Bali, known as the Island of Gods, located in the lesser Sundas, midway along Indonesia's southernmost chain of island between Java and Lombok.

The tiny volcanic island of Bali, with nearly 3.5 million people and most of who are ethnic Balinese is one of the most physically beautiful and cultural rich places in the world.

The balmy climate, lush, green rice fields and lavish productions of Hindu-Balinese cultural calendar never fail to charm visitors. During his visit in 1950s, the India 's first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, called the island "The Morning of The World".

A Short History
Little is known of the island history. But many people believe, Bali was first settled by Chinese immigrants sometime around 2500 BC and after working on it for 2,000 years the complex irrigation system that is still the focal point of Balinese agriculture and way of life today was established.

From the 9th century onward, Bali had regular contact with Java, at the time being influenced by Indian cultural practices. Around 1010 AD a Balinese Prince named Airlanga took over East Java intending to unite it with Bali under his rule. Successful, he subsequently appointed his brother, Anak Wungsu, to rule Bali. As such there was a great deal of commerce between Bali and Java bringing with it an exchange of politics and arts. It was at this time the Bali adopted the Javanese language, Kawi that is still used today.

Airlanga's death brought on several wars waged by Javanese Kings to continue the Javanese control of Bali. Finally in 1365 Bali succumbed to Javanese control when it was defeated by a General by the name of Gajah Mada from the Majapahit Empire, the last Hindu Javanese Empire.

When Islam began spreading south from Sumatra into Java in the 16th century, the Majapahit Empire collapsed and a large number of aristocrats, priests, and artists fled to Bali. For the next several centuries Bali was ruled by a single court, but faction developed and by the time the Dutch arrived in 1695, Bali was made up of nine realms: Badung, Gianyar, Bangli, Klungkung, Karangasem, Buleleng, Mengwi, Tabanan and Jembrana.

Religion
Balinese are mostly Hindus and worship the Hindu trinity Brahma, Shiva and Vishnu, the Balinese religion is very different from the Indian variety. At one time Hinduism was the predominant religion in Indonesia (witness the many great Hindu monuments in Java) but it died out with the spread of Islam through the archipelago. The final great Hindu Kingdom ,that of the Majapahits, virtually evacuated to Bali, taking not only their religion and its rituals but also their art, literature, music and culture.

The Balinese are an unusual island people in that they have never been sea faring people. They believe that good spirits dwell in the mountains and that the seas are home to demons. Most villages have at least three main temples: one of which is the Pura Puseh or 'temple of origin', is dedicated to the village founders and which faces to Mt Agung - home to Pura Besakih the mother temple on Bali. Together with the other two village temples each house may several temples and as well as rice fields, markets etc. etc. etc. Now you can see why Bali is often referred to as the Island of the Gods.

The Balinese are extremely devout and no day goes by without making offerings to the gods. These daily offerings - called Banten are a major part of Balinese life. You will see these offerings nearly everywhere in Bali . Made of flowers, cookies, rice and even sometimes money (the actual items used are not as important as the process of making and offering it to the spirits) these offerings are given to the good spirits in hopes of continued prosperity as well as an appeasement to the evil spirits.

Etiquette
The Balinese take pleasure in their etiquette, and a smile is essential when speaking to the Balinese. Try to use only your right hand, especially when handling food. Pointing and summonsing someone with your index finger is considered impolite. Also try not to point your feet at anyone. The Balinese, however, understand about the fact that you come from a different culture and will forgive you for most faux pas. When people go to a temple festival, they wear their best traditional dress and make them selves as beautiful as possible to please the gods. The Balinese believe the human body represents the cosmos, heavenly at the top, demonic at the bottom, with humanity in between. Their temple wardrobe and the materials they are made of reflect this belief.

You must wear a sarong and waist-sash (to tie off appetites of the lower body) upon entry to a temple. The Balinese are very welcoming and hospitable and will do their best to help you to understand ceremonies - please try to remember that you are a visitor and that what you are watching is not a show put on for your entertainment; it is a part of their day to day live.

Travel Advisory

More than 1.4 million tourist visit Bali every year. Bali is a beautiful island and the easiest part of Indonesia in which to travel. English are widely spoken and other tourists necessities are available anywhere.

PASSPORTS AND VISAS

Bali Visa. Important change to Indonesia's Visa Policy for Tourists.

