Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Bali and the Gili Islands is during the dry season, from April to October, when the weather is sunny and pleasant.
Visa Requirements: Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Indonesia. Many travelers can obtain a visa on arrival for a short stay. Check the visa regulations for your country before traveling.
Currency: The local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). It’s advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, although credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops.
Language: Bahasa Indonesia is the official language. English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.
Health & Safety:
- Drink bottled or filtered water only to avoid health issues.
- Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers health, accidents, and theft.
- Bring insect repellent and sunscreen to protect against insects and sunburn.
Electricity: Bali and the Gili Islands use a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz frequency. Power plugs and sockets are of type C and F. Bring a universal travel adapter if needed.
Local Etiquette:
- Dress modestly when visiting temples, covering shoulders and knees.
- Always remove your shoes before entering a temple or someone’s home.
- Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
Tipping: Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, a tip of around 10% is considered generous. It’s also customary to tip guides and drivers at the end of tours.
Packing Essentials: Lightweight clothing, swimwear, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, and a travel adapter.
Dress Code: Casual wear is acceptable for most activities, but modest attire is required for temple visits.
Transportation: Private transfers are included in the itinerary for convenience. For personal exploration, taxis and ride-hailing apps like Grab are widely available.
Time Zone: Bali and the Gili Islands operate on Central Indonesia Time (WITA), which is UTC+8.
Emergency Numbers:
- Police: 112
- Ambulance: 118
- Tourist Police: 0361 754 599
Local SIM Cards: Consider purchasing a local SIM card for affordable data and calls; they are available at the airport and in convenience stores.
Weather: Bali has a tropical climate, so expect warm temperatures during the day and cooler evenings, especially in higher-altitude areas like Ubud.