Bali Expert Travel Guides

See what the experts are saying about Bali. Get expert advice on how to get there, what to see and more.

Introduction

by Frommers Travel Guides

A scenic land of active volcanoes, dense jungle, stunning beaches, and a rich, ancient culture, Bali is an island of tranquillity in the often-tumultuous Indonesian archipelago. Bali's peaceful way of life -- one marked by colorful ritual and... Continue reading »
Planning a trip

by Frommers Travel Guides

The Bali Department of Tourism operates visitor information centers at a number of locations: at Ngurah Rai International Airport (tel. 361/751011); in Ubud at the crossroad of Monkey Forest Road and Jalan Raya Ubud; in Kuta at Jalan Benasari... Continue reading »
Fast facts

by Frommers Travel Guides

American Express -- There is an American Express branch in the Grand Bali Beach Hotel, in Sanur (tel. 361/283970). Business Hours -- Most places keep "daylight hours," which on the equator pretty much means 6am to 6pm (or a little later).... Continue reading »
When to go

by Frommers Travel Guides

The high seasons are July and August and the weeks surrounding Christmas and New Year's, when prices are higher and tourist traffic is considerably increased. Try to avoid these times as well as February and March (given the heat and humidity... Continue reading »
Getting there

by Frommers Travel Guides

By Plane -- Ngurah Rai International Airport (tel. 361/751011) is 13km (8 miles) southwest of Denpasar. For airport information and connection to airline reservations counters, call tel. 361/751011, ext. 1454. When you leave Bali, there will... Continue reading »
Entry requirements & customs

by Frommers Travel Guides

Entry Requirements -- Visitors from the U.S., Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and most of Europe can get visas on arrival through Ngurah Rai International Airport or the seaports of Padang Bai and Benoa. For stays of 7 days or less, the charg... Continue reading »
Getting around

by Frommers Travel Guides

By Private Car -- Given how cheap and easy it is to hire someone to drive, many folks just avoid the headache of driving themselves. Private taxis are the most common choice of transport and can get you to any destination for a reasonable pri... Continue reading »
Money

by Frommers Travel Guides

The currency of Indonesia is the rupiah, from the Sanskrit word for wrought silver, rupya. Coins come in denominations of Rp25, 50, 100, and 500. Notes are Rp100, 500, 1,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, and 100,000; the largest denominatio... Continue reading »
Staying healthy

by Frommers Travel Guides

Health Concerns -- No inoculations are required for Bali, but it's always a good idea to get shots for hepatitis A, tetanus, polio, and typhoid (likely you've already had some of these). It's also a good idea to check the most recent informat... Continue reading »
Tips on shopping

by Frommers Travel Guides

The quantity of Balinese arts and crafts available on the island is overwhelming. Woodcarvers, jewelers, and craftspeople of all types line the streets around all tourist areas, particularly in and around Ubud and on the streets of Kuta. Ther... Continue reading »
Tips on accommodations

by Frommers Travel Guides

Bali accommodations range from bungalows that cost Rp40,000 (US$4.40/£2.45) to luxury villas serviced by a retinue of servants and priced at over US$1,000 (£550). In between are an ever-increasing number of lodging options. Atmosphere is the... Continue reading »
Tips on dining

by Frommers Travel Guides

The choices in Bali are many, but it's rare to find authentic Balinese or Indonesian food on a menu for foreigners; for that, you'll have to go to a warung, a local cafe, and many visitors are dissuaded by the typical warung's appearance (som... Continue reading »