Bali travel guide for solo female travelers

This article is written for solo female travelers visiting Bali as part of our women-only tour or on their own.

You will find a brief history of the island, tips for the best time to visit, travel essentials and entry requirements, health and safety advice, a list of the best places to see, and some local culture, from basic Bahasa vocab to the best foods and drinks to try.

I have also included a reading list, and a few movies and shows to watch to immerse yourself in the culture.

Looking for what to pack? You can find our Bali packing list here.

Intro to the history of Bali

If you have ever heard anything about Bali you will know that it is a predominantly Hindu island in a Muslim country.

This uniqueness comes from the 9th and 10th centuries, when the Javanese Majapahit Kingdom strengthened its ties with the island and initiated a period of blend between the previously dominant Buddhism and the Hinduism brought in by the Majahapit.

The Mahajapit Empire dominated over Bali for three centuries until the 16th, when Islam started to spread in the archipelago and the Hindu rulers of Java fled to Bali, turning into a safe haven of Hinduism in Southeast Asia until today.

At that time, the island was divided into several small kingdoms that enjoyed relative prosperity.

In the 16th century, European explorers, mostly Portuguese and Dutch, arrived in Indonesia and Bali. Even though the Portuguese were first, the Dutch ended up being the dominant power in the 17th and 18th centuries over what is today Indonesia.

Bali resisted for many centuries, but was finally annexed to the Dutch Empire at the beginning of the 19th century. The Dutch didn’t enjoy their dominance for long because with the expansion of WWII in Asia, the Japanese moved to occupy the island from 1942 to 1945.

With the end of WWII and Japanese defeat, Indonesia declared independence from The Netherlands and Bali became part of the larger archipelago country, maintaining its unique Hindu identity in a majority-Muslim country.

Today, Bali depends on tourism, the primary economic activity of the island. Although this is the largest employer, it is a relatively new development that started to flourish in the late 1970s.

The main airport opened in 1931 as a military airstrip, and was expanded to today’s capacity in 2013. International arrivals started to rise significantly in 2010, and have gone from 2,5 million then to close to 7 million in 2024.

A relevant part of Bali’s popularity can be attributed to Digital nomads, thousands of whom have made Bali home. Their presence on the island, with their thousands of followers and great content creation abilities, brought visibility and promotion to the island as a safe and convenient haven for those looking for a spiritual destination where lush nature and beaches collide.

Quick facts about Bali

Bali is a very unique island in the context of Indonesia and Southeast Asia. Below is a list of unique, fun and interesting facts about the Island of Gods:

Hindu Temples: As mentioned, Bali is Hindu and not Muslim like the rest of Indonesia. What you may not know is that the island has its own branch of Hinduism with traditions that are unique to Bali and not found in other Hindu countries like India. In Bali, it is common to have your own family’s Hindu Temple at home or in the neighbourhood, which is why it is believed that there are over 20,000 Hindu Temples. This means that you are never more than a few meters from one.
Many islands: Although we normally think of Bali as one island, it is actually made of the main island and 3 smaller ones that are accessible as a day trip Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan.

Volcanoes: Besides beaches, Bali is also well known for its 2 active volcanoes that are often smoking. Mount Agung, standing at 3,142 meters, and Mount Batur, at 1,717 meters, are both considered sacred by the Balinese people. In fact, Agung is considered the spiritual axis of Bali and buildings and temples are constructed facing it. Even beds in Balinese homes are often placed so that the head points towards the mountain.
Rice paddy irrigation system: The Subak irrigation system, so famous for the many Instagram shots, is critical to Bali’s rice terraces and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day of silence: Nyepi, the Balinese New Year, is observed with a day of silence, fasting, and meditation. Activities are restricted, and even the airport shuts down for 24 hours.
Names are all the same: If you watched or read Eat, Pray, Love, you will know that Balinese people traditionally name their children based on birth order, starting with Wayan, Made, Nyoman, and ending with Ketut, regardless of gender, for their first, second, third and fourth child. This means that if your guide or someone you meet has one of these four names, you know they come from a traditional local family. As mentioned, the name will not tell you gender since both boys and girls will receive the same. If you have a fifth, you start again at Wayan.
Fire dance: The famous Kecak Fire Dance, performed at Uluwatu Temple, was developed in the 1930s with the help of German artist Walter Spies, who combined traditional Balinese trance rituals with a dramatic performance of the Hindu epic Ramayana.
New borns: In Balinese Hindu tradition, babies are considered too pure to touch the ground for their first 105 days. After that, a ceremony is held to introduce them to the earthly world.
Ngaben, or mass cremations: Instead of individual funerals, Balinese families often wait for years to hold a mass cremation ceremony called Ngaben, where multiple deceased family members are cremated together in a grand ritual.

