1st time in bali? | indodriftabali

arriving to the airport

Pick up your own baggage if you don't want to pay a porter to do it
Change a little bit of money into IDR as you walk out of customs- have enough for a taxi ride and maybe some food (200.000 IDR). You can then change more money once you arrive into Legian
Taxi rides to Legian with the airport taxi drivers is approx. 80.000 IDR- go to the taxi stand and it is set price.
Have $35 USD ready before you arrive to pay for the VISA ON ARRIVAL

general

CHANGING MONEY

Change money in places such as Circle K, Western Union and Mini Marts. Avoid changing money on the street as you will lose some of it and also avoid changing money in the big hotels as they will give you a poor rate.

SCOOTERS

Give a scooter a try! But take it slowly and be aware that rules are very different over here. If the police stop you expect to pay them a "fine" of 50.000 IDR. Keep 50.000 IDR in your pocket and hide the rest of your money out of their view to save an expensive day. Bring your international lisence and remember to check the fine print on your travel insurance policy.

BARGAINING

Respect the local people and enjoy the barter process... Take it slowly and have a laugh with the shop owners. 10.000 IDR ($1) might be the difference between some people eating for that day or not so dont get too upset about being "ripped off" for a few dollars while shopping.

things to know

HYGIENE

The food service industry in Bali is of quite a high standard these days. If you feel the need, bring some hand gel but generally the old BALI BELLY is caused by too much drinking of Bintang & cocktails and eating too much rich, spicy food!!

BALI TIME

There is no time in Bali.. especially for holiday makers! Dont get too stressed out by drivers or food being a little late, everybody is normally trying their hardest. things such as bad traffic, small kitchens and short staffing can cause things to take a little longer. Bali is not all about rush rush rush so just sit back, relack and have a bintang!

GET OUT OF LEGIAN & KUTA!

Legian is a wonderful place to stay but try and visit the many beautiful places on this island.. there is so much more out there in the south, north and eastern areas of bali.. enjoy legian and kuta for what it is but try and use it as abase to get out and see some wonderful cultural and natural beauties this island has to offer.