Car Rental vs Grab/Uber for getting around Ubud/Kuta/Seminyak in Bali
As above. I went to Bali 2 years back and remember it was quite challenging getting Grab/Uber to stop at popular tourist spots, as the taxi drivers are violent against them.
May I check whether it is still the same?
In addition, we are travelling long distance, say from Airport to Ubud. Will drivers be willing to take long trips?
Thanks!
Best Answer
I've travelled there recently and may be of help.
Uber is a no-no in Bali. People still don't like Uber there. And the app doesn't really work there.
Alternatives:
- Bluebird
- Grab
- Private Cabs
You can use Bluebird or Grab for cab bookings. Bluebird is a bit costlier than Grab. We have faced no issues with either of these cabs while travelling to places long distances as well, and we used these both services a LOT.
I found that both Grab and Bluebird don't service in some areas like Sukawati and Giyanyar (better to hire locals or rent bikes if you're planning to visit these areas). And would always suggest private drivers if your taking a full day tour (non-commercial, informative and friendly for long tours)
If you're heading to airport from Seminyak, Kuta, Ubud go for Grab or Bluebird
If you're heading to the airport from places further from these three, better hire a local driver (your hotel will have contacts with local drivers) or utilise the hotel's cabs.
Ubud, Seminyak and Kuta are quite serviceable and we were able to book a cab from Ubud to Airport immediately without any hassles in Bluebird
Additional Info:
You can haggle with local drivers to reduce the price of the ride.
Most of the Grab/Bluebird drivers don't respond to cab bookings post 9 PM even though they are very close by. They do this to take people for private ride with increased cost.
A day ride with a local driver for 8 to 12 hours should cost you about 600000 Rupiah. They're cheaper and the drivers are more informed.
Pictures about "Car Rental vs Grab/Uber for getting around Ubud/Kuta/Seminyak in Bali"
Does Uber work in Ubud?
Uber is still illegal in Bali and many areas, most if not all of Ubud included, do not allow Uber to operate. In Ubud its a very good job to be a driver and Uber drivers from other islands or outside the area are competing with the local Balinese.Does Grab work in Ubud?
In day time there are also in Sanur and all Bukit Peninsula. Certainly you can use Grab from Kuta to Ubud anytime, but from Ubud to Kuta you must walk to find the Grab car, usually Grab driver will chat or call you to move to certain place, but don't do it at night.Is Grab cheaper than taxi in Bali?
Grab has the benefit of up to 50% cheaper fares, driver tracking and paying through the app. If using ride sharing apps is your personal preference, don't feel like you MUST change to using Taxi's.How do you get around Ubud?
How to get around in UbudGRAB TAXI vs GO-JEK - Ubud Bali 🇮🇩
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Images: Carlos Pernalete Tua, Kampus Production, Mikhail Nilov, Mikhail Nilov