Canang Sari: Balinese Hindus present daily offerings known as Canang Sari to the gods, made from coconut leaves, flowers, and herbs, symbolizing gratitude and balance. You will find them at the entrance of businesses, hotels, restaurants and homes.
Not all beaches are white: Many visitors assume that Bali has white sand beaches and the reality is that you can find beaches in every color here. Go south to Nusa Dua for fluffy white sand beaches or north to enjoy dramatic volcanic black sand beaches without anyone else around.
Tri Hita Karana: Literally translated as “the three causes of well-being”, is Bali’s philosophy and way of life. It talks about being in harmony with God, Nature and the community.
Tough laws on drug offenses: You can get 12 years in jail for being in possession of any quantity of marijuana and if you produce or sell drugs, you can face either life imprisonment or the death penalty.
Hindu priests are chosen: Priests are not volunteers or people who want to be, they are chosen via ceremonies and this role cannot be rejected as it would be seen as a defiance of the Gods. Their livelihood depends on donations as they do not receive a salary in Bali like they may in other Indonesian islands.
Women can be Hindu priests in Bali: Women can be Pedanda, High priestesses, and also Pemangku, Temple priestesses, in Bali. In both cases, they hold the same spiritual authority as male priests.

Bali travel tips

In this section we want to share general Bali travel tips to help you plan your trip.

When to visit

The best time to visit Bali is during the dry season from May to October. While in the shoulder months of April and November you may still experience minimal rain, from January to March, you should expect full Monsoon rains that make moving around difficult.

Bali is an island that is best explored outdoors, at the waterfalls, beaches and paddies, so the rain can significantly limit your plans. Unless what you want is to relax at a spa resort.

Public Holidays

Bali follows Indonesia’s public holidays and also has its own list linked to Hinduism.

National Holidays

New Year’s Day: Celebrated on January 1st, marking the start of the Gregorian calendar year.
Independence Day: Observed on August 17th, commemorating Indonesia’s declaration of independence in 1945.
Christmas Day: Celebrated on December 25th by the Christian community.

Islamic Holidays

Dates for Islamic holidays vary each year based on the lunar calendar:

Ascension of the Prophet Muhammad (Isra Mi’raj): Commemorates the night journey and ascension of the Prophet Muhammad.
Eid al-Fitr (Hari Raya Idul Fitri): Marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting.
Eid al-Adha (Hari Raya Idul Adha): Known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” it honors the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God.

Balinese Hindu Holidays

Also change every year with the calendar.

Nyepi (Balinese Day of Silence): A day of silence, fasting, and meditation marking the Balinese New Year. On this day, activities are minimal, and even the airport shuts down.
Galungan and Kuningan: Celebrates the victory of dharma (good) over adharma (evil). Galungan lasts for 10 days, culminating with Kuningan.
Saraswati Day: Dedicated to Dewi Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, music, art, and wisdom.

Other Notable Holidays

Changing annually.

Chinese / Lunar New Year: Celebrated by the Chinese community in Bali, with various festivities and traditions. Not a public holiday.
Good Friday and Easter: Observed by the Christian population, commemorating the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Not a public holiday.

Passport and visa requirements

Bali follows Indonesia border laws but has its own entry system with additional rules and requirements.

Visa: Most visitors to Indonesia from North America, Europe, Australia and New Zealand can obtain a visa on arrival for 30 days or an e-visa online prior to the trip for 60 days. Both cost 500,000 IDR. E-visa applications can be filled in here. Important: There are a lot of scam websites, make sure to use the official Government one.

Having an e-visa will facilitate your immigration clearance as you will be able to use the automated machines. E-visas need to be used within 90 days of issuance. The application is usually approved within 5 days but you will need to first create an account which must be verified before you can apply.

Passport Validity: Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months after departure and have 2 empty pages.

Proof of onward travel and financial means: Part of the entry requirement is also the ability to show onward travel, that is, a flight out of Bali, and enough financial resources to stay for the duration of your visit.

Bali tourist levy: All visitors to Bali (not Indonesia) must pay a tourist tax of about 150,000 IDR. You can pay when you land, at the arrivals hall, but it is faster and easier to pre-pay online. This is the official website. This tax is supposed to go towards the preservation and infrastructure building of the island.

