Balis varied landscape of hills and mountains, rugged coastlines and sandy beaches, lush rice terraces and barren volcanic hillsides provide a picturesque backdrop to the colorful and deeply spiritual culture of this “Island of The Gods.”
Planning tips are needed to help maximize your time and money spent in Bali. Below are a few questions that are commonly asked plus tips on the dos and donts of Bali Travel.
1/ Do you need a visa for travel to bali?
In general you don’t need to get a visa before you to Bali from most countries. A visa costs approximately US$10 for 7 days/US$25 for 30 days. If you have a Hong Kong SAR or Macau SAR passport, then you will get a free visa.
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Indonesia, and you must have proof of onward passage (either return or through tickets). If you cannot fulfill both of these requirements, you may not be allowed to enter the country.
The Visa on Arrival is non-extendable and cannot be converted into a different visa. Once you disembark, you will come to an area where you buy your visa. (Do not miss this section). AFTER you have paid for and received your visa you THEN proceed to Immigration where your visa will be processed.
2/ Is it safe to travel to Bali?
On October 12, 2002, the most commercialized, southern area of Bali came under attack by terrorists. The Kuta Beach tourist area is often referred to as “Little Australia” by the local people because it is known to primarily cater to Australian tourists and surfers. This shocking tragedy sent the message around the world that no tourist destination is completely safe in our dangerous times. What a disappointment to all who have come to deeply appreciate the hospitable Balinese people and their culture. But the intent of the perpetrators was to strike at Western revelers and their commercialism. Since Bali as a whole is primarily unscathed by such ugly decay, the Balinese culture remains untouched. However, the impact on the tourist economy has not been minimal.
In recent years, tourism has contributed significantly to the financial well-being of the island and even to Indonesia as a whole. Swift efforts by the government to ensure a speedy recover are underway. Strict security measures have been implemented. Some countries have already lifted travel warnings implemented, and tourism to Bali is again on the rise.
3/ Do I need a License to drive or Ride in Bali?
Yes. If you live in Australia, then the best way to do this is to see your NRMA branch and apply for an International Drivers License which will cost you $25 for one year. Other countries: see your roads and traffic authority to apply for an international licence.This is easy to do, will save you the headaches of police fines and problems; and will be a lot easier than applying for a temporary license once you get to Bali as this takes a full day in Denpasar filling in applications and doing the test.
More Bali Tips:
Change money at a reputable looking location, use your own (or the hotel’s) calculator before changing!
Drink a lot of bottled water and eat lots of fresh fruit – do your body a favor.
Be careful with your belongings at all times. Crime is on the increase and can ruin your holiday. Cases of handbag snatching have been reported, so leave important documents in your hotel safe and wear your bag across your shoulders!
Try not to step on offerings in the street (walk around them).
Respect the slow pace of processions when stuck behind one, i.e. don’t honk!
Haggle when buying (except on price-tagged goods.)
Buy ‘Imodium AD’ to relieve bouts of Bali belly.
Have a great holiday in Bali!
Dont:
Forget to take your passport (or a photocopy of your ID).
Do drugs! It can carry the death penalty, and there are enough foreigners residing in Bali courtesy of the Govt. Prison service!
Touch people’s heads – it is very offensive to Hindus.
Enter a temple during menstruation. Sorry Ladies!
Forget to put salt on your food & drink water – you will probably sweat a lot.
Worry too much about the ice – its government-quality controlled in established bars and restaurants.
Forget to look and listen while you cross the road. Cars may stop, motorbikes may not!
Forget to reconfirm your flight 72 hours prior to flying.
By following these tips, you will get the most out of your holiday with the least amount of hassles. Have a great trip and enjoy!