Bali, Indonesia, has become the most heavenly destination for travelers on a budget and those seeking luxury. It is one place that has something to offer for everyone. Bali provides access to jungles, waterfalls, volcanoes, cliffs, and more if you love adventure and outdoor activities. On the other hand, if you wish to spend a laid-back vacation, Bali beaches, temples, and rice terraces are the perfect spot for you. Besides, you have numerous restaurants and massage parlors for a relaxing experience. You will surely fall in love with Bali, the welcoming people, and the cultural heritage. Read this article to the very end to find out more about Bali.
Location
Bali is a small Island part of Indonesia in Southeast Asia. Indonesia comprises over 17000 Islands surrounded by the Philippines, Malaysia, and Papua New Guinea. Bali is among the smallest islands, just beside Java. It also happens to be the fifth largest island in Indonesia.
Flights to Bali
The island now has the facility of a modern airport. Bali Airport ranks third among the best airports in the world and offers many amenities for visitors. The Denpasar International Airport, also known as the Ngurah International Airport, serves millions of passengers annually. Despite being one of the busiest airports in the World, you will have a seamless experience because of the efficient management.
Direct flights are available from the Middle East, Asia, Europe, Australia, and other corners of the world. However, no direct flights to Bali from the United States remain. If you are from America, you can route through Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Tokyo, or Taipei and then board a connecting flight to Bali.
Weather
Bali is a tropical Island, so a hot and humid climate exists throughout the year. The rainy season is between April and November, but tourists can still visit Pali. However, the best time to explore the beautiful island depends on what you wish to visit. The dry season is the best as the weather remains clear, Sunny, and windy.
But if you prefer places with a limited crowd, the wet season can be the best time. The rains typically come during the evening or night, so it will not cause much disruption in your travel.
Things to do
The island of Bali is one such place that has something for everyone. If you love exploring outdoors, there is an abundance of beautiful scenery, waterfalls, volcanoes, jungles, and more. You can choose to do rafting, hot air balloon rides, ATV rides, helicopter flights, etc. The beaches, clubs, markets, and temples are perfect for someone looking for a laid-back vacation. Remember the local food and the excellent massage parlors.
For wildlife lovers, places like the Mason Elephant Park, Bali Butterfly Park, Bali Zoo, and Ubud Monkey Forest can give a heavenly experience. You will also find an extensive variety of handmade crafts in Bali. These make for excellent souvenirs to gift to your friends and family.
Connectivity options in Bali
Now that you have read about the beautiful tourist attractions of Bali and its incredible cuisine. You have decided to visit Bali and indulge in the breathtaking Island. You will likely share your experience with friends and family and post pictures, videos, and social media. In Bali, there are several options to access mobile data. You can use your home operator through roaming or buy a local sim card in Bali.
Your home operator will likely charge a roaming fee when traveling to a different country. It might seem convenient, however, you will spend a lot more. Roaming offers are always more expensive than conventional packages. On the other hand, purchasing a local SIM card saves you a lot of money. Luckily, buying a local SIM card in Bali is quite simple, and the Sim Card Cost in Bali are also cheap. You also have the option of purchasing and activating the SIM before the start of your trip. These provide you access to mobile data right from the moment you land in Bali.
Besides depending on the network provider, mobile apps offer top-up options. In Bali, numerous prepaid SIM card options exist, so make certain to pick the right one based on your needs.
SIM card prices in Indonesia
You can purchase SIM cards in Bali for as low as 5000 IDR (0.35 USD) from IM3 Ooredoo and Telkomsel. If you choose XL Axiata, the Sim Card Cost in Bali is between 21 000 IDR (1.35 USD) and 68 000 IDR (4.45 USD). SIM card sale points are at airports for the traveler's convenience.
You will likely pay the following Sim Card Cost in Bali when buying a SIM card from the airport.
- IM3 Ooredoo (soon Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison): 5000 IDR, 15 000 IDR, 37 000 IDR & 65 000 IDR
- Telkomsel: 7500 IDR
- Smartfren: 16 000 IDR, 30 000 IDR, 40 000 IDR, 60 000 IDR, 100 000 IDR
- XL Axiata: 21 000 IDR, 46 000 IDR & 68 000 IDR
Tourist SIM Sim Card Cost in Bali
- Telkomsel: 150 000 IDR
- Smartfren: 100 000 IDR & 200 000 IDR
- IM3 Ooredoo (soon Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison): 75 000 IDR & 110 000 IDR
Can I purchase a SIM card in Bali?
Any individual visiting Bali can purchase a SIM card from network providers like Telkomsel, IM3 Ooredoo, XL Axiata, or Smartfren. However, there are certain government regulations that foreigners need to follow. For example, one can only have three active SIM cards in their name when visiting Bali. You can also use local SIM cards in Bali from any network operator.
Where to Buy SIM Cards in Indonesia?
In Bali, you can buy local SIM cards like Telkomsel, IM3 Ooredoo, Smartfren, or XL Axiata. These network providers have stores throughout Bali, including the airports.
However, if you get a SIM card from a convenience store, you need to register the SIM card from the operator's store. So, getting the SIM card from the network operator's store is better immediately.