Health pass: To enter Indonesia you also need to fill in a Health pass within 3 days of arrival. This is the official website.

Registration with the police: if you plan to stay in private accommodation, aka, not a hotel or other business, you need to register your presence in Indonesia with the police.

Carry your passport: Carrying your passport is mandatory in Indonesia.

Health and safety

Nobody wants to get sick when on vacation but, if the worst is to happen, it pays to be prepared.

Bring all the medication you’ll need: During your trip to Bali, you will usually not be more than 2-hours drive from a doctor, a hospital or a pharmacy, but it is strongly recommended to bring any prescription medication you may need and enough of it to last you the entire trip.

Your specific medication may not exist in Bali, or it may require a prescription you need to see a doctor for, save time and hassle by bringing everything you may need with you. Review what you should bring in your first aid kit here.

IMPORTANT: Make sure any prescription medication comes in its original pharmacy packaging, and with the corresponding doctor note and prescription to avoid issues at the border. It is your responsibility to check that whatever medication you bring can indeed be taken into Bali. What may be legal in your country, or even sold over the counter, could be a controlled substance elsewhere. See the UN list of controlled substances in Indonesia and the official Indonesia website here. Here are other tips for traveling with medication.

Get that coverage: We never leave the house without purchasing extensive medical and travel insurance coverage and this is why we make it mandatory to join our tours. You should make sure that you have adequate medical insurance to cover any unforeseen medical expenses.

Unexpected accidents do happen, and if you needed to be evacuated back home with an injury, the medical bill could bankrupt you.

The best travel insurance will differ for each traveler, depending on the nature, style, and length of your trip, so we recommend using an aggregator and comparison tool such as Travel Insurance Masters to find the right one for you depending on what coverage you want, age, location, trip, etc.

Vaccinations: Here is a list of recommended vaccinations for Indonesia. Note that a certificate of Yellow Fever inoculation is mandatory if you come from an endemic zone. Rabies exist in dogs and monkeys that are found across temples and streets in Bali, you could consider vaccination to be extra safe.

In case of emergency: There are 3 emergency numbers in Indonesia: 118 for ambulances, 112 for fire services and 110 for the police. If you call with your international phone dial +62 112.

Volcanic activity: As mentioned, Bali is home to several volcanoes 2 of which are active and regularly spewing smoke and lava. Nearby islands in Indonesia are also home to active volcanoes. While not very common, volcanic activity has caused alerts and closure of airports in the past. In 2018, Mount Agung in East Bali erupted, emitting gas and ash which resulted in the closure of Bali’s airport and a number of nearby regional airports for a period of time.You can find updates on the official website here (use Google translate as it is only in Bahasa)

Tap water: Tap water is not safe for drinking in Bali and the term “Bali belly” is commonly used to refer to diarrhea and other stomach issues that are the result of eating / drinking contaminated food. Hotels and restaurants use filter water and ice in Bali is provided by the Government so it is safe. However, to make sure you always have safe drinking water available and do not contribute to the plastic problem that Bali suffers from, we recommend a water filter bottle that has an inbuilt filter. You can fill it with any water and press down the filter to have drinking water in a minute.

Earthquakes and tsunamis: Earthquakes are very common across Indonesia as the country sits on a fault line. This is the Indonesia Tsunami Early Warning Center website and you will find tsunami evacuation path signs across the island. Always run for higher grounds.

Credit card scams: It is best to use the wireless tapping option of your credit card and tap yourself than let anyone take your credit card away from your sight as credit card scams are common.

Safety in Bali for solo female travelers

When we conducted our first Solo Female Travel Survey, one of the most relevant take-aways was that women who travel solo unanimously worry about their personal safety. The best countries for first time solo female travelers all have safety in common. That’s why we created the first and most complete resource for women who travel solo to find safety information by country or destination.

With safety data coming from the US and UK Travel Advisories and the Global Peace Index, the index considers factors like the risk of theft, scam and harassment, as well as analyzing attitudes towards women in each country to rank each country from 1-4, 1 being the safest and 4 being the most dangerous for solo female travelers.

Indonesia and Bali in particular, are relatively safe for women traveling alone. However, there are certain risks that cannot be underestimated. Exercise regular caution and review our safety tips for solo female travelers to ensure you stay safe and have an empowering travel experience.

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, bag-snatching or theft, happen in busy tourist spots so always be vigilant. Keep your valuables safe and your bag in the front and zipped. Slash and theft proof cross-body bags like the ones we listed on this article are a great idea, and in crowded areas, keep your arm on your bag’s zipper for extra protection.

