?

    Honestly? Freakin’ lush. This is when the island wakes up and gets its deep green back.

    Rice fields? Insanely vibrant. I drove a couple from Canada out to Jatiluwih rice terraces mid-December — they were speechless. Like, literally just stood there taking 500 pics. Water was flowing through the fields, everything felt alive. And the air smells earthy after rain. You can’t bottle that smell, man.

    Waterfalls also come alive in December. If you’ve ever seen photos of Bali’s waterfalls during the dry season — yeah, nice, but kinda weak. In the rainy season? They’re roaring. Tegenungan looks powerful. Sekumpul? Like a mini Niagara Falls. Just wear good shoes — trails get muddy, and I’ve seen more than one tourist slip trying to selfie near a wet rock.

    The jungle areas — like around Ubud or north Bali — feel like another world. More rain, more mist, more monkeys (sometimes a few too many monkeys). It’s Bali in full bloom.

    What Food is Best to Try During Rainy Season?

    Rainy season eats different. I swear food tastes better when it’s drizzling outside.

    Locals tend to eat warm, spicy stuff when the rain rolls in. You gotta try:

    • Soto Ayam – a hot chicken soup with turmeric, egg, and a bit of spice. Perfect when you’re wet and chilled.
    • Bakso – meatball soup. Served hot in street carts. Bonus: it’s cheap and filling.
    • Bubur Ayam – kind of like chicken congee. Real comfort food. You’ll see locals queuing for this in the mornings when it’s cloudy.

    And nothing beats a warm kopi Bali (Balinese coffee) with fried banana after a wet hike. Small warungs often serve this combo — ask your driver to take you to a local spot, not the touristy ones. I’ve got a few favorites I don’t share on Google Maps. Gotta keep some secrets, right?

    Plus, since afternoons are often rainy, it’s a great time to hit cafes. Ubud and Canggu are full of cozy spots with jungle or rice field views. I always recommend cafes with indoor seating during December — open-air is fun until you get caught in a sideways storm.

    Should You Book a Villa or Hotel in December?

    Ah, the ol’ villa vs hotel debate.

    If you’re coming in early December, you’ll score decent prices on private villas. Many of them have outdoor living rooms — which are beautiful, but slightly annoying when a big storm hits and blows rain sideways onto your couch. Trust me, I’ve seen guests trying to eat breakfast while dodging water dripping off the roof.

    If you’re staying in a villa, check that the living spaces are at least partly enclosed. And make sure there’s good drainage — you don’t want your garden pool to become a swamp.

    Hotels, especially bigger ones, are safer bets for comfort in December. Most have backup generators, proper drainage, enclosed lobbies, room service — all that. You won’t get caught outside in a towel when the sky opens up.

    That said, I’ve had guests who loved their villa even during heavy rain. They said it made it feel more “tropical.” One couple told me the sound of rain on the thatched roof was the best part of their stay.

    Best tip: Book early, especially for Christmas week. Even the not-so-famous hotels get full. Last-minute bookings in December? Stressful. Don’t do it.

    What About Island Hopping or Nusa Penida in December?

    Okay, here’s where things get a bit trickier.

    Island hopping — like heading to Nusa Penida, Lembongan, or Gili Trawangan — is still possible, but not always smooth sailing. Literally. The sea can get rough in December, especially if there’s a big storm system.

    Fast boat schedules sometimes get delayed or canceled. I’ve had guests stranded in Penida for an extra day because the boats stopped running due to waves. That’s not super common, but it happens. You gotta be flexible if you’re planning side trips like this.

    If you do go — keep an eye on the weather the day before. Ask locals or your driver if the sea’s been choppy. And maybe don’t book your island trip the day before your flight. Just in case.

    But man, when the weather’s good, December in Nusa Penida is still a dream. Fewer tourists, cooler temps, and all that epic scenery. Kelingking Beach with dramatic cloudy skies? That’s a desktop wallpaper shot right there.

    Best Time in December to Visit Bali?

    Honestly, the sweet spot is the first two weeks of December.

