Ten Essential Tips For Bali Vacation
Bali is a small, beautiful island famed for its unique arts and
cultures, enchanting nature and the friendliness of its people.
Most people come to Bali to experience the marvelously rich
cultural heritage; some come for the beaches and the waves,
others for pure relaxation. Bali is situated in Indonesia, one
of the best tourist destinations in Asia.
For those who plan to visit Bali, I herewith write Ten Essential
Tips for Bali Vacation for your consideration.
1. To enter Bali, or Indonesia for that matter, make sure your
passport is valid for six months upon entry into Indonesia,
otherwise you'll find yourself on the next plan out. You also
must have proof of onward passage (i.e. a ticket out of
Indonesia). Tourist, social and business visas can be obtained
from any Indonesian embassy or consulate abroad. Citizens from
Asian countries comprising Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand,
Brunei, Vietnam, Cambodia, Philippine and Laos do not require a
visa, only a valid travel document. Visitors from some thirty
countries are also provided with a 60-days tourist visa issued
directly upon arrival. Consult your travel agent or airlines,
mention your nationality.
2. Money matters: The rupiah is the basic unit of money. Foreign
currency, in bank notes and traveler's checks is best exchanged
at major banks or authorized money changers. Do change money at
a reputable looking location, use your own (or the hotel's
calculator before changing), as the ones used by some places can
be "a little inaccurate". Most important; always count your
money before you leave the place. Traveler's checks are accepted
at all major hotels and large shops; some smaller shops will
also accept them. Passport number is required. Do not forget to
take passport (or a photocopy of your ID), with you at all time.
3. When changing large amounts of money please check each note
carefully as there are a number of (noticeably) fake bills in
circulation.
4. There have been a few cases of handbags being snatched after
one has cashed money at banks or money changers. Put your money
away in your "bum-bag" or hold onto your handbag tightly.
5. Credit cards and charge cards: To day many hotels, shops
large and small accept plastic, with the proviso that an
additional 3% is added onto your bill. However, when traveling
to the village, take rupiah with you. Keep small change handy
when riding in public transports or buying drinks at warung.
6. Make sure you either have personal insurance or travel
insurance that will cover in any accidents. If you rent a car
(must be with insurance), beware of motorbikes, as there are too
many on the road. When you park the car, always remember to
remove all your properties. Crime is on the increase and can
spoil your holiday. Be careful with your belongings at all
times. Cases of handbag snatching have been reported, so leave
important documents in your hotel safe (carry photocopies). Do
not forget to look and listen while you cross the road. Cars may
stops, motorbikes may not!
7. Going to Bali, dress casually. Take light clothes, as the
weather is warm-to - hot throughout the year. Remember Bali is a
land where prayer and religious festivals take center stage.
When visiting a temple or attending ceremonies, make it a point
to respect local customs and traditions. Always wear a sarong
and sash. Do not walk in front of people praying. Do not use a
flash camera or point your camera to the priest's face. Do try
not to step on offerings in the street (walk around them). Women
are not allowed to enter temples during menstruation.
8. Do not drug! It can carry the death penalty, and there are
enough foreigners residing in Bali courtesy of the Government
prison service.
9. Do not swim outside designated swimming areas on the beach,
current/undertows can be very strong. Swim between the red and
yellow flags. Don't swim too far out. Do not leave your
belongings unattended on the beach.
10. Health: International health certificates of vaccination
against smallpox, cholera, and yellow fever are required only
from travelers comprising from infected areas. Typhoid and
paratyphoid vaccinations are optional but still advisable. Drink
only distilled or mineral water, or water that has been boiled
and eat a lot of fresh fruit - do your body a favor. Don't worry
too much about ice, it's a government quality controlled in
established bars and restaurants. Most people traveling through
Bali get the infamous "Bali Belly" at some time or other. Taking
and Imodium will stop you up. At the first time of discomfort
(diarrhea and cramping), drink strong, hot tea and avoid all
fruits and spicy foods. Taking charcoal tablets will help
alleviate the cramping.
Bali is worth a visit, plan your vacation, go on line and book
your preferred Bali hotels or contact your travel agent. Thanks
you readers.