FAQs

What is the average number of clients on a Babes in Bali tour?

Our tour is limited to 18 women and will operate with a minimum of 12. We’re very proud that we have never had to cancel a tour although due to the pandemic we did have to postpone tours in 2020 and 2021.

Is there an age restriction?

The minimum age is 18 and as long as you are able to travel independently, you can join us. We’ve had clients from 19 – 85 with most being between 35-70.

What types of women join your tour?

Most of our clients are adventurous and open-minded before they join us but some become this way after experiencing the beauty and energy of Bali. They come because they want to explore Bali and get off the beaten track. Most are surprised by the connection that they make with other like-minded women. Some have travelled extensively while others have never been outside of North America.

What if I can’t keep up with the rest of the group?

You are free to join all of our ‘included’ activities but if you’d prefer to take some time for yourself, that is perfectly fine. If you plan on doing all the activities, you’ll need to be steady on your feet – expect stairs in Bali and uneven surfaces. The only time you really need to be with the group is when we transfer from one hotel to the other. We do have some group dinners and need to know that day if you’re joining us.

What’s unique about a Babes in Bali trip?

For starters it’s safe, stress free, meticulously planned, relaxed and fun. We take care of all the details so you can have some ‘me-time’. No taking care of anyone…when was the last time that happened? You’ll see Bali from a whole different perspective than you would if you went on your own. Many of our ‘experiences’ are not affordable if you’re travelling alone. You’ll come away feeling renewed, invigorated and with a new sense of spirit. Many women have experienced a shift of energy during or after a Babes in Bali tour, especially now that the world has opened up again. The camaraderie of like-minded women encourages laughter, sharing, stepping outside the box and having the time of your life.

Our ‘Babes’ groups have activities that are geared towards women and are often experiential such as learning to make Balinese offerings, a hands on cooking class, snorkelling, dolphin watching, visits to local handicraft markets, walks through rice fields, enjoy a Balinese dance performance, a purification ceremony at an ancient holy water temple, interaction with the local people, visit to beautiful gardens and temples, group meals in fabulous settings, spa treatments and time to enjoy the hotels swimming pools, take walks on the beach and of course do some shopping.

Who will accompany us on the tour?

Cathy Gotfried, owner of Erawan Travel Ventures and creator of the Babes in Bali tours will accompany you the entire time in Bali. There will also be hand selected, top notch local guides who will travel with us a various times. We encourage you to interact with these folks as they have so much to share with you.

What currency do you price the tour in and how can I get the pricing and itinerary details?

For our groups, we can provide pricing in Canadian or US Dollars. Please send us an email, [email protected], give us a call at 403.278.4084 or text or WhatsApp 403.605.8128

How can I pay my deposit or final payment?

You can either pay by cheque (payable in USD or CAD to Erawan Travel Ventures), e-transfer (only CAD) or credit card (in USD or CAD). There is no surcharge for using a credit card.

Why do you price your air and land separately?

Over the years we’ve discovered that many of our clients either want to use points or are combining the Babes in Bali experience with another adventure. This allows the most flexibility for our clients.

What does your land only price include?

All accommodation, hotel tax and service charges (based on twin sharing), daily breakfast, some lunches and dinners (will be specified on your itinerary as each group varies), private transfers, sightseeing as described on your itinerary, personally escorted by Cathy Gotfried and hand-picked local guides, tips for drivers and guides. Not included are any items of a personal nature such as: phone calls, laundry, beverages, and meals not stated in the itinerary, tips at hotels and shopping!

Do I need a passport and Visa for travel to Bali?

Your passport needs to be valid for 6 months past your return date in order to enter Indonesia. Bali does have a VOA (Visa On Arrival), the cost is 500,000 rupiah and can be paid by Visa or Mastercard at the airport. Alternatively, you can apply for the VOA online as well which eliminates standing in line when you arrive at the airport. An Immigration officer will stamp your passport allowing you to stay for 30 days. This Visa can be extended locally for another 30 days at an extra cost.

Where can I purchase travel insurance?

We are happy to make recommendations for those living in North America. To participate on a Babes in Bali tour it is mandatory to have international medical insurance and we strongly recommend trip cancellation and interruption insurance.

Will the hotels have air conditioning?

Yes, although we caution you on using the A/C. It’s very common for Westerners to get colds when travelling in the tropics especially when using air conditioners. Sometimes it is necessary but if your hotel room has a ceiling fan, you might consider using the fan instead of the AC.

What type of hotels do you use?

