Bali is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world for travellers. It is close to large countries like Australia and China, flights are certainly not expensive, and activities are cheap when you get there. However, it is important to remember that Indonesia is something of an underdeveloped country. Although you may decide to stay in a comfortable Bali villa or hotel, you won’t always be able to find the things that we take for granted in countries like Australia, and this may make it hard for you during your visit to Bali.
One of the biggest things that we have, and that we take for granted in developed countries, is internet access. We can jump on the internet from nearly anywhere using mobile WiFi hotspots, free WiFi, or even just our mobile data plan. However, it isn’t always this easy to get connected in a place like Bali. Below we will detail the best way to go about connecting to the internet when you are visiting Bali and other parts of Indonesia.
- Connect from the comfort of your hotel:
This is definitely the simplest way to gain access to the internet when you are travelling in a third world country. Although good internet access may be hard to come by, most hotels will have some form of WiFi. If having a decent connection is important to you, you can always check this before you book your accommodation.
If you are staying in a more remote place like Bali villas on the beach or a resort, you may find it harder to get connected, so again, make sure that you check beforehand. Really, if you need a reliable, high speed internet connection in Bali – for work or otherwise – your hotel is going to be your best option.
- Look for a Western style restaurant:
Many Western fast food chains and restaurants offer free WiFi as part of their customer service. Chains like McDonalds tend to do this throughout the world, and Bali is no different. Note that while a WiFi connection from somewhere like this will get you connected, it will be neither fast nor reliable. Everyone in the area is probably going to be using it, and you might find yourself struggling.
- Buy an Indonesian SIM card:
The simplest, and probably the most straightforward way to get internet access when you are in Bali is to go and purchase an Indonesian SIM card. Sure, this might cost you a bit of money, but if it’s for work it will probably be worth it. If you only need internet access for pleasure, then it is up to you how much you are willing to spend, but a simple SIM with a bit of internet is usually not too expensive. Once you have a new SIM card, all you need to do is put it in your smartphone, turn on your WiFi hotspot, and connect with whatever device you want to – it’s as easy as that!
Final Word:
Although it can be hard finding WiFi in a place like Bali, the world is becoming more and more connected by the day. If you absolutely have to have internet access, you will find it. Good luck and happy travels!
