What I Wish I Knew Before My First Time In Bali

Let your imagination wander with me...

Envision rolling green terraces as far as your eyes can see, infinite coastlines with waves crashing into soft-grained sand, streets dotted with tiny woven offerings-each basket brimming with colorful treats of gratitude. Your ears can hear the cheeky monkeys before you see them swinging amongst the trees, while the comforting scent of incense wafts in the air.

For anyone planning their first time in Bali, it might feel like you already know what to expect thanks to dreamy Instagram feeds and viral travel content. But trust me: the real Bali is even more magical than it looks online.

As a solo female traveler, I was captivated the moment I arrived. But I also quickly realized there were so many Bali travel tips I wish I’d known before hopping on that plane. From culture shocks to budget surprises, visiting Bali is full of unexpected lessons.

Here's everything I wish I knew before my first time in Bali as a Black solo female traveler.

 

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What I Wish I Knew Before My First Time In Bali: The Good Stuff That'll Make You Fall in Love

The Nature

Bali’s natural beauty is, hands down, one of the best parts about visiting the island. From serene beaches and dense jungles to cascading waterfalls and sacred mountains, the scenery is absolutely breathtaking.

 

A full-day tour of Bali’s swing, rice terraces, waterfalls, and Monkey Forest is a must-do for your first time in Bali..

 

What I didn’t realize before my first time in Bali is just how immersive that beauty would feel. It’s not just a backdrop for photos—it’s something you deeply feel. The vibrant greens, the humidity, the sound of birds at sunrise… everything pulls you into the present moment.

Sure, take the pics for the ‘gram—but don’t forget to unplug and just be. Bali’s nature doesn’t need a filter. It’s an invitation to slow down, reflect, and reconnect.

 

The People

If you’re wondering what to expect during your first time in Bali as a Black woman, I was too. Before arriving, I was curious how I’d be received as a solo female traveler, especially in a predominantly non-Black country.

To my surprise and delight, the Balinese people turned out to be some of the warmest and most welcoming individuals I’ve met in all my travels. I spent three weeks living in homestays, budget-friendly accommodations hosted on family-run properties. The experience gave me a beautiful window into local life. No matter where I stayed, I was greeted with kindness, hospitality, and respect.

If you’re nervous about traveling to Bali for the first time, especially as a woman of color, I hope this reassures you: the vibe is warm, not weird. I genuinely felt safe, seen, and cared for.

 

The Food

On day three of my trip, an unexpected twist nudged me into eating vegetarian. As someone who’d never dealt with dietary restrictions while traveling, I braced myself for a challenge. But instead, I discovered something magical: Bali is a plant-based paradise!

There’s no shortage of vegan and vegetarian cafes across the island, many of which are incredibly delicious and affordable. Whether you're plant-curious or a full-time veggie lover, Bali makes it so easy. For anyone planning their first time in Bali, rest assured: eating well is one of the easiest (and tastiest) parts of the experience.

 

The Beaches

You can’t talk about Bali without mentioning the beaches. And trust me—there are a lot of them. One thing I really wish I’d known before visiting? There’s a huge difference between a chill beach day and the curated magic of a beach club.

During my first trip to Bali, I tried both, and each had its own unique charm. You can spend one day barefoot on an empty stretch of sand, and the next sipping fresh juice on a daybed with a DJ spinning in the background. Whether you're solo traveling on a budget or treating yourself, beach hopping in Bali is a must.

 

The Vibes

Fair warning: the laid-back island energy will absolutely rub off on you. I came to Bali for a bit of clarity and left with a whole new perspective on pace and peace. As a Black solo female traveler, I was able to move through spaces without feeling watched or judged. Everyone just minds their own business—giving the exact type of energy a girl living her best life needs.

If you’re craving a destination where you can focus on yourself, your growth, or just a really good smoothie and a nap, your first time in Bali might be more than a vacation—it could be a reset.

 

April is a beautiful time to visit Bali, especially for solo travelers hoping to explore the famous rice terraces during their first time on the island.

 

What I Wish I Knew Before My First Time In Bali: The Not-So-Great Side of Paradise

We all know paradise isn’t perfect. So while I loved many things about my first time in Bali, it wouldn’t be fair to only show you the highlight reel. There were definitely some surprises and not-so-pretty moments that caught me off guard. These are the things I wish someone had told me before traveling to Bali for the first time.

