General Information:

Bali’s allure as a tropical paradise where a lush landscape meets a colorful explosion of intricate Batik patterns and tropical fruit stands affords visitors a unique experience in an exotic, complex land of warm smiles and interesting cultural opportunities. Natural beauty is abundant and revered by the Balinese people, who will welcome you with open arms. Because of the physical beauty of the island and its wide variety of attractions, Bali has become, for many experienced travelers, the "Ultimate Island".

VillaVantage.com cautions potential visitors to check travel advisories on the safety of travel to Bali from your home destination. Unfortunately, terrorist activity in Indonesia has made travel to this part of the world extremely dangerous. Following the 2002 bombing of a nightclub in Bali, the U.S. Department of State issued a warning that "the current security situation within Indonesia puts U. S. citizens and interests at risk" and recommended that U.S. citizens defer travel to the region. "The attack in Bali, which took place in an area with a large number of foreign tourists, clearly indicates that this threat…extends to private American citizens," the bulletin stated. We acknowledge that this threat may not impact visitors from all locations, and are happy to offer travel advice to everyone interested in learning about travel to Bali. Of course, the aforementioned attacks on travelers do not represent the views of the majority of Balinese people. For those interested in traveling to Bali and taking up residence in a luxury villa, we offer the following advice, including private security personnel for the duration of your stay.

The island of Bali is part of the Republic of Indonesia and is located 8 to 9 degrees south of the equator between Java in the West and Lombok and the rest of the Lesser Sunda Islands (Sumbawa, Flores, Sumba and Timor) in the East.

Bali is only about 145 kilometers (90 miles) long and 80 kilometers (48 miles) wide, but it has more than 3 million people and probably more than 10,000 temples. Since the destruction of Tibet, this is one of the last societies in which all facets of life-agriculture, economics, politics, technology, social customs, and the arts-are welded together by religion. All over the island, from the capital of Denpasar to the tiniest village, plaited baskets filled with blossoms and herbs lie on the sidewalks, on the prows of fishing boats, and in markets.

These offerings are made from dawn till dusk, to placate evil spirits and honor helpful ones. What's truly remarkable is that this genuine spiritualism coexists with Indonesia's most developed tourist infrastructure. The beautiful beaches of the southern coast are thick with resort developments, but it is in the interior-a land of terraced fields, well-preserved temples, towering volcanoes, and quaint towns-that you can fully appreciate Bali's passionate and beautiful way of life.

Mid-July to September as well as the periods over Christmas and New Year, Lunar New Year (in early February) and Easter are considered by most villa owners and rental agents as High Season. Depending on the villa owner, there is a surcharge of 25% to 50% added to the regular rental rate, and for some villas, a minimum rental period of two weeks is required. A desire to book a villa in these months should be met with reasonable efforts to secure a villa as far in advance as possible.

A stay in a Balinese villa is not a self-catering vacation, as is the case with villas in many other popular vacation destinations. A Balinese style villa vacation is the epitome of luxury and pampering. These luxury villas come fully appointed with well-trained staff, whose goal it is to care for and delight you with their desire to show you the best of Bali and its people, their attention to detail, their culinary expertise and the warm and friendly approach to serving your needs. Caution: it may be hard for you to return to the “real world” following a vacation of Balinese style pampering! 

Although the island is only 140 km (87 mi) long by 80 km (48 mi) wide, a week wouldn't be enough to fully appreciate Bali's beaches, temples, volcanoes, and towns. With Indonesia's most developed tourist infrastructure, Bali has several beach areas on its southern coast, where 90% of its visitors stay. Each has its own appeal, and all are within easy reach of one another.

Southern Bali used to be just a string of little coastal villages trickling down from the bustling market hub of Denpasar. Today many of Bali's 3 million inhabitants have migrated to this region. The best way to become familiar with the compact area of southern Bali is to take a drive around its edges and explore sights along the way.

Bali's eastern region is the historical center of the island, with crumbled stone temples and palaces, rock walls carved with images of court life from centuries past, and age-old Hindu shrines adorned with carvings dating from the 11th century. Gunung Agung volcano, the approximately 10,000-ft "Mother Mountain," is considered the island's holiest site -- it's known for its deadly eruption in 1963. Bali's holiest temple, Pura Besakih, is also here.

The northern coast has a rich cultural heritage, and a distinct regional style is evident in many places. With their wild temple carvings, northern Bali's temples are some of the best-known on the island.

Bali Barat National Park, with almost 200,000 acres of forested mountains, palm savannas, and mangrove swamps, takes up much of western Bali. The region can be breathtakingly beautiful, but it takes an adventurous spirit and some hard work to find the best of this region.

Weather

Bali's low-lying regions are uniformly hot and humid year-round. Temperatures can reach 90°F (32°C) soon after midday, and they drop no lower than 70°F (21°C) at night. The weather at higher altitudes is up to 20°F (11°C) cooler.

The best months to visit Bali are April-May and September-October, when crowds are lighter and you're not so likely to get drenched: The west monsoon, from November through March, brings heavy rains. It can drizzle for several days in a row or pour half the day, with only occasional dry spells. Since most of Indonesia's attractions are under the open sky-temples and other architecture, beaches, and outdoor festivals-the monsoon can very literally dampen your enjoyment.

In the peak tourist months, June and July, popular areas crammed with visitors. Bali hotels and villas also tend to be fully booked around Christmas and New Year's.

Getting There/Airports/Visas

Airline Arrival

Bali's airport, Ngurah Rai (DPS), is 13 kilometers (8 miles) southwest of Denpasar, at the southern end of the island between Kuta and Sanur When searching for airline schedules and fares for travel to Bali, remember that Bali is most often listed as "Denpasar" (airport code: DPS), which is the island's capital. The name of the airport is “Ngurah Rai”. Departure tax varies for international and domestic flights; ask your villa agent or owner about the current fee.

Some travelers connect to Bali via Java. International flights to Jakarta's Soekarno Hatta Airport (CGK) land at Terminal 1, with the exception of Garuda Indonesia Airways flights, which are processed through Terminal 2. There is an airport tax for international departures; ask your villa agent or owner about the current fee.

