Transportation Options in Bali
Transportations options in Bali are diverse and readily available. Depending upon your comfort with the roads, your driving skills and reaction times, you will know very quickly if you are ready for the challenge. Drivers need 100% focus as people, dogs, motorbikes on your left and right side will come at you. It can feel at times like a swarm and during rush hour the humming of the motorbikes even sounds like a hive. For expats living in Bali your choices come down to the following:
(1) Buy or rent a car/motorbike new or used
Depending upon how long you plan to stay in Bali will determine whether you will want to splurge on buying a car or not. You can resell the vehicle and will likely be able to offset the cost of rental. Owning a car comes with additional expenses including maintenance and insurance, which do not exist if you rent a car.
Renting a car can be arranged through a car rental company that will rent a vehicle to you. You can also arrange with a local person who has a car that they are looking to monetize as a rental. I would take the insurance option or ask for one as accidents happen in paradise as well.
Motorbikes rentals are also popular in Bali. Motorbikes usage has recently been in the news as the governor of Bali has indicated that visitors to Bali cannot ride motorbikes. How and when this get implemented will be decided by the government.
Prices for a motorbikes differ by model and year. Keep in mind that if you are a beginner bike rider, start with a low powered motorbike. Such motorbikes will be smaller and easier to ride. Also a tip for beginners, practice first in a parking lot or quiet street, develop your road sense so that you are ready, and take it slow.
Pro-tip, get a helmet, wear it as it is the law.
(2) Drive or driver or why not both
Having a local driver is great as he knows the roads and allows you to take your mind off the road and frustration of traffic. It also frees you up to do other things in Bali traffic, like catch up with friends, planning and get some rest and relaxation.
A good driver knows where expats go for food, groceries, entertainment, and the location of the closest ATM . During your first few months this is invaluable. If you have kids, you will also be able to outsource your parental responsibility to take the kids to school or after school activities and give you some time back.
(3) Supplement with Gojek/Grab/Local Transport Drivers
One of the best ways to get around Bali is through local options including Gojek, Grab, and Blue Bird taxi services, along with local transportation drivers.
I try to use local transportation drivers when I can as these drivers live in your community. To find your local transport, all you need to do is find the banjar head and he will put you in contact. Your landlord or staff working in your villa can put you in contact.
Gojek and Grab are like Uber and other driving services. Gojek and Grab offer a wonderful service to those looking for a ride by car or motorbike. They will take you wherever you wish to go and you will know the fee when you book the transportation online. Gojek will usually offer a lower price, however Grab cars typically will arrive at your door faster (depending upon where you are). Lastly, everything is controlled in the app which is available in English.
