Do’s and Don’t’s in Bali, Indonesia

For those who visit Bali, these are essentials tips for your consideration:

Passport - If you go to Bali, Indonesia, or for that matter, make sure your passport is   valid for six months at the time of entry into Indonesia, otherwise you will find on the next plane out. You must also have proof of onward passage(i.e. a ticket to Indonesia). Tourist, social and business visas can be obtained from an Indonesian embassy or consulate abroad.

Bali Time- Bali Time Zone is GMT + 8 hours.

Electic Plug, 220v 

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.

Money: The Rupiah is the basic unit of currency. Foreign banknotes is the best exchanged at major banks or authorized money changers. Do not forget your passport (or a photocopy of your ID) take with you at all times. If you bring U.S. currency make sure the notes are not circa '96 or have any pen or ink discoulorations or you will not get them cashed. You need notes in almost mint condition!

Credit Cards - Major credit cards are acceptable in most hotels along with American dollar traveler's cheques. However, travel in the country, taking with you rupiah. Keep small change handy when riding in public transports or buying drinks at Warung. 

Personal Insurance - Make sure you have a personal insurance or travel insurance that covers all, hospital costs in Bali can be quite expensive. Be careful with your belongings at all times.

Etiquette - Respect Balinese customs, rituals and sensibilities. This means, for example: 

• Don't take a picture of anyone without first obtaining permission.
• Don't enter a temple unless you're completely covered knees to shoulders.
•  Don't enter a temple if you're on your period (women only).
• Don't touch anyone's head or point at someone, as it considers offensive.
• Don't give or receive an object with your left hand.
• Do not run for people in prayer.
• Do not use flash camera or point the camera at the priest's face.
• Women can not enter the temples during their period
• Hindu Religious offerings in the street are replaced daily, try not to step on them, it is polite to walk around them.

Dress casually –  Take light clothes, such as the climate is warm-a - hot all year. Remember Bali is a land where prayer and religious festivals are central. When visiting a temple or attending ceremonies, make it a point to the customs and  traditions.

No drugs!   - Bring drugs/narcotics can carry the death penalty, and there are enough

foreigners residing in Bali courtesy of the prison of the government.

Do not swim outside designated swimming areas on the beach, current/undertow strong

especially on the South side area of the island. Swim between the red and yellow flags. Do not swim too far. Never leave your belongings unattended on the beach.

Health  -   International health certificates of vaccination against smallpox, cholera and yellow fever are required only from travelers coming from infected areas. Typhoid and paratyphoid vaccinations are optional, but always recommended. Drink only distilled or mineral water or boiled water and eat lots of fresh fruit - do your body a favor. Do not worry too much ice is a quality-controlled government in bars and restaurants to make. Most people traveling through Bali get the infamous "Bali Belly" at one time or another. Taking an Imodium will stop you. The first time of discomfort (diarrhea and cramps), drink strong, hot tea and avoid all fruits and spicy foods. Take charcoal tablets will help relieve cramps. 

Luggage and bags -  If you are planning to get souvenirs, get an extra empty bag. Things are relatively cheap if you know how to bargain. You won't even realize that you have bought too much stuff until your trip is nearly over. 

Bargain -  It's an art worth learning because it will save you money in Bali. All it takes is a little practice to gain your confidence.

Some Useful tips of negotiate/bargain :

First, establish in your mind what you're truly willing to pay (your ultimate max). Next, ask the seller, "What's your very, very lowest price?" Offer considerably less than what he/she quotes you (don't be shy about offering 50% of his/her opening figure).

Then -- after a series of friendly back-and-forth counter offers -- you and the vendor reach a mutually fair and acceptable figure.

Taxi meters  -  Cab fares in Bali are very low if you're charged the metered rate. As you step into a taxi, specify to the driver that you want the meter to run. If he says his meter is broken, get out because it's likely a ruse. Once the cab gets rolling, be sure the meter is running. Otherwise, you risk being charged an exorbitant fare.

The most reliable taxis in Bali are the blue taxis marked "Bali Taxi" (known as Blue Bird Taxis). Catch a Bluebird taxi in Bali if you can.

Things you need to bring are: 

 Lightweight clothing, sunscreen, swimwear, first aid kit, flip flops, sandals, hat, sunglasses, camera /batteries/ charger, Phone and charger (unlocked and if you need to buy a local sim card please contact us immediately) etc.

Enjoy Bali!

                                                                                                                               CKNet team