In Ubud we stay at a boutique hotel, surrounded by gorgeous greenery and a stunning roof top pool. It has an on-site restaurant, a spa and is on a very pretty side street in Ubud. In the north of Bali (Lovina) we stay at a beautiful hotel located right on the beach. It has a huge swimming pool, restaurant and a wonderful spa. Our next hotel in Candi Dasa is also a boutique hotel but with a huge grassy area with palm trees, complete with another gorgeous pool and overlooking the ocean. Our last 3 nights are spent at a luxurious hotel on Legian beach, in the heart of the action. All four hotels will be different from one another, and we’ve purposely chosen them for you to experience something different and unique.

Can I come as a single or do I have to share a room?

The choice is yours. We are happy to accommodate you as a single but if you prefer to share with someone, we’ll make every effort to match you up with a roommate. If that’s not possible, you can choose to have your own room and pay the single room charge, knowing that there will be other fun loving, adventurous women to share your travel journey with. About 35% of our clients’ book on their own so a Babes in Bali tour is perfect for singles! You’ll never be alone unless you want to be. We know there are many women who don’t have a travel companion and our groups are perfect for you! Women only tours are the fastest growing segment in the travel industry so we’re happy to accommodate you whether you’re travelling on your own, with friends or would like to share with someone.

Will you book my airline tickets for me?

Yes if you need help! We’re also happy to consult with you so that you can book using your airline points or even your local travel agent as they often have more knowledge of the best flights from your specific area. As the impact of Covid restrictions has lifted, airlines are reinstating services and expanding capacity and schedules, which is great news.

I’m a bit of a picky eater? Will I find anything to eat in Bali?

You’ve picked the perfect place to travel to! Not only will you find tasty Balinese food (rice, noodles, chicken, fish, seafood , vegetables and fruit are their staples) but you can find most other types of food as well. Just as the Balinese are very artistic, they are also excellent chefs. They’ve also been able to attract chefs from around the world because once a chef has been to Bali, they often want to stay. If burgers, pizza, vegetarian, sushi, salads or pasta are your favourites, you’ll easily find them all over the island. The biggest challenge in Bali is deciding what to order. Many restaurants have extensive menus so you can find almost any cuisine your heart desires. If you have any food allergies make sure to let us know, via our Registration Form.

What’s the best time of the year to visit Bali?

In our opinion, anytime is a fantastic time to visit Bali! The rainy season is December-February (average temperature 28 degrees) but being so close to the equator, it can rain anytime. If you’ve never experienced tropical rain, it is a beautiful thing…warm and refreshing. The temperature does not vary much throughout the year but July and August tend to be a bit cooler (26 degrees) and less humidity. You will find with increased the humidity; it does feel warmer.

How will we travel around Bali?

We will be using our own private coach and this allows us to stop whenever we want to (photo stops, washroom etc.) It’s air conditioned and comfortable. We will always have bottled water available when we are on our coach. On days where we are transferring to another location, we have a luggage van that will transport our suitcases to our next hotel.

I noticed that your groups visit a Balinese Yayasan that supports underprivileged kids. Can I also make a cash donation or bring items to donate?

Yes, to both. Cathy Gotfried is happy to add your cash donation to the group donation that is presented on our visit. We also encourage our clients to bring over items for the Yayasan (if you’re bringing a 2nd suitcase) or to give to locals that you connect with along the way.

How will I know what to bring to Bali and what about luggage restrictions?

Good question! Everyone gets a complete packing list. If we book your flights, we’ll let you know what your luggage allowance is. If you’ve booked through someone else, check with them or your airline directly. There are porters at the airport and all our hotels have bell service. With more travellers just doing carry on, make sure you can lift your bag to put in the overhead bin.

Will I be able to access the internet while in Bali?

Bali is fully connected although the wireless connection speed is sometimes slow. Before you travel, check with your own cell phone provider for their ‘travel packages’. All our hotels have free wifi. We do recommend downloading WhatApp as we will set up a group chat option to exchange information.

How can my family contact me in the case of an emergency?

Your Final Itinerary will include the names of your hotels, along with the address and phone number. We suggest leaving a hard copy or digital copy for your family in case of an emergency. If you are bringing a cell phone please remember to check your ‘travel plan’ so you don’t come home to any surprise bills. Cathy Gotfried will also share her cell phone number with the group so if a family member needs to reach you urgently, they can also text Cathy.

Do I need a credit card to travel and/or an ATM card?

Most hotels require a credit card at time of check-in. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted. To get the local currency called Indonesia rupiah, we recommend using your ATM card as bank machines are everywhere in Bali. FYI, you will not be able to purchase something in a store or a restaurant using your bank card so that’s when your credit card comes in handy or pay with rupiah.

I already have my own group of women. Would you be able to offer us our own program?

Absolutely. It all starts with a phone call and once we have some direction from you we can get started with your own custom group itinerary. Cathy Gotfried, if available, could also escort your group.