As travel agents and advisors, you’re always looking for the best advice to guide your clients to their dream destinations. Bali is one of those bucket-list locations, but there’s a lot to know about the journey, the culture, and what your clients can expect. Here’s a look at Bali from our team member April Marmol, who recently traveled there, and how you can make the most of it for your clients.
A Note on the Journey: Make It Count
Bali is a destination that will steal your heart. The people are warm, the culture is rich, and the food? Incredible. There’s so much to love about this island. But let’s be real: the journey there is no joke. For me, it was almost 20 hours of flying from Los Angeles—17 hours to Singapore, followed by a 2-hour flight to Bali. It’s a commitment, for sure, but trust me, once you get there, it’s worth it.
That said, don’t let the time go to waste. If you have clients making the long trek to Southeast Asia, why not suggest combining Bali with another nearby destination? I had a layover in Singapore, explored the Jewel Changi Airport, and even squeezed in lunch. For clients with more time, spending a few days in Singapore—or hopping over to Thailand or Vietnam—adds serious value to their trip.
Arrival & Entry Tips: Help Clients Avoid Stress
Make sure your clients are fully prepped for arrival. I had my e-visa, customs form, and health declaration ready, but I still ran into a hiccup due to a passport mismatch and had to pay for the visa twice. Lesson learned: double-check every detail.
Bali’s airport is well-organized, and travelers who arrive with everything in order usually get through quickly. A little prep ahead of time can save a lot of time (and money) later.
Bali’s Iconic Spots: What Your Clients Should Know
Bali has a lot of incredible landmarks, but it’s important to manage expectations, especially when it comes to popular sites. Here are a few highlights from my trip that you can recommend to your clients:
- Tirta Gangga: A serene former royal palace in East Bali, perfect for photos with its fountains, lush gardens, and fish-filled pools. It’s a great spot for a boat ride, and while some may call it a tourist trap, I found it to be a fun and peaceful place to spend time. If your clients are visiting Lempuyang Temple, this is a great nearby detour.
- Tanah Lot: One of Bali’s most iconic temples, perched on a rock formation in the Indian Ocean. During high tide, you can’t get too close, but the sight of pilgrims walking through the waves is unforgettable. It’s a powerful reminder of the spiritual significance of Bali.
- Lempuyang Temple (“Gate to Heaven”): This one requires planning! If your clients want to visit this iconic spot, they’ll need to leave early, around 4:00 AM or 5:00 AM if coming from Ubud or South Bali. Expect to wait a couple of hours for the perfect photo opportunity. But the stunning views and the experience are worth the wait for many travelers. Help your clients decide if this experience is a must-do for them or if they’d rather skip it.
Hidden Gems & Must-Do Experiences
Bali isn’t just about the big-name attractions—there’s so much more to explore. Here are a few experiences that will give your clients a deeper dive into the island:
- Wellness and Yoga: Many hotels offer yoga and wellness retreats. If your clients are looking for relaxation and rejuvenation, this is a great way to spend a few days.
- Silver-Making Workshops: Let your clients get hands-on with Bali’s traditional silver-making craft. It’s a fun and unique way to experience local culture and create a memorable souvenir.
- Day Trips to Nusa Penida or Nusa Lembongan: These nearby islands are known for their stunning landscapes and crystal-clear waters. Perfect for clients who want a little more adventure during their Bali trip.
Is Bali Right for Your Clients?
Bali is stunning, no doubt—but it’s not a one-size-fits-all destination. The long travel time, early morning starts for popular sights, and crowds at major landmarks can be a lot for some travelers. But for the right clients? It’s pure magic.
Help your clients figure out if Bali matches their travel style:
– Do they crave culture, nature, and a little adventure?
– Are they okay with structure and early wake-up calls?
– Do they want to explore, unwind, or maybe even both?
Also, it’s important to keep in mind that Bali is not just one experience. It all depends on where you stay as well.
Ubud Vs. South Bali: Two Different Worlds
Ubud is the cultural heart of Bali—lush, peaceful, and deeply rooted in tradition. It’s ideal for travelers who want to recharge, reconnect, and soak up Bali’s spiritual and natural beauty.
South Bali (Seminyak, Canggu, Kuta, Sanur, Nusa Dua) delivers more of a modern, upbeat energy—beach clubs, stylish resorts, great dining, and a vibrant atmosphere. Perfect for clients looking for something a bit more social or luxurious.
What if they want both, you might ask? Don’t worry! We have several itineraries to choose from, including programs which already combine Bali & Ubud, so your clients can experience the best of both worlds.
Let Us Help You Book the Perfect Bali Experience
Whether your clients are looking for wellness, adventure, culture, or indulgence, Bali has something to offer. Need help picking the right package or customizing an itinerary? Reach out to us at Tours For The World—we’re here to make your Bali bookings seamless and unforgettable.