Garuda Indonesian Airways (tel. 021/380-1901, 212/370-0707 in the United States, or 800/342-7832 outside NY), the national carrier, offers a direct, two-stop flight from Los Angeles to Jakarta or Bali, as well as flights from Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Ujung Pandang, and other domestic airports. However, most people, including Indonesians, prefer a foreign carrier.

Many travelers use one airline into Singapore or Bangkok, then transfer to Garuda or Singapore Airlines for the remaining leg into Indonesia. This process was somewhat simplified in 1996, when Northwest Airines was granted rights to fly into Jakarta from their hub in Tokyo, thus permitting direct travel (with a change of plane) from the U.S. Qantas flies to Bali from Australia, Singapore Airlines flies in from Singapore, and Thai Airways International from Bangkok.

There are a good number of flight connections between Bali and Adelaide, Amsterdam, Auckland, Bangkok, Brunei, Brisbane, Cairns, Darwin, Frankfurt, Fukuoka, Guam, Honolulu, Kaohsiung, Kuala Lumpur, London, Los Angeles, Melbourne, Munich, Nagoya, Osaka, Paris, Perth, Rome, Seoul, Singapore, Sydney, Taipei, Tokyo, Vienna, and Zurich.

Flying time to Jakarta is about 1.5 hours, to Singapore and Perth (Australia) 2.5 and 3 hours, to Hong Kong about 4.5 hours, and to Sydney/Melbourne about 5.5 to 6 hours. Transpacific flying time to Bali is 19 hours from Los Angeles, 23 hours from Chicago, and 25 hours from New York. Flying the eastbound route, the flight time from New York is 20 hours to Singapore, then another three hours to Bali

Once you arrive at the Ngurah Rai International Airport, you can reach Kuta, Legian, Sanur and Nusa Dua by car in 15 to 30 minutes and Ubud in 50 to 60 minutes.

The following airlines fly to Indonesia: Continental (tel. 021/334417); Northwest Airlines (tel. 021/520-3152); Qantas (tel. 021/230-0655); Singapore Airlines (tel. 021/570-4422); Thai International (tel. 021/314-0607); and United Airlines (tel. 021/570-7520).

Visas

Entering Indonesia without a visa is possible only for nationals of the following 11 countries and territories: Brunei Darussalam, Chile, Hong Kong, Macau, Malaysia, Morocco, Peru, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. Citizens of these countries will be issued, on arrival, a stay permit for 30 days (free of charge) upon presentation of a passport which is valid for at least another 6 months. This stay permit cannot be extended or converted into another type of visa.

VISA on ARRIVAL (VoA)

This facility is available for nationals of the following countries: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, South Africa, South Korea, Switzerland, Taiwan, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and the United States of America, Austria, Belgium, China, Egypt, India, Ireland, Kuwait, Luxembourg, Maldives, Portugal, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia and Spain. Citizens of these countries will be able to apply for a VoA valid for either 7 (short-term visa) or 30 days upon arrival by air in Bali, Jakarta and a few other international airports or by ship at a limited number of Indonesian sea ports. A 7-day visa costs US$10 and a 30-day visa costs US$25. The VoA cannot be extended or converted into any other type of visa. Also be aware that Immigration officials mandate that your arrival day is counted as your first day, and you must leave the country on the 30th day.

Travelers from the above countries must be in possession of a passport which is valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival and the completed embarkation/disembarkation card received from their airline. They must also be able to prove they possess sufficient funds for their stay in Indonesia.

Arriving travelers with Visa-On-Arrival status have to go first to one of the 'VoA Counters' to pay the appropriate fee and have their passports stamped with the VoA before proceeding to the Immigration Clearance Desk. An official bank is part of the VoA service counters. Payment of visa fees can only be made in US dollars, Indonesian Rupiah equivalent, or by VISA or MASTERCARD.

Local Customs

Most Balinese people have become accustomed to the ways of tourists and are not usually offended or surprised by a Westerner's ignorance of Balinese customs and beliefs. But a little knowledge of such things is valuable, especially in the more remote villages. When entering a temple or witnessing a religious ceremony, you should wear the customary sarong and selendang (sash) over appropriate clothing (no shorts or miniskirts); usually someone outside the temple will be willing to rent or lend these items to you.

If you plan to visit several temples during your stay, buy yourself a sarong and a sash at a market beforehand. A selendang should cost you less than $1, while a sarong, depending on the quality of the fabric, can range in price from $3 to $75. In a temple it is considered rude to walk directly in front of people praying. It's generally acceptable to take photographs, as long as you are a reasonable distance away from people and don't use a flash. According to an ancient law still strictly adhered to today, a person with a bleeding cut or a menstruating woman is not allowed to enter a temple because blood on holy soil is taboo. And always make a donation at any temple you visit or any ceremony in which you take part. If the ceremony is at a private house, it's acceptable to offer a gift of sugar, tea, or coffee instead of money.

Indonesians consider the left hand to be unclean because it is the hand used in the bathroom. Always use your right hand to give or receive something. If you accidentally use your left hand in a transaction, acknowledge your mistake by saying, "Ma'af tangan kiri," which means "Excuse my left hand." In Bali the head is considered sacred, the feet unclean. Avoid touching adults or children on the head. Exposing the sole of your foot to someone is considered insulting, as is stepping over someone's food or person.

Before you enter someone's house, it is customary to take off your shoes. It is also polite to always sit a bit lower down than your host (the higher someone sits, the more important they are). This is especially true in the temples or during a ceremony: make sure you are seated at a lower level than the priest or the offerings.

Finally, making the okay sign with your fingers does not mean "OK" in Bali; it is a sexual gesture. Motioning to someone with an upturned hand is considered aggressive; Balinese people will do that only when they want to fight. Pointing at someone with your index finger is rude as well (Indonesians point with their thumbs, with the palms turned upward and fingers curled in). Making one of these hand gestures isn't exactly like flashing a middle finger at a stranger in the US, but it's always good to know how your body language is perceived in a different culture. Fortunately, the Balinese are forgiving and polite people who generally respond with a "Tidak apa-apa" ("No problem") to our faux pas.

Transportation

Although the island is only 140 kilometers (84 miles) long by 80 kilometers (48 miles) wide, a week would not be enough to appreciate Bali's beaches, temples, volcanoes, and towns. With Indonesia's most developed tourist infrastructure, Bali has several beach areas on the southern coast, where 90% of its visitors stay. Each has its distinctive appeal, and they are within easy reach of one another.

