Bali is one of those destinations that everyone seems to rave about. You see the Instagram photos of pristine beaches, lush rice terraces, and elegant infinity pools, and you think – why not? But here’s the truth: while Bali can be beautiful, it is also chaotic, crowded, and potentially overwhelming – especially in the main towns like Ubud and Denpasar. For first-time visitors, that can be a real shock.
I’ve explored Bali including Ubud, Denpasar, and rural villages, combining luxury accommodation with some DIY exploring and the occasional private driver. And to be completely honest? While I found some parts of Bali beautiful, the noise and crowds in the main towns left me feeling underwhelmed.
That said, Bali isn’t all scooters and selfies. When you venture into the countryside or stay at a beach resort, you can escape the chaos entirely. There’s a quieter, more authentic side to the island – lush rice fields, jungle views, and moments of true calm.
This guide is for travellers in their 50s, 60s, and beyond who are heading to Bali for the first time. Maybe you’re ticking it off your bucket list. Maybe you’re curious but cautious. Either way, you’ll find practical, experience-based advice on how to get the most out of your trip – without getting overwhelmed.
From visas and scams to where to stay and how to plan downtime, this post gives you the clarity to experience Bali confidently and comfortably.
Most international visitors arrive via Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar. Direct flights from major cities in Australia and New Zealand are available. If you are coming from Europe or North or South America, expect at least one stopover – often in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, or Doha.
Book your flights well in advance if you are travelling during school holidays or peak seasons (June–August and December). Try to arrive during daylight hours to navigate the airport, find your ride, and get to your accommodation.
Yes, in most cases. Travellers from many countries, including Australia, the UK, and the US, are eligible for a Visa on Arrival (VoA) – but you should get it online before you arrive. It costs around IDR 500,000 (approximately AUD 50) and allows a stay of up to 30 days.
Getting your visa ahead of time through the Indonesian e-visa portal will save you serious time at the airport. The queues for those paying on arrival can be long and frustrating – especially after a long-haul flight. It is definitely nice to not have to queue after a long flight.
You will also need to complete a few online forms before arriving in Bali:
Completing these in advance will make your airport arrival much smoother and help you avoid bottlenecks at multiple checkpoints. Your airline should send you an email with links to each of the relevant sites.
Vaccinations
Before travelling to Bali, it is recommended to have routine vaccines such as tetanus, hepatitis A, and typhoid. If you are heading into rural areas or staying longer, your doctor might also suggest hepatitis B, Japanese encephalitis, or rabies shots.
Prescription Medication
If you take prescription medication, bring enough for your entire trip. Keep it in its original packaging, along with a copy of your prescription. Indonesia has strict drug laws – even for medications considered routine elsewhere – so never bring anything that cannot be clearly documented.
📌 For a complete checklist and more detailed advice, read my post on 7 Essential Tips for Travelling with Medication.
Pack light, breathable clothing—Bali is hot and humid year-round. Include a sarong or scarf for temple visits, as modest clothing is expected in sacred spaces. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, especially if you plan to explore on foot or visit uneven rural paths.
Other essentials:
Bali is in the Central Indonesia Time Zone (GMT+8). If you are coming from Australia’s east coast, the time difference is minimal. But travellers from Europe or North or South America should factor in jet lag – especially if you are planning a busy first few days. Give yourself at least a day to settle before tackling tours or long travel days.
Bali is predominantly Hindu, unlike the rest of Indonesia, which is predominantly Muslim. Religion is deeply woven into daily life – ceremonies, offerings, and temple festivals are common. Be respectful: Avoid walking through temple ceremonies and never touch sacred offerings (canang sari) placed on the ground.
Touching down in Bali for the first time can be a bit of a sensory overload. Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar is often crowded and noisy – especially after a long-haul flight. But the airport is reasonably easy to get through if you follow the signs.
Expect queues at immigration (especially if you did not pre-purchase your visa), multiple document checks, and a swarm of taxi drivers offering rides as soon as you exit. It is manageable, but it can be overwhelming if you are tired or unfamiliar with the region.
Tip: Arrange an airport transfer through your accommodation or use a trusted driver (more on that below). It will save you hassle and give you peace of mind.
Let’s be clear: you do not want to drive yourself in Bali, especially on your first visit.
The roads are chaotic, traffic rules are loosely followed (if at all), and scooters dominate every inch of space. Add to that confusing signage, narrow roads, and unpredictable drivers – and it is just not worth the stress.
Instead, consider:
Bali is not the most accessible destination, especially for travellers with limited mobility.
Footpaths (where they exist) can be uneven, broken, or blocked by motorbikes. Many accommodations do not have elevators or ramps, and temple visits often involve stairs and steep paths.
If accessibility is a concern:
It is always smart to have local emergency numbers saved in your phone. Here are a few essentials:
Also, carry a copy of your travel insurance details, including emergency contact numbers and policy numbers.
The local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). It’s a high-denomination currency, so don’t be surprised when you’re handed notes for IDR 100,000 or more – that’s only a few dollars.