    Here’s why:

    • Prices are still reasonable (not Christmas peak yet)
    • Crowds are lighter — school holidays haven’t gone full throttle
    • Weather is still mixed but manageable
    • Restaurants and bars aren’t slammed yet
    • You can still score a nice villa without paying triple

    By the time December 20th rolls around, it’s full festive mode. That means more traffic, higher prices, louder beach clubs, and families everywhere. Some people love that — it’s fun, don’t get me wrong. But if you’re into more chill vibes, aim earlier in the month.

    I’ve spent over 15 years driving around Bali in every month of the year — rain, shine, ceremonies, chaos, everything. December’s not perfect, but it’s still Bali, man. Still magical. Still full of color, culture, and those surprise moments that stick with you long after you leave.

    Just don’t let the word “rainy season” scare you off. The rain cools things down, the landscape looks like a postcard, and there’s still plenty to do if you plan it right.

    If you’re ever unsure where to go, what weather to expect in a certain area, or whether your plan makes sense for December… ask your driver. We live this island every day. And most of us have a backup plan if your beach day turns into a thunderstorm.

  • Problems with Living in Bali – What Most Folks Don’t Talk About

    Problems with Living in Bali – What Most Folks Don’t Talk About

    Alright, lemme be real with you—Bali’s got that tropical magic, sure. Beaches, rice fields, smoothie bowls with flowers on top… yeah, it’s a postcard. But here’s the thing most digital nomads and influencers ain’t gonna post on their stories: living in Bali comes with its own bag of problems. I’ve been a Bali private driver for over 15 years, chatting with expats, tourists, locals, and everyone in between. And trust me, behind those dreamy Instagram feeds, there’s a lot people don’t see.

    So yeah, this isn’t me bashing my home. I love Bali. But if you’re thinking about packing up and moving here, especially long term, you need to know what you’re getting into. The main keyword here is problems with living in Bali, and I’m gonna dive deep. No sugarcoating.

    Read also: How Far is Bali from Thailand

    Visas in Bali – It Ain’t as Simple as It Sounds

    Now let’s start with the most annoying thing for many expats and digital nomads: visas. You’d think with all the bule (foreigners) floating around Canggu, there’d be a solid system, right? Nah. It’s a bit of a headache.

    Most people come in on a 30-day visa-on-arrival, which you can extend once, giving you 60 days max. After that? Gotta leave the country and come back. That’s called a visa run. Used to be folks would pop over to Singapore or KL for a weekend, come back fresh. But rules keep changing, and during COVID it got messy.

    Now there’s the B211A visa – kinda like a social visa – which lets you stay up to 6 months. Sounds great, right? But you need a local sponsor. That’s where agents come in. Some are good, some not so much. I’ve had clients who paid millions of rupiah (we’re talking IDR here, but still) and their visa got rejected or delayed. And trust me, Indonesian bureaucracy? It’s not fast.

    Always double-check your visa agent. Ask other expats for referrals. I’ve got a few regular drivers from Australia and Germany who ONLY use the same lady in Denpasar because she’s never failed ’em.

    Internet and Electricity – Bali’s Got Mood Swings

    This one’s a biggie for folks working online. Bali’s got decent Wi-Fi in the main areas—Canggu, Seminyak, Ubud, Sanur. But the further out you go, the spottier it gets. One minute you’re uploading a big file for work, next minute… boom. Wi-Fi drops. Rainstorm comes in and the electricity flickers like it’s on a timer.

    During rainy season (November to March), power cuts are way more common. Especially up in the hills—like Ubud or Sidemen. You ever been on a Zoom call with a client in the U.S. and suddenly your whole house goes dark? Not fun.

    Some expats install generators. Not cheap. Coworking spaces like Dojo or BWork are reliable, but again, not free. And not everyone wants to spend every day in a shared space, ya know?

    If your job NEEDS a rock-solid internet connection 24/7, Bali might not be your best bet unless you’re based in one of the main towns and have a backup plan.