Legally you have to have an international driver's license to drive or to rent a car, though some agencies will not ask for it

Renting cars or jeeps in Bali is convenient and popular. If you rent from an upscale hotel, the cost of the car will be considerably higher than if you rent off the hotel property. Daily rates vary from Rp 90,000 at Avis to Rp 36,000 at a small operator, including insurance (with a Rp 540,000 deductible) and unlimited mileage. Given the recent instability in the rupiah, these rates may be changing.

Many of the more luxurious villas will come appointed with a driver a vehicle for your use during your stay. This driver will greet you at the airport, transport you to your villa with ease and provide a warm introduction to your villa staff upon arrival at your property. Even if the driver and vehicle are not included in the villa rate, you should enquire about the possibility of hiring one through your villa agent or property manager. Driving around Bali can be challenging to those who aren’t familiar with driving in a developing country. Roads are often undergoing some sort of construction or are being dug up to for an upgrade of pipes, cables, etc. Some roads are paved, while others aren’t. For these reasons, in addition to the additional convenience and security provided by a personal driver, we strongly suggest that you give serious thought to this option.

For car rental options, try Lina Biro Jasa (Jln. Bakungsari, Kuta, tel. 0361/51820), a local company. Avis has several branches (Jln. Danau Tamblingan, Sanur, tel. 0361/289138; Bali Hyatt, Sanur, tel. 0361/8271; Nusa Dua Beach Hotel, tel. 0361/71210; Hotel Sanur Beach, tel. 0361/288011).
You may also hire a car and driver independent of your villa agent. Although prices vary, depending on the places you wish to visit (and the distance covered), a car with driver will run about U.S.$65 per 12 hours.

Typical Villa Arrangements

Cost-

Rental rates for luxury villas in Bali range from about US$200 to US$2,000 per day during the normal season – i.e. about US$100 to US$400 per bedroom or US$50 to US$200 per person/per day. Typically, travelers will save $60 per day/per person off of hotel/resort rate, making a villa vacation a great value in Bali. When comparing villa rates against hotel rates, you must factor in Bali’s 21% tax and service fee charged to hotel/resort guests. Once this fee is considered, along with meals in restaurants and the cost of resort amenities, the value of a villa vacation in Bali will become clear. 

Staff-

Balinese villas are most often fully staffed with a well-trained private driver, house boy, gardener, chef, and Balinese maid/laundress. Top luxury villas will probably come with all of the staff mentioned above, and also a personal butler for the ultimate pampering experience. Other staff members may include security guards, spa therapists and gardeners. Your driver may run errands for you, even if you should decide your villa is too magnificent to leave! You may also ask security guards to travel with you when you leave the villa. It’s nice to know this option is available and may be included with the villa rental rate.

Amenities-

Your Balinese luxury villa should come with a luxurious and private swimming pool, set amidst a delightful tropical water-garden oasis. Imagine yourself relaxing on your Balinese daybed at poolside, surrounded by lush gardens of fragrant frangipani. Beachfront villas can also be found in Bali. Villas are available in a variety of sizes and configurations, from intimate one-bedroom honeymoon cottages to grand Balinese estates fit for hosting weddings and other large-scale events or extended families. Bedrooms are often air conditioned and include en-suite garden baths/showers. House vehicles are air-conditioned and comfortable.

Villa Location-

Some villas are located right on or near a beach while others are surrounded by rice fields. A few villas command spectacular views from beautiful mountain settings near Ubud and in rural East Bali, with easy access to popular dive sites.

Villa Agents/Property Managers

Balinese villas are offered by a wide variety of property managers and agents. Owners also offer villas privately. We’ll continue to update this section of our site as we receive reviews and reports on villa agents, owners and property managers in Bali. We suggest you check out our reviews for the most up to date information on this very important topic. The honesty and service provided by these representatives can make or break your villa vacation experience, especially in destination locations where you don’t speak the language, understand the culture and can’t negotiate on your own. 

Private Chefs/Catering/Provisioning

Private chefs are provided as a routine part of the rental of most luxury villas in Bali. The market price of ingredients used to prepare your meals is not included in the rental fee, in most cases. Guests are also responsible for paying for alcoholic beverages, usually billed at a wholesale rate. Each guest may request a unique menu item to be prepared for a single meal. Thus, guests are not required to reach a consensus on what is to be served. This option is especially helpful for families traveling with children and guest with specific dietary needs.

Provisioning should be arranged prior to your arrival. You should provide your villa agent or owner with a list of grocery items you would like to have ready for you when you arrive. Imagine arriving at your villa after a long journey and finding your chef or butler holding your favorite cocktail and a plate of your favorite appetizers.

Indonesians cook with garlic, shallots, turmeric, cumin, ginger, fermented shrimp paste, soy sauce, lime or lemon juice, lemongrass, coconut, peanuts and other nuts, and hot peppers. Common dishes include gado-gado (cold vegetable salad dressed with spiced peanut sauce), nasi campur (steamed rice with bits of meat; often topped with a fried egg and accompanied by salad and krupok, delicious puffy prawn crisps), and satay (grilled, skewered meat dipped in peanut sauce). For dessert, Indonesians eat fresh fruit: papaya, pineapple, rambutan, salak, and mangosteen. Chinese and Japanese cooking are also available, and Western food abounds, though it's mostly of the fast-food variety. Hotels offer better Western cooking.

Restaurants

For true Indonesian food, head to the lighted windows of a warung (open-air food stall) or to one of the more modest specialized restaurants. Look on the menu for the warm spicy vegetable salads lawar (a green mix of bean sprouts, long beans, shredded coconut, papaya, and star fruit) and urab (a red mix of vegetables and shredded coconut), indicating that there are Balinese cooks in the kitchen making island food the traditional way. Ubud is the best place to try bebek betutu (smoked duck) and bebek goreng (fried duck), two of Bali's traditional ceremonial dishes. You usually must reserve these meals a day in advance because they take several hours to prepare. Water on Bali is not potable; ice is made under government supervision and is said to be safe.

