What does 1 USD get you in Bali?
Night markets are a treasure trove of goodies under US $1 | Digital art by Simon
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What does $1 USD get you in Bali today?
$1 USD can get you quite a lot in Bali today. Some of my most favourite Bali meals are less than $1. From a terrific meal to a handcrafted keepsake, a fresh juice in a local market, or the entrance fee to a temple or two, you can make $1 USD go a long way in Bali.
1 USD to Bali currency
Let’s start with the current exchange rate today for 1 $USD:
The above is the latest rate, but just to round it off and make it easy, let’s call it Rp15,000 at the time of writing this.
How much is a Coke in Bali?
Yes, you guessed it, about Rp 15,000 or US $1 in a supermarket. In a restaurant, you might pay up to Rp 30,000, or US $2.
Key Takeaways
1 USD in Bali equals around 15,000 Indonesian Rupiah (IDR).
With 1 USD in Bali, you can enjoy delicious local street food like Nasi Goreng and a basic Nasi Campur at affordable prices.
You can get a cool taste of home with an icy can of Coke
Public transportation options in Bali, such as buses and taxis, are convenient and budget-friendly.
Souvenirs and small items can be purchased at local markets for a few dollars, offering unique handcrafted trinkets and traditional Balinese art.
Want the full story?
Read our MEGA article, Bali Travel Tips for a complete list of tips and resources.
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What Can You Get with 1 USD in Bali?
With 1 USD in Bali, you can indulge in local street food, hop on public transportation, and purchase small souvenirs or items.
Local street food
Bali is widely acclaimed for its local street food, offering a sensational taste of Indonesian cuisine at very reasonable prices. For just 1 USD, you can indulge in mouth-watering traditional dishes like Nasi Goreng (Fried Rice) and Satay (grilled skewered meat).
Actually, one of my favorite snacks is a salad that is a specialty of the city of Gianyar, east of Ubud. At a small streetside market located here, I can buy ‘Serombotan’ which is a vegetable dish with two sauces—peanut and chili, for around 50 cents. Splash out another 20 cents and get rice to go with it, and you have a mind-blowing meal. It's seriously worth stopping; the lady who sells it is always the last stall in the row of small stalls. Bali Belly warning, though: you need to be used to street food!
Street stalls famously known as 'warungs' serve these dishes and more, bringing out the authentic flavors of Bali right onto your plate. These warungs are almost everywhere in Bali, so there's always an opportunity to try something new.
My partner fancies the Gado-Gado salad; it's a mix of blanched vegetables topped with peanut sauce - simple but delicious! Also popular among locals is Bubur Injin, or black rice pudding served with a sweet coconut milk topping; this dessert costs less than 1 USD too! With such variety at pocket-friendly prices, dining on Balinese street food shows how far our dollar can stretch.
Public transportation
Public transportation in Bali is an affordable and convenient way to get around the island. Buses, known as "bemo," are a popular mode of transport for both locals and tourists. With fares starting at just a few thousand rupiahs (less than 1 USD), you can hop on a bemo and explore different parts of Bali.
Another option is the Trans Sarbagita bus system, which operates in Denpasar and its surrounding areas. These buses are air-conditioned and have fixed routes, making it easy to navigate through the city.
Taxis are also widely available in Bali, offering comfortable rides for a slightly higher price compared to public buses. Overall, public transportation in Bali provides an affordable way to travel and experience the local culture while saving money on transportation expenses during your trip.
Souvenirs or small items
When shopping for souvenirs or small items in Bali, you'll be pleased to find that your dollar can stretch quite far. Handcrafted trinkets and traditional Balinese art are readily available at local markets and shops, with prices starting as low as a few dollars.
Consider picking up unique items like handmade jewelry, woodcarvings, or Batik textiles to take home with you. Bargaining is also a common practice in Bali, so don't be afraid to negotiate for the best price.
Just remember to bring some cash (both USD and IDR) along with you when heading out for some souvenir shopping!
Conclusion
In conclusion, with 1 USD in Bali, you can enjoy delicious local street food, hop on public transportation, and purchase souvenirs or small items. The value of the dollar may vary depending on what you are buying, so it's important to keep track of the current exchange rates.
Whether you're exploring the vibrant markets or indulging in mouth-watering cuisine, your dollar can go a long way in Bali.
FAQs
1. What is the exchange rate from USD to IDR in Bali?
The current currency exchange rate from USD to Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) fluctuates, so it's important to check for updated rates before any money exchange.
2. How does the dollar's value affect my purchasing power in Bali?
Your purchasing power in Bali depends on the USD to IDR conversion rate; a favorable rate increases your spending power compared to local prices.
3. What can I expect about cost of living with 1USD in Bali?
The cost of living varies across regions within Bali, your daily travel expenses could be low or high depending on lifestyle choices and whether you are in a touristy area or a locals area.
4. Can you give an example of what I can buy with 1USD in Bali today?
Yes, based on prevailing foreign currency rates and local economic conditions, your dollar may get you a delicious local meal, pay for public transportation fares, buy a trinket as a keepsake, or enter a temple.
6. What tips should I keep in mind while budgeting for my trip to Bali?
Keep track of the changing currency conversion rates, understand typical costs associated with shopping prices, activities, and accommodations - all these will aid effective budgeting during your stay in Bali.