 

The Nature…And Its Creatures

Yep, you read that right. Bali’s beautiful nature turned out to be as much of a “con” as it was a “pro”. The rich foliage and flowing rivers also come with extreme creepy crawlies. And I don’t just mean the usual big-booty beetles or long-legged spider daddies. I encountered massive beetles, extraterrestrial grasshoppers, and overly confident geckos. One night, I woke up from the shrill cry of an insect being swallowed alive by another creature I can only describe as a scorpion-spider beast. 😳 They say travel changes you and I’m pretty sure that moment will leave me forever scarred.

The truth is, nature rules in Bali. If you're squeamish or not a fan of uninvited critters, staying in a jungle villa might not be the best choice for your solo adventure. Knowing this before visiting Bali would’ve helped me manage my expectations—and my heart rate.

 

The Water

Another surprise during my first trip to Bali was just how harsh the tap water is. It dried out my curls, my skin, and pretty much any attempt I made at moisture. Even switching to bottled water later on didn’t help much once the damage was done.

By week two, I was wishing I had packed a portable shower filter and a suitcase full of deep conditioner—something I highly recommend if you're planning to take part in a water ritual or spend a lot of time swimming. This is one of those Bali travel tips no one thinks to mention until it’s too late. Learn from my mistakes, sis. Your hair will thank you for protecting it in advance.

 

A soothing flower bath is the perfect self-care ritual during your first time in Bali—don’t forget to book spa appointments early.

 

Food Safety

Let me start by saying the food in Bali is incredible! But food safety can be a little...murky. Just a few days into my first trip to Bali, I caught a nasty case of what’s commonly called Bali belly. The culprit (some undercooked chicken from fast food joint), landed  me in a clinic hooked up to an IV drip—the only solution to combat the vomit-inducing parasite that had overtaken my body. 😩

 

The Pho dinner I attempted to eat while being sick with Bali belly. When traveling to Bali for the first time, food safety is key—always eat cautiously.

 

I've heard countless Bali belly horror stories from both travelers and locals alike. The scariest part? No one can ever identify exactly what made them ill because the potential sources are numerous: contaminated ice cubes, warung (local restaurant) dishes, street food, fresh fruit, plain bad luck, you name it. Looking back, I wish someone had advised me to not only be selective about where I eat, but also what I eat. Avoid ice in your drinks whenever possible and stick to busy restaurants where food turnover is high.

 

Dining Costs

While Bali caters to a range of budgets, restaurant dining might surprise your wallet. The prices listed on the menu are not the final price. Many restaurants tack on a 10% tax plus a 5–10% service charge, and that’s before you even think about tipping. During my first time in Bali, I was caught off guard by how much I was spending on food. Apps like Gojek and Grab became my best friends for cheaper meals and quick delivery. I highly recommend them if you're looking to stretch your travel budget.

 

Getting Around the Island

On the map, Bali looks small. But once you’re on the ground, you’ll realize how long it can take to get anywhere. The traffic is no joke. A 15-minute drive can easily turn into a 45-minute crawl, especially in popular areas like Canggu or Ubud.

Walking isn't always a reliable alternative either. Sidewalks are inconsistent, and the midday sun can be brutal. If you're booking a tour or catching a ferry, always leave extra time to get there. This is one of the most useful things I learned the hard way.

 

What I Wish I Knew Before My First Time In Bali: What The Different Areas Offer

So that’s the good, the bad, and the buggy. Now let’s get into one of the most important decisions you'll make during your trip—where to stay in Bali.

The area you choose can completely shape your experience, especially during your first time in Bali. Since I was traveling solo, I did a ton of research before booking anything. Some spots were perfect for me. Others, not so much. Here's a breakdown of what I learned about each area that might help you plan smarter.

 

Seminyak: The Trendy Hub

If it’s your first time in Bali, Seminyak is a solid place to start. It offers the perfect mix of comfort and style, with chic cafes, boutique shops, beach bars, and sunset spots all within walking distance.

I spent my first week here and loved how central it felt. It’s easy to get around without needing a scooter, and you're close enough to explore other areas without dealing with too much traffic. Great for solo travelers who want ease, safety, and a taste of Bali’s more polished side.

 

Canggu: A Poppin’ Paradise

Canggu is the Bali hotspot for digital nomads, surfers, and smoothie bowl enthusiasts. If you’re looking for community, coworking spaces, and trendy beach clubs, this is your zone.