Top choices:

The Damai, northern Bali. Danish and Balinese chefs whip up a nightly four-star, five-course dinner served under the glow of a green glass chandelier. $$$$

Balangan, southern Bali. At this intimate restaurant high in the Jimbaran hills, diners are treated to fine Continental fare and a sunset panorama that stretches from the west coast to the central volcanoes. $$-$$$

Indus, eastern Bali. Sitting at the edge of a deep river gorge, this classy restaurant offers an eclectic Continental menu and soaring rice-paddy views. $$-$$$

Telaga Naga, southern Bali. Dress up and dine on fantastic Chinese fare at this pavilion-style restaurant set in estatelike gardens off Sanur's main road. $$-$$$

Bumbu Bali, eastern Bali. A romantic garden ambience and top-notch Indian and Balinese fare make this restaurant a standout. $-$$

Veranda, southern Bali. This kitschy little tropical restaurant in upscale Seminyak has perfectly prepared Continental cuisine and flawless service. $-$$

Ayu's Kitchen, eastern Bali. Homemade Balinese cooking is the specialty of this quaint little restaurant, and there's a tasty dessert case, too. $

Biyu Nasak, northern Bali. This cozy spot in Lovina's central Kalibukbuk area stands apart from the others with fresh, hearty, and very tasty dishes. $

Lombok Coconut, Lombok. The best pizza in Lombok comes with a money-back guarantee. $

Taman Griya, Lombok Head here for a taste of Lombok spice without too much bite -- and be sure to take home a recipe. $

Tutmak, eastern Bali. The atmosphere of this inexpensive dining spot is bookstore kitsch, the menu is extensive and eclectic, and the food is outstanding. $

Warung Batavia, southern Bali. It's just a ramshackle roadside warung, but the basic Indonesian fare is terrific and the clientele ranges from locals to famous resort guests. $

Warung Kopi at Puri Lumbung, northern Bali. This quiet raised bungalow overlooks the green hills of central Bali. Ingredients are plucked from the surrounding hills, and the resulting dishes are eye-opening and mouth-watering. $

Drinking Water

Your Balinese luxury villa should offer bottled water for your enjoyment. The house water should be purified via the home’s water filtration system, but should not be trusted for drinking. You should also take care when drinking frozen beverages, as the ice may have been made with tap water and can, therefore, make you ill. You usually won’t encounter these problems at better restaurants. Be careful when purchasing drinks from market stands and small eateries.

Communications/Tech Infrastructure

Some luxury villas will offer guests complimentary high-speed Internet access if your laptop has an Ethernet card. Please keep in mind that in Indonesia, high-speed is equivalent to 256k. Obviously, this isn’t an ideal access platform, but it’s far better than dial-up access. The majority of luxury villas in Bali have direct IDD telephone lines. So, if you must dial-up, this option is usually available.

Long distance telephone charges from Indonesia are 8,300 Rupiah per minute to North America and Australia/New Zealand, 11,280 Rupiah to Europe, and between 525 and 2,100 Rupiah (depending on the time) per minute to Jakarta, (most hotels add a surcharge of 200% or more). Local calls cost Rupiah 180 per minute (most hotels charge Rupiah 1,000 and more).

Local Internet Access:

Several Indonesian ISPs (Internet Service Providers) maintain local telephone access numbers in Bali. However, it is difficult for non-residents to open their own account. If you are in absolute need of local ISP access while in Bali, consult your villa agent for suggestions and be sure to stress the urgency of your situation. Your agent may be able to arrange a temporary account on your behalf.

Local Providers:

· WASANTARA NET (http://bali.wasantara.net.id/), Central Post Office, Jalan Raya Puputan, Renon, Denpasar, Bali. Telephone 228-290, Fax 235-454, E-mail: .
Personal account information: Registration fee 193,000 Rupiah; monthly fee 55,000 Rupiah including 20 hours; extra hour 2,000 Rupiah.
· MEGAnet (http://www.mega.net.id/), Pertokoan Diponegoro Megah Blok B-12, Jalan Diponegoro 100, Denpasar, Bali. Telephone 263-548, Fax 263-727, E-mail: .
Personal account information: Registration fee for Standard Accounts 60,000 Rupiah; monthly fee 55,000 Rupiah including 20 hours; extra hour 2,400 Rupiah. Premium Account with unlimited access: Registration fee 100,000 Rupiah, monthly fee 400,000 Rupiah. All prices plus 10% PPN (Added Value Tax).
· INDOINTERNET (http://www.indo.net.id/), Jalan Dewi Sartika Blok IV, Komplek Duta Permai, Denpasar 80114, Bali. Telephone 240-770, 240-789, Fax 236-781. E-mail: .
Personal account information: Registration fee 55,000 Rupiah; monthly fee 76,460 Rupiah including 15 hours, 236,500 Rupiah including 100 hours; extra hour 3,300 Rupiah.
· INDOSATnet (http://www.indosat.net.id/), Jl. By Pass Ngurah Rai, Tuban, Bali. Telephone 766-001, Fax 767 001, E-mail: .
Personal account information: Registration fee 45,000 Rupiah; monthly fee 25,000 Rupiah; usage fee 4,000 Rupiah per hour. Unlimited access 1,200,000 Rupiah per month.

Some of the Many Places to Access the Internet (if you did not bring your own computer with you):