Before you travel, it is a good idea to exchange some cash in your home country. Even just enough to cover a taxi, a meal, and a SIM card will take the pressure off when you arrive. While you can exchange money at the airport, rates are often poor, and queues can be long.
As a general guide (rates may vary):
ATMs are widely available in towns, tourist areas, and at the airport – but be cautious. Some machines are known for card skimming. Stick to ATMs inside banks or attached to supermarkets, and always shield your PIN.
Credit cards are accepted at most hotels, large restaurants, and major shops. However, many local warungs (small eateries), markets, and taxis are cash-only, so always have some cash on hand.
Tip: Break large bills when you can. Small denominations are essential for tipping, buying snacks, and paying local drivers.
Staying connected in Bali is easy and affordable – but check your options before you go.
First, see if your current mobile provider offers international roaming at a reasonable rate. For example, Vodafone Australia offers a $5/day roaming plan that lets you use your phone and data just like you would at home. This can save you the hassle of swapping SIM cards and means you’re always reachable by your usual number.
If your provider doesn’t offer a good deal – or if you’re staying longer – there are two other solid options:
Wi-Fi is standard in hotels, cafes, and tourist attractions, though it can be unreliable in rural areas. A local data plan (or affordable roaming) is important for smooth navigation, translations, and transport apps like Grab or Gojek.
📲Click here to get 5% off Holafly using my promo code MIDDLEAGE.
Electricity
Bali uses Type C and F plugs with 230V / 50Hz electricity. Most Australian and European plugs will work, but travellers from the UK or North and South America will need an adapter.
Bring a universal travel adapter with surge protection, especially if you are charging sensitive electronics.
Tipping is not mandatory in Bali, but it is appreciated – especially in service jobs where wages are low.
Here’s a simple guide:
Always tip in cash and hand it directly to the person you are thanking.
The official language is Bahasa Indonesia, but in Bali, many locals also speak Balinese. English is widely spoken in tourist areas but not always in rural villages or small warungs.
It’s helpful – and respectful – to learn a few basic phrases:
Even simple efforts go a long way and are often met with a warm smile.
Balinese culture is deeply spiritual, and daily life is filled with rituals, ceremonies, and temple offerings. It’s beautiful – but it can be easy to unknowingly offend.
Key things to remember:
Bali is generally casual, but modesty is important, especially in rural areas and at religious sites.
A good rule: dress how you would if visiting a sacred site at home.
Bali has its fair share of hustlers – particularly in tourist-heavy areas like Kuta, Ubud Market, and Seminyak.
You might be approached with offers for tours, massages, or souvenirs. It’s okay to say “No thank you” (tidak, terima kasih) and keep walking.
In markets, haggling is expected. Start by offering about half the asking price, then negotiate from there. Keep it light-hearted – it’s part of the experience.
Stay alert for:
Avoiding scams in Bali mostly comes down to trusting your instincts and not rushing into deals.
Bali is generally safe, but petty theft can be an issue.
Stay alert, especially in crowded areas or after dark. And as always – trust your gut. If something feels off, walk away.
Bali Belly (traveller’s diarrhoea) is common, especially for first-time visitors. It’s usually caused by unfamiliar bacteria in food or water – so take precautions, even in nicer restaurants.
When it comes to alcohol:
Toilets in hotels and restaurants are usually Western-style and clean, but once you step into local warungs, roadside stops, or rural areas, expect squat toilets and limited facilities.
Western-style toilets often use a hose (called a “bum gun”) instead of paper. Give it a try – it’s more hygienic once you get the hang of it.
🚽If you’re like me and have “a small bladder”, check out my post on Travelling with a Weak Bladder: 11 Essential Tips.
Bali is a photographer’s dream – from temples and rice terraces to beaches and traditional ceremonies. But it is important to be respectful, especially in sacred or private spaces.
At many popular sites, especially temples and scenic lookouts, you may encounter delays caused by travellers staging “Instagram photos.” We experienced this at several locations – people adjusting outfits, fixing makeup, and blocking views for extended periods. On a few occasions, when it was clear they weren’t actively photographing, I politely asked if I could snap a quick photo and had no issues. But it’s something to be aware of – it can be frustrating when you just want a candid shot of a beautiful place.
If staged photos are not your thing, it is okay to skip the hype and focus on enjoying the moment instead.
📸Before you go, make sure you’re using a memory card that won’t let you down – check out my guide on The Best Memory Card for Travel: 6 Things to Consider to choose the right one.
You can legally fly a drone in Bali, but strict rules and growing restrictions exist – especially around temples and densely populated areas.
If you plan to bring a drone, do your research, fly respectfully, and always follow local guidelines. Inappropriate use could lead to confiscation or fines.
📷Thinking of taking a drone to Bali? Check out my guide on Can I Take a Drone on a Plane? 5 Essential Tips.
Bali has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons:
Temperatures hover around 27–31°C (80–88°F) year-round, but the humidity can be draining – especially if you are not used to it. Wear breathable fabrics, stay hydrated, and avoid midday exertion where possible.
