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Filo=92s = BALI travel=20 FORUM SUMMARY.=20

(Mainly from travellers=92 postings = on http://www.balitravelforum.com/<= /A>=20 and  http://www.bali.com/, added to our own experiences.) =

Compiled to 15=20 March, 2009 11:02=20 AM.

 

Adelaide date and time = -=20    Bali date and time -

 

There is an alphabetical list of = the contents=20 a little further down. To save you searching you can just click on any = link in=20 this list and it will immediately open up for you.

For more=20 information and photos of Bali go to our home pages at http://www.filosbali.net/. =

Sunday, 2nd October, 2005. =

I've just finished reading my morning = paper and=20 listening to the radio news reports of last nights bombings in = Bali.

In the past I've written here; =

"Having just returned from our = 2005 trip I=20 can only repeat what I have had written here for some years now - I = honestly=20 believe that Bali is safe for tourists.

We stayed in the southern = tourist areas of=20 Legian, Seminyak and Tuban and made day or longer trips to a Muslim = school and=20 orphanage in Denpasar, to Lovina and Singaraja, Pacung and Bedugul, to = Ubud=20 and out west to Negara which is a region with a higher than common = Muslim=20 population. Nowhere were we at all concerned."=20

What can I say now?

Obviously Bali is not safe, nor can I = confidently=20 say that these present terrorist attacks will make governments and = government=20 agencies such as customs and police suddenly find the will to do their = work with=20 sufficient enthusiasm and honesty to make the island safe.

We will still go to Bali because we = have too many=20 friends there whose life will return to the subsistence level or even = the=20 'barely surviving' level and we could not desert them in what will be = their hour=20 (and days and months and even years maybe) of need. We will go because = we don't=20 often frequent those night-owl places that attract crowds and attractive = crowds=20 for terrorists.

We will also go back because we just = can't bear=20 the thought of not going back to a place we love.

 

[In=20 August 2006 I heard that a new branch of the local police had=20 been established with the aim of curbing and maybe eliminating police=20 corruption. The phone number of this branch in Bali is 0361 224 111 and = is a=20 number that every tourist in Bali who carries a mobile phone should have = entered. If you believe that you are being harassed unfairly by the = police call=20 thew number and you will be put onto an English speaking officer who = will listen=20 to your complaint and record the name of the officer(s) seen on their = lapel or=20 breast patch. The English speaking officer will then ask to speak to the = officer=20 who is confronting you and address their side of the story and  if=20 necessary, their behaviour. In at least one reported incident the re was = a=20 remarkable change in approach and the tourist, who was being stung for a = hefty=20 bribe, was invited to proceed on their journey. A minor miracle but a = giant leap=20 forward against both official corruption and tourist angst.] - - [and in = 2007 it=20 was claimed that all this information was a hoax - but I'll keep the = number just=20 in case.]

 

After our 2007 trip it is fairly obvious that security = measures have=20 been stepped up considerably from the levels that existed only last = year. Our=20 first little 2 star hotel in Legian, for example, had Security personnel = on duty=20 24 hours every day. How effective they might be in a crunch might be = debatable=20 but they are there and provide another level of protection.

 

We will, however, be particular about = taking=20 reasonable precautions and about registering our travel plans with = family and on=20 the government web site designed for that purpose.

We will also be careful to behave = peacefully and=20 with and moderation, not to draw attention to ourselves or to offend = others, and=20 I have to say that we have seen some tourists who would do well to adopt = the=20 same outlook.

 

IF you decide to go = then at least=20 do those things too. Be alert and be cautious, but don=92t be paranoid = and ruin=20 what should be an enjoyable holiday. If you don=92t feel that you can do = this then=20 perhaps you should not go.

 

Register=20 your travel plans with the=20 Australian Dept of Foreign Affairs and Trade, (DFAT), on = https://www.orao.dfat.gov.au/orao/weborao.nsf/homepage?Openpage=20 . It will take about 5 minutes for each person. = Have your=20 passport handy to refer to.

You might also like to check the latest travel=20 information for your destination at = http://www.smarttraveller.gov.= au/.=20

If=20 you find yourself needing a new passport (remember it must have at least 6 months to go before = expiry, no=20 matter if you=92re only staying for a long weekend) then you can fill in = all the=20 information required on line. Go to http://www.passports.gov.au/, that=92s if you=92re in Australia of course but other = countries=20 might have a similar web site that will save you a visit to (and a wait = at) your=20 local government offices. Here you can download a one page renewal form = which=20 you fill out and take to your local Post Office with your old passport. = (Many=20 will take your photos for you if you haven't gone to your friendly local = photo=20 shop.) The new passport can be in your hands in 5 working = days.