    Bali Belly Is Real – And It’s Not Just the Street Food

    You’d think after 10+ years, I’d be immune. But nope. Every few months, even locals like me get hit. Bali Belly’s the polite term for diarrhea and stomach troubles that hit tourists and expats after eating or drinking something “off.”

    A lotta people blame warung food (local street stalls), but honestly, I’ve seen folks get sick from posh beach clubs too. It’s not just the food. Sometimes it’s ice cubes. Or fruit washed in tap water. And don’t get me started on water—it’s not safe to drink from the tap here.

    I had a guest from Canada, lovely lady, stayed in Ubud. Ate at a vegan place every day. Got so sick she couldn’t leave her villa for 3 days. Missed her yoga retreat. Cried in the car when I took her to the clinic.

    Lesson here? Bring activated charcoal, always drink bottled water, and take it slow with the raw salads when you first arrive.

    Traffic and Driving in Bali – Absolute Madness

    Okay, lemme take a deep breath before I get into this one.

    Traffic in Bali? It’s chaos. Pure and simple. Especially around Canggu, Seminyak, and Denpasar. Roads are narrow, and most weren’t built for the amount of cars and bikes we’ve got now. There’s no real public transportation. So unless you’re walking distance to everything, you’ll need a scooter or car.

    Tourists on scooters? Man, that’s a whole different story. Half of ‘em don’t wear helmets. Some don’t know how to ride. Every week there’s accidents. Every. Week.

    Even locals get frustrated. You’ll be in a “shortcut” alley in Berawa and get stuck because two cars tried to squeeze past each other and now no one can move.

    Here’s a tip from someone who drives people around daily: If you ain’t confident on a scooter, don’t rent one. Get a driver. It’ll save your nerves and probably your knees.

    Healthcare – Not Awful, But Not Great Either

    We’ve got some decent private clinics, like BIMC or Siloam. For smaller stuff—fevers, Bali Belly, stitches—they’re okay. And they speak English. But if something serious happens? You don’t want to be stuck here.

    One of my regulars from Perth had a motorbike accident. Got banged up pretty bad. Hospital bills were around $7,000 AUD. Thank God he had insurance. But the worst part? He still had to be flown to Singapore for surgery.

    So yeah—get health insurance that covers evacuation. And don’t assume your travel insurance covers everything. Many don’t cover scooter accidents unless you’ve got an international license AND were wearing a helmet.

    The Cost of Living Isn’t That Cheap Anymore

    Bali used to be super cheap, but not so much now. Rent in Canggu? Man, some villas go for 25 to 30 million IDR per month ($1,600-$2,000 USD). That’s not cheap, especially when you consider the salaries locals make.

    Even basic things like eggs and rice have gone up. Tourism’s back, demand’s high, and everyone wants a piece of the pie. And if you’re a foreigner? You’re paying foreigner prices unless you know how to bargain or have a local friend help you out.

    I’ve seen folks move here thinking they’ll live off $800 a month. Maybe 10 years ago. Now? Unless you’re living far from the tourist zones and cooking every meal at home, forget it.

    Look at places like Kerobokan or North Ubud. Still close to the action but cheaper than beachfront areas.

    Culture Shock – Bali Ain’t Just Beaches and Smoothie Bowls

    Now don’t get me wrong—we Balinese are super welcoming. But we’ve got our traditions, our ceremonies, our ways. And not every expat or tourist gets it.

    You might wake up to gamelan music at 5 AM. Or find the road blocked ‘cause there’s a cremation ceremony. Or see offerings (canang sari) everywhere—even in front of a 7-11. It’s part of our daily life.

    And yes, some ceremonies involve animals. Some areas do cockfighting. Some have loud music and fireworks for hours. That’s our culture. You don’t have to like it, but if you’re living here, you need to respect it.

    I’ve had foreign guests yell at locals during Galungan because the road was closed. That ain’t the way. You’re in our home—come with open eyes and a bit of patience.

    Business Rules Are Tricky – You Can’t Just Set Up Shop

    I get asked this a lot. “Hey man, how hard is it to open a café in Canggu?” or “Can I run a yoga retreat here?”

