Tips for Travelers

Driving in Bali

If you visit Bali, you might be tempted  to rent a car to explore Bali.  Our advice: DON'T - especially if you are from a country  where driving on the right is the norm. When you put together pedestrians,  bicycles, tour buses, trucks and immovable objects  in the middle of road which are not well marked . Traffic controls  are often ignored and little - if any - enforcement of rules that  may exist. It is far better  to hire a car with a driver, enjoy the scenery and arrive at your  destination relaxed. It usually costs only about US$ 10.00 more  per day to hire a driver with your rental vehicle than without.

Money Change

Be careful when changing money. You can exchange most world currencies (cash or travelers  checks) easily into the local currency, the Indonesian Rupiah. Hotels generally give less favorable exchange rates (the price of convenience).  Or - and this our choice - go to a branch office of one of the local  banks. Do not trust the local money changers, be careful. Don't let the money you are changing out of sight in case you want to walk.

Food and drinks

Drink plenty of fluids (water and fruit juices) to avoid dehydration.  Drink bottled water ONLY - ice in drinks, however, is not a problem.  Eat in established  restaurants that are clean and well patronized and avoid “fast food” on the streets