Although the island offers many fantastic sights worth visiting, getting around does take some effort. Busy streets, narrow roads and chaotic traffic are the challenges you will encounter. Visitors coming here for the first time could have been clearer. But even if you hire a driver, you must plan carefully.

Unfortunately, you cannot rely on public transport. If you are looking for comfortable and reliable transportation, you must pay extra to travel around. Cycling is not recommended in some tourist areas, but it is possible in some parts of Denpasar, but getting there is another challenge.

Rent a car

If you are adventurous, have no problem driving on the left side of the road in the sometimes-frightening traffic, are willing to spend hours on the road, and have an international driving licence, then renting a car is a good option. Remember that the steering wheel is generally on the right side, just like in Great Britain.

You can easily find a rental company in the major tourist areas like Kuta, Seminyak, Sanur or Ubud, but it is a lot easier to arrange it at the hotel where you are staying. The rising number of stolen cars makes locals reluctant to rent out their vehicles, even to tourists. Some rental companies require your passport as collateral, and although the price is higher when you rent from your hotel, it can save you much trouble.

When renting a car, check for existing damage. Ask the rental company to note any damage on the invoice to avoid false claims. Insurance will increase the price, but it does not provide 100 per cent coverage if the car is damaged. Before agreeing to pay, ask for the insurance terms from the car rental companies.

Now that you are done with the rental, driving is the next step. Traffic in Bali can be very chaotic. Always take your international driving licence with you; it is illegal to drive around without one. Also, remember to ask the rental company for the original car registration. Avoid driving around Kuta or Seminyak during the high season (June-August) and peak season (during holidays and Christmas), and don't go to Uluwatu as the roads are completely jammed. If you prefer not to drive, hire a car with a driver.

Scooter rental

Riding a scooter is the best and easiest way to travel around. They are easier to hire and ideal for getting through traffic. Please make sure you always ask for a national standard helmet and wear it for your safety. Always take your international driving licence with you. Make sure you are aware of the traffic rules and the route before driving so you don't get stopped by the police.

Taxi

Blue Bird (+62361701111 - the pastel blue-coloured taxi with a flying bluebird as its logo in maritime livery on the car's roof) is the most reliable taxi company in Bali. Still, it is not available everywhere, especially in the evening. The easiest way to get a taxi is to call their number and ask them to pick you up at the hotel. If you hire a cab from another company, ask for a meter. Otherwise, you always have to negotiate before getting in. For an estimate of the price from one destination to another, it is best to ask the hotel staff.

Public transport

Travelling by public transport is not recommended as there is no reliable itinerary. But if you have much time and want to see the main sights on Bali's main road, the Ngurah Rai Bypass, you could take one of the big, blue "Sarbagita" buses. This is a cheap way to travel around and the ideal way to get a taste of local life.

Motor taxi

If you find riding a scooter too dangerous, you can opt for a motor taxi, or "ojek" as locals call them. The drivers are mainly found in Kuta, Ubud, Seminyak and Sanur, offering you "transport, mister... transport". You don't have to look for them; they will find you. Make sure you haggle before you get on the back of a motorbike. Or download an app called 'Go-Jek', which allows you to get cheap rides to places in the south (Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, Seminyak, Kuta and Sanur). Also, use this app to order food.