The first thing worth knowing before arriving in Bali is that distance and travel time are not always the same.
Because of narrow roads and heavy traffic, a journey can take much longer than Google Maps predicts.
For example, our flight landed at 12:50 PM. We had arranged for our rental scooter to be delivered to the villa at 2:00 PM, so it seemed like we had more than enough time.
In reality, we didn't arrive at our accommodation until after 4:00 PM.
So if you've scheduled a scooter delivery, a meeting with your host, or anything else after landing, make sure to leave yourself plenty of extra time. This is especially important if you're heading to Ubud, Canggu, or other areas farther from the airport.
How to Get from the Airport
Option 1️⃣ Book a Regular Taxi
The easiest option is to install Grab or Gojek in advance. However, registration doesn't always work before arriving, so we recommend using them after you land.
To make sure everything works immediately after arrival, I recommend purchasing an eSIM before your flight. We used an eSIM from Trip.com.
You can activate it before departure. As soon as you land, you'll have internet access and can book a ride directly from the airport.
Just make sure to carefully follow the activation instructions provided by Trip.com.
Option 2️⃣ Book an Airport Transfer in Advance
If you're traveling with luggage or simply don't want to search for a taxi after a long flight, I recommend booking an airport transfer in advance.
Your driver will meet you at the airport, help with your luggage, and take you directly to your accommodation.
In my opinion, after a long flight, it's much more comfortable than looking for the pickup point, messaging the driver, and trying to find the right car.
You can book your transfer here.
After You Check In
Take a look at our guide, "Essential Apps for Life in Bali".
There you'll find the services I personally use for transportation, food delivery, maps, online shopping, mobile service, currency exchange, and other apps that made our first days on the island much easier.
Officially, I'm an editor of city media around the world. But really, I'm just that traveling frog who chases adventures, connects people, and discovers new ways to make life a little more meaningful, exciting, and full of wonder every day
