Bali Travel Tips

Bali Travel Tips

General things that you should or shouldn’t do Do when traveling in bali

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 ‘Imodium’ to relieve bouts of Bali belly. have a great holiday! Don’t forget to take your passport (or a photocopy of your ID), with you at all times and a copy of Bali Plus! 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. 50,000

Getting Around
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. For car rental service on Bali, visit www.balicarhire.com

Driver’s License
If you wish to hire a car you must be over 18 years of age and posses an International Driver’s License, license from ASEAN countries or obtain Tourist Driving License.

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.
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.

Money changers
Please 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”.

Petty crime
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.
When changing large amounts of money please check each note carefully as there are a number of (noticeably) fake notes in circulation.
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.

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.

Donations
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.