Drink spiking and methanol poisoning are on the rise across Southeast Asia, so pay attention when your drink is being poured and avoid drinking replicas from well known alcoholic brands.

You can read our full article on safety tips here.

If you want to know how to stay safe and prevent a negative experience or encounter on your travels, you can check out EMPOWERFUL, a series of 35+ sessions, 40+ experts and over 50+ hours of learning via masterclasses, panel discussions, and inspiring interviews to empower YOU to travel solo!

Getting to and around Bali

Bali is very well connected domestically to other parts of Indonesia and with the rest of Asia, but there are very few international flights.

Getting to Bali

If you are traveling to Bali from a different continent, flying is going to be the easiest (or potentially only) option. While the island is connected to the rest of Indonesia, this is a time consuming way to get around the archipelago.

There are direct flights to Bali from all capital cities in Asia and from many long-haul destinations.

Direct flights are available from the Middle East cities of Doha, Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the Australian cities of Sydney, Perth, Cairns, Brisbane and Melbourne, Abu Dhabi, and even Amsterdam with KLM via Singapore.

Getting around Bali

Getting around Bali can be quite tedious and dangerous because of constant and horrific traffic jams, pollution and careless drivers. Many of the internal roads are windy and steep, made of hairpin turns with minimal visibility.

Many tourists rent scooters to get around, but pollution from car and motorbike fumes has become unbearable so wearing a mask is recommended. You also need the appropriate insurance and driving license as most travel insurance policies will not cover you in case of a motorcycle accident.

Alternatively, you can hire a driver to take you around or get taxis. Uber does not exist in Indonesia but you can download Grab or Gojek. Note that their use is restricted in some tourist hot spots such as Ubud center, so you may have to hail a regular taxi and negotiate a price. Taxi scams are common so make sure you agree on a price before getting into the car.

How many days to spend in Bali

Bali isa much larger island than most visitors expect. Distances are long, traffic is very bad and roads are single lane, so it takes a long time to get around.

How long to spend will depend very much on what you want to see or do. If you only have a week, you should pick two locations only and devise an itinerary that takes into account the traffic situation so you don’t spend your day in jams.

If you have two weeks, you can consider adding a third location and / or head to the islands of Nusa Penida or Nusa Lembongan.

Most visitors combine the heart of the island, Ubud, with time by the beach. Whether you choose to go south to the white sand beaches of Jimbaran and Nusa Dua or prefer to stay in more happening Canggu or Seminary, will depend on the type of atmosphere and holiday you prefer.

If you want beach time away from the crowds, the Western and Northern parts of Bali are still uncluttered and offer dramatic black sand beaches with minimal development. But don’t expect any beach clubs here.

Travel essentials for Bali

In this section we will look at a range of other things to consider when traveling to Bali as a solo female traveler.

Money and currency

Bali uses the Indonesia Rupiah as currency. The high value notes here mean that when you exchange $100 or 100 EUR you will immediately be a million in Rupiah. That also means you will be carrying around large stacks of cash even if they are not high value.

Currency exchange services are available at airports, banks, exchange bureaus, and some hotels. However, be aware that these services often charge fees or offer less favorable exchange rates, so it’s smarter to compare rates and fees before exchanging money. Beware of illegal exchange places that will try to scam you and offer a very unfavorable rate.

ATMs: ATMs are widely available in urban centers. Most will accept major international credit and debit cards, but make sure to inform your bank of your travel plans beforehand to avoid any issues with your card and be left stranded without cash.

Keep in mind that all ATMs may charge a fee for withdrawals, and it’s a good idea to withdraw larger amounts less frequently to minimize fees.

Pro tip: Avoid ATM machines that are standalone and not attached to a bank like Euronet. These charge exorbitant fees and give an extremely poor exchange rate, as they are an exclusive ATM business. Additionally, if your card gets taken, it is much harder to retrieve it than from a bank.

Credit cards: Like we said, major credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in larger urban areas and tourist spots and business. Contactless payment methods, such as Apple Pay and Google Pay, are becoming increasingly popular.

You will need cash for purchases at many cafes, markets and local businesses.

Tipping culture: Tipping in Bali is not customary nor expected as there is no culture on the island, but they will be appreciated. Restaurants and bars may already add a service charge and guides will expect a tip if they did a good service. If someone went the extra mile for you, a tip would be appropriate.

There are however some activities that work on a donation basis, and this involves anything to do with offerings, temples or services provided by a priest.