· Bali@Cyber Cafe, (www.balicyber.net), Jalan Werkudara No. 4 (Rum Jungle Road), Legian, Kuta, Bali. Telephone/Fax 761-326. E-mail: .
7 networked PC's with a satellite Internet connection in a large open restaurant. Color scanning & printing, CD-Rom burning and live video conferencing offered. You can also connect your own laptop to their wireless network. International & Asian menu, no air-conditioning. For fees please visit their web site
· Legian Cyber C@fe, Jalan Sahadewa No. 21 (ex Menuh), Legian, Kuta, Bali. Telephone/Fax 752-138, 761-804. E-mail: . Open from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
· WARTEL "KAMBODIANA", PT Inti Kambodiana Computer Services (http://bali.wasantara.net.id/~kambodia/btweb.htm), Kuta Square C18, Jalan Bakung Sari No. 1, Kuta, Bali. Telephone 753-330, Fax 753-331. E-mail: .
Opening hours Monday to Saturday 10:00 am to 10:00 PM There are 5 Pentium PC's. User fees for Internet access (E-mail or Web): Rupiah 6,000 per 10 minutes; Receiving E-mail Rupiah 5,000 per message.
· WASANTARA NET Bali Office (http://bali.wasantara.net.id/), next to the Central Post Office, Jalan Raya Puputan, Renon, Denpasar, Bali. Telephone 228-290, Fax 235-454, E-mail: .
You can use one of six PC's in their air-conditioned office. User fees for Internet access are Rupiah 3,000 per half-hour. If you become a member (Rupiah 35,000 joining fee) you pay just Rupiah 2,000 per hour. Certainly the best buy for serious users.
· TRIO Cafe, (www.trio-net.com), Jalan Andong, Petulu Village, a few kilometers north of Ubud, opened in early 1997 and was Bali's first Cyber Cafe. Telephone 976-709, Fax 976-710. E-mail: . Closed on Sundays.
· Roda Internet Cafe, Jalan Bisma 3, Ubud, a few meters off the main road. Telephone 973-325, Fax 976-582. E-mail: .
· Cyber Spice, Jalan Binariya, Kalibukbuk, Lovina Beach, near the "big dolphin statue". Telephone (0362) 41-509, Fax (0362) 41-171. E-mail: .
Visitors can use three PC's for e-mail and to surf the web for Rupiah 30,000 per hour. Open from 8 a.m. to 10.00 p.m. daily.

Shopping

High-quality crafts, low prices, and professional shipping services make Bali one of the best places in Indonesia to shop. You'll find the ultimate in open-air market browsing in southern Bali, where traditional Asian-style shopping still thrives.

Denpasar has the enormous Pasar Badung central market, the Pasar Kumbasari art market, and the Pasar Burung bird market, to say nothing of the numerous night markets throughout the city. A few small outdoor markets remain in Kuta, including the Pasar Pagi morning market, the beachside Pasar Seni art market, and the Pasar Malam night market, near the bus terminal.

Sanur probably has the best markets for a tourist center; look for the Pasar Sindhu morning market, the Pasar Pantai Sindhu beach market, the Pasar Seni art market, and the Pasar Pantai Sanur crafts market.

The best strategy for shopping in markets is to take your time and explore, find out the average price for your target purchases, and then go back and drive a bargain. Start by offering half to two-thirds of what the vendor is asking.

Unless you're heading into these main markets, shopping in southern Bali means a more Western-style stroll through air-conditioned shops with neatly arranged fixed-price items. Along the main road of any tourist town, you'll find hundreds of shops in one open-air strip mall. Canggu, Kerobokan, and Seminyak have a variety of boutiques and furniture and jewelry showrooms that sell high-quality handcrafted items. Much of the same can be found in Legian, Kuta, and Tuban, and at lower prices.

Newer clothing boutiques in the upscale areas of Seminyak, Jimbaran, Nusa Dua, and Sanur now have fixed prices marked; look for signs stating this, or ask the salesperson before you start haggling. Credit cards are usually accepted at mall stores and newer boutiques in resort areas, but small shops generally only take cash.

Wood carvings, stone carvings, and iron and bronze works make good souvenirs. If you want to buy straight from craftspeople, head north to the villages around Ubud.

One of the pleasures of visiting eastern Bali is browsing for eclectic clothing and crafts. You'll find hundreds of handmade items to choose from, and most are quite inexpensive. You can usually watch the artisans at work carving, painting, weaving, or forging. All prices are negotiable, except in upscale shops, where prices are marked.

Nightlife and The Arts

The central and eastern sections of Bali are part of a quiet, refined realm with deep roots in the arts, so you won't find the wild nightlife here that you would in the south. What you will find are cultural performances, temple ceremonies, and market festivals -- and the occasional late-night club where you can listen to jazz and sip wine.

Northern Bali is not particularly rich in nightlife -- the only nightlife you'll find is in Lovina. In the west, there's virtually no nightlife scene except for a few visitors in hotel bars.

The free Bali Plus booklet and Bali News list nightlife hot spots. Consult your hotel or the Bali Guide to Events, available free at most hotels and travel agencies, for current schedules.

A new guide to Bali's entertainment scene is the beat, distributed free in restaurants. Balio, a large, eye-catching new magazine, offers the inside scoop on Bali's nightlife. Many restaurants also schedule live music from week to week, so check their outdoor blackboards.

The monthly English-Japanese Bali Tribune magazine details island happenings. The glossy Bali Echo,Hello Bali, and even Surf Time, and the Bali Tourist Guide, are good sources for after-hours ideas.

If you're in Bali at the end of June or the beginning of July, check out the annual Bali Arts Festival. Bali's shorter annual calendar, based on the lunar year, includes numerous holidays and temple ceremonies. Most travel agencies have a schedule of dance and music performances, and a list of holidays.

Top Choices:

Agung Rai Museum of Art
Apache Reggae Bar (Music Bar)
Arak Bali (bar)
Ary’s Warung (bar)
Beggar’s Bush (Bar)
Café Luna (Café)
Club Taboh (Club)
Do Drop Inn (bar)
Funky Monkey (Bar)
Galeria Stage (Concerts)
Goa 2001 (Bar)
Harry’s (bar)
Jazzz Bar and Grill (Jazz Music Club)
Jazz Café (Jazz Music Club)
Koki Bali (Dance Club)
KokokanClub (Music Club)
Kuta Centre (International Dance Club)
Legian Beach Hotel (International Dance Club)
Mentari Grill (Dance Club) 
Poco Loco (Rock Music Club)
Puri Saren (international Dance Club)
Sai Sai (Rock Music Club)
Soda Club (Music Club)
Spago (Jazz Music Club)
Terazo (Bar)

Families

Bali is the perfect option for families traveling with children. Not only are children warmly welcomed in Bali, they are adored as spirits newly returned from the after-life. As such, children who visit Bali are often left with a sense of it being a place where they really do come first and are the most special souls of all, visitors and locals alike. Families with children will find an abundance of sights and sounds to amaze. Imagine the Balinese men riding bicycles and carrying newly made beds on their heads for delivery. Imagine market ladies riding bicycles and carrying 3 foot high towers of colorful, tropical fruit. Children will love riding the elephants and exploring the tropical rain forest (so will adults). Families visiting Bali will often enjoy the opportunity to host Balinese dancers at their private villa for a festive evening of music, Balinese cooking (perhaps combined with a cooking class hosted by your private chef who will be honored to show you and your children how to prepare an authentic Balinese feast) and fun. 

