Airport to your base town
Denpasar (DPS) is busy—pre-book a private transfer or trusted ride for the first night so you are not negotiating tired. Ubud and the southern beaches are different drive times; check maps at your arrival hour.
Cash and cards
Many places take cards; small warungs and drivers still prefer cash. ATMs exist in tourist areas—withdraw modest amounts and use hotel safes.
Visa and entry rules
Rules change—verify official Indonesian immigration guidance before you fly. US passport holders often use VOA or e-VOA for tourism; keep return ticket proof handy.
Pace: one region first
Pick one home base (south beaches *or* Ubud *or* north) for at least half the trip. Bali traffic makes multi-region days expensive in time.
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