Bali Travel Tips

The following list has been compiled to help you make the most of your travel in Bali. If you have any further concerns that are not mentioned here, please do not hesitate to contact us via E-mail with any questions or queries that you may have. The best time to visit Bali is during the dry season, April to September. Humidity is down and nights can be cool. Australians visit in droves at christmas and during May-August school holidays.
Bali Travel Tips that you should DO:
√ ...change money at a reputable looking location, use your own (or the hotel's) calculator before changing!
√...put on loads of High Factor Waterproof Sun Cream (especially if you intend to spend a lot of time in the water).
√...drink a lot of bottled water and eat a lot of fresh fruit - do your body a favor.
...be careful with your belongings at all times. Crime is on the increase and can ruin your holiday. Cases of handbag snatching have been reported, so leave important documents in your hotel safe and wear your bag across your shoulders!
√...try not to step on offerings in the street (walk around them).
√...respect the slow pace of processions when stuck behind one, i.e. don't honk!
√...haggle when buying (except on price-tagged goods.)
√...buy 'Immodium' to relieve bouts of Bali belly.
√...have a great holiday!
Bali Travel Tips that you should not DO:
×...forget to take your passport (or a photocopy of your ID), with you at all times
×...swim outside designated swimming areas on the beach, currents can be very strong. Swim between the red and yellow flags.
×...do drugs! It can carry the death penalty, and there are enough foreigners residing in Bali courtesy of the Govt. prison service!
×...touch people's heads - it is very offensive to Hindus.
×...enter a temple during menstruation. Sorry Ladies!
×...forget to put salt on your food & drink water - you will probably sweat a lot.
×...worry too much about the ice - it's government-quality controlled in established bars and restaurants.
×...forget to look and listen while you cross the road. Cars may stop, motorbikes may not!
×..forget to reconfirm your flight 72 hours prior to flying. Airport Departure Tax is:
International = Rp. 100,000 Domestic = Rp. 20,000
Passports and Visas
Bali Visa. Important change to Indonesia's Visa Policy for Traveller.

Please read carefully as there have been changes to Indonesia visa policy. This affects all arrivals to Indonesia after February 1, 2004, are subject to new visa regulations

It is important to also note the following:

* The Visa on Arrival is non-extendable and cannot be converted into a different visa.
* The Visa purchasing system will take approximately 3-5 minutes per applicant.
* There are 6 payment counters, a bank and a money changer set up to process payments
* Once you have paid for and received your visa you will need to proceed to Immigration where your visa will be processed

Citizens of countries not on the visa on arrival or visa free lists will be required to apply for a visa before entering Indonesia.

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Indonesia, and you must have proof of onward passage (either return or through tickets). If you cannot fulfill both of these requirements, you may not be allowed to enter the country

Currency
The Rupiah. Notes 100, 500, 1,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, 100,000. Coins 25, 50, 100, 500, 1000.

Bali Time
Bali Time Zone is GMT + 8 hours.

Bali Electricity
Most hotels use 220 volts, 50 cycles and a round, two-pronged slim plug. Bathroom shaver plugs usually have a transformer switch. We suggest taking an adaptor for your appliance.

Getting Around Bali
You will find a range of chauffeur driven limousines, self-drive cars, taxis and hotel courtesy cars. Many taxis are not metered so it's wise to negotiate the fare before you climb aboard. Bemos are a unique form of transport. They are a mini-van masquerading as a communal bus. You simply hail the driver and negotiate the fare that suits you both. Motorcycles can also be hired in many places but special care should be exercised at all times as road and traffic conditions can be somewhat hazardous in certain locations. Traveling around Bali is made all the easier because everywhere you go you'll find friendly people only too happy to give you advice and directions on how to get where you want to go.

Driver's License
If you wish to hire a car you must be over 115 years of age and posses an International Driver's License or license from ASEAN countries.

Clothing
Light, airy, casual clothes are the most practical and you'll find natural fibers like cotton or linen are the most comfortable in Bali's often humid conditions. Waist sashes should be worn when visiting temples.

A Word of Advice from Bali Travel Tips:

Bali Travel Fact : Attending Ceremonies
remember these are serious occasions and should be treated as such. Religious guidelines:

1. Always wear a sarong and sash.
2. Do not walk in front of people praying.
3. Do not use flash camera or push your camera into the priest's face!
4. Never sit higher than the priest or the offerings.
5. At cremations, do not get in the way of the attendees - however important that photographic opportunity is!
6. Women are not allowed to enter temples during menstruation.

Bali Travel Fact : Dangerous Sports
make sure you either have personal insurance or travel insurance that will cover any accidents.

Bali Travel Fact : Bali Driving
In Bali always expects the unexpected; always keep your eyes open and your mind on driving. Beware of motorbikes! It is best to rent a car with a full insurance as this will save time and money if you are involved in an accident. Enjoy Bali more with our Bali Car Rental.

Bali Travel Fact : Money Changer
be very careful when changing your money. Always check the rate of exchange and commission (if any) the money changer is taking. Most importantly, always count your money before you leave the premises and if you can, bring your own calculator, as the ones used by some places can be "a little inaccurate".

Bali Travel Fact : Petty Crime

1. There have been a few cases of handbags being snatched after tourists have cashed money at Banks or Money Changers! Put your money away in your 'bum-bag' or hold onto your handbag tightly!!!
2. When changing large amounts of money please check each note carefully as there are a number of (noticeably) fake notes in circulation.
3. When trying on garments do not take your jeweler off and leave it lying round - give it to a friend or leave it in the hotel safe.

Bali Travel Fact : Swimming in the sea
Current underflows can be strong, always swim between the red and yellow flags, don't swim too far out! Do not leave your belongings unattended on the beach.

N.B. When attending Special Ceremonies or Anniversary Celebrations as a guest or onlooker, small donations are gratefully received. Your donations will help in paying for the offerings and upkeep of the temple.

Thank you for respecting these Bali travel tips.

source: balitourguides