Bali is a popular destination for travelers who want to experience the beauty, culture, and spirituality of the island of the gods.
But how do you get there from New York City? Here are some tips and options to help you plan your trip.
Choose the Right Season
Bali has two main seasons: the dry season (April to October) and the wet season (November to March). The dry season is generally the best time to visit Bali, as the weather is sunny, the humidity is lower, and the surf is good on the west coast.
However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and crowds in popular areas.
The wet season is not necessarily a bad time to visit Bali, as the rain usually comes in short bursts and the island is lush and green.
You can still enjoy outdoor activities, especially in the drier regions of the east and north. However, you may encounter more mosquitoes, muddy roads, and reduced visibility for diving and snorkeling.
The best months to visit Bali depend on your preferences and activities. If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy lower prices, consider visiting in the shoulder months of April, May, September, and October.
If you want to experience some of Bali’s colorful festivals and celebrations, plan your trip around July, August, or December.
Find the Best Flight
There are no direct flights from New York City to Bali, so you will have to make at least one stop along the way. The flight time can vary from 20 to 30 hours, depending on your route and layover duration.
Some of the most common airlines that fly from NYC to Bali are Emirates, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, and Korean Air.
The cheapest flights from NYC to Bali are usually found on Skyscanner, Kayak, or Expedia. You can compare different dates, airlines, and airports to find the best deal for your budget and schedule.
The average price for a round-trip ticket from NYC to Bali is around $800 to $1,000, but you may find lower fares if you book in advance or look for last-minute deals.
The main airport in Bali is Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), also known as Denpasar Airport. It is located about 13 km south of Denpasar, the capital city of Bali.
From there, you can take a taxi, a bus, or a private transfer to your hotel or villa. You can also rent a car or a scooter if you want more flexibility and convenience.
Apply for a Visa
Bali has reopened for international visitors from 61 countries, including the United States. You can enter Bali quarantine-free and with a Visa on Arrival (VoA), which costs IDR 500,000 (about $35) per person.
The VoA is valid for 30 days and can be extended once for another 30 days.
To get a VoA, you need to meet the following requirements:
- You need to be fully vaccinated (two doses) at least 14 days before arrival. You need to show proof of vaccination (a digital or physical certificate) at immigration.
- Need to have a return ticket that shows that you will leave Indonesia within 30 days.
- You need to fill out an e-customs declaration form within three days of departure.
If you are not fully vaccinated or you want to stay longer than 60 days in Bali, you will need to apply for a Visit Visa B211A.
This visa is valid for 60 days and can be extended up to four times (each extension for 30 days). To get this visa, you need to apply online through an Indonesian embassy or consulate in your country or through a local sponsor in Indonesia.
You also need to show a negative PCR test result taken within 72 hours before departure and install the Peduli Lindungi app on your phone.
Pack Smartly
Bali has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. However, it can get cooler in the mountain areas or at night.
Therefore, it is advisable to pack light clothing made of breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen. You may also want to bring a jacket or sweater for chilly evenings or air-conditioned places.
Some essential items to pack for Bali are:
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat
- Swimwear and beach towel
- Flip-flops or sandals
- Insect repellent and antihistamine
- First aid kit and medications
- Adapter and charger
- Camera and memory card
- Cash and credit cards
- Passport and visa documents
Bali is a culturally diverse and respectful island. Therefore, it is important to dress modestly when visiting temples or rural areas.
You may need to cover your shoulders and knees with a sarong or scarf. You may also need to remove your shoes before entering some places. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or ceremonies.
Enjoy Your Trip
Bali is a wonderful destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore the jungle, learn about the culture, or have some fun, you will find plenty of options to suit your taste.
- Visit the iconic Tanah Lot Temple, perched on a rock in the sea
- Watch the sunset at Uluwatu Temple, where you can also see a traditional Kecak dance performance
- Experience the spiritual vibe of Ubud, where you can visit the Monkey Forest, the Ubud Palace, and the Tegalalang Rice Terraces
- Enjoy the nightlife and shopping in Seminyak, Kuta, or Canggu
- Surf the waves at Padang Padang, Bingin, or Balangan Beach
- Dive or snorkel with colorful fish and coral at Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Penida, or Menjangan Island
- Hike up Mount Batur or Mount Agung, two active volcanoes that offer stunning views
- Relax and rejuvenate at a spa or yoga retreat
- Taste the local cuisine and try some specialties such as babi guling (roast suckling pig), nasi goreng (fried rice), or sate (skewered meat)
- Join a cooking class, a batik workshop, or a silver jewelry making course
Bali is a place that will enchant you with its beauty, charm, and hospitality. It is a place that will make you want to come back again and again.
So what are you waiting for? Book your flight to Bali from NYC today and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.
