Tourist Information
Bali is one of more than 18 thousand islands in Indonesia. Its location between two islands, Java and Nusa Tenggara, and two continents, Asia and Australasia, has great strategic importance as well as providing a link to thriving trade routes. Bali is located between 8 03 40 8 degrees South latitude and 114 25 & 115 42 40 degrees East longitude.
Bali is an important part of the 30 provinces that comprise of the Republik Indonesia. The island itself is divided into 8 regencies (Badung, Gianyar, Tabanan, Bangli, Karangasem, Jembrana, Bulelend and Klungkung), 1 municipal city Denpasar), 51 districts and 666 administrative villages. The capital city of the Bali province is Denpasar.
Bali is an important part of the 30 provinces that comprise of the Republik Indonesia. The island itself is divided into 8 regencies (Badung, Gianyar, Tabanan, Bangli, Karangasem, Jembrana, Bulelend and Klungkung), 1 municipal city Denpasar), 51 districts and 666 administrative villages. The capital city of the Bali province is Denpasar.
Religion
In Bali, ritual ceremonies are an essential part of the population’s daily life, and there is never a day when some form of ceremony is performed. This provides an excellent opportunity for visitors to experience the culture of the people of Bali, first hand.Religious ceremonies, temple festivals, blessing and purification ceremonies are all scheduled according to the Balinese calendar system. There are some unique events held in Tenganan village in the Karangasem Regency, which will complete your holiday program in Bali.
Ceremonies held in Bali’s house compounds or houses welcome visitors to observe, allowing them to sample the ceremonies up close. Those wishing to pray specifically use the innermost part of any temple and thus visitors are strictly prohibited from entering these areas. It is also important to note that women who are having a period are strictly prohibited from entering any temples or holy places. If these rules are observed, the Balinese offer an opportunity to allow visitors to expand their understanding of the islands beliefs and culture.
Climate
Bali experiences a tropical climate, all year round. There are two different seasons, the dry from April to October, and the wet season from November to March. The average humidity is 79% with average temperature hovering around 30 degrees Celsius
Cuisine
Balinese cuisine is varied and interesting. The well known “nasi goreng” is frequently chosen by foreigners, however the more adventurous visitor has a delightful gastronomical tour of the food and fruit that the island has to offer.The Islands location has created a vast number of different nations cuisines are available on the island of Bali. Chinese Cuisine is found in the innumerable food stalls, as well as European and American dishes being available from the hotels on the island.
Bali offers a wide selection of dishes from varying cultures, but the island itself provides a large variety of fruits that must be sampled by visitors.
Shopping
The Islands location has meant that Bali is referred to as a treasure trove of exciting and interesting goods to buy. Bartering in widely accepted both in the markets and in the art shops, so prices mostly depend on your ability to haggle.The products on offer are excellent, and anything from the latest fashions, to antiques steeped in history are all available.
Shops selling similar items are generally grouped together, allowing shoppers to compare prices, and the storekeeper’s ability to lower their price.
Local produce is also widely sold including, hand woven materials, silver and gold works and woodcarvings, and can make a wonderful present or memento of your trip.
Not all shops accept credit cards so make sure you have plenty of money to get everything you want!
Historical Sights
There are vast numbers of locations in Bali, that with a small amount of imagination, can provide an insight into the past culture and lifestyle of the island. Many of the customs are hundreds of years old, and much of the architecture and natural surrounds reflect this feeling of age.Historic houses are an excellent way to experience to past. Authentic appliances and furnishings provide an excellent picture of Balinese lifestyle; there is even an entire historic village to explore. The Island has many wonderful museums, castles and temples, usually built in stone, which are usually open to the public and provide a chance to experience past Balinese life.
Travel Information
Customs regulation allow, per adult, 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or 100 grams of tobacco, one litter of alcoholic beverages, and a reasonable amount of perfume.Photographic, video and filming equipment, radios, typewriters and cars are admitted as they are recorded in your passport on entry and taken out on departure.
Narcotics, arms and ammunition, TV sets and Chinese medicines are strictly prohibited, whilst the Quarantine Office must clear fresh fruit, plants, and animals.
Banking and Finance
Most foreign currencies are gladly accepted and changed at the Balinese banks. Some hotels also provide this facility, and there are a number of money changers on the island.Normal banking hours are from 8.00am to 12.00 noon Mondays to Fridays, and 8.00am to 11.00am on Saturdays. Banks in hotels vary, but the usually stay open for longer hours, and money changers usually stay open until the evening.
ATMs are available on the island, with access to Visa, MasterCard and the other major companies.
Medical Information
Hospital and Health Centres are available in the Provincial Capital, and at any major tourist resort.This allows access to well trained medical experts, to ease any problems you have.
A public Health Centre is also available in every sub district.
SANGLAH HOSPITAL
Jl. Diponegoro, Denpasar
Ph. (62 361) 227 911
SOS
Jl. Bypass Ngurah Rai 505x, Kuta
Ph. (62 361) 710 505
BALI MEDICAL CENTER
Jl. Bypass Ngurah Rai 100x, Kuta
Ph. (62 361) 761 263
Useful Information and Contact Details
The total population is approximately 3.021.247 people
- Drive your self by Rent Car or motorcycle
- Coach Travel
- Taxis
- Ferry Services
- Cruises
Bali is linked via satellite to all major countries in the world and to make an International call can be made from any private house, business centre, hotel telephone, or "Wartel" (Telecommunication Counter). Internet is also can be reached at many "Warnet" (Internet Counter).
For local and international phone and fax service look out for a sign like this: Int'l Direct Dialling 001 or 008 + country code + area code + local telephone number.
International Directory Inquiries: 102, 101
Local Inquiries: 147
Operator Assisted: 110/104
Police: 110
Ambulance: 118
Fire Department: 113
Search and Rescue: 115/151/111
Jl. D. I. Panjaitan, Niti Mandala, Complex Renon - Denpasar
Phone: (62 361) 238 168
Ngurah Rai Airport Complex, Tuban, Kuta
Phone: (62 361) 751 038