    Short answer: it’s hard. You need the right visa. You need an Indonesian partner if you’re setting up a PT PMA (foreign investment company). And you better believe there’s red tape. Lots of it.

    I’ve seen folks invest thousands into a beach bar or boutique and get shut down because they didn’t do the paperwork right. Or someone got jealous and reported them.

    So yeah, Bali’s full of opportunities. But don’t think it’s a free-for-all. Get a good local lawyer. Seriously.

    Community Can Be… Fleeting

    Here’s something not a lotta people talk about. Making real friends in Bali can be tricky. There’s a strong expat community, sure—but it’s also super transient. People come and go. Some stay 3 months, others a year. Not everyone’s looking for deep connection.

    I’ve had guests tell me they felt lonely, even in crowded places. That’s ‘cause many folks here are in their own bubbles. Yoga crew. Crypto crew. Surfer crew. It’s kinda cliquey.

    Best advice? Get involved in local stuff. Join beach cleanups. Support a local orphanage. Go to a gamelan workshop. When you connect with locals, your whole experience changes.

    Pollution and Plastic – It’s a Real Eyesore

    Alright, this one hurts to admit. Bali’s still beautiful, no doubt. But yeah… we’ve got a plastic problem. After big rains, the beaches get trashed. Rivers too. It’s better than it used to be, but still not great.

    Lots of groups doing beach cleanups—thank goodness. And places like Ubud are big on zero waste. But the reality is, single-use plastic is everywhere. Warungs still give you 5 bags for 1 snack.

    Also, burning trash is common. You’ll smell it in the air sometimes, especially in the evenings. Not toxic waste or anything crazy—just that smoky scent of burnt rubbish.

    If you’ve got asthma or allergies, it can be rough.

    Noise, Roosters, and Random Construction

    Forget sleeping in. Unless you’re in a really quiet area, Bali’s noisy. Roosters crowing at 4 AM, dogs barking, ceremonies with drums, construction all day.

    And construction? It’s non-stop. New villas, cafes, gyms—everyone’s building. You might move into a peaceful spot, and a week later they start digging next door. Had a couple from Sweden last month staying near Pererenan. Paid big bucks for a “quiet retreat.” Nope. New pool getting built next door. Jackhammers at 8 AM.

    It’s kinda a gamble.

    Flooding During Rainy Season – Not a Joke

    If you’re thinking about moving to Bali, don’t ignore the weather. Rainy season can be brutal. Especially December to February. Some roads turn into rivers. Scooters stall. Houses flood. And yeah, your Grab driver might cancel last minute.

    Canggu and Kerobokan get hit hard ‘cause of bad drainage. I’ve driven through water up to my headlights more times than I can count.

    If you’re renting a villa, ask about drainage. Is the road paved? Do neighbors complain about flooding? It can save you a big mess later.

    Want me to keep going with more specific problems like corruption, education for expat kids, real estate scams, or just day-to-day frustrations expats face? Let me know and I’ll keep the article rolling.

  • How Far is Bali from Thailand? Let’s Break It Down

    How Far is Bali from Thailand? Let’s Break It Down

    So, let’s get into it—how far is Bali from Thailand, really? I get this question all the time from travelers sittin’ in the backseat of my van, either heading from Ubud to Seminyak or catching a sunrise tour up Mount Batur. It’s a fair question, especially when you’re tryin’ to figure out how to hop around Southeast Asia without wasting too much time or cash.

    Short answer? Bali and Thailand ain’t exactly neighbors, but they’re also not on opposite ends of the earth. Distance-wise, Bali is around 2,500 to 3,000 kilometers (about 1,550 to 1,865 miles) from different parts of Thailand, depending on where you’re startin’. From Bangkok to Denpasar (that’s Bali’s main airport), it’s roughly a 4-hour direct flight, give or take.

    Now let me take you deeper. I’ll walk you through the real-life stuff most blogs won’t tell you—like airport hassles, flight prices, stopovers, and even the kinda people you’ll meet on the journey. Think of this as one of those convos you’d have with your driver while cruisin’ through the rice paddies of Tegalalang.

