How is BALI in 2024? (Watch Before You Visit)

Summary

The video script discusses significant changes in Bary since 2024, focusing on streamlined immigration with the introduction of an e-visa and tourist tax, improved airport efficiency, and the importance of pre-booking SIM cards for connectivity. It highlights the impact of increased tourism on local businesses, traffic congestion, and pricing, while emphasizing the enduring quality of food and coffee. The script also offers travel tips, including using Jetstar for flights, Grab for transportation, and the benefits of a private driver. It concludes with reflections on Bary's evolving landscape and the narrator's personal connection to the destination.

Takeaways

• 🎉 The speaker got married in Bary and received a lot of love and messages from viewers after sharing their wedding video.
• 🌟 They have created a Bary guide with updated information on the best cafes, restaurants, neighborhoods, and local contacts for travelers.
• 🛂 Immigration in Bary has significantly improved, with the speaker experiencing a swift 2-minute process, unlike the previous notorious long lines.
• 📝 There are three main steps for arrivals: obtaining an E-Visa (now costing $50), paying the new Tourist tax, and completing a Customs declaration form.
• ✈️ For a smoother airport experience, the speaker suggests getting upfront seating on flights and pre-booking SIM cards to avoid overpricing.
• 📱 Having a local SIM card is recommended for using apps like Grab, with options ranging from roaming to pre-ordering SIM cards or getting them upon arrival.
• 🚖 The speaker advises against taking taxis due to potential issues and recommends organizing a private driver or using Grab for more competitive pricing.
• 🚗 Traffic in Bary has worsened, and the speaker mentions the importance of being prepared for long car rides and considering a scooter for easier navigation.
• 🏨 There are more accommodation and food options in Bary, but this has also led to increased competition and some businesses struggling to maintain their customer base.
• 💰 The exchange rates for currency in Bary are no longer as competitive, and the speaker recommends using a Wise card for better rates and minimizing cash handling.
• 🍽 Despite the changes, the quality of food, coffee, and cocktails remains high, and the speaker encourages trying local food for an authentic experience.

Q & A

What significant changes have occurred in Bary since the last video update?

There have been critical changes in immigration and arrivals, as well as other aspects of visiting Bary, which now require different advice compared to the previous video.

What is the new cost for a 30-day visa on arrival in Bary?

The 30-day visa on arrival, also known as the E-Visa, is no longer free and now costs $50.

How has the immigration process in Bary improved recently?

The immigration process has become significantly faster, with the speaker mentioning they passed through immigration in just 2 minutes.

What is the new Tourist tax in Bary and what is it used for?

The new Tourist tax, introduced in February, is a fee for each person entering Bary, which is used for regenerating and maintaining the local culture and cleanliness.

Why is it important to fill out the Customs declaration form upon arrival in Bary?

Filling out the Customs declaration form is essential as it is required to enter Bary, and not doing so can result in being turned back to fill it out, causing inconvenience.

What advice is given for booking flights to Bary to save time on arrivals?

It is recommended to book flights with Jetstar for the lowest fees and to get upfront seating to save time on arrivals.

What are the current recommendations for obtaining a SIM card in Bary?

There are four recommendations: using roaming, pre-ordering an eSIM, purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival, or having a SIM card delivered to your address or hotel.

What is the best option for transportation from the Bary airport according to the script?

The best option is to organize a private driver, which can be done through accommodation or a local tour operator, or to use the Grab app for a more affordable option.

How has the traffic situation in Bary changed according to the speaker?

The traffic in Bary has become progressively worse with each visit, and it is now an issue that visitors need to be prepared for.

What has been the impact of increased competition on businesses in Bary?

The increased competition has led to some businesses struggling due to a decrease in customers, as visitors are now staying further out and there are more options available.

How has the quality of food and beverages been affected by the changes in Bary?

Despite the overpopulation and stretching of commercial areas, the quality of food, coffee, and cocktails has remained incredibly high.