It has a fun, youthful vibe with tons of cafes, nightlife, and movement. But with all that energy comes more traffic and noise, so it might feel overwhelming if you’re craving calm. Still, for a solo traveler who loves connection and activity, Canggu is one of the best areas in Bali to check out.

 

Kuta: The Tourist Hub

Kuta is one of the most talked-about neighborhoods, but not always for the right reasons. It's busy, it's loud, and the beaches aren't the cleanest. Think of it as the Times Square of Bali.

That said, Kuta still has its perks. Budget shopping, cheap eats, and tons of action. If you like being right in the middle of everything and don’t mind crowds, you might enjoy it. For me personally, it wasn’t the best fit during my first Bali trip, but it could work depending on your vibe.

 

Ubud: The Cultural Heart

Ubud is everything you’ve seen in the wellness travel vlogs: rice terraces, yoga retreats, temples, and spiritual energy. It’s located in central Bali, which makes it ideal for visiting cultural landmarks and scenic spots.

Traffic can get hectic, and it’s not the easiest area to explore on foot, but the peaceful atmosphere makes up for it. If your first time in Bali is all about healing, nature, or inner peace, Ubud is your match.

 

After a long day of exploring Bali’s temples and waterfalls, the monkeys at Ubud’s Monkey Forest perfectly matched my energy.

 

Sanur: The Local Escape

Sanur is calm, coastal, and community-oriented. It’s one of Bali’s more relaxed beach towns, known for gorgeous sunrises and a slower pace of life.

It doesn’t get as much attention from solo travelers, but it’s still a lovely option if you’re seeking peace. You’ll find yoga studios, beachfront cafes, and safe streets that are bike-friendly. While it’s more popular with families, it could be a great place to rest and recharge.

 

Nusa Dua: The Luxury Haven

If pampering is a priority, Nusa Dua is for you. This upscale area is known for its clean, quiet beaches and all-inclusive resorts. It’s definitely more secluded, so it’s not ideal if you're looking to bar hop or mingle, but it's perfect if you’re leaning into full-on Bali self-care mode.

Because it’s a bit remote, consider hiring a driver or booking tours with transportation included. That way you can still explore while enjoying your luxe stay.

 

North Bali: The Road Less Traveled

If you're an off-the-beaten-path type of traveler, North Bali might be your hidden gem. It’s far less touristy, which means fewer crowds and more raw nature. You’ll find waterfalls, black sand beaches, and authentic Balinese villages.

It’s not the most convenient option, but if you're looking to go deeper into the island’s natural and cultural roots, this region has a lot to offer.

What I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Bali: Finding Tribe

Bali easily earns a top spot on my list of best solo travel destinations. It offers that rare mix of ease and adventure: affordable options, safe transportation, friendly locals, and enough tourist infrastructure to keep you grounded while still stepping outside your norm.

For anyone planning their first time in Bali, especially solo travelers, it’s a destination that makes you feel both free and held. And for solo Black female travelers like me, there’s one special detail that made all the difference: community.

 

Solo But Not Alone 

Solo travel can be incredibly liberating, but let’s be real—it’s also nice to see familiar faces when you’re thousands of miles from home. One of the best surprises during my first trip to Bali was discovering just how vibrant the expat and traveler community is.

There’s a beautiful mix of people on the island: vacationers, creatives, digital nomads, and everything in between. Many came for a visit and never left. And right at the center of it all is Black in Bali a powerful community that brings together travelers from across the diaspora.

I found the group just before arriving and it was a total game-changer. Not only did I meet new friends, but I stayed plugged into cultural happenings like Nyepi, the Balinese New Year celebration that I otherwise would’ve missed. It added so much depth to my solo travel experience.

 

Finding community is a game-changer when solo traveling. The Black in Bali crew made my first Nyepi celebration unforgettable.

 

So there you have it—everything I wish I knew before my first time in Bali. Now that you know what to expect, there’s really nothing standing between you and your dream trip. Whether you’re coming for the vibes, the views, or a much-needed reset, Bali is the kind of place that gives back what you’re looking for.

Need help planning the perfect solo escape? Grab your copy of The Ultimate Bali Travel Guide for hand-picked recs, must-see spots, and smart tips to make the most of your time.

Bali’s waiting. Are you packed yet? 🧳