Please read carefully as there have been changes to Indonesia visa policy. This affects all arrivals to Indonesia after 1 st February 2004, are subject to new visa regulations

Countries that do not require a Visa to enter Bali:

Brunei Darussalam
Chile
Hong Kong Special Administrative Region,
Macao Special Administrative Region ,
Malaysia
Morocco
Peru
Philippines
Singapore
Thailand
Vietnam

Countries that require and are eligible for Visa-On Arrivals - cost for these visas are US$10 for a stay of up to 3 days, US$25 for a stay of up to 30 days.

Arab Emirates
Argentina
Australia
Brazil
Canada
Denmark
Finland
France
Germany
Hungary
Italy
Japan
New Zealand
Norway
Poland
South Africa
South Korea
Switzerland
Taiwan
United Kingdom
United States America

It is important to also note the following:

• The Visa on Arrival is non-extendable and cannot be converted into a different visa.
• The Visa purchasing system will take approximately 3-5 minutes per applicant.
• There are 6 payment counters, a bank and a money changer set up to process payments.
• Once you have paid for and received your visa you will need to proceed to Immigration where your visa will be processed.

Citizens of countries not on the visa on arrival or visa free lists will be required to apply for a visa before entering Indonesia.

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Indonesia, and you must have proof of onward passage (either return or through tickets). If you cannot fulfill both of these requirements, you may not be allowed to enter the country.

Each visitor is required to pay an airport tax of Rp 100,000 for international departures and Rp 50,000 for domestic flights.

Indonesian Embassies with websites click here

CONSULATES

Although Bali is the centre of the Indonesia's tourist Industry, the diplomatic corps are for the most part stationed in Jakarta and all foreign embassy offices are there. Some foreign countries maintaining consulates and representatives in Bali are as follows and all are in the south of Bali:

AUSTRALIA
(also rep. Canada, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea & other commonwealth in emergencies)
Australian Consulate
Jalan Hayam Wuruk No. 88 B - Tanjung Bungkak - Denpasar, Bali 80324
Tel : ++62-(0)361-241118 Facsimile: ++62-(0)361-241120
Email : bali.congen@dfat.gov.au

BRITISH
British Honorary Consul
Cat and Fiddle Restaurant - Jalan Mertasari No. 2 Sanur Tel / Fax: 62-361-282968
Email: tamarin@dps.centrin.net.id

CZECH REPUBLIC
Consulate of the Czech Republic
Jl.Pengembak 17, Sanur
Tel : 62-361-286465, Fax : 62-361-286408
Email : bali@honorary.mzv.cz

FRANCE
Consular Agency of France
Jalan mertasari Gg.II No. 8, Sanur Kauh - Denpasar.
Tel: 62-361-285485 Fax: 62-361-286406
Email : consul@dps.centrin.net.id

GERMANY
Consulate of Germany
Jalan Pantai Karang 17, Sanur Denpasar.
Tel. 62-361-288535, 62-361-288826, Fax 62-361-288826
Email : dtkonsbali@denpasar.wasantara.net.id

ITALY
Honorary Vice Consulate of Italy
Lotus Enterprise Building
Jalan Bypass Ngurah Rai, Jimbaran, Denpasar
Tel. 62-361-701005, Fax 62-361-701005
Email : italconsbali@italconsbali.org

JAPAN
Consulate Office of Japan
Jalan Raya Puputan, Renon Denpasar No.170
Tel. 62-361-227628, Fax 62-361-231308
Email : konjdps@indo.net.id

MEXICO
Honorary Consulate of Mexico
Puri Astina Building
Jalan Prof. Moh. Yamin 1-A, Renon, Denpasar
Tel. 62-361-223266, Fax 62-361-244568
Email : astina@denpasar.wasantara.net.id

NETHERLANDS
Consulate of The Netherlands
Jalan Raya Kuta No: 127, Kuta
Tel. 62-361-751517, Fax 62-361-752777
Email : dutchconsulate@kcb-tours.com

NORWAY & DENMARK
Royal Danish Consulate
Mimpi Resort, Kawasan Bukit Permai, Jimbaran
Tel. 62-361-701070 (ext 32)
Fax. 62-361-701073, 62-361-701074
Email: mimpi@mimpi.com

SPAIN
Honorary Consulate of Spain
Jl.Raya Sanggingan, br lungsiakan, Kedewatan Ubud
Tel. 62-361-975736, Fax. 62-361-975726
Email : rabik@indo.net.id

