Bali is a picturesque destination resplendent with volcanoes, rice paddies, lush forests and warm tropical beaches set on the Indian Ocean. Finding budget accommodations when visiting this warm and inviting city can leave travelers with more money in their pocket for dining options, sightseeing adventures and of course souvenirs to take home to friends and family.

Ala’s Hibiscus 2

Part of the fun of staying at Ala’s Hibiscus 2 is the journey to get there. Paths to the guesthouse twist and turn and follow the channels of irrigation often with running water. All rooms have exceptional views along with mosquito nets and hot running water. Rice paddies surround the visitor and seeing feathered fowl is the norm and not the exception. Located in the neighborhood of Ubad, the accommodations are low key and quirky with budget prices that will please the traveler with a light pocketbook.

Homestay at the Biangs

With just six rooms set in a charming garden, walking amidst the rice paddies and the lush countryside is a pleasant experience not to be missed. The word biang translates to mama from the Balinese high dialect and the influence of “mother” is felt here.  Sweeping views of verdant foliage can be had for a little more money and is well worth it. Nocturnal birds serenade guests to sleep free of charge.

Blue Ocean

In the heart of the chic areas of Legian and Seminyak you will find the Blue Ocean guesthouse. Nothing fancy but with its close proximity (A 1 minute commute to the sea) to the ocean, surfers come to stay for more than just a week. A budget lodging that allows guest to be where the action is, pleasant rooms, outdoor bathrooms and hot water ensures that guests have the basic necessities.

Finding accommodations that are clean and comfortable in Bali doesn’t have to break the bank. Travelers on a budget can enjoy not only clean and comfortable accommodations, but just a little bit out of the norm so that they can relish a culture that is different from their own.

When you travel to a foreign land it is always advised that you are well versed in the everyday courtesies.  This is especially true when you travel to regions that have entirely different cultures and customs that are foreign to your own way of living. This is true in Indonesia, and before you take your long dreamed of trip to this exotic country, brush up on some of the do and don’ts so that you don’t make any faux pas.

When in Indonesia, handshakes are typical greetings for men and even some women. But there are Muslim women that only acknowledge an introduction to a male with just a nod and a smile.

When meeting a woman in Indonesia, let the lady initiate a handshake. The typical greeting or in the native tongue, “salam,” bears a resemblence to a traditional handshake, but both hands are used and no grasping is involved.

When a man offers his two hands, he typically touches the friend who has his hands outstretched. He then will bring his hands to his chest to indicate “I greet you from my heart.” Tourists when presented with this greeting should respond to the “salam” with the same.

If you are going to visit a native at their home, it is expected that you call before arriving to be polite. Whenever you enter an Indonesian’s home, your shoes should always be removed. If a drink is offered to you it is the custom to accept it.

Whenever you are eating, giving or receiving an object, it is customary that the right hand is used. The forefinger on the right hand is never used to point at any person, place or thing. You should instead use the right hand thumb with your four fingers folded.

If you are going to enter a mosque, temple or other place of worship, it is customary to again remove your shoes. It may be required that robes and scarves cover women, so do not reject the offering. If you want to take a picture when you are visiting a holy place, be sure that you ask permission before you click your camera.

Though many cultures use a toast to bring about fellowship and commaraderie, the Muslim people do not drink alcohol, so refrain from raising a toast no matter how comfortable you are feeling.

It is always a plus to visitors to understand the ways of a culture that is different from their own. It will allow the traveler to have a richer experience without the chance to insult the hosts.