 

REMEMBER: There is now a =91Visa On = Arrival=92 fee for=20 most foreign travellers =96 US$10 for a maximum of 3 days and US$25 for = a stay of=20 up to 30 days. This visa fee must be paid on arrival at your first = Indonesian=20 airport and applies to all travellers, even children who may not have = needed=20 their own seat on the aircraft. The system will now allow you to pay in = your=20 local currency or with credit cards. This fee is in addition to the = Indonesian=20 Departure Tax of Rp150,000 which must be paid at the airport when you = depart and=20 it must be paid in the local currency, Rupiah. Put your first Rp100,00 = note and=20 Rp50,000 note into your passport along with the white Immigration slip = you will=20 get when you arrive and go through immigration, then you won't forget = and get=20 caught. For those not familiar with the local currency 150,000 rupiah = might=20 sound a lot but really it's only about Aus$20.
If you are thinking of = a=20 longer term investigate the Retirement Visa for the over 55's and can be = for 5=20 years at Aus$1200/year which works out to less than the airfares to = Singapore to=20 qualify for visa extensions. There is also a sponsored Social Visa (at = Aus$60=20 pre paid) for stays of up to 60 days. You, not your sponsor, must apply = to renew=20 every 30 days for 4 times for Rp250,000 for first 2 renewals and = Rp300,000 for=20 next two. Each requires forms signed by both you and your sponsor so = don't lose=20 touch!

 

One = suggestion you=20 might consider is to scan all of your essential travel documents, = passport,=20 flight tickets, reservations etc, and e-mail them to yourself. Don't = delete the=20 e-mail and you will be able to download, retrieve and print off anything = lost=20 while you're on holidays.

 

If=20 you're flying through Darwin now that dropped flights have caused a bit = of chaos=20 in travellers' plans, try the Darwin Airport Resort for a break. There = is a=20 courtesy phone downstairs in the airport. For the cost of a meal and/or = a drink=20 or two their facilities are available and its only a minute in their = shuttle bus=20 with a lock-up for your luggage if you've not checked it right through = to Bali.=20 The Qantas Club is not open all day.

. .  ~  o  0  o  ~  . = .

 

Warning for new=20 readers. =96 = Just the=20 General Information section (Part 2) of this file is nearly 50 pages = long and=20 the District Information section is over 50 pages long. Both are getting = longer=20 as more information is added and little is taken out. =20

You may want to = select and=20 print only those parts that really interest you.

I suggest that you first print off the CONTENTS in Part 1 = just below=20 these boxes. You can then browse this closely and highlight any topics = that=20 immediately interest you. Then return on line to this screen and go to = those=20 sections. If indeed they are material that you want then tick (check) = the=20 highlight on your printed list. Cross out the highlight if it's a false = lead.=20 When you have finished this you will have economically made a list of = sections=20 to print.

If the list of your interests is extensive it might be = quicker to=20 copy the whole file to the hard disc of your computer, open it and = delete=20 everything you don't want between your chosen sections and finally save = and=20 print what remains.

 

This information is compiled by  = filo @ adam.com.au .  Please send feedback, = corrections,=20 comments or additional information to this E-mail address, with the two = spaces=20 on each side of the @ symbol taken out. It will be=20 appreciated.

If you=20 would like more information, advice, = stories=20 or photographs about Bali then start at our Home Page by clicking this = link in=20 blue type, then select from the left hand contents column on the opening = page.  http://filosbali.net/

. .  ~  o  = 0  o =20 ~  . .

CONTENTS  [Of both Part 1(General=20 info) & Part 2 (District=20 info)]

 

General Information CONTENTS=20 LIST.

The=20 HEADINGS below are all hot links to take you directly = to the=20 section you select, as are the coloured=20 words. Clicking on these will take you directly to that = section=20 or topic and save you the time-consuming task of scrolling through many = pages=20 and risking =91mouse-button' tendonitis. Some of these words might be = links to=20 other pages and will take a few seconds to load for = you.

To find a=20 topic or area that interests you, scan down the headings printed in=20 CAPITAL letters on the left hand margin. If you = find it=20 then a simple click will take you directly to the beginning of that = section.=20

If you want to=20 get closer to you topic look through the minor=20 headings that follow the main ones and select from there, = again by=20 clicking with your mouse. 

