* Jendral Info

FACT AT A GLANCE

Bali is one of over 13.600 islands, which make up the republic of Indonesia.

A volcanic chain of mountains run across the north, with deep ravines and rivers. Vegetables terraces flourish in the mountainous terrain. Below 700 meters, rice fields are exquisitely carved out of hills and valleys, sparkling with water, vividly green or golden brown.

Religion

Almost 90% of Bali’s population practices Bali Hinduism, with Christians, Buddhists and Muslim making up the remaining 10%.

Language

Indonesia’s official language is Bahasa Indonesia, similar to Malay, but the Balinese also have their own language. English is widely understood in all tourist areas.

Climate

Tropical. Hot and humid all year with daily temperatures of 30 degrees Celsius in beach resort areas and 23 decrees Celsius in the hills. The rainy season is from October to March and the lowest humidity around 60% from July to September.

Currency

The unit of Indonesian currency is the Rupiah, which come in coin denominations 100, 200, 500 and notes of 1.000, 5.000, 10.000, 20.000, 50.000 and 100.000 Money can be changed at banks. Money changers usually have the best rate of exchange. Hotel receptions will also exchange money; however, rates are often lower. Banking hours are Monday to Friday 08.30 – 14.30 hours. Money changers are usually open daily until 7.00 pm

Coequal & Credit Cards

Personal cheques are almost never accepted. Travelers’ cheques can be changed at bank/money changers and some shops. Major credit cards are generally accepted by hotels, restaurants and large shops. Small shops may ask you to pay a 3 – 5% surcharge if you want to pay by credit card.

Valuables

Leave your passport, money and other valuables in the hotel safety deposit box. Do not leave them in your room or take them to the beach.

Food

All hotels have restaurant and it is safe to eat in many of the numerous restaurants in the beach resort areas.

Water

Tap water is not recommended for drinking. Most hotels provide a flask of purified water in your room – alternatively, buy bottled water.

Shopping

Shops and street stalls are to be found in the beach resort areas, as well as the most important tourist attractions. There are also several Department Stores in Denpasar and Kuta, which are open from 10.00 – 10.00 pm daily.

Bargaining

It is a way of life in Bali, except in ‘supermarket’ where prices are fixed. You first offer should be about half of the asking price and then negotiate up to what you are happy to pay.

Transport

Taxis can be found in or just out side your hotel – you should always negotiate a fare before getting into a taxi. As a guideline, Rupiah 70.000 is an acceptable fare from Nusa Dua to Sanur or Denpasar.Local Public Buses are called bemos – There is no designated bus stop. You simply waive a bemo down to get on and shout “stop “when you want get off. Please note, bemo vehicles and taxis in Bali do not have passenger liability insurance.

Tipping

Most hotels and restaurants add 10% service chard – additional tipping is not always expected but usually accepted. Other tipping is optional but if you are happy with services provided, the following guideline my be useful.

Porter: Rupiah 3000 per piece luggage

Driver: Ripiah 15.000 – 20.000 for full day

Tour Guide: Rupiah 25.000 – 50.000 for full day

Flight Reconfirmation

Please make sure you have reconfirmed your flight at least 3 days after you arriving. We will reconfirm your flight for you if you show your ticket to guide.

Guides

Guides are immaculately uniformed and hold a good commend of English or other second language. They hold a wealth of local knowledge of Bali, it people, customs and sights. They shall assist you from arriving until departure.