Local culture and customs

Bali is quite different from the rest of Indonesia when it comes to local customs and traditions, much of which has to do with the type of Hinduism practiced and the philosophy that this encompasses.

Temple etiquette: Balinese temples are sacred spaces, and proper attire is required for entry. Visitors should wear modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees.

A traditional sarong and sash are often required and you may borrow them (donations may be expected) from the entrance or bring your own. Some temples are only open to devotees, for prayer, while others allow tourists. Women who are menstruating are not allowed into the temples.

Offerings: You will find Canang Sari offerings everywhere in Bali and they are usually placed on the floor. Stepping on them is rude, even if that means an obstacle race when walking on the sidewalks.

Single use plastic: Indonesia banned single use plastic in 2019 and this ban has now been extended to 2029. This includes single‑use plastic shopping bags, plastic straws and cutlery, and Styrofoam food packaging, nationwide. The Government of Bali has also prohibited water to be served in plastic bottles at any Government facility since February 2025. Help controute to manage the plastic crisis by bringing your own water purifier bottle so you can safely drink tap water directly from your own water bottle.

Basic Bahasa Indonesia words to know

Bahasa is spoken in both Malaysia and Indonesia but both languages are slightly different.

Here’s a good starting point to help you get by Bali and the rest of Indonesia:

Halo – Hello
Selamat pagi – Good morning
Selamat siang – Good afternoon
Selamat sore – Good evening
Selamat malam – Good night
Terima kasih – Thank you
Sama-sama – You’re welcome
Tolong – Please / Help
Maaf – Sorry / Excuse me
Permisi – Excuse me (to pass by someone)
Berapa harganya? – How much is it?
Di mana…? – Where is…?
Tandas / Kamar kecil – Toilet / Bathroom
Saya tidak mengerti – I don’t understand
Bisa bicara bahasa Inggris? – Can you speak English?
Makan – Eat / Food
Minum – Drink
Pedas – Spicy

Balinese and Indonesian Cuisine

Food in Bali is heavily influenced by Indonesian, Chinese, and Indian culinary traditions with lots of spices, seafood, tropical ingredients and lots of interesting recipes.

Because of the primarily Hindu population, it is also very vegetarian-friendly, and this is also why the island has been able to attract so many health-conscious, vegan and vegetarian influencers in the last 10 years.

Traditionally, meals are served family style, with lots of dishes to share and several side dishes with vegetables, and sambal chili sauce / relish accompanies everything, although it is usually served on the side to be added to everyone’s taste.

Best Balinese and Indonesian foods to try

Here’s a few dishes you have to try on your visit to Bali. Some of them are typical of the island while others are Indonesian and also eaten and found in Bali.

Nasi Campur: A mixed rice dish served with vegetables, meats, peanuts, an egg, and sambal (spicy chili paste).
Pindang ikan: Spicy and sour fish soup with tamarind and tomatoes.

Bakso: Indonesian meatball soup, often served with noodles and crispy fried shallots.
Pepes ikan: Fish wrapped in banana leaves and steamed with spices.

Babi guling: Succulent spit-roasted suckling pig seasoned with turmeric and spices.
Ayam betutu: is a slow-cooked, spice-marinated chicken wrapped in banana leaves.

Soto Ayam: A comforting Indonesian chicken soup with turmeric broth, rice noodles, and boiled eggs.
Ikan babar: Grilled fish coated in fragrant spices.

Beef rendang: Slow-cooked beef stewed in coconut milk and rich spices, originally from Padang but widely loved in Bali.
Lawar: A mix of vegetables, grated coconut, and spices (vegetarian friendly).

Satay: Small grilled meat skewers on bamboo sticks, could be chicken, minced meat or beef, served with peanut sauce, fresh cucumber and pickles.

Mie Goreng: Indonesian-style fried noodles, often with seafood or chicken.

Tempe Manis: Sweet and crispy fried tempeh (soy bean patty) with soy sauce and chilies.

Best Balinese Desserts to try

Bali is not famous for desserts, but there are some to try.

Klepon: Sweet rice cakes filled with palm sugar and coated in grated coconut.

Dadar Gulung: Green pandan crepes filled with sweet coconut and palm sugar.

Bubur Injin – Black rice pudding cooked with coconut milk and palm sugar.

Cendol: Sweet coconut milk drink with green rice flour jelly and palm sugar syrup.

Best Balinese drinks to try

Balinese people don’t drink a lot of alcoholic beverages because that is not so much part of the local culture. However, there is a long tradition of ayurvedic tonics called jamu that are enjoying a revival and are increasingly found across the island at cafes and hotels.

