How to Find Cheap Hotels in Bali

Bali is one of those exotic locales that is so beautiful, its landscapes seem unreal. Gorgeous sunsets, idyllic beaches, lush landscape and strong visual displays make Bali one of the most sought-after getaways.

Instructions

Select Your Accommodations

1. Book a beachside hotel in Bali, as many offer cheap accommodations with a view. To book accommodations, contact Bali Tourism Board at 011 ([phone] or visit their Web site (see Resources, below).

2. Plan a thrifty getaway into the Ubud countryside where scenic and cheap accommodations have been built into the green hills overlooking the Wos River Valley.

3. Travel as a group and reserve a traditional cottage that makes for a cheap accommodation option with basic but comfortable furnishings.

4. Consider staying in a private home with a Balinese family who are traditionally hospitable, clean, and proud of their residences.

5. Book a room at one of Bali's guesthouses or homestays for a sense of Indonesian culture on a shoestring budget.

6. Save money by backpacking in Kuta, which has cheap, basic hostels at rock-bottom prices.

7. Budget for long-term rentals, which can cost as little as $4,000 per year, offering deep savings and extras such as a personal driver.

Organize Your Transportation

1. Fly into Denpasar, the capital of Bali, from any major airport around the world.

2. Book a tour to Gunung Batur, the volcanic cone and lake outside of Denpasar.

Explore the Culture and Customs

1. Photograph some of the most breathtaking scenery, including the beautiful Bali Orchid Garden.

2. Learn about other religious beliefs by visiting the Water Temple, a Hindu-Buddhist temple founded in the 17th century.

3. Don jungle gear to explore the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary.

4. Help out the locals by visiting an English school and letting them practice on you.

5. Attend the Nyepi festival at the end of March or beginning of April, designed to cleanse the island of evil spirits. The music, dancing, and torch throwing is an amazing sight not to be missed.

Tips & Warnings

• All phone numbers include the international prefix "011." When calling internationally but not from the United States or Canada, substitute that "011" with "00." All country codes are within parentheses and begin with a "+" sign.

• Bring swimwear and resort wear to enjoy the beautiful beaches of Kuta Bay.

• Get your visas for Bali before you leave on your trip. It is cheaper and does not take away from your vacation time while there.

• Many accommodations have outdoor bathrooms.

• It's not safe to camp because of attacks and kidnappings by robbers with machetes.

• Take local buses instead of tourist buses because you can meet more of the friendly locals this way and see more interesting sights.

• Avoid taxis because most try to drive you farther out to get more money.

• Be aware that Bali has been the target of terrorist attacks, so check the State Department Web site for travel advisories.

• Bali does accept U.S. dollars but none that are older than 1994.

• Cell phone reception in the outskirts of Bali is nearly impossible.

• Don't do business with people claiming to be "authorized money exchangers" because it is a scam.