20 Things to Know Before You Go to Bali - Indonesia Travel

Getting to Bali

1. VISA:
   Nationals of 169 countries can visit Bali visa-free (for 30 days), while Visa on Arrival applies for others at USD 35 (extendable once).

2. WEATHER:
   Wet season: October-April; Dry season: May-September; Best time to go: May-August.

3. SPECIAL DAYS:
   No travel during Saka New Year, aka ‘Nyepi’ (usually coincides March - specific dates vary every year based on the Saka lunar calendar).
   Getting Around

4. DRIVING:
   Drive on the left.

5. RENTALS:
   International drivers' license required to drive and rent cars and motorbikes.

6. TAXIS:
   Blue Bird Taxi (+62 (0)361 701 111) is most popular and reliable - all of their taxis are metered. Read more...

7. TRAFFIC:
   Traffic in Bali is notoriously congested so allow Read More...
   Money Matters

8. CURRENCY:
   USD 1 = IDR 14,000

9. ATMs:
   ATMs dispense IDR 50,000 or 100,000 bills; withdrawal fees using foreign bank cards, Visa or Mastercard vary and can be high. Beware of skimmers and rigged units, and remember to take your money and card after each transaction.

10. EXCHANGE:
    Always check your money Read More...
    Staying Connected

11. SIM CARDS:
    SIM cards are widely available at kiosks and convenient stores; most are mobile internet-ready. Verify SIM and micro-SIM factors upon purchasing.

12. ELECTRICITY:
    220 Volts, 50Hz. Electrical plugs are two-pronged ‘Europlug’ type.
    Customs and Etiquette

13. TEMPLES:
    Must-wear on temple visits: sarong (usually with sash around your waist). Temples are generally free to visit. However, most keepers will show visitors to a 'donation box', or rent sarongs at the entrance for around IDR 10,000 (don't worry if you didn't bring one). Always use right hand for gesturing; never left hand or feet. Read More...
    Staying Safe

14. WATER:
    Tap water is not potable; ice in drinks at established bars, hotels and reputable restaurants are usually safe.

15. DRUGS:
    The penalty for drug is death. Take it seriously.

16. MONKEYS:
    Wear minimum accessories when visiting monkey forests; don't feed or approach the monkeys – they are wild animals, not pets.

17. EMERGENCIES:
    In case of emergencies, dial 110 for police and 118 for ambulance.