SWEDEN & FINLAND
Consulate of Sweden and Finland
Segara Village Hotel
Jalan Segara Ayu, Sanur 80228
Tel. 62-361-288407, Fax 62-361-287242
Email: segara1@denpasar.wasantara.net.id

SWITZERLAND & AUSTRIA
Kompleks Istana Kuta Galleria
Blok Valet 2 No. 12 Jl. Patih Jelantik - 80361 Kuta
Tel: +62-361-751735 Fax: 62-361-754457
Email: swisscon@telkom.net or swisscon@denpasar.wasantara.net.id

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Consular Agency of the United States of America
Jalan Hayam Wuruk 188, Tanjung Bungkak Denpasar 80235
Tel. 62-361-233605, Fax 62-361-222426
Email : amcobali@indo.net.id

Always keep a photocopy of your passport, visa and driver's license separate from the originals to prove your identity in case of theft or loss

TRANSPORTATION

Most international visitors will fly to Bali directly.

Flights

• Numerous direct flights from Europe , America , Australia and most Asian Countries.
• Domestic flights to and from major cities within Indonesia .

Sea

• Regular passenger ferries from Java and Lombok .

Overland

• By car or bus from Java or Lombok .

Airport Taxis

One way fares from Ngurah Rai Airport to the tourist centers are fixed. Upon exiting the Arrivals gate, turn right and proceed 20 or so metres to the taxi ticket window. You pay at the taxi counter cashier and received a coupon which you surrender to your driver.

Getting Around

There are many modes of transport to help you travel around Bali. You will find a range of chauffeur driven limousines, self-drive cars, metered taxis and hotel courtesy cars. Some taxis are not metered so it's wise to negotiate the fare before you climb aboard. Bemos (a compression of becak, bicycle-like Pedi cab and Mobil) 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 too happy to give you advice and directions on how to get you to your required destination.

Driver's License

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

WHAT TO PACK

When packing, keep in mind that you will be in the tropics, and heavy clothing is typically not necessary. Bring wash and wear, light cotton clothes that absorb perspiration. Or, you would be better off arriving in Bali with next to nothing in the way of clothing and buying anything you need once you are here. It's cheap; in fact a lot cheaper than home, also it's a great for souvenirs.

A sarong purchased upon arrival in Bali is one of the most versatile items you could hope for. It's a great souvenir for your travels, sarongs are also versatile for covering up, spreading out as a blanket on the beach, and entering temples which require you to cover your legs.

Earplugs (the mouldable silicone ones are best) are useful, as is a tiny padlock for luggage zippers, a small calculator to help you with exchange rates and a small flashlight for finding your room or just digging through your back pack.

You will need to bring sunglasses, as you're probably closer to the equator here than at home and you'll want to protect yourself. If you purchase them here, look for UV and polarized glasses and expect to pay a reasonable price. If it's too cheap it may not offer UV protection or be polarized, regardless of the stickers on it. Insect repellent, dental floss, contact lens, tampons (if you need them, as they not widely available), any medications that you rely on, including the contraceptive pill, or your favourite shampoo/conditioner, you should bring with you. Don't forget, the sunscreen - brand name products are available at stores in the tourist area but may be a little more expensive than prices back home. If you're travelling to out of the way locations, be sure to bring some with you. Apply it often and use a high SPF factor - lying in your room suffering from sunburn is not a fun way to spend a holiday!

When entering a government office, try not to wear sleeveless tops, shorts or a short skirt as this is considered disrespectful. Men should wear long trousers, and a shirt with collar. Women should wear a neat dress, covering knees and shoulders and shoes.

CLIMATE

Bali lies just 8.67° (965 km) south of the equator, it's tropical and the temperature is thus warm and constant, daily highs average 31C (88F) and nightly lows,22 C (72F). Days are almost universally 12 hours long with sunrise is approximately 6:10 a.m. ; sunset at 6:30 p.m. depending on the time of year. It is much cooler in the highland and along the coast, where most divers will find themselves, sea breezes, moderate the temperature and the climate is quite pleasant. On the coast, air conditioning is not really necessary.

The climate in Bali is influenced by two yearly seasons of monsoon winds. The wet, northwest monsoon normally runs from October to April, with peak rainfall in December and January. During this time, it rains several hours each day, although it stops for a time and the sun may come out. During the dry, south east monsoon, May to September, rainfall is less frequent. January is the wettest month and September is the driest. The north and northwest of Bali are drier than the south of Bali .

