Bali Holidays

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Bali has an average year round temperature of 31 degrees due to its close proximity to the equator. From April to October Bali enjoys a dry season while from October to March the wet season brings humid and hot weather. Despite the seasons, it is quite common for Bali to experience rain all year round and even in the wet season the rain doesn’t usually last long. Bali’s hot weather is at its peak during the middle of the day in the wet season. There is little need for air-conditioning however as afternoons usually experience cool breezes, particularly near the water.

Bali is a popular tourist destination all year round. It’s peak holiday season is during the months of July, August and September which coincides with the dry season and school holidays for Australia and New Zealand. In addition to these months, March through to June also make for good travel times as the weather is still great for beach swimming.

Celebrating life and religion is a significant part of Balinese culture. The country’s most significant annual event is Galungan which celebrates the creation of the world. This momentous event takes place during the 11th week of the 210th day in the Balinese calendar and sees locals enjoy a day of feasting with family, friends and neighbours while dressed in their finest attire. Another significant celebration that visitors are welcome to take part in is the Rice Harvest Festival which occurs throughout May and June. The festival marks the end of the harvest season and sees locals cook regional cuisine in honour of the rice god Dewi Sri. A range of activities including the Negara Bull Races take place during the festival.

Air

Airlines that fly from New Zealand to Denpasar include:

Airlines that fly from New Zealand to Phnom Penh and Vientiane include:

Flights from Auckland to Denpasar can take about nine and a half hours. Bali’s international airport Ngurah Rai is located 13km south of Denpasar. Flights from Auckland to Phnom Penh and Vientiane take about thirteen hours.

All Inclusive Resorts

Bali’s all inclusive resorts are often nestled amongst tropical gardens with gorgeous ocean views. Resorts provide travellers with a stress free and intimate holiday experience, boasting luxury amenities, buffet breakfasts, plunge pools, restaurants and cultural activities.

Boutique Hotels

Bali is home to a range of leading boutique hotels, each providing a unique and intimate holiday experience. Usually offering spectacular views from secluded pavilions, many of Bali’s hotels give holiday makers the chance to experience traditional Balinese culture and local village life.

Villas

Self contained Villas allow holiday makers to make themselves at home and enjoy their own privacy. Many villas are surrounded by tropical greenery and are only a few minutes walk from beaches, shops and restaurants. Some Villas have their own private patios and pools as well as shared pools and other facilities such as gyms, pool side bars and restaurants.

Spa Resorts

Take your relaxing holiday to the next level by staying at a peaceful spa resort. As a highly spiritual country, Bali’s spa resorts offer retreat services that focus mainly on health and well-being for the mind and body. These resorts are ideal accommodation for couples and those wanting a break from the stresses of daily life.

Honeymoons

Honeymooners will be spoilt for choice for romantic accommodation options in Bali. All inclusive resorts offer couples intimate privacy, luxurious suites and all the trimmings to ensure their holiday is stress free and unforgettable.

Food Tours

Foodies will relish the chance to learn more about Balinese cuisine with the island’s many cooking classes. Take a guided tour through the hectic markets, visit serene rice fields, learn about Bali’s unique food culture and watch the professionals cook some of the island’s most prized dishes.

To find out more about the range of holiday accommodation available with Travel Associates call 0800 482 776 or enquire online.

Sights to See

Spend a day appreciating Bali’s unique architecture by visiting the ornate temples with towering pagodas dotted all over the island. One of the most important temples Tanah Lot, which means ‘Land in the Middle of the Sea,' was built on top of a rock and makes for a spectacular sight at sunset. Other temples worth seeing are Bali’s biggest temple, Pura Besakih or the 'Mother Temple,' and Pura Kehen which is one of Bali's largest religious complexes.

Early rises should head to the summit of Gunung Batur to watch the sunrise. Not only does it make for a stunning sight, but this active volcano has the largest caldera complex and is always emitting plumes of smoke.

Bali is famed for its world-class waves. Experienced surfers should head to Lacerations and Bluffs for ideal conditions while novices will be spoilt for choice with the island’s numerous surfing schools.

Don't leave home without...

Although Bali sells sun protection and insect repellent, it can be quite expensive. Pack an ample amount with you and don’t forget to re-apply sun protection every few hours.

Leave some room in your suitcase for the journey home. Other than the essential toiletries, underwear and comfortable shoes, its recommended not to bring much with you as chances are you’ll be tempted by the beautiful clothing on offer which, depending on your haggling skills, can be bought at great prices.

Local Customs

Although Bali relies heavily on tourism and has acclimatised to welcome westerners, the Balinese remain highly spiritual and determined to preserve their culture. Each stage of Balinese life from birth, through childhood, marriage and death, is marked with a series of ceremonies call Manusa Yadnya. These ceremonies aim to cleanse the world of negativity and improve human life.

Bartering is a way of life, particularly at the markets. As a general rule, start by offering a third of the asking price and work from there. Fair sparring is welcome, just be sure not to cause offense.

Things to be careful of…

Shop Vendors

Be prepared to be approached by shop vendors everywhere you go. Even if you say no to what they are selling, they will be persistent and sometimes aggressive. The best trick is to keep walking with your head down until they stop following you. If you are interested in buying something, wait a few days and look around to be sure of what you are willing to pay for it.

Wildlife

Be careful of the monkeys at the Padangtegal Monkey Forest in Ubud. These cute creatures aren’t afraid of humans and will snatch food and any shiny items off you.

Illness

We’ve all heard about the notorious Bali Belly but this can be easily prevented by avoiding tap water. Stick to purified bottled water from recognised brands and take Imodium with you. Many people also swear that drinking red cordial will keep Bali Belly at bay.