Using your Mobile Handset in Bali
Bali makes use of GSM technology for connecting mobile devices. So, if you use a CDMAÂ phone, it will not work with the network in Bali. All types of GSM devices will work with local SIM cards in Bali.
In Bali, the frequencies are similar to that of Europe and ITU regions 1 and 3. In America and ITU Region 2, the frequencies are similar. You will likely be fine with connectivity if your device is from these regions.
However, lower or medium-end devices may have issues incompatible with Quad-band or Tri-band. High or medium-end devices are compatible with the Bali network. These also support 4G and 5G networks.
Before traveling to Bali, remember to check your phone is unlocked. Otherwise, it will not be compatible with other SIM cards from one with the home operator.
Popular Network Providers and Frequencies in Bali
- Telkomsel
- Smartfren
- XL Axiata
- IM3 Ooredoo (soon Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison)
Network frequencies available in Bali
2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
- 3G: 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 850 MHz (Band 5), 900 MHz (Band 8), 1800 MHz (Band 3), 2100 MHz (Band 1) & 2300 MHz (Band 40)
- 5G NR: 1800 MHz (n3), 2100 MHz (n1), 2300 MHz (n40) & 3500 MHz (n78 – being rolled out)
VoWiFi and VoLTE Support in Bali
Both voice-over LTE and voice-over Wi-Fi services are available across Bali. However, you must remember that not all network providers have these facilities. So you will not need to downgrade your device to 3g or 4g for making a call in Bali.
Network providers like Telkmosel have both VoLTE and VoWifi support. Whereas others only offer VoLTE support. Recently, a commercial 5G network is also available in Bali. Network operators like IM3 Ooredoo, XL Axiata, and Telkomsel offer a 5G network in Bali.
Process for SIM card Registration in Bali
Registering your local Bali sim card with passport information is mandatory. You will find that the store staff will guide you through the entry process. As you know, you can have three active prepaid SIM cards in Indonesia. Unlike other places, there is no self-registration facility for foreigners as they need a local ID. Tourists wishing to register their SIM card can visit the network provider Store.
Topping up Local Sim Card in Bali
To top up your local Bali SIM card, visit a vendor, use the USSD code, or use the network provider's app. Out of all, using the mobile app is the easiest option. Download the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and sign in with a password to use it.
For USSD, dial *363# to check top-up options. It is best to avoid local agents and pop-up stores in Bali for purchasing SIM cards and top-ups. The rates vary significantly, and some even cheat tourists.
You may end up spending more for less voice and mobile data. Agents often mislead foreigners into paying for Sim Card Cost in Bali. If you are looking for a physical store, visit the authorized outlets of network providers.
Always ask for a receipt and check the data balance in SMS before paying. Besides, keep the APN settings in proper configuration. It is available with cellular data as well as personal hotspots.
Network Coverage and Data Speeds
Telkomsel has the best LTE data speeds across Bali. However, the upload speeds are adequate for video calling and other purposes.
Safety
Bali has a good reputation for being a safe place for the tourists. Any type of crime is rare, and murders are unheard of in Bali. However, there are incidents of drive-by phone snatchings. So, you must be careful to put away your devices when passing through a busy street. One major safety risk in Bali is motorbike accidents and natural calamities. You better avoid motorcycles if you have little experience riding in Southeast Asia.
Bali is home to a wide variety of venomous snakes, but they are rare in crowded places. Even if you come across a snake during a hike, be cautious. At present, Bali caters to millions of visitors every year. It is now the most popular destination in Indonesia. The local people are very well-coming and friendly to foreign visitors.
Pocket Pinch
A trip to Bali is quite food as accommodation facilities are available for as low as $5. Meals are also quite cheap and cost $1-$3 in family-run restaurants.
For traveling around the Island, you are likely to take a motorbike or car. There are affordable rental services and services for hiring drivers.
When in Bali, keep transportation apps like Go Jek and Grab handy. These are excellent for going around the town, and you can also order food essentials via these apps.
Local Language
The local people mostly speak Balinese language and Indonesian. However, many also speak fluent English. You will not have to learn the local language, but knowing a few phrases is fun.
Final Words
In Bali, public Wi-Fi is easily available in restaurants, bars, and hotels. The speeds are decent if the network is relatively quiet. The launch of fiber connections has further improved the situation. If you wish to stay in Bali longer, consider renting a portable Wi-Fi device for convenience.
However, a Local SIM card is the best bet for connecting everywhere you go. The purchase and registration process for tourists is straightforward. Besides, the charges are quite cheap in comparison to other countries. Data speeds in Bali are usually good for all kinds of digital services. Bali is a popular holiday destination for people from all corners of the world, and now you know why. Pockets of Bali are largely driven by tourism for being home to insta-worthy bars, cafes, and restaurants. However, other parts still remain remote with the essence of authentic Balinese culture. Here is everything you need to know about the attractions, food, connectivity, Sim Card Cost in Bali, etc., for a fantastic holiday trip. We hope all the above information is helpful and applies to other parts of Indonesia.Â