Internet / Wifi connection is available in most hotels ... WiFi is free in some of these places, but we advise you to ..
Pre Departure Guide
BALI
Indonesia at a Glance
ABOUT THE COUNTRY
The vast archipelago of Indonesia is world famous for its beauty. It offers something to make everyone’s holiday experience special, from the famous night life and beaches found in Bali and the Gili islands of Lombok, to adventurous cruises, searching for the infamous Komodo dragons in the wild, or some of the world’s best diving spots.
FACTS
Population: 253 million Capital City: Jakarta (10.187 million) People: Javanese, Sundanese, Malay, Madurese, Batak, Minangkabau, Bantenese, Banjarese, Balinese and others. Language: Bahasa Indonesia, English, Dutch, Javanese, and other local dialects. Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) Time Zone: Western Indonesia Time +7Hrs. Central Indonesia Time +8 Hrs. East Indonesia Time +9 Hrs International Dialing Code: +62
General Information
PASSPORT & VISA
Passports should be valid for a minimum of six months from the date of entry into Indonesia. Citizens of Australia, United States, United Kingdom, Canada and other EU countries are required to obtain a Visa on Arrival which entitles these nationals to a visa for a stay of up to 30 days. This visa can sometimes be extended for another 30 days. Nationals not referred to above are advised to check with your nearest embassy for more detailed visa requirements and associated cost, since there may be subsequent changes. Checking whether or not you are eligible for a “Visa on Arrival” or a “Visa Free Entry” before departing on your journey is crucial. As of 28 May 2007, 42 countries are able to apply for “Visa on Arrival” and 90 countries are entitled to “Visa Free Entry”. If you’re not eligible to receive either type of visa you are able to apply for a tourist visa at an Indonesian embassy aboard.
CURRENCY
The currency of Indonesia is Rupiah (IDR). Notes come in denominations of IDR 100,000, 50,000, 20,000, 10,000, 5000, 2000, 1000. Coins are in denominations of IDR 1000, 500 and 100. Currency exchange is available at major banks, airports and some hotels. Be aware that you will need to show your passport when you exchange money. The easiest foreign currencies to exchange are USD, AUD and EUR. Notes will need to be undamaged and later than 2010. Cash withdrawals can be easily made with widespread ATMs. However, English instruction may not be displayed in some local ATMs, so you can seek the advice of your local guide. As you will typically get low rates for exchanging IDR to your own local currency, we advise you to exchange any unwanted IDR prior to departing Indonesia.
General Information
PHONES & INTERNET SERVICES
Telephone connection is available throughout Indonesia, however, the signal strength and reception may differ in rural areas. SIM cards are available for purchase all over Indonesia; however, for guests who prefer not to purchase a new SIM card, we recommended that you contact your local network provider prior to departure in order to set up roaming services. Internet/Wifi connection is available in most hotels, restaurants, cafes and villas. Some WiFi is free in some of these places, but we advise you to check first with the local staff first before connecting.
TRAFFIC & TRANSPORTATION
Roads in some islands such as Java, Bali and Sumatra are well maintained with good road network. Taxis are available in various areas; however, you should only expect to see metered taxis in the major tourist areas and main cities. Another great alternative transportation mode is the Bajaj, which is only found in Jakarta. Even less common than the Bajaj is the Bemo, which usually operates on fixed routes at fixed fares. The easiest and safest way to get around Indonesia is by ‘Blue Bird’ Taxi. These taxis are highly recommended as each car is fitted with a meter, so you will be charged accordingly. In more rural areas, horse drawn carriages (dokar) are another method of getting from A to B, but they are only available in certain parts of Indonesia.
General Information
WEATHER
Indonesia’s climate remains fairly stable throughout the year. Rather than four seasons, Indonesia only has wet and dry seasons. The dry season falls from April to September, and we believe that this is the best time visit. The wet season usually brings heavy rains from December to March so we highly recommended that you bring an umbrella with you if you choose to travel during those months. Although the rain does not typically last all day, it can often come on suddenly, drenching you in lovely cooling rain. Indonesia experiences hot weather and high humidity from 70% to 90% with average temperatures ranging from 23°C (73°F) to 28°C (82°F). The electricity supply in Indonesian is 220V or 50Hz, and plugs used are Type F (CEE 7/4 “Schuko”). Adapters are available in some hotels, but this is upon request and availability.
Bali’s Average Temperature & Rainfall Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
26 26 27 27 28 27 27 27 27 27 27 27 90 90 90 70 70 50 40 40 50 60 70 90
Temperature (C)
Rainfall (mm)
Health & Safety
HEALTH & WELLBEING
The quality of local healthcare in Indonesia can be poor, especially in remote areas. Some diagnostic tests are considerably less reliable in Asia than if they were taken in Western countries. Higher standard medical care can be costly, so make sure you have accessible funds to cover the cost of medical treatment, as well as good travel insurance. We strongly recommend that you consult your doctor or country’s travel clinic for up to date information and advice regarding appropriate inoculations prior to travel. The majority of beaches in Indonesia are not protected by life guards, so please make sure you are a confident swimmer before diving into unpatrolled waters. Day beds are available for hire and will cost around 50,000 IDR per hour (prices may vary depending on location).
