Accommodations
As you can imagine there is an enormous variety of accommodation available in Bali. It varies from magnificent five star resorts to simple jungle cabins, depending on the location and your holiday budget.

Clothing
Light, airy, casual clothes are the most practical and you’ll find natural fibers like cotton or linen are the most comfortable in Bali’s often humid conditions. Waist sashes should be worn when visiting temples.

When packing, keep in mind that you will be in the tropics, but that it can get cold in the mountains. Generally, you will want to dress light and wear natural feathers that absorb perspiration. A heavy sweater is also a must, as is a sturdy pair of shoes. Suits and ties are almost never worn.

Currency
Indonesian currency is Rupiah. Rupiah notes currently in circulation are Rp.500, Rp.1,000, Rp.5,000, Rp.10,000, Rp.20,000, Rp.50,000 and Rp. 100,000

Driver’s License
If you wish to hire a car you must be over 18 years of age and posses an International Driver’s License or license from ASEAN countries.

Electricity
Most hotels use 220-240 volts AC, 50 cycles and a round, two-pronged-slim plug, but outlying areas may still use 110 volts. Bathroom shaver plugs usually have a transformer switch. We suggest taking an adaptor for your appliance.

Getting Around
You will find a range of chauffeur driven limousines, self-drive cars, taxis and hotel courtesy cars. Many taxis are not metered so it’s wise to negotiate the fare before you climb aboard. ‘Bemos’ are a unique form of transport. They are a mini-van masquerading as a communal bus.

You simply hail the driver and negotiate the fare that suits you both. Motorcycles can also be hired in many places but special care should be exercised at all times as road and traffic conditions can be somewhat hazardous in certain locations. Travelling around Bali is made all the easier because everywhere you go you’ll find friendly people only to happy to give you advice and directions on how to get where you want to go.

Ice
Ice is not made from boiled water. It comes from water frozen in government regulated factories. Locals who are adamant about drinking only boiled water are, in general, not fearful of the purity of ice. However we advise you are on the side of caution and forgot it.

Language
The national language of Indonesia is Bahasa Indonesia, although there are also over 250 native languages and dialects spoken throughout the archipelago. Now taught in every school and widely understood in Bali. The indigenous language of Bali is still spoken in the islands’ villages. Bahasa Indonesia is written in Roman script, has no tones and uses a fairly straightforward grammar, all of which makes it relatively easy for the visitor to get to grips with.

Keeping Your Cool
At government offices like immigration or police, talking loudly and forcefully doesn’t make things easier. Patience and politeness are virtues that open many doors in Indonesia. Good manners and dress are also to your advantage.