Childcare

Please consult your villa agent for recommendations on child care options in Bali and then complete a careful check of the nanny or au par your select. We are not familiar enough with Balinese childcare options to make recommendations or even list agencies. If you are unsure about the options and want to secure recommendations from several sources, you may consider calling some of the larger hotels (Four Seasons, Ritz Carlton, Le Meridien) in Bali for their recommendations.

Golf

For more than a hundred years, golf has been played in Indonesia. As a result, international standard courses have sprung up in several parts of the country, and Bali, too, has its share of courses that are just for pure enjoyment of the game. Indeed, golf is a very popular sport with both tourists and the locals.
Following are recommended courses for a leisurely game amidst the tropical splendor of Bali:
Bali Golf & Country Club
Nusa Dua
Tel. 771 793
Advance Reservations
Tel. 772 495
Voted "One of Asia's 5 best golf courses" by an expert panel in Fortune Magazine U.S.A., Bali Golf & Country Club, ensconced in the deluxe resort of Nusa Dua, offers enthusiasts a unique golfing experience with world class breathtaking sights. Designed by renowned golf course architects Rodney Wright and Robin Nelson of Hawaii, the 18-hole par 72 course hosted the 1994 Alfred Dunhill Master tournament, which featured several of the world's top golfers, including Nick Faldo, Colin Montgomery and Vijay Singh. The course has multiple tees, allowing for play by novice and professionals. Each hole is unique and the course has three definite settings for play. From hole 1-9, play extends up a hill through thick vegetation, giving players the opportunity to enjoy the panoramic scenes of the Indian Ocean and Nusa Dua. They can also see the majestic Mt. Agung on a clear day. The first half of the course has several water spots, creeks, and waterfalls; and small, hand-built stone walls line the sides of the tees and fairways, resembling the rice field terraces of Bali. Holes 10-1C are played through a coconut grove with some of the palms as high as 100 feet. Holes 17-18 are played along the beachside and back toward a 16 acre lake. At the end of a round, golfers can indulge in a relaxing and exhilarating massage or spa treatment at The Spa at Bali Golf & Country Club. Trained caddies, golf carts, and all necessary equipment are available for hire at the pro-shop. The well appointed clubhouse has a swimming pool, two bars and an open-air restaurant. A recent addition to the Bali Golf and Country Club has been the Wantilan Golf Villas. Set within the golf course, these three- and four-bedroom, self contained villas can be rented on a short-term basis. Guests will receive personalized service, attractive golf fees and priority tee times.

Bali Handara Kosaido Country Club
Jl. By Pass Ngurah Rai
Tel. 288 944
Bank Pacific Building 3rd Floor
Jl. Jend. Sudirman Kav 7-8
Jakarta 10220
Tel. 021 570 4893
Located at 1 142 meters above sea level in Bedugul, Bali Handara Kosaido Country Club boasts of an 18-hole, par72 championship golf course that is listed among the world's fifty greatest. Designed by international golfer and course architect, Peter Thompson, Michael Wolferidge and Associates, the course is surrounded by mountains with a panoramic view of Lake Buyan, and is popular for its difficulty. The scenery and the low average temperature of 16-20C present a refreshing change from the heat of southern Bali. Facilities at the club include tennis courts, fitness center and massage, Japanese bath and sauna. Golf carts, equipment and services of caddies are available at the pro-shop. F & B outlets include three restaurants and a karaoke bar, and there is also a fully-equipped convention and banquet hall for up to 100 people.
Le Meridien Nirwana Golf & Spa Resort Bali
PO Box 158, Kediri, Bali, 82171, Indonesia
Tel: +62 361 815900
Fax: +62 361 815901
Web site: bali.lemeridien.com
In the old Tabanan Kingdom, the most beautiful region of Bali, you'll find Le Meridien Nirwana Golf & Spa Resort. The New prestigious Le Meridien Nirwana Golf & Spa resort Bali, resides along the island's magnificent south-west coast with volcanic mountain backdrops and breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. Only 40 minutes drive from the Ngurah Rai International Airport, through scenic rice terraces and Balinese villages…"True Bali”. Believed to be one of the most dramatic golf courses in the world, our 18-hole signature golf course was designed by one of the foremost golfers of our time, Greg Norman.
Set against a spectacular backdrop, the golf course is an ideal venue for international golf tournaments. The course's integration of natural features such as streams, ponds and even rice terraces make for more interesting and challenging play.
Awards won include:
· 'Best Golf Resort Asia 2000 and 2001, 2002' - Asian Golf Monthly magazine
· 'Best Golf Course Asia 2000 and 2001, 2002, 2003' - Asian Golf Monthly magazine
· 'Best Golf Course Indonesia 2000 and 2001, 2002,2003' - Asian Golf Monthly magazine
· Highly Commended Venue with Accommodation in 2003 – CIM Newsmagazine
· Best International Incentive Venue 2002 – Quorum Magazine
The Grand Bali Beach Golf Courses
The Grand Bali Beach Hotel, Sanur
Tel. 288 511
Open to both hotel guests and visitors, The Grand Bali Beach Hotel has a challenging 9-hole golf course with many trees. The clubhouse has a restaurant and a bar. Equipment and services of caddies are available. Those not ready for the course can practice at a driving range in nearby Renon.
Nirwana Bali Golf Club
Le Meridien Resort, Tanah Lot
Tel. 815 960
Nirwana Bali Golf Club, situated near the Tanah Lot Temple, has breath-taking views over the Indian Ocean. The resort consists of a golf course, a five-star hotel managed by Le Meridien, a racquet sports center, 672 luxury villas, timeshare suites, resort homes and townhouses. The par 17, 18-hole course was designed by Greg Norman who incorporated rice terraces and creeks into it, resulting in one of the most visually spectacular courses in Asia. Three holes are played on cliffs overlooking the lndian Ocean and the twelfth hole, which overlooks the Tanah Lot temple, is one of the most photographed in the world. Golf carts are compulsory and playing assistants must accompany all golfers. A Balinese open-style clubhouse serves refreshments and food, and a pro-shop has equipment for rent. Guests at Le Meridien receive discounted rates for golf.

