Good mannners are very important to Indonesian people, and since you will be treated as an honored guest in this country, it is only right to repay that courtesy by showing respect for the traditions and culture. Never touch somebody heead unless you become a very close friend, don't touch people with your left hand and don't stretch out your feet to the direction of nearby person. When a you're traveling around if something goes wrong, you will have accept that there is no such thing as a"disaster". Maintain your sense humor. Relax and let yourself roll with the punches rather than getting will not be understood unless something really heavy is happening. Also refusals should be made by claiming to be presently satisfied and leaving a later option open. Always asking if an intended action is allowed will assure you the appreciation of the people involved and generally permission granted.
CULTURE
Bali is Hindu society and ceremonies are part of daily life. Try not to step on offerings and be patient, when you come upon a religious procession either while you're driving or walking in the street. If you attend ceremonies, keep in mind that these are serious occasions and you should treat them with respect. Always cover your legs with a sarong or long pants. Don't walk in front of people praying and never sit higher than the priest. Women during menstruation and anyone with a bleeding wound are not allowed to enter a temple. Some ceremonies go on for many hours. Don't feel that you have to stay untill the very end. It is perfectly OK get up and leave at any point, provided you do this without creating a disturbance.
DRESS CODE
The balinese, while modestly dressed themselves, are very forgiving when it comes to tourists' attire, however walking around town in speedos or a bikini is not really appreciated. When entering temples you are required to wear a sarong and sash, you'll see that the temples themselves are similarly attired. If you have to visit a goverment office, long sleeves, long trousers/skirt and shoes are advisable. Pack light, natural fabrics and don;t pack too many clothes, as there are cheap clothing shop all over Bali.
AIRPORT TAX
International = Rp.150.000 Domestic = Rp.50.000
Rp: Indonesia Rupiah (IDR)
TIME ZONE
Indonesia has three time zone. Bali is GMT+8hrs
CLIMATE
The rainy season is officially October-March, but it varies yearly. There is diving year round although the best seasons are April and May and September till November. Remember to apply plenty of sunscreen even on cloudy days.
ELECTRICITY
220 volts. Bring a plug adaptor with you.
MONEY CHANGERS
When you receive your rupiah,count it yourself and then do not put it down! Note : some money changers charge commission and what you receive will not be that is quoted on the boards outside their shops. You will be better off changing money only at those outlets which specialize in changing money and not retail shops which offer money change facilities as an extra.
ATMs are now widespread, particularly in the most heavily touristed areas. Note that those machines dispensing Rp.50.000 notes restrict you to Rp.1.250.000 per transaction, whereas those that dispense Rp.100.000 notes allow you Rp.2.500.000 per transaction.
CREDIT CARD
Mastercard and Visa are widely accepted in south Bali and all upmarket hotel/shops. Some places take American Express and Dinner Club.
You may encounter a 3% surcharge for creditcard use.
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