Bali has itsown Calendar called Saka. The saka is a true lunar calendar-each sasih or month, begins the day after new moon, peaks at full moon, and ends on new moon. Although it is said, the best time for diving in Bali according to Saka or Balinese calendar is Sasih Kapat (September - October) and the worse time is sasih Kesanga (February-March), you can dive in Bali anytime of the year, choosing sites on the north or south of the island depending on the direction of the wind, to find the best condition.

BALI TIME

Bali time is in the same time zone as Singapore and Taipei, and is GMT + 8 hours.

ELECTRICITY

Standard electricity is 220 ~ 240 VAC, with the European plug style, two round section pins. You may need to bring a plug converter or adaptor and a voltage stabilizers are a good idea for your laptop, or other sensitive equipments.

MONEY MATTERS

Currency

The Rupiah, and available in the following notes/bills: Rp 100,000, Rp 50,000, Rp 20,000, Rp 10,000, Rp 5,000, Rp 1,000, Rp 500 and even Rp 100 (about 1 US cent).

Also there are currently Rp 1,000, Rp 500, Rp 100, Rp 50 and Rp 25 coins. The government is in the process of introducing new designs and various sizes for these notes/bills so you should familiarise yourself with them as quickly as possible.

For a Currency Converter click here

Moneychangers and Travellers' Cheques

You can exchange most major world currencies (cash or travellers cheques) easily into the Indonesian Rupiah. Hotels generally give less favourable exchange rates (the price of convenience). Or - and this our choice - go to a branch office of one of the local banks.

If you choose to deal with an money changer BE CAREFUL - there are, we regret to say, some dishonest moneychangers in Bali. From fixed calculators to miscounted money, the speed at which they work defies belief. Whatever trick they use, you end up with less rupiah cash than you should have. Nonetheless here are a couple of points worth remembering. First, the rate posted on the door usually is for amounts in notes of US $100. - lesser denominated notes (i.e. $50.00) will be given a less favourable rate. Next verify the exchange calculation (ask to use the calculator or - better yet - bring your own) and count your change before you leave the window. Lastly, be  prepared, if you are cashing travellers cheques you will need to present your passport for identification and many money changers do not accept cash notes that have been defaced - or are in less than near mint condition.

The official exchange rate posted is daily in all major newspapers.

Credit cards

Credit cards are accepted at better restaurants and retailers. But be aware most retailers add an extra 3 - 5 % on your bill for the privilege of using plastic. You do not have to accept this: You're not going to get anywhere arguing with the shopkeeper but if you want to get this back make sure the retailer or restaurant writes this surcharge down as an extra charge for using the card and then claim it from your month end billing.

You can get cash advances on major credit cards at the banks - you need to take your passport - although there is usually a maximum daily withdrawal of Rp 2,000,000.

ATMs are quite common and the ones with VISA / Cirrus logos dispense local currency at the bank's then current exchange rate and our guess is that this is still far better than going to a money changer considering the high probability of being short changed. But be aware that your bank back home will charge you for each withdrawal. You will receive the money in Rupiah.

A note of caution though - you must be absolutely sure to take your card - if not and the card remains in some machines additional withdrawals may be made without having to re-enter the PIN!

Banks

Banks are generally open from 09:00 to 14:00, Monday to Friday, but don't rely on these hours, there are many ceremonies in Bali that necessitate offices opening and closing earlier than posted.

HEALTHY TRAVELING

Bali is getting better in terms of hygiene and medical facilities but it still has a way to go. You do not want to have a medical emergency here. Play safe and make sure you have medical insurance before you come. Best to have insurance that will evacuate you if you get terribly sick or have a serious injury and need airlifted to Singapore or home. Here are a couple of other common sense points that should keep you in good shape and enjoying your visit.

Vacinations

travel to Bali does not currently require any special vaccinations (check for last-minute information at www.cdc.gov - the U.S. Center for Disease Control) although diphtheria, pertusis and tetanus (DPT) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) shots are recommended for everyday life wherever you are. Vaccinations for Hepatitis A (and Hepatitis B for long trips over 2 months) require thinking ahead for inoculations from a few weeks to 7 months before your visit. If you are concerned, consult with your doctor.

Aids and Hepatitis B

Safe Sex is a good idea even in Bali. Awareness and education of AIDS is just beginning in Indonesia. If you're trying or looking for a partner while you're in Bali, bring some condoms with you. The ones sold here are smaller than in the west and may not come up to western standards. Another area of concern is the Hepatitis B virus which affects liver function and although is curable, but can be fatal if undetected or treated. Be safe and don't take the overseas disease home!

