Summer is approaching, it's time to think about where to spend your vacation. An Indonesian gem, the hospitable island of Bali is an excellent choice. You just need to first get to know him in absentia in order to know what to expect and avoid unpleasant surprises.
When to go
The best time of the year to travel to Bali is April-October. These are the sunniest and brightest months. The rainy season begins in November and will last until the end of March.
Airport and visa
At Denpasar Ngurah Rai airport, you will have to stand in two long lines - to pay for the opening of an Indonesian visa and to get it. If you are not traveling alone, take both queues at once to save time. You fill out the migration card on the plane and save it until the day of departure from the country.
Transport
Book your airport transfer in advance. An alternative is the taxi stand to the right of the terminal exit. You can travel around the city and between the tourist areas of Bali by minibuses - three-wheeled bemo or more comfortable and safe shuttle buses.
Taxis are ideal for short-distance travel within resort areas. If you are not afraid of left-hand traffic and you have an international driver's license, rent a car.
The fastest and most mobile way to travel is motorcycle or scooter, given the heavy traffic on Bali's roads. And a bike can be rented for as little as a dollar in almost every Balinese village.
Purchases
In Balinese cities, craft workshops and souvenir shops are almost at every turn, you will certainly want to buy something for yourself or as a gift. Remember the local custom of bargaining: the originally quoted price is often twice the real price. Respect traditions, be patient, ideally - learn to enjoy the bargaining process. You can pay in euros and dollars, if you take care to change it in advance - in Indonesian rupees.
Money
Choose official exchange offices and terminals of reliable large banks. Avoid street exchangers and ATMs that promise good rates and no fees. Balinese take care of their karma, but visiting Javanese do not hesitate to cash in on gullible tourists.
Popular myth: Bali is white beaches and calm seas
White beaches and relatively calm sea in Bali only in the southern regions - expensive and overpopulated. A classic beach holiday and a secluded bungalow under palm trees by a serene lagoon, this is not about Bali. Balinese water activities - surfing, diving, kite and windsurfing. The Bali Sea, with its large waves and strong currents, attracts active tourists.
Dangers
In addition to street exchangers, this is very spicy local food (not everyone will suit), sea urchins on the beach after low tide, sunburn (good sunscreen in Bali is not a luxury - a necessity) and troubles according to the script of the movie "Bridget Jones. Edge of Reason" - a setup with prohibited substances (death penalty for locals and life imprisonment for tourists).
Be vigilant and responsible, and then the island of Bali will show its best side, nothing will spoil your vacation, and you will certainly want to come back here more than once.
