* TIPS for first time Visistors

TIPS for first time Visistors.
Time zone : Indonesia has three time zones, Bali is GMT +8hrs.
Dress code : The Balinese, while modesty dressed themself, are very forgiving people when it comes to tourist’attire, however walking around in Speedos or a bikini is not really appreciated. When entering temples themselves are similarly attired. If you have to visit a goverment office, long sleeves and long trouser/skirt and shoes are advisable.

Pack light, natural fabrics-and don’t pack too many clothes as there are cheap clothing shops all over Bali!
Electricity : 220 volts. Try to buy a plug adaptor before coming to Bali.
Currency : Indonesian RUpiah. You ca cahange all hard currencies in the south of Bali, it is not easy elsewhere. Banks/moneychangers will only accept post-1997 US$ note and this must be in pristine condition. ( Moneychanger : When you receive your Rupiah, count it yourself and then do not put it down! Note some moneychangers charge commision ) Mastercard and Visa are widely accepted in south Bali and in all upmarket Hotels/shops.Some places take American Express and Diners Club. There is generally a 3% surcharge for creditcard use.

Visa/Entry requirements : Citizens of these 11 countries receive a free 30day visa-on-arrival (VOA) ; Brunei, Chile, Hong Kong, Macao, Malaysia, Morroco, Peru, Philippines, singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Citizens of the following 52 countries pay (cash) US$10 for a 7day VOA and US$ 25 for a 30day VOA : Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Canada, China, Cyprus, Denmark, Egypt, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, India, Iran, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Laos, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Maldives, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Suriname, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, UAE, UK, USA. Please note these visas are non extendable, your passport must be valid for at least 6mths beyond your stay and have several empty pages, and you must be able to show a ticket out of the country. Nationalities not on either of the above list or people who want to stay in indonesia for longer than 30days, must get a visa from an overseas Indonesian Embassy or Consulate before arriving here. These can’t be issued upon arrival.

Airport Tax : International = 150.000 rupiah and Domestic = Rp.35.000 rupiah.

Health risks : Minimal, although there’s always the risk of Bali Belly (don’t drink the tap water; becareful what you eat).

Tipping : Not part of the Balinese culture, but-although it is still not expected - now quite commonplace in the tourist areas. Most medium to high priced restaurants have a 10% service charge, which is theoretically distributed to all staff-and then 10% government tax, so total 21% increase. A good rule would be to only tip when you’ve had exceptional service an then whaever feels appropriate.

Children : All Balinese people adore children-nowhere will your children be unwelcome. Watch you children on the beaches, there are some strong undertows.

Climate : The rainy season is officially Oct-March, but it varies yearly. There is diving year-round although the best seasons are Apr-May and Sep-Nov. Remember to apply high protection sunscreen frequently.

Language : English and Japanese are widely spoken in the south of the island ; even in rural villages some English is spoken.

Hyperbaric Chamber : Bali’s chamber is at Sanglah Hospital in Denpasar ( the Capital)

Diving on Bali’s southeast coast : There is diving around Sanur and Nusa Dua/Tanjung Benoa; however it is poor quality and therefore not recommended to anyone except those who just have to Get Wet !