Travel Tips From Polarsteps

I’m heading off to Bali later this week and as well as being very excited, it can be quite overwhelming when looking online for tips and tricks to make the most of this once in a lifetime holiday.

To help my trip run as smoothly as possible, I was given some handy tips from Sara van Geloven; one of the travel experts at Polarsteps:

How Polarsteps new AI features help travellers plan more personalised, meaningful trips in Bali

“Our new AI Itineraries show travellers which places to visit in Bali, and what they can do once they’re there. Whether it’s discovering the temples and rice terraces around Ubud, chasing waterfalls in the north, or unwinding on hidden beaches in the east, the AI creates a personalized day-by-day plan based on your interests and travel style. It takes the guesswork out of planning while still leaving plenty of room to explore spontaneously.”

Ways the app helps avoid overtourism

“Overtourism is a real challenge in Bali, and we want to help travellers see more than just the usual hotspots. Polarsteps’ AI Itineraries don’t just point people to the big names like Uluwatu or Ubud, they also highlight lesser-known destinations, from quiet villages in the north to untouched stretches of coastline. By spreading travellers across the island, we aim to reduce pressure on overcrowded areas and inspire more meaningful connections with local culture and nature. It’s about making travel better for both the traveler and the places they visit.”

Anything interesting we’ve observed about app users trips to Bali

“While a lot of our users visit the popular south and east of the island, we’ve also seen people branch out to the much lesser visited northwest of the island. This trip by our Travel Editor Matt Bainbridge is a great example of a Bali itinerary that includes some beautiful places off the beaten path.

More tips on visiting Bali from Sara:

• Look beyond the south: Popular areas like Canggu and Uluwatu can get very crowded. Try exploring the quieter north (Lovina, Munduk) or the east (Amed, Sidemen) for a more authentic experience. I loved my time in Sidemen, a small town nestled in-between rice terraces and jungle-clad hills.
• Stay longer in fewer places: Instead of rushing through Bali’s highlights, slow down and spend several days in one region. You’ll reduce transport impact (the traffic on the island is often very congested) and have richer local experiences.
• Respect local culture: Balinese ceremonies often take place in temples and on the streets. Observe respectfully, dress appropriately, and ask before taking photos.
• Don’t just visit Bali! The enticing Gili Islands are a fast boat ride away, and Lombok to the east offers quieter beaches, lush mountains, and a more laid-back atmosphere away from the crowds.