General Travel Tips

IMMIGRATION

When travelling to Bali, or Indonesia for that matter you need a passport that has a validity period of at least six or more months. Travellers with passports from some countries (including Australia and New Zealand) are also required to purchase a 30-day tourist visa upon arrival, costing US$25 per person.These visas are not extendable. If a longer duration is required you must organise that through your nearest Indonesian Embassy prior to travel.

CUSTOMS

Like many of it's Asian neighbours, Indonesia has very strict laws relating to drugs (including possession for personal use), don't risk it! It is also illegal to import weapons, TV sets, radio receivers, fresh fruit, Chinese medicines and anything remotely pornographic.

CURRENCY

The local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (Rp) which can be found in the denominations from 100 to 100.000; and coins from 25 to 1.000 rupiah denominations.Due to the favourable exchange rate from Australian, New Zealand, U.S., European and other major currencies, we suggest you be extremely careful when exchanging money as you will get a lot of Rupiah notes. For example A$200 will buy you around Rp1,500,000 - thats alot of notes!

For your own peace of mind, we recommend you use currency exchange services at airports, hotels and banks wherever possible.Small exchange counters and windows offering fantastic exchange rates are normally too good to be true! ATM's are widely available

Credit cards are accepted in most retail establishments and at hotels. In some cases, a service fee is included when charging a purchase to your card. However, when travelling to small villages and regional areas, take Rupiah with you. Keep small change handy when riding in bemo (public minibus) or buying a drink at a local warung.

LANGUAGE

The national language is Bahasa Indonesia. English is spoken by most of the younger people, especially in hotels, shops, restaurants and bars.

CLOTHING

The dress code in Bali is definitely casual. Take light clothes, as the weather is warm-to-hot throughout the year. There are really only two seasons in Bali - wet and dry. During the wet season the rains usually fall in short spells but it is generally more humid during the day. Nude or topless bathing is forbidden.

CUSTOMS & TRADITIONS

Shorts, mini-skirts and exposed arms are not allowed in and around temples. It is a custom to take off shoes in temples, on festivals grounds and in private houses. We strongly recommended you observe these customs to show your respect for the religious traditions.

ELECTRICITY

220V AC. 2 (round) pin plugs. Adaptors are widely available at many hotels and resorts.