Fishing/Watersports/Sea Excursions:

Bali’s East Coast is the the prime fishing, diving and snorkeling area on the island. Seasonal fishing is a popular sport in Bali. Diving, snorkeling and cruising options are available through several tour operators. One reputable operator with a good track record of knowing where to go and when is “Ena Dive Center and Marine Operators”. See http://www.enadive.co.id/index.php

 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
TROLLING FISHING                       
Sail Fish G G F F F F F G G G E G
Yellowfin Tuna G F F F F F F G E E G G
Blue Marlin G G F F F F F F G G E G
Black Marlin (Junenile) G G F F F F F F G G E G
Stripped Marlin G G F F F F F G G E E G
Mahi-Mahi G G G G F F F G E E G G
Mackerel G E E G F F F F G E E G
Skip Jack Tuna G G G G F F F G E E E G
Estern Little Tuna G G G G F F F G E E G G
Rainbow Runner G G G G G G F F F F G G
Oriental Bonito G F F F G G F G E E G G
Legend:E - Excellent      G - Good      F - Fair      ? - Undetermined
 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
BOTTOM FISHING                       
Sweetlip Emperor  G G G F F F F F E E E G
Blue Lined Emperor  G G G G F F F F E E E E
Spotcheek Emperor G G G G F F F F E E E E
Thread Fin - Bream G G G G F F F F G E E E
Bengal Seaperch G G G G F F F F G E G G
Trager Fish G G G G F F F F G G G G
Red Snapper E G G G F F F F G E E G
Goath Fish G G G G F F F F G E E G
Red Grouper G G G G F F F F G E E E
Legend:E - Excellent      G - Good      F - Fair      ? - Undetermined

Southern Bali is the natural starting point for cruises around the island, as well as to neighboring islands and through the rest of the archipelago. Benoa Harbor, just southwest of Sanur, is one of Indonesia's largest sea transport hubs, and though a few traditional cruise ships occasionally dock here, this is more a port for unique vessels. Here you can bargain your way aboard everything from a Chinese junk to a sparkling new catamaran.

A fine way to get acquainted with South Seas sailing is on a short catamaran cruise from Bali to Nusa Lembongan and Lombok, or on a sunset- and dolphin-watching cruise to the end of the Bukit Peninsula. Claim a place near the rail to watch the land disappear behind you; once you're on the way, grab a snack from the bar and a reclining seat. Most day-cruise companies have resort clubs near their docks at Nusa Lembongan, Senggigi, or the Gili Islands, where you can rest in a pavilion, swim, snorkel, take part in group activities or a village tour, and have a barbecue lunch on the beach before returning. Some resorts have bungalows where you can stay overnight if you can't bear to leave.

If you've ever had dreams of being an explorer -- or a pirate -- this is where you can bring that fantasy to life. The ultimate cruising experience is on the new line of teak Buginese schooners, modeled after ancient trading and pirate ships. Despite their antiquated appearance, these vessels are state of the art, with luxurious air-conditioned cabins (all with windows and private bathrooms), comfortable lounge chairs, sundecks, bars, and gourmet meals. You feel like you're on a sailing ship from centuries ago, especially when the wind billows the massive sails out before you as you stand on the deck in the salty sea spray -- yet you have all the comforts of an upscale hotel.

A cruise on a traditional Bugis pinisi ship might take you to nearby Lombok and through Nusa Tenggara, or to Sulawesi, north of Bali. The trip can last for two days or for as long as three weeks. Most boats will pick you up midtrip from points on other islands (such as Komodo) with prior notice. Some companies specialize in charter trips, which allow your group to work with the company to hire a tour guide, cook, interpreter, and other special staff.

Charter trips also have the bonus of traveling outside of the usual tour routes: up to Manado, Sulawesi, or out to Wasur, Irian Jaya, for example. You can also create your own specialized cruise -- perhaps a dive tour or a visit to several of Indonesia's lesser-known wildlife havens. Priced by the day, the cost of these cruises comes to less than that of a moderately priced hotel, with all meals, transportation, and activities included. Your only extras are alcohol, souvenirs, and crew tips.

The trip begins the moment you set foot on the deck and stow your bags in your cabin. Have a welcome drink, chat with your fellow passengers, and get your sea legs before the boat leaves the dock (once it does, be prepared to handle the occasional strong wave). Go up on deck both for fresh air and the best views. Although these tours plan a combination of beach, trekking, and cultural activities by day, and most of the actual sailing occurs at night when passengers are sleeping, you'll still have plenty of chances to pretend you're looking for new territory while standing at the bow with the sails unfurling.

Weddings

Your villa agent or owner is a great source of information on the options available to you around weddings. Your agent may have an established connection to a wedding planner willing to provide discounts to villa guests. Thus, your agent or owner should be your first point of contact regarding wedding arrangements.

Bali is part of the Republic of Indonesia and is subject to Indonesian Laws. Every couple considering getting married in Bali must comply with these Laws.

In accordance with Law No. 1 of 1974 concerning marriages in Indonesia (Article 2 (1): "a marriage is legitimate if it has been performed according to the laws of the respective religious beliefs of the parties concerned."

All couples who marry in Indonesia must declare a religion. Agnosticism and Atheism are not recognized. The Civil Registry Office can record marriages of persons of Islam, Hindu, Buddhist, Christian-Protestant and Christian-Catholic faiths. Marriage partners must have the same religion, otherwise one partner must make a written declaration of change of religion.

The Religious Marriage under Islam is performed by the Office of Religious Affairs (Kantor Urusan Agama) in a ceremony at a mosque, the home, a restaurant, or any other place chosen by the couple and is legal immediately after the ceremony.

A Christian, Hindu or Buddhist marriage is usually performed first in a church or temple ceremony. After the religious ceremony, every non-Islamic marriage must be recorded with the Civil Registry (Kantor Catatan Sipil). Without the registration by the Civil Registry these marriages are not legal. Recording by Civil Registry officials can be performed directly at the religious ceremony for an additional fee.

Persons of non-Islamic faith are required to file with the Civil Registry Office in the Regency where they are staying first a 'Notice of Intention to Marry' as well as a 'Letter of No Impediment' obtained from their consular representatives.

