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Health
Regulations
Officially there are no
vaccinations required. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended as well as
having a tetanus and polio booster if necessary.
Electricity
220 V AC.
Customs
and Traditions
Shorts and mini-skirts are not allowed in and around temples. It is a
custom to take off the shoes in temples, on festival grounds and in
private houses. It is strongly recommend following these custom to
show your respect for the religious traditions.
You should never touch someone's head (including children) or point
your finger at someone as this is considered impolite. For the same
reason you should avoid standing with your head above someone you are
talking to. In doubt you should rather squat or sit. Shaking hands is
not customary, except on farewells or congratulations. Intimate
touches or embraces are absolutely inappropriate.
Nude or topless swimming and sunbathing is forbidden. If you see
Balinese taking a bath in the rivers along the streets you should
discreetly overlook them and resist the appeal to take pictures.
When handing over or taking something from someone only the right hand
is to be used. The left hand is considered unclean.
Yet another advice: The Balinese love to bargain. especially in the
markets, it is usual to haggle over the prices. You can do so, too,
but so as no to be disappointed please inform yourself in advance
about the realistic prices.
Attending
Ceremonies
Remember these are serious occasion and should be
treated as such. Religious guidelines : Always wear a sarong and
sash. Do not walk in front of people praying. Do not use flash cameras
or push your camera into the priest's face! Never sit higher than the
priests or the offerings. At cremation, do not get in the way of
the attendees - however important that photographic opportunity is!
Women are not allowed to enter temples during menstruation.
PS
When attending Special Ceremonies or Anniversary Celebrations as a
guest or onlooker, small donations are gratefully received. Your
donations will help in paying for the offerings and upkeep of the
temple.
Car
Rental
Indonesia has left-hand traffic. We advise you not to drive by
yourself unless you have already some experience with the Asian way of
driving. Traffic conditions are completely different to what you know
from home and traffic rules are not easily comprehensible for a
foreigner. Motorcycles and bicycles without lights are an additional
hazard in the dark. In Bali always expect the unexpected, always keep
your eyes open and your mind on driving.
It is best to rent a car with
driver (recommended) as this will save
your time and money, then you'll have no worries on your trip.
Drinking Water
Do not drink water from any taps. Bottled mineral water is
highly recommended for your health.
Petty Crime
There have been a few cases of handbags being snatched after
tourists have chased money at Banks or Money Changers! Put your money
away in your 'bum-bag' or hold onto your handbag tightly. When
changing large amounts of money please check each note carefully as
there are a number of (noticeably) fake notes in circulation.
When trying on garments do not take your jewelry off and leave it
laying around - give it to a friend or leave it in the hotel safe.
Swimming
in the Sea
Currents can be strong, always swim between the
red and yellow flags, do not swim too far out! Do not leave your
belongings unattended on the beach.
Tips
for Taking Taxis in Bali
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It is
always best to order a taxi by phone-especially at night.
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If you must hail a taxi on the street, be sure that the name of the
taxi company is clearly marked on it.
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Insist on using the meter. Don’t fall for a driver who bargains or
claims that his meter is broken.
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In the taxi, note the taxi's number and the driver’s ID. This may
come handy if you want to register a complaint or trace belongings
left behind.
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In places such as Ubud, Sanur and Kuta there are many people who
offer you transportation services. If you must take any of their
services, make sure you get the fix price in front of them.
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There are licensed taxis at Bali’s airport. Avoid taking services
from ‘’brokers’’ who offer you transportation.
Some
taxi companies and their telephone numbers:
Bali
Taxi : 701111
Praja Taxi: 289090
Ngurah Rai Airport Taxi:724724
Pan Wirthi: 723366
Street
Vendors
Can be overbearing at times, however they are trying to make a
living .... so, please be understanding if FIRM. If you would
like to lodge a complaint, please do so by taking down their
vendor-card details and reporting to the nearest Police Post or Police
Station. If you don't want to be pestered, it is best not to look at
the 'wares', avoid all eye contact. Remember in Indonesia, if you ask
the price, you must want to buy!
General
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Tips l Picture Gallery
l Exchange rate l Places
of interest
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