Jamu

Jamu is a traditional Indonesian herbal drink with origins dating back over 1,300 years to the ancient Mataram Kingdom (8th century) in Central Java, and is rooted in Javanese, Balinese, and Indonesian culture, influenced by Ayurvedic, Chinese, and local animist healing practices.

The earliest mentions of jamu are on Borobudur temple walls and was used by royal healers in Java’s palaces for the royal’s beauty, vitality, and health.

Jamu is made using a combination of indigenous plants, roots, spices, and flowers, with common ingredients including:

Turmeric (anti-inflammatory, boosts immunity)
Ginger (aids digestion, warms the body)
Tamarind (rich in antioxidants, good for skin)
Lemongrass (reduces stress, aids digestion)
Galangal (improves circulation, relieves pain)
Honey (natural sweetener, antibacterial)

Different types of Jamu exist, each tailored to treat specific ailments like fatigue, digestive issues, joint pain, and even fertility so, when ordering a jamu, you will not know what is in it because each person prepares it differently.

Other drinks to try in Bali

There are lots of drinks you will only find in Bali, Indonesia or other parts of Southeast Asia.

Tea tarik :Indonesians like to drink very sweet milk tea called teh tarik that is found across the archipelago and has made its way to Bali too. This forty pulled tea is often served with condensed milk and has a creamy texture.
Young coconut: Freshly picked young coconut water is one of the most amazing delicacies of tropical countries. If you buy it street side, ask them to cut it into 2 after you drink the water so you can eat the fleshy coconut meat.
Daluman: A refreshing drink made from green grass jelly mixed with coconut milk and palm sugar syrup.

Wedang Jahe: A hot ginger tea with palm sugar, sometimes mixed with lemongrass for extra aroma. Often offered at spas after treatment.
Arak: Distilled spirit made from rice or coconut and mixed into cocktails. It’s the local version of a spirit.
Bintang Beer: Indonesia’s most famous beer, widely available in Bali and a staple of any beach holiday on the islands.

Balinese media and literature

Bali’s popularity certainly rose to global stages with the publication of the book and movie Eat, Pray, Love.

Books based in or about Bali

There are many books that are set in the country or about it and below is our selection to get you prepared for a trip and better versed in the local culture:

Love and Death in Bali – Vicki Baum (1937): A historical novel about Bali’s Puputan (ritual mass suicide) during the Dutch invasion in 1906.
Island of Demons – Nigel Barley (2009): A fictionalized biography of Walter Spies, a German artist who played a key role in promoting Balinese art to the world.
Eat, Pray, Love – Elizabeth Gilbert (2006): The famous memoir about self-discovery, with a section focusing on love and spirituality in Bali. This is the book that catapulted Bali into global stardom.
A House in Bali – Colin McPhee (1947): A beautifully written memoir by a composer who lived in Bali in the 1930s and studied gamelan music.
Fragrant Rice – Janet De Neefe (2003): An Australian woman’s story of moving to Bali, falling in love, and opening a restaurant.
Bali Raw: An Exposé of the Underbelly of Bali – Malcolm Scott (2012): A controversial book revealing the darker side of tourism, crime, and nightlife in Bali.
Tales of a Female Nomad – Rita Golden Gelman (2001): A memoir about a woman who leaves her life behind to travel, including a long stay in Bali.

Movies, documentaries or TV shows based in or about Bali

Besides books, there are also many interesting movies set in Bali or about the island.

Eat Pray Love (2010) – A Hollywood film starring Julia Roberts, where the protagonist finds love and inner peace in Bali as part of her journey through Tuscany, India and Bali.

Bali 2002 (2022) – An Australian miniseries about the Bali bombings, focusing on the resilience of survivors and the island’s recovery.

Chef’s Table: Bali (Netflix) – A special episode featuring Bali-based American chef Will Goldfarb, showcasing Bali’s food scene and his desserts-only restaurant in the heart of Ubud.

Somebody Feed Phil: Bali (Netflix) – A travel and food show episode where Phil Rosenthal explores Balinese cuisine.

The World’s Most Extraordinary Homes: Bali (Netflix) – A look at Bali’s unique eco-friendly architecture and villas.

Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations – Bali Episode – A deep dive into Bali’s food, culture, and traditions.

Bali: Masterpiece of the Gods (National Geographic) – A documentary exploring Bali’s spiritual traditions, temples, and daily life.