For example;=20 if you are thinking of staying in Jimbaran Bay and want to know what = there is to=20 do there, then look down the left side until you find JIMBARAN BAY = DISTRICT, then look across to the minor headings on the = right=20 hand side of the heading and find =91Doing=92. Click on the blue = letters and you=92re=20 almost instantly there. In this instance you will have saved = scrolling=20 through 45 pages.

Another method which=20 you might find quicker if you can't find the word you're looking for is = to use=20 the built-in 'SEARCH' feature. Click on 'Edit' at the top left of the = screen,=20 then click on 'Find' when the menu drops down. In the box that appears = type the=20 word you want to search for and click on the 'Find next' button. = Repeated clicks=20 will cycle you through all of those words in the whole document. Stop of = course=20 when you come to one you think might be what you're looking=20 for.

**  If you have a concern for animals remember the Bali Animal Welfare = Association,=20 Ph 981 490. They have an animal ambulance welfare service (free) and = will attend=20 to a call for any sort of animal. http://www.bawabali.com/. =

1. = CONTACTS=20 AND INFORMATION =96=20 Beginning with an alphabetical list.

A.    Airport porter = rates =96 Airport=20 lounges - Airport = Taxis =96=20 Airport Bag=20 Storage =96 Visa-On-Arrival at the airport (see 'Visa' in 'V' below- = Airline=20 contacts - Astronomy = =96 Art =96 Art = tutoring - Art = shopping and=20 Artists' supplies - Allergies; = see also=20 Cane = Mites - Anti-bacterial=20 wipes; personal hygiene - risky = ATM=92s risks=20 - Accommodat= ion=20 including how to do it safely  - Amed,=20 Candi Dasa & Tulamben - Adopta = Coop - Amimal=20 welfare -

B.    Bali = Belly (See=20 also Yakult & Sports drinks below.) - Toilet = paper - Bargaining and Fixed = Price=20 shops =96 Books= of and=20 about Bali =96 Book=20 shops (See also 'Dictionaries' and 'Maps', below.) - Indo National=20 Geographic - For Blondes and = brunettes = and redheads = but not for=20 bald people =96 Traditional healers; =91Balians=92 = - Bike = tours - Bicycles = - Blood = donors -=20 Balinese names -=20 Baby = gifts - BIWA/Bali = International=20 Women's Association - Beads - Bualu, =20 Tanjung= =20 Benoa & Nusa Dua - Bedugul - = Bali = Barat=20 National Park - Bathers, = stock and=20 made-to-order - Bathing in local = springs -=20 Bicycle = parts -=20 Boat = rides, out=20 to the reefs to surf or just for a ride along the shore - Buying property - = Baby=20 sitting services - Bombing=20 orphans - Local's banking = -

C.    Contacts=20 and emergency information - Camera = Repairs=20 =96 Cane = Mites and=20 local medicines - Charities = and=20 Orphanages =96 Gifts for Children<= /A> =96 Chil= dren's=20 clothes - Laundry = services - Childre= n's=20 food - Children'= s=20 gifts - Travelling with children (see Bali with Kidz in "K" below.) = Hire laptops -=20 Computer Softwar= e =20 - Pre = owned=20 computers to donate to sponsored children, orphanages or schools - = WiFi = networks (See=20 Internet below.) =96 CD and DVD = virus -=20 Consulates (you=20 can perhaps feel more secure if you register your travel plans at this = link.) -=20 Chiropracto= r=20 - Cuts & scratches, see 'F', below. - Child=20 minding services -  = https://www.orao.dfat.gov.au/orao/weborao.nsf/homepage?Openpage=20 ) - Crime/Bag=20 snatchers/Crook = money=20 changers - Changing cash - = Credit = cards -=20 Cultural things to remember - = Some common words = - Craft = supplies=20 - CANDI=20 DASA, Amed & Tulamben -  Cycle = tours - Carvings in=20 stone - Ceremonies,= =20 religious and cultural  - Large = size=20 clothing - cloth=20 including ikat and songket - Cossies, See 'Bathers' above, - Charities, = see=20 Orphanages, below -

D.    Drivers = including=20 vehicle hire, motor bike and mini bus - Drinking - = Diseases & Injections =96 Doctors = & Dentists = etc. =96 Dogs = =96 Donated = gifts &=20 goods (BIWA) =96 Drug risks in = Bali - Delicacies - DEET - No DEET - = Dictionarie= s -=20 Driving = yourself - Departure = tax -=20 Dress = modestly=20 - temple dress - Doing = things - District=20 information specific info for each district - Bali's District=20 Information in brief - Details of the DISTRICTS -=20 Denpasar,=20 Sanur & Lembongan Island - Diving = & snorkelling=20 - Duty = Free=20 allowances - Disabled= access=20 accommodation -

