5 Things to Know Before Studying in Bali

1. Culture: Embrace Daily Spirituality

In Bali, spirituality is not an occasional ritual it’s woven into everyday life. As a student, you’ll encounter canang sari, small handmade offerings of flowers, incense, and food, placed at entrances, streets, temples, and classrooms. These offerings are made several times a day to maintain balance between humans, nature, and spirit a philosophy known as Tri Hita Karana. Balinese Hinduism shapes everything from architecture to daily schedules (ceremonies might even affect traffic!). Take time to observe, learn, and respect these practices. It’s not just beautiful it’s meaningful. Read more about Balinese daily offering.

2. Food: Diverse, Affordable, and Delicious

If you love food, you’re in the right place. Bali is home to over 30 regional Indonesian cuisines, plus a thriving international food scene. You’ll find everything from spicy sambals to vegan smoothie bowls to street-side grilled corn. Here’s the bonus: Eating out is often cheaper than cooking at home. Local warung meals start around 15,000 IDR (~$1 USD), making it easy to eat well without breaking your budget. Cooking at home, on the other hand, can be surprisingly expensive due to the high cost of imported groceries. Whether you're into adventurous eats or prefer familiar comfort food, Bali has it all at student-friendly prices.

3. Weather: Tropical All Year Round

Bali enjoys consistent warmth year-round, with average temperatures hovering around 29–30°C (84–86°F). The island has two main seasons: dry (April to October) and rainy (November to March). Even during the rainy season, showers are often brief and refreshing. Light, breathable clothing is essential. Think linen, cotton, and layers you can throw on or off. Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and a refillable water bottle it’s always summer here.

4. Campus Life: Respect Local Norms

When attending classes or academic activities in Bali, modest dress is expected especially in university settings. This means covering shoulders and knees, and wearing proper shoes. Not only is this respectful to your lecturers and peers, but it also aligns with local cultural and religious values. If you're visiting temples or participating in ceremonies, you may also be asked to wear a sarong or sash. Embrace it these practices connect you to something bigger than just coursework.

5. Roads & Transport

In Bali, people drive on the left, and scooters dominate the roads. If you're not used to this, the traffic may seem intense at first. Roads can be narrow, winding, and packed especially in popular areas like Ubud, Canggu, or Denpasar.

If you choose to ride a scooter (many students do), always wear a helmet, drive slowly, and stay alert. Alternatively, you can walk, rent a bicycle, or use ride-hailing apps like Gojek or Grab for safe, affordable transport. Studying in Bali offers more than just academic credits; it's a full-body, full-heart experience. From navigating daily rituals, scooter rides to rice fields, every moment has the potential to teach you something new.

If you come prepared culturally curious, open-minded, and respectful you’re not just visiting Bali. You’re learning from it.