Documentation -- make sure you have left a copy of your passport and ticket with a friend in case you lose it whilst away. Check you have a minimum of six months validity on your passport from return date and that you have the correct visas to enter Indonesia, if required.
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Money
All major credit cards are accepted in Bali. There are ATM locations, but not
many. Generally Matahari Department Stores have them but traveler’s checques
are easily exchanged and they are a good idea instead of large sums of cash.
Take only a small amount of cash either in Rupiah or your own currency (you
can change some at the airport at a reasonable rate) especially if you have
not pre-booked your transport or transfer from the airport to your hotel.
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Packing Clothing
Take a big suitcase, as you’ll do lots of shopping in Bali. Pack light,
comfortable clothing and good comfortable shoes as it is a tropical climate
and most people do a lot of walking. The wet season is from November to February
and this is when Bali is at its most humid. If you don’t have such clothing,
there’s plenty to buy in Bali. Make sure you pack insect repellent and
don’t forget a hat and some sun block.
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Customs/Immigration
On arrival in Bali you will have to fill out a customs and immigration form.
The white immigration form is in two parts. When you unfold it, fill in your
departing details (from Bali) on the left hand side. Your arrival details are
on the right hand side. It is very important not to lose the left hand side,
as you will need it when leaving Bali - keep it in your passport until you leave
Bali.
When you have booked transfers to your hotel you will be met when leaving the airport building. Look for our hotel name (Kuta Beach Club Hotel), your name or the name of your tour operator, which will be held up on a sign. If you haven’t booked transfers, taxis are available to the left of the exit as you leave the airport. These are fixed prices in Indonesian Rupiah from the airport to all tourist areas.
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Temples
When visiting temples in Bali, dress appropriately i.e. no swimwear. At some
of the larger temples you may be required to hire a sarong for a minimal charge.
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Bargaining/Shopping
When shopping in the traditional markets, you are able to bargain the asking
price but some shops however do have fixed prices and you can usually tell these
by their more western appearance. If in doubt though, ask the shopkeeper.
When you do begin your bargaining the first price offered by the shopkeeper will usually be about double the price they eventually will accept. Offer one third to begin with and then meet somewhere in the middle. This of course varies from place to place and item to item – good luck! It is very important that if you do name a price and this is accepted that you do purchase at this price. Shopkeepers can get quite annoyed if you try for a further reduction or walk away. It’s also good to remember the value you actually bargaining over, 1,000 Rp is not a lot when converted to foreign hard currencies.
Moneychangers can be found at our hotel reception and on the street around the Tanjung Benoa area. The best rates are on the street, although there are some traps to be wary of. Lately, a big trap has been rigged of faulty calculators in the Tuban and Kuta areas. It’s best to check rates on your calculator or with a good old-fashioned piece of paper and pen. Current Exchange Rates are approx. US$ 1.00 = Rp 9,000
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Water
Do not drink water from the taps. Water is cheap and easily available in sealed
bottles. Usually your hotel will provide you with two bottles for free –
check it’s not the expensive imported water though. When buying water
check that the seal on your bottle is intact. Ice is OK to drink in larger restaurants,
bars and hotels, as its safety is government regulated.
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