We planned a couple of “down days” into our itinerary – days to simply relax, lounge by our private pool, get a massage, or take a leisurely walk around the rice fields. It was the best decision. One of these days turned out to be a rainy one. Instead of it being a disappointment, it became a highlight – sipping cocktails under cover while watching the rain fall over the rainforest and then having a relaxing massage was surprisingly magical.
Bali offers many wildlife encounters – but some come with ethical concerns and health risks.
Yes, Bali does have rabies, particularly among stray dogs. You’ll see dogs and cats roaming freely, especially in rural areas. Most are passive and mind their own business but avoid touching or feeding them to reduce the risk of bites, scratches, or disease. If you are bitten or scratched, seek medical help immediately.
Avoid animal attractions that promote selfies with tigers, chained monkeys, or elephant rides – these are usually linked to poor treatment and questionable practices. If you care about animal welfare (and I hope you do!), take a look at my guide to Ethical Animal Tourism.
The Monkey Forest in Ubud is a popular spot, but be alert – the monkeys are wild and bold. They will grab sunglasses, hats, and even water bottles. Don’t bring food, and keep your belongings zipped up and secure.
Bali is stunning, but tourism has taken a toll on its environment. You can help reduce your impact by making a few conscious choices:
Supporting local eco-friendly businesses and staying in sustainable accommodations is a great way to give back and preserve the island’s beauty.
Bali is more than just beach clubs and yoga retreats. While the main towns are busy and often overwhelming, the island’s real magic lies in its quieter corners. Here are five places we recommend – especially if it’s your first trip and you’re over 50:
Each spot offers something different – so try to mix a few areas to get a well-rounded experience.
Accommodation in Bali runs the gamut—from $20 homestays to $800-a-night luxury resorts. If you’re over 50 and value comfort and calm, here’s what to look for:
One property I can personally recommend is Sanna Ubud – A Pramana Experience. It’s located a short drive from central Ubud, nestled among the rice paddies with stunning jungle views. The rooms are elegant, the setting tranquil, and the service impeccable – perfect for travellers who want luxury without the chaos.
Always check reviews for noise levels, accessibility, and how well a property caters to mature guests. And remember – you don’t need to stay in the heart of town to enjoy Bali.
Bali is one of those places that divides opinion – and I completely understand why. While many fall in love with its beaches, culture, and energy, others find the towns’ crowds and chaos overwhelming.
That said, Bali is absolutely worth visiting – if you do it your way. The key for first-time travellers in their 50s, 60s, or beyond is to pace yourself. Don’t try to cram too much in. Build in down days, spend time in the countryside, and be realistic about how much stimulation you want on your holiday.
Get your visa, SIM, and tourist forms sorted before you go. Be prepared for both the beauty and the noise. Plan ahead, pack light, and stay open-minded – but also, don’t be afraid to admit if Bali isn’t your perfect match.
Travel is personal. And that’s exactly how it should be.
Do I need a visa to travel to Bali?
Yes, most travellers need a visa. You can apply for a Visa on Arrival (VoA) online before you go, which speeds up processing at the airport. The visa allows you to stay for up to 30 days.
Is Bali safe for older travellers?
Generally, yes. Bali is safe for mature travellers, but use common sense. Watch out for petty theft, avoid drinking tap water, and be cautious on uneven footpaths.
What should I avoid in Bali?
Avoid:
When is the best time to visit Bali?
The dry season (May-September) is ideal. It’s sunny and less humid. The wet season (October-April) brings heavy rain and high humidity.
Can I use my phone in Bali?
Yes, but check with your provider. Some offer low-cost international roaming (e.g., Vodafone $5/day). Local SIM cards or eSIMs are also affordable and work well.
Is Bali wheelchair accessible?
Accessibility can be limited. Many areas lack proper pavements or ramps. If accessibility is essential, research and contact accommodations in advance.
What are some great places to visit in Bali?
For first-timers Ubud, Sanur, Sidemen, Nusa Lembongan, and parts of Seminyak. The rural areas offer peace and authentic beauty beyond the crowds.
Hi, I’m Lisa Bundesen - the voice behind The Middle Age Wanderer. I’m a retired chartered accountant turned passionate traveller and photographer. Alongside my husband Darren (and with our two fur babies waiting at home in Australia), we explore the world one adventure at a time.
I’ve travelled to over 35 countries, and I created this blog to inspire fellow travellers in their 50s, 60s, and beyond to embrace adventure. Whether it’s hiking ancient trails, diving into new cultures, or sipping wine in scenic places, I believe life after 50 is the perfect time to explore more.
Here, you’ll find honest travel advice, destination guides, and real stories to help you travel smarter and with more confidence - because age is not a barrier, it’s an invitation.
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Hi, I’m Lisa, a 50+ retired chartered accountant. My husband, Darren, and I explore the world every opportunity we get. Staying fit is key to our adventures, from hiking the Inca Trail to scuba diving. We call Australia home but travel overseas often, always eager to discover new cultures, bustling cities, cuisines, nature and wildlife.
We would love you to join us on our journeys and hope that our adventures give you encouragement to explore this amazing world.
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