Prescriptions

Bring plenty of any required prescription drugs with you and its generic names. Most prescription drugs are found on Pharmacies (Apotik) in Bali but may be under different names. Also, while traveling keep your vital medication with you or in your carry bag - in case your luggage is lost. A copy of your prescription may also help you avoid any questions at customs too.

The water

Drink plenty of fluids (water and fruit juices) to avoid dehydration. In general, Indonesian tap water is not potable and must be boiled before drinking. Drink bottled water ONLY - ice in drinks, however, is not a problem. Bottled water of many brands is available anywhere.

Cuts and Scrapes

In the tropics, small cuts and scrapes may take longer to heal. Having a small first aid kit with a minimum of an antiseptic wash or cream and an antibiotic powder or ointment and small adhesive bandages will come in handy. See a doctor if an infection sets in. Coral cuts can be especially nasty and may require diligent attention to keep them from becoming infected.

The Basic Traveling First Aid Kit

• Antiseptic/Disinfectant (Betadine, Dettol, etc.),
• Antibiotic powder or ointment,
• Adhesive bandages (Band-Aids, ectoplast),
• Ibuprophen or other over-the-counter pain reliever,
• Multivitamins,
• Decongestant (12 or 24 hour dosages),
• Anti-diarrheal (Kaopectate or Lomotril),
• Tiger Balm - for itching bites and muscle pain,
• Pre-packaged alcohol towelettes and/or gelled alcohol,
• Disinfectant soap and/or medicated body powder if prone to prickly heat and skin fungi.

" Bali Belly"

Diarrhoea is a common travelling companion when faced with changes in your climate, diet and sleeping arrangements, and overexertion. Take it easy and experience the wonderful Indonesian cuisine sensibly. Ice is manufactured in government-run facilities and is generally safe as long as it's been handles in a sanitary method between leaving the facility and getting to your table - you can judge this well by the general state of the restaurant where you are eating. Over all, stick to bottled water. If you do succumb to Bali Belly, relax as much as you can and drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids including the water from a young coconut (air kelapa muda). Doses of Imodium or activated carbon (both available in Bali ) and a good book for company will help. It typically runs it's course in 2 to 3 days. If longer than that, seek medical advice.

Malaria

Bali is typically not a threat from malaria although long stays in the rural western portions, especially during rainy season, may warrant care. Use repellent brought from home (preferably with DEET) when out. Mosquito coils are available on Bali to keep the nasties away.

Doctors' Services

Most larger hotels will have a doctor on call close by, ask there first. For additional information there's a list of hospitals and clinics in the Emergency Info section.

Hyperbaric Recompression Chamber

Available at Sanglah General Hospital in Denpasar (0361)227911, extension 232.

Contact lens wearers

Bring any solutions you might need, especially for gas permeable lens wearers.

Additional information on health matters may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention. Telephone the CDC international travelers hotline at (404) 332-4559 or visit the CDC home page on the Internet at http://www.cdc.gov

TELEPHONE

All telephone numbers listed herein are local numbers. To reach any number in Bali dial: International access code + 62 + 361+ (local number). Wherein "62" is Indonesia country code and "361" is area code for Denpasar, Bali. Be advised most Bali telephone numbers are 6 digits although some are still 5 digits.

To find some informations, you may contact information operator on 108.

The cellular service in Indonesia is GSM. If you bring your own handphone you may purchase a prepaid calling chip from any Mobile distributor (cheaper than using your home country service).

Telecommunication capabilities have improved greatly over the last few years but patience is the keyword when trying to dial overseas from Indonesia - especially during office hours. Most better hotels offer International Direct Dialing (IDD) and Home Country Direct (HCD) services. Overseas calls can also be made at state-run telephone offices known as a wartel (warung telekomunikasi).

INTERNET

Need to get online? Internet cafés are popping up everywhere and very easy to find in Bali now. Grab yourself a beer, coffee or juice and start typing. This can be a fun way to contact home. Prices vary starting from Rp 7000 per hour and broadband connection's usually more expensive.

If you plan to be in Bali for a while and need to be connected there are several ISPs. The local phone company ( Telkom) allows anyone access to its network without having to establish an user account or pay any set fees (the telcom makes its money by adding a 50% surcharge to its normal per minute tariff) making it easy to check your internet email (ie.Yahoo mail,hotmail) on your laptop. To access dial 0809- 89999 / username: telkomnet@instan / password : telkom .