Credit Cards
All major credit cards are widely accepted and cash advances available in most tourist areas including: American Express (AMEX), Visa, Diners Club, Master Card and IBC. Most shops accept plastic for an additional 3 to 5 percent surcharge. Travellers Cheques can be easily exchanged at hotels, banks and money changers providing you have positive proof of identification such as a passport.
Office Hours
Regular offices hours are as follows:
Monday - Friday : 08.30 am - 04.30 pm
Saturday : 08.30 am - 01.30 pm
Tipping
Tips for porters and bell boys is usually Rp.3,000- for each piece of baggage and is to given at guests personal discretion. A 10% tip at hotels and restaurants is normally adequate, unless a service charge has already been incorporated into the bill. Taxi drivers also expect a 10% tip from the total amount of the fare.
Taxis
Metered taxis are available in all major cities and have a minimum surcharge of Rp. 4,000- on the meter (this may vary in different cities).
Airport Tax
International Departures : Rp.100.000-
Domestic Departures : Rp. 20.000-
Climate
Indonesia is a tropical nation that experiences only two seasons - wet and dry. Average daily temperatures range between 24C - 33C with a high level of humidity.
Dry Season: May to October
Wet Season: November to April
When to Go
The best time to visit Bali in terms of weather is during the cooler dry season from April to October. You can still enjoy a holiday during the remainder of the year, although it will usually be cloudier and more humid with regular rainstorms. The European summer holiday carries the major crowds, and July, August and early September get very busy. Balinese festivals, holidays and special celebrations are scheduled according to the Balinese calendar system; but you don’t have to worry too much about timing your visit to coincide with local events as they occur all the time
Clothing
Due to the humid conditions it is advisable to dress in lightweight casual summer clothes made of a natural cloth such as cotton. A light sweater may be required for cool evenings – particularly in mountainous areas. Bring more protective clothes for motorbike travel – hat and sunglasses are essential. Men should bring at least one pair of long pants and a collared shirt, while women need a long skirt or dress for occasions when they may have to look respectable, such as visiting temples. Some shoes and socks are essentials too – you never know if you’ll be invited to a special occasion or have to face the bureaucracy.
Shopping
All large cities have shopping arcades, malls, supermarkets and department stores where prices are fixed. The business hours of most shops is 10.00 am until 09.00 pm every day of the week. At small stalls and markets it is customary to bargain, starting at approximately half of the asking price and going up to what you are prepared to pay.
Electricity
220 volts, however small towns and villages generally have a 110 volt capacity.