E.    Emergency=20 phone numbers =96 Be a blood = donor in=20 Bali - Eye = Clinic =96 Electrical<= /A>=20 supply and connection adaptors. =96 Ele= ctrical=20 appliances and equipment - Electrical = adaptors - Ear=20 infections - Eating - Eating = vegetarian=20 - Eating=20 delicacies - Take-away = food - Educational=20 sponsorships -

F.    Furniture;=20 sources and quality =96 Freight = home - Fishing - = Big = Game=20 fishing and little fishing - Fishing=20 Tackle shops - a Bali = First-Aid=20 kit =96 Cuts = &=20 scratches - Food=20 - Food for children (See 'C' above.) - Flowers - = Flags = (Umbul=20 umbul or Umble umble) - Fixed = price=20 shops -

G.    Golf =96 = Gifts =96 = Gifts for = children -=20 Gift = wrapping - Glasses = &=20 spectacles - Donating = old=20 glasses - Getting = about =96=20 Gilimanuk -=20 Galungan = ceremony=20 (see 'Ceremonies' above) -

H.    Health = protection=20 (including head lice infections) =96 Hospital= care=20 - Sex risks/HIV/AIDS -=20 See also Cane Mites and allergies, above, and Jellyfish stings, below. = =96 Hygiene = (See also=20 'Anti-bacterial wipes' in 'A' above.) =96 Hairdressin= g=20 equipment - Hairdressers - = Traditional healers; =91Balians=92 = - Hiring=20 vehicles/Self=20 drive/ motor=20 bikes - Herit= age=20 sites - Handbags - = Hot = springs - Hearing = Aids -=20 Handicapped access See 'Disabled, above. -

I.    Internet etc =96 see =91Internet = &=20 mobile phones=92, number 10, below. - Injections - Insect=20 repellent (See also DEET, above.) - Internet = Travel bookings - Travel=20 insurance - Indonesian Rupiah<= /A> - International = Women's=20 Association - Information=20 about various districts - Independence=20 Day - Importers=20 and Shipping -

J.    Jellyfish = stings =96=20 Jewellery = and jewelle= ry=20 repairs and jewellery making course- Jimbaran = Bay=20 & Beach -

K.    Kites - Kite = makers - Kuta=20 & Tuban - Kerobokan,=20 Seminyak=20 & Legian - Kuningan  (see 'Ceremonies' above) - Kayaks - To = Bali with = Kidz -=20

L.    Lawyer =96 = Notary - = Language = help - Don't=20 lose your temper&= nbsp; -=20 Legian,=20 Seminyak & Kerobokan - Lembongan=20 Island - Nusa = Lembongan=20 - Lovina<= /A>=20 & Singaraja - Lombok - Large = clothes=20 and shoes for women and men - Laundry - =

M.    Maps - Mosquitos = =96 Midwife - = Money & = 'as-new' = notes - Don't = change money at home -  Money = exchange=20 - Changing Cash (See Cash, above.) - Changing Traveller's cheques (See = 'T',=20 below.) - Local=20 banks - Money=20 scams & credit card fraud - Crook = money=20 changers - Good money=20 changers - Menjangan = Island=20 - Night = Markets - Musical=20 Instruments - Metal = signs -=20 local medicines = (see Cane Mites in 'C' above) - Models (See 'Radio C' below - =

N.    Notaries - = Nurse - Names of = Balinese -=20 Nyepi Day = - Ngaben=20 (the death ceremony) see 'Ceremonies' above - Nusa = Dua,=20 Bualu & Tanjung Benoa - Nusa = Lembongan=20 - Negara - North = Bali,=20 west, centre and east - Bali Barat National = Park -=20 The National=20 Geographic magazine, Indo language version - Mobile = Phones.=20 See special section, 'Internet and Mobiles' -

O.    Orphanages and Charities;= see also=20 'Foundations' -=20 Bombing=20 orphans; (or search here for 'Adopta') -  =91Gifts=92 in = =91Remember -=20 Cultural things', below., - Optometrist - Odalan = ceremony - Oleh oleh = and other=20 gifts - Religious offerings (see http://pepproject.com/ourwork/ourworkENG/smes/credi= tcircles/canang/canang%20story.htm.=20 -

P.    Photography/= cameras=20 =96 Digital=20 camera downloads =96 Digital = camera memory=20 virus. - Printing = business=20 cards, T-shirts, caps etc =96 Wrapping Paper for = gifts =96 Pottery =96 = Prohibited = imports=20 from Bali =96 Pearls=20 =96 Pets - = Pet = Fashions=20 - Paediatric= ian -=20 APS = film - Passport = risks=20 - Some = prices - Places to = visit -=20 Places to stay (See 'Accommodation' above.) - Philatel= y,=20 Stamps and postcode= s -=20 Property = purchase=20 - Plaques (see 'Metal signs' above.) - Tourist Police; new = initiative=20 -

Q.    Quarantine -

R.    Rupiah - Rips - Remember = these=20 cultural things - Radio = controlled=20 models and toy cars - Religious = ceremonies=20 -

S.    Shopping; see the SHOPPING = heading below a=20 bit and the SHOPPING sections in each of the District Information = sections. Just=20 scroll down. - Sarongs - = Schooling -=20 Driving = yourself =96 Sex =96=20 Sunscreen = =96=20 Sports Shoes=20 and shoe warehouse and shops - Shoe size=20 conversion charts - Scams of various kinds; See MONEY section just = below=20 this one. - Spectacles = and=20 contacts =96 Shipping. = =96 Swimming = safety. =96=20 Surfing - Surfing=20 lessons - Surfers=20 Warning - Sports = drinks -=20 School = gifts -=20 Shopping - = Sales - Super = markets -=20 Safe = drinking -=20 Seminyak,=20 Legian=20 & Kerobokan - Sanur,=20 & Denpasar=20 - Singara= ja=20 & Lovina - Stone = carving=20 - Springs -=20 Postage stamps - Signs = cast in=20 metal - Surf=20 boards - Sponsoring=20 children's education - Skates and skateboards = -

T.    Tattoos, = permanent=20 & temporary =96 Toilets =96 = Toilet = paper - Transport = - Travel = Agents =96=20 Internet = travel - Travel=20 Insurance; Don=92t leave home without it! =96 Traditional healers; = =91Balians=92 = - Trekking - = Trekking=20 and lake=20 fishing - Tap=20 water - Traveller's=20 cheques-Changing (See also 'Wartels'.) - Tipping - A = day trip that's a bit = different=20 - Things = to do=20 - Places to=20 go - Town=20 information - Tuban & = Kuta -=20 Tanjung= =20 Benoa - Tulamben,=20 Amed=20 & Candi Dasa - Touring by = bike -=20 Take-away = food -=20 Telephone dial= ling=20 codes - 'Phone=20 home' for free - Tupperware see the Denpasar shopping section. - =

U.    Umble = umbles - Ubud -

V.    VCDs, DVDs, = MP3s, CDs=20 etc. =96 DVD virus=20 alert =96 portable DVD PLAYERS are fairly cheap and a good buy if you = stay in=20 hotels  where there is only Indo TV - Vegetarian = food -=20 Vets = -  Visiting - = Places=20 recommended - Visa-On-= Arrival=20 at the airport -

W.   Tap water = - Weddings = and Bali wedding=20 photographers - World Herit= age=20 Sites =96 Wine - Wartels - = Words and = phrases - Wooden wares = - Western = Bali -=20 Wheelchairs<= /A>=20 & chair-friendly places - Watch = repairs -=20 Wi-Fi - Waterfalls - Welfare=20 of sick or injured animals -

X.    X-rays - =

Y.    Yakult & = Sports=20 drinks - 

Z.    As far as I know there are no Zebras = in Bali but=20 this little bit of information just fills up the alpha list.

 

2. MONEY - = Including=20 =96

1.    Rupiah = coins, notes and =91candy = change=92 =96

2.    Money = Changing=20 - Safe=20 money changing =96 Use 'Wartels',&nb= sp;=20 especially for Traveller's Cheques - 'As-new' = notes only =96=20 Don=92= t change=20 at home =96 Airport=20 changing =96

3.    Tipping =96 = an account=20 to help=20 friends in Bali -

4.    Money Scams - = and a crook=20 moneychangers list =96 Forgery = risk - Land, house and = business=20 share scams -

5.    Passport=20 security =96 Bag = snatchers =96=20 Credit = card=20 security =96 Cash to = get home=20 =96 Check in = to=20 your airline to secure your seat. -

6.    Keep a perspective = when=20 bargaining =96 School = fees and=20 donations to charities = - Calculator = risk -=20 Risky = ATM's -=20 Shoppers Cheat=20 Sheet - On-line currency=20 converter - Local = banks -=20

3. REMEMBER = =96=20 Cultural things including; 

1.   Balinese Castes and = Names - = Gifts - = Wrapping papers = and=20 stationery - Do=92s = and Don=92ts -=20 Personal = Dress=20 - Stay in=20 control, remain calm! =96 Flags and = decorated=20 fronds - Street=20 offerings near shops and homes- Cremations.

2.    Orphanages<= /A>=20 (Opens in a separate web page). See also =91CHARITIES=92 in the = =91CONTACTS AND=20 INFORMATION=92, above.

3.    Art, in all = forms, is a=20 large part of Balinese life.

4.    World= Heritage=20 sites. -

5.    Nyepi Day = (the day of=20 silence) and Ogoh-ogoh = =96 Odalan and = =91Full Moon=92=20 parties. - Independence=20 Day -

4. SAYING =96 = Everyday=20 Language prompts that will make you doubly welcome in = Bali.

5. SHOPPING - = Including the following (and also see the individual shopping = sections in=20 each District information pages further below). Probably every traveller = to=20 Bali, not just the Bali Newbie, will at some time ask, 'How much is that = really=20 worth?' The answer might just be at My=20 Bali Guide, a new ('06) Bali site with a current price list for = everything=20 in Bali.
In '09 we discovered Kampung Bali, a recent = warehouse-type=20 place with racks and counters and shelves of an unbelievable array of = goods. A=20 fanatical shopper I know had three little basket carriers to follow her = around=20 and ferry her selections back to the checkout! Jl Merta Nadi No77X, = Kuta, Bali.=20 Its not far from the Bali Bakery. http://www.ready-to-buy.com/.=20

1.    Supermarket= s =96=20 Opening = hours =96 Sales -Childre= n=92s=20 food =96 Chil= dren=92s=20 clothes =96 Cloths including ikat and songket - Orchids =96 = Clothing = size=20 conversion tables - Large = sizes=20 -  shoe=20 size conversion tables - Shoes - Medicines = - Factory = outlets and=20 'seconds' shops - Laundry - =

2.    Fashion hand bags = =96 Fashion=20 for = pets=20 - Spa=20 products - Surf = boards -=20

3.     Gold &=20 Jewellery =96 Gold = prices - Wood ware, = pests and=20 Customs - www.geocities/mcshop_bali/dvd -

4.    Softwar= e=20 (computer, games, CDs, VCRs etc) =96 Electrical appliances -

5.    Buttons, Sequins = &=20 Beads =96 Craft = supplies=20 - Temple umbrellas = and flags=20 (=91Umble umbles=92) - musical=20 instruments -

6.    Some prices (2000 = to 2002)=20 =96

7.    Spectacles =96 Donating = glasses - Mirrors - =

8.     Fishing=20 stores - Bike shops -

6. EATING =96 = Enjoyably=20 and with safety. =96 Including -

1.    Personal = hygiene =96 Who=92s = Cooking=20 Tonight? =96 Vegetarian =96 Vegemite - =

2.     Wine, both = local and=20 imported and purchasing it in Bali =96 Tax,=20 service charges and commissions =96

3.     The Bali Travel Forum and other = locally=20 assembled restaurant=20 guides=96 Steak =96=20 Bread - =

4.     Vegetarian. One of=20 the notable vegetarian restaurants is =91Aromas=92, = in Kuta.

5.    Local fruits are = highly=20 recommended =96 Balinese names for = foods =96=20 Desserts = =96 Kaki Lima = (food=20 carts) =96

6.    Delicacies -

7.    Donations to Gloria=92s = Crisis Care=20 Centre or the Helen Flavel Foundation. See=20 also =91Charities=92= .

7. DRINKING = =96 It=92s a=20 delight when it=92s done for pleasure, but in the tropics it must also = be done for=20 your safety.

1.    Sammi and Sussi=92s Forum = =93Bar=94 at=20 Legian Beach.

        Also = S&S&S on the=20 southern end of Sanur beach, where you can see the sun rise over Lombok = and see=20 it set over Jimbaran. Look for Nyomans Bar on the beach and claim a bar = stool=20 for the night.

2.    Water, = cool drinks,=20 straws and ice =96

3.     Beers -

4.    Taking = alcohol=20 into Bali =96 Duty = free=20 limit (note that the limit into Indonesia has not been effected by = the=20 recent increased limit back of 2.25 litres when coming back  into=20 Australia.) -

5.     Local = wines and=20 outlets - Imported = wines=20 -

8. VISITING = =96 Some=20 recommended =91hot spots=92.

9. THINGS TO = DO -=20 Some common some exotic.

River Rafting. = There are a=20 couple to choose from, one has far fewer steps up and down to the river = than the=20 others. Bad reports about 'Bali Rafting' including posing as 'Bali = International=20 Rafting' in "05. Bali International Rafting, Tegala-waja Rafting and = Sobek seem=20 more reliable and better equipped. =96 Read a local Newspaper,= the=20 Jakarta Post if you're an 'English only' reader. - Helicopter flights=20 =96 see a Movie =96 = take=20 an ocean = cruise by=20 day or night =96 play at WaterBom = Park (now=20 known as =91Water Park=92) =96 go to the dances at = Batubulan.=20 (There are many others, in almost every village. Use the 'Edit' - 'Find' = feature=20 and enter 'dance' to go from one entry to the next until you find what = you=20 want.) Try the One of the best collection of birds anywhere. Over 1500 = birds=20 covering over 250 species at Taman Burung near Ubud. 40 min by taxi from = Kuta.=20 Look at www.alphalink.c= om.au/~grum/bali/birdpark/=20 .
If you=92re on the western side of the island, that is Jimbaran, = Tuban, Kuta,=20 Legian, Seminyak, Tanah Lot and all the way around to the Java = ferry=20 terminal at Gilimanuk, even in Singaraja and Lovina, you=92ll = see those=20 fabulous, tropical, romantic sunsets of glowing colours across the sea. = No doubt=20 you=92ll have a drink or two in the best of company (yourself at least) = and hope=20 to see the iridescent green cap on top of the sun as the last of it = disappears=20 below the horizon. If you=92re very lucky however, and you=92re staying = on the=20 eastern side (Nusa Dua, Benoa, Sanur, Candi Dasa, Amed), you=92ll be = ideally=20 situated to see the even more romantic and spectacular sunrise. Because = you have=20 to get up before dawn, of course, these are nowhere near as popular or = as=20 commonly appreciated as the sunsets but, in the company of spouse, = friend,=20 lover, or all three, and a bottle of cool champagne, you will always = cherish the=20 memories as you watch Bali come to life.
Other activities, such as = the=20 popular snorkelling<= /A> or diving, = (Again there=20 are many others, in almost every village. Use the 'Edit' - 'Find' = feature and=20 enter your search word to go from one entry to the next until you find = what you=20 want.) are in the District sections. Snorkelling gear can be hired for = Rp20,000=20 per day per person, or for much more if you=92re not good at bargaining. =
If=20 you=92ve ever despaired at the amount of waste plastic flooding Bali and = would=20 like to help in an occasional cleanup look at the web site of the=20 Environmental Education Centre, Bali. (P P L H). http://www.pplhbali.or.id/. =
Play golf =96 if you=92ve a healthy bank = balance. There=20 are some magnificent courses along the coast and in the mountains but = the fees=20 are high. Contact John Clarke at Bali Discount Golf (http://www.golfbali.com/) for the = best=20 advice and prices. There are 2 golf courses on Lombok where the = fees, as in=20 parts of Indonesia outside of Bali, are quite reasonable. Have a look at = www.golfindonesia.com/courses/courselist.php?prov=3Dwest= %20Nusa%20Tengara.=20
If you=92re really crazy you can hire a motor=20 bike, even large 1200cc ones (and up to a Harley if you own one of = these=20 back home). You=92ll need an international licence. PT Ogi Motor, Jl = Bypass Ngurah=20 Rai 27X Tuban ph 766 101 or 766 102.
Kites=20 are a constant feature of the Bali skies. There is a huge international = festival=20 of kites around July each year. Kids (big and small) will be dumbfounded = at the=20 sight.
Visit the new (ish) Monument to the Balinese People=92s=20 Struggle. It sounds a bit communistic but it=92s really a well = presented=20 history of Bali from 1945 to independence. In the Niti Mandala Park, = Renon=20 District, Denpasar.
Take Surfing=20 lessons. Blue Ocean Surf School on Legian Beach by Jayakarta = Hotel/Jl Double 6/ Benny=92s Restaurant etc. About 10 am. E-mail Slim at = baliwaves.com. He will give you current info. Check out www.schoolofsurf.com/= locations.html=20 . An alternative might be Shane Horan=92s School of Surfing on the beach = near=20 Benny=92s Caf=E9, Legian. Your first lesson will be until you can stand = up =96 no=20 matter how long it takes. Very well supervised.
WARNING: Watch the = rips along Kuta-Legian-Seminyak beaches. Tourists = regularly=20 drown here (14 in '05 with 309 logged rescues, 403 drowning in 33 years = shows=20 that some never learn.) and there are other dangerous beaches waiting to = trap=20 those who are a bit careless for only a moment.
Surfers new to the = island=20 should check http://www.baliwaves.com/=20 for locations, conditions and recent reports. Other sites include http://www.surftheearth.com.au/<= /A>.=20 Which has accommodation tips as well.
If you=92re into = Adventure Trekking in pristine jungles, get in touch = with Bali=20 Bluey at www.wonde= rfulbali.com/kutilang/albums/index.htm=20 .
Go to Java, but be a little cautious. Jogya is close = and has=20 a more tolerant reputation than larger centres. See the old palace, the = water=20 garden, art galleries that will take your mind back through centuries. = There are=20 fascinating temples at Prambanan and Borobudur =96 fascinating even if = you think=20 that you=92re =91all templed out=92. There are very ancient ruins = steeped in history=20 on the plateau of Dieng. Pantris beach is the blueprint for all other = tropical=20 beaches. See Mount Merapi. Appreciate the friendliness of the country = peoples,=20 the honesty of the traders and the peaceful, quieter, more relaxing = atmosphere.=20 There is white-water rafting on the Citarik River and more exotic starts = such as=20 off-road adventuring, rafting, jungle trekking, even paintball wars if = you=92re=20 that way inclined.
Bike tours, mainly = downhill thank=20 goodness, are arranged by the Ayung River Rafting Company. There are = three tours=20 to choose from beginning at either the Kintamani volcano rim, from = Batukaru=20 mountain or from Sangeh village through the monkey forest.  In late = '05=20 some concern was expressed about the safety and guidance of Bali = Adventure Tours=20 bike rides.
* Bali Budaya Tours also has a cycling option. Contact = them at bulanindah@dps.centrin.net.= id.=20 Wayan Budiana.
* Some hotels also arrange bike tours through local = villages.=20 Ask at your hotel desk.
* Bike_Baik Bali run bicycle tours which are = almost=20 entirely downhill. An easy and excellent way of seeing the countryside, = villages=20 and villagers close-up. 0361 978 052 or e-mail wayansujana@yahoo.com. = www.balibike.com.=20 Rp350,000.

* Bali Bintang Cycling Tours is similar to = Baik Bali.=20 Part profits go to the local people.
* Sobek, the well known Tour = group can=20 be contacted at http://www.sobekbali.com/ or sales@sobek.co.id.
* Bali Best = Cycling=20 is a fairly new group run by four lads with plenty of experience in = other=20 companies but now on their own to do it better. $ hours from Mt Batur to = the=20 beach south of Gianyar with breakfast and lunch provided. http://www.balicycling.com/ or = Ph +62=20 (361) 075 992 or 0812 3633 753.
* Mida has gained a good reputation = for=20 organising entry to events and places, half day tours and whole = holidays. She is=20 WMW Tours, Jl Tukad Unda No8, Renon - Denpasar. Ph ++ 62 361 744 2956, = e-mail wahyatur@indosat.net.id. =
* A new=20 kid on the block that we heard about in '09 is Celebrity Cycling Tours. = They=20 start from the very edge of the Batur volcano. It starts with a = breakfast before=20 free-wheeling down the slopes from Penlokan village past tea and coffee=20 processors, temples, villages and rice paddies to finish in Ubud for a = sumptuous=20 lunch. '09 costs were Rp350,000 or US$40. Children under 12 were = Rp250.000 or=20 US$30.They pick up in Nusa, Sanur, Kuta and Ubud daily. Ph (62 361) 912 = 7686 or=20 (62) 81 236 247 665. E-mail info@celebritycyclingtour.c= om -=20 http://www.celebritycycling= tour.com/.=20

* C-Bali Bike rides has a tour around Kedisan in the = Kintamani=20 caldera and Lake Batur. Run by Rach(ael?) and Sibran. Not so long as = some of the=20 others but some hills that were very manageable for un-fit cyclists. = Takes in a=20 lot of different local scenery. an overnight stay at the Segara Hotel in = Kedisan=20 (down at lake-side in the caldera) can be part of the package with canoe = trris,=20 hot springs, meals etc. Can be more than just a bike ride if you want it = to be.=20 Check their web site for details - http://c-bali.com/home.html = .
There=20 are Reptile and Bird Parks side by side in Singapadu, a village near = Batubulan.=20 Joint entry tickets are cheaper than two singles. The main feedings are = early in=20 the morning and a secondary one at 11 am. There is a Butterfly