For the issue of the Letter of No Impediment to Marriage by your Consular Representative you will need to present for youself and your fiance(e) your Passport(s) valid for more than 6 months and Certified Divorce Decrees (absolute/final) and/or Death Certificates regarding the termination of all previous marriages. Please contact the Consular Representative of your country for details well before your intended date of marriage.

The following countries have Consulates or Consular Representatives in Bali. The telephone and fax numbers must be prefixed with 62-361 when calling from abroad. Australia (Consulate, also representing Canada, New Zealand and other Commonwealth countries in emergencies), Jalan Hayum Wuruk No. 88 B, Tanjung Bungak, Denpasar, Tel. 241-118, Fax 241-120; France (Consular Agency), Jalan Bypass Ngurah Rai No. 35, Sanur, Tel. 285-485, Fax 285-485; Germany (Honorary Consulate), Jalan Pantai Karang 17, Sanur, Tel. 288-535, 288-826, Fax 288-826; Italy (Honorary Vice Consulate), Jalan Bypass Ngurah Rai, Jimbaran, Tel. 701-005, Fax 701-005; Japan (Consulate), Jalan Raya Puputan, Renon, Denpasar, Tel. 234-808, Fax 231-308; Mexico (Honorary Consulate), Jalan Moch. Yamin 1A, Renon, Denpasar, Tel. 223-266, Fax 231-740; Netherlands (Consular Agency), Jalan Raya Kuta 99, Kuta, Tel. 751-517, Fax 752-777; Norway & Denmark (Honorary Consulate), Kawasan Bukit Permai, Jimbaran, Tel. 701-070, Fax 701-074; Spain (Honorary Consulate, currently vacant); Sweden & Finland (Honorary Consulate), Jalan Segara Ayu, Sanur, Tel. 288-407, Fax 287-242; Switzerland & Austria (Consular Agency), Kompleks Istana Kuta Galleria, Blok Valet 2 No. 12, Jalan Patih Jelantik. Kuta, Tel. 751-735, Fax 754-457; United Kingdom (Honorary Consulate), Jalan Mertasari 2, Sanur, Tel. 270-601, Fax 270-572; U.S.A. (Consular Agency), Jalan Hayam Wuruk 188, Denpasar, Tel. 233-605, Fax 222-426.
For the Notice of Intention to Marry you have to submit the following documents for both partners to the Civil Registry Office (show the original and present a photocopy):
· Certificate of the religious marriage;
· Passport for foreign citizens, or KTP (Identity card) for Indonesian citizens;
· Certified birth certificate;
· Certified divorce decree (absolute) or death certificates regarding the termination of all previous marriages;
· Four 4x6 cm photos, both partners side by side;
· Foreign citizens:
o 'Letter of No Impediment to Marriage' issued by your Consular Representative for Bali or Indonesia;
· Indonesian citizens:
o Never married: letter Surat Keterangan Belum Kawin from Kepala Desa or Lurah (mayor);
o Men aged 18-21 and women aged 16-21: parental letter of consent, signed across the materai/tax stamp Rupiah 2,000.
Before the marriage, you and your fiance(e) also may wish to file with the Civil Registry a prenuptial Property Agreement (Surat Pernyataan Harta) which must be signed before a local Notary Public. This contract is necessary if you wish to hold property separately during the marriage. In the absence of such a document, Indonesian marriage law assumes joint ownership of property, and subsequent property acquisitions by the Indonesian partner will be regulated according to the laws restricting foreign property ownership.

Two witnesses over the age of 18 are required. They must show the originals and present photocopies of their passports if they are foreign citizens or KTP (identity cards) if they are Indonesian citizens. Civil Registry employees can act as witnesses.
The Civil Registry office has a Mandatory Waiting Period of 10 working days from the date of filing. This waiting period may be waived for tourists presenting a guest registration form (Form A).

Islamic Marriage Certificates (Buku Nikah) issued by the Office of Religious Affairs (Kantor Urusan Agama) are legally valid in Indonesia and do not require registration with any other agency if you are going to live in Indonesia. However, if you might move somewhere else in the future (and who knows?), get a marriage certificate issued by the Civil Registry and an officially certified translation right away (see below).

All other Marriage Certificates will be issued by the Civil Registry usually on the same or next day. A sworn English translation of the marriage certificate should be obtained for use abroad. It is not necessary for the marriage certificate or translation to be registered by your Consular Agency. However, to have the sworn translation of the marriage certificate verified or a special translation made by the Consulate of your home country or the Consulate of your country of residence might prove useful.

The full legal ceremony consists of a religious ceremony followed by a civil ceremony. The religious portion will be conducted by an officiant of your own religious belief. Two separate certificates will be presented to the couple at the end of the ceremony, one for the religious portion and the other for the civil portion.

With all that being said, many villa guests who wish to experience the opportunity to exchange vows in Bali elect to have a Balinese Blessing Ceremony performed, rather than a full legal ceremony. Couples normally dress in traditional Balinese costume and receive a blessing for happiness, health, love, safety, etc. The Balinese Blessing Ceremony is performed by a Hindu Priest and takes about 30 minutes. It can be performed at your villa or other location of your choice. The ceremony is mirrored after the traditional Balinese wedding ceremony and will provide the couple with lasting memories of a very unique and special occasion.

Event Planners

Event planners are readily available throughout Bali. Most notably, you’ll find a wide array of event planning service related to Balinese weddings. The abundance of offerings gives you plenty of opportunity to shop around and compare prices. Don’t be afraid to negotiate rates with the event planner and/or ask for any additional services you desire. Your villa agent may be connected to an event planner offering discounted services for villa guests. Consider this option before striking out on your own, but don’t do so blindly. You’ll still want to compare rates and ensure that your villa agent’s contact is offering fair value.

Villas for Special Interests

Luxury Villas ideal for special events and large travel groups/families include:
Villa Bali Gita in Ubud
Villa Blisse in Kerobokan
Villa Estate in Seminyak
Taman Wana Private Estate

Luxury Eco Friendy Villas Include:
Agung Bali Nirwana Villas

Spa Treatments

Spa treatments at your private villa are popular in Bali. In many cases, members of your house staff may offer spa treatment at little or no extra cost. Popular Balinese spa treatments include massage (especially upon arrival after a long journey. Ask your agent or owner if this can be arranged in advance as a complimentary service), flower bath, manicure and body scrub.