    Flying from Thailand to Bali: What’s It Really Like?

    Alright, so technically Bali’s in Indonesia and Thailand is… well, Thailand. No land border, obviously. You gotta fly. But not all flights are created equal. I’ve had guests come in from Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai—each route is a bit different.

    From Bangkok to Bali

    If you’re flying from Bangkok (which most people do), it’s the easiest and cheapest route. Direct flights are available on airlines like AirAsia, Thai Airways, and Garuda Indonesia. The flight takes about 4 hours and 15 minutes on average.

    But here’s the thing—flights can vary like crazy depending on when you book. During high season (like July, August, or Christmas), I’ve seen one-way tickets go for $200 or more, even on budget airlines. But if you plan ahead or catch a promo, you might snag it for around $80–$120 USD.

    And yes, you better believe people have been burned by those “cheap” fares—I’ve had guests arrive two hours late ’cause they got rerouted through Kuala Lumpur or Singapore. Happens more often than you’d think.

    From Phuket or Chiang Mai to Bali

    Now if you’re comin’ from Phuket or Chiang Mai, most flights are not direct. You’ll likely have a layover—usually in Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, or Singapore. So while the air distance might be about the same, total travel time can stretch to 8 or 10 hours, sometimes even more.

    One time, I picked up a Canadian couple who flew from Chiang Mai to Bali and got stuck in Kuala Lumpur for 12 hours ’cause their AirAsia flight was delayed. Brutal. They were zombies by the time they landed. We stopped at a warung for nasi goreng just so they could feel human again.

    Airport Experience—Bali vs. Thailand

    Let’s talk airports for a sec. Suvarnabhumi in Bangkok? Big, efficient, a little cold-feeling if I’m honest. But it works. Phuket’s airport? Small, touristy, and gets jam-packed during holiday season. Chiang Mai? Kinda charming, not too crowded.

    Now Denpasar (Ngurah Rai International Airport)—that’s our Bali baby. It’s got this mix of tropical vibes and straight-up chaos. You’ll get your first blast of humidity as soon as you walk off the plane. Customs can be smooth or a total circus. Just depends on how many flights landed at the same time.

    Here’s my tip: Always fill out your e-customs declaration BEFORE landing. You can do it online. Saves you 30 minutes easy. I’ve watched so many travelers lose their minds waitin’ in line when they could’ve breezed through.

    Also—immigration officers in Bali? They ain’t rude, but they’re not exactly handing out hugs either. Just smile, don’t crack jokes about drugs (seriously), and you’ll be fine.

    Best Time to Travel from Thailand to Bali

    Oh man, this one’s a biggie. Timing makes all the difference.

    Thailand and Bali kinda share similar tropical weather, but not exactly the same. If you’re trying to plan the perfect transition between the two, here’s the lowdown:

    • Thailand’s dry season: November to April
    • Bali’s dry season: May to October

    So if you’re chasing the sun, you can plan a trip that hits both spots during their sweet weather. For example, spend March and April in Thailand, then fly over to Bali in May for the start of our dry season. Boom. Two-for-one paradise with perfect beach weather.

    I’ve had a few digital nomads do exactly this. One Aussie guy, Sam, stayed in Chiang Mai through April, did some Muay Thai training, then came to Bali in May and rented a villa in Canggu. Said it was the best timing of his whole SE Asia trip.

    Thailand vs. Bali Vibes: Totally Different Energy

    Now this ain’t about distance anymore, but it’s important—especially if you’re still deciding if you should hop from Thailand to Bali.

    Even though they’re both big on tourism, Thailand and Bali feel wildly different.

    Thailand

    You’ve got street food on every corner, crazy nightlife (hello, Khaosan Road), golden temples, and a slightly grittier energy. Even the beach towns like Krabi or Koh Samui have that fast-paced, party-friendly vibe.

    Bali

    Over here, it’s more spiritual, more laid-back. Think yoga studios in Ubud, vegan cafés in Canggu, and surf culture down in Uluwatu. Sure, there’s partying too, but it’s more chill—like, think sunset cocktails at a beach bar rather than buckets of booze on the sidewalk.

    I once had a couple from New York who said Bali felt like a “soul reset” after Thailand. Their words, not mine. They’d spent three weeks in Bangkok and Phuket partying and needed to slow down. They came to Ubud, did a sound healing session, and I swear they aged backwards.

    Visa Talk: What You Need to Know

    Okay, boring topic but super important—visas.

    If you’re flying from Thailand to Bali (Indonesia), you probably need a visa, depending on your nationality.

    • Most travelers (including from the US, UK, EU, Australia) can enter Bali visa-free for up to 30 days.
    • If you want to stay longer (like up to 60 days), you can apply for a Visa on Arrival (VOA) and then extend it.

    The thing is—don’t overstay. I’ve met people who thought “eh, it’s just one extra day.” Nope. Fines are daily, and immigration don’t play around. One Aussie guy paid 1 million rupiah (around $65) just because he misread his departure date. Not fun.

    Thailand has similar rules, by the way. Usually 30 days visa-free, but again—check before you book ’cause these things can change real fast.

    Booking Flights: What Most People Get Wrong

    Here’s something I learned from driving tourists around for over a decade—most people book their Thailand to Bali flight too late. They assume Southeast Asia is like Europe, where you can just hop on a $20 Ryanair flight last minute.
    Not here.

    Budget airlines like AirAsia, Scoot, and Lion Air can be cheap—but the sweet spot is booking about 3–4 weeks in advance. Anything less than that, and you’re risking high prices or nasty layovers.

    And check the baggage policy. Seriously. Some budget airlines sell super cheap base fares but charge crazy fees for checked bags. I had a guest who paid more for his suitcase than his seat.

    If you’re traveling light, carry-on only, you’re golden. But if you’ve got surfboards, yoga mats, or camera gear? Read the fine print.

    Also, use local flight apps like Traveloka or Tiket.com if you’re already in Southeast Asia. Sometimes they show better deals than Skyscanner or Google Flights. Don’t ask me why—it just happens.

    Getting from the Airport to Your Hotel in Bali

    Alright, now you’ve landed in Bali—what next?

    Don’t fall for those overpriced taxi guys shouting at arrivals. Happens every single day. Instead, pre-book a local Bali private driver (hey, like me!) or use a ride-hailing app like Grab.

    I usually wait at arrivals with a sign (yes, like in the movies), and most of my clients are so relieved not to have to haggle with strangers after a long flight.

    Price-wise, airport to Ubud is around 350,000–400,000 IDR ($22–$27), depending on traffic and time. To Seminyak or Canggu, expect 200,000–300,000 IDR ($13–$20). And if anyone’s charging double that? Nah. You’re being played.

    Quick tip: traffic in Bali is no joke. What should be a 45-minute drive can turn into 2 hours if you land at the wrong time. I always recommend flights that land before 2 PM or after 7 PM to avoid the madness.

    Real Talk—Is It Worth Traveling from Thailand to Bali?

    Honestly? Totally worth it. But it depends on your vibe.

    If you’re the kind of traveler who’s already soaked up Thailand’s temples, beaches, and markets, Bali is like the perfect next chapter. Different culture, different food, new energy. It keeps the adventure going without starting from scratch.

    I’ve had tons of travelers tell me they wished they did Bali first ’cause it’s calmer. But on the flip side, others say ending in Bali gave them a chance to slow down before heading home. Both ways work. Just depends what you need.

    And if you’re bouncing around Asia looking for the next place to fall in love with? Trust me—Bali’s got you.

    If you’re still wondering how far is Bali from Thailand in terms of distance, flights, travel experience, or just energy—it’s a bit of a journey, yeah. But one that’s so worth taking.

    You got questions about routes or wanna book a ride once you land in Bali? Hit me up. I’ll be waitin’ with a cold bottle of water, some local stories, and maybe even a little reggae on the car speakers. Let’s roll.

    Want me to keep going with a section on how to combine Thailand and Bali in one trip? Or maybe dive into the food differences, culture shocks, or what stuff costs across both? Just holler.

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