VACCINATIONS
No vaccinations are required prior to visiting Indonesia. However, it is advisable to visit a doctor and update on routine vaccinations against possible diseases. Vaccinations which are highly recommended include Hepatitis A and Typhoid, since there is a higher risk of consuming contaminated water and food in Indonesia. There are many domestic and wild animals throughout Indonesia, especially Bali, so you should avoid direct contact with pets, monkeys and other animals in order to reduce the risk of rabies.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Buffalo Tours does everything possible to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable trip; however, travel inevitably involves some unavoidable risk. Travel insurance is a cost effective way of protecting yourself and your equipment should any problems occur such as cancelled trips, delays, medical emergencies, baggage loss or damage. Please ensure your travel insurance covers all activities planned on your trip, so you can enjoy peace of mind during your journey.
(RECOMMENDED)
Culture & Customs
ETIQUETTE & CUTURAL DIFFERENCES
Experiencing different cultures is one of the joys of travelling, and it is important that these differences are respected. Knowing a few Indonesian customs will help make your visit more enjoyable:
DO:
• Dress conservatively to show respect to religious customs. No bare shoulders and shorts. You may be required to wear a sarong when entering temples. • Remove your shoes when entering a house. • Bend slightly when you meet or greet elderly people.
DON’T:
• Point with your index finger. • Use your left hand to give and receive, as it is considered hygienic. • Touch people’s heads. • Interrupt religious processions.
FOOD & DRINK
The main staple of Indonesian cuisine is rice (nasi), which is served either plain or fried with spices. The most popular dish that you should try is Nasi Goreng, which is prepared differently all over the country. Try a few so that you can see the differences! Fresh seafood is usually featured with rice in many Indonesian dishes, and options include shrimp, shellfish, crab and squid. Besides rice, there are other selections, including: • Soto: soup, flavored with chicken or beef. • Rendang: buffalo coconut curry. • Sate: chunks of beef, fish, pork, chicken or lamb cooked over hot coals and dipped served with peanut sauce. • Bakso: meatballs. • Gado-gado: vegetable salad with peanut and coconut milk sauce.
Culture & Customs
FOOD & DRINK
It is not advisable to drink tap water in Indonesia, but bottled mineral water is safe and available everywhere. Ice cubes in drinks are generally OK in most hotels and restaurants, but we advise you to avoid ice when drinking from street stalls or in rural areas.
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
New Year Day: January 1. Muhammad’s birthday: 12th day of the Islamic month of Rabi’ al-awwal. Chinese New Year: 1st day of the 1st lunar month. Nyepi-Balinese Hindu New Year: 1st day of the Caka New Year. Good Friday Labour Day: May 1. Ascension Day: 40th day of Easter. Isra Mi’raj: 27th day of Rajab, the 7th month in the Islamic calendar. Waisak day: 8th of the 4th lunar month. Hari Raya Puasa (Eid al-Fitr): the 1st day of the 10th Islamic month. Hari Raya Haji (Eid al-Adha): the 10th day of the last Islamic month. Indonesia Independence Day: August 17. Idul Adha: 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the 12th and final Islamic month. Awal Muharram: the beginning of Islamic New Year. Christmas day: December 25.
Helpful Tips
TIPPING
Tipping is not commonly expected in Indonesia. As it is a personal matter, travellers are encouraged to tip any amount they feel is appropriate. For your convenience, we have included a suggested tipping guide below: • Guides: $5 per day, per person (depending on group size and performance). • Drivers: $3 per day, per person (depending on group size and performance). • Restaurants: In luxurious restaurants, you may find that the tip is already included in the bill. In local restaurants, tips are not expected. • Taxi drivers: Tipping is not mandatory but you can always can round up to the nearest 5000 IDR. • Bellhops: $1-$2 per bag.
PRICE GUIDE
• Bottled water (1.5l): 5000 IDR. • Beer: 20,000 IDR - 50,000 IDR. • Soft drinks (0.33l): from 5000 IDR. • Coffee: 15,000 Rp - 30,000 IDR. • Restaurant: 15,000 IDR - 500,000 IDR. • Sim Card: 50,000 IDR.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Travel documents: passport, visa (if required), travel insurance Photocopy of main passport pages, visa (if required) All relevant tickets Foreign currency (US$) and/or ATM card Money belt and small padlocks Medication First aid kit Small daypack (for day and overnight trips) Wind and waterproof jacket Umbrella Comfortable and sturdy walking shoes Sunscreen, lip balm, sunhat and sunglasses Electrical adapter plug Insect repellent Refillable water bottle
BUFFALO TOURS IN DENPASAR Jalan Tirta Ening, No 9x, 80228 Sanur, Denpasar Tel: +62 361 289 023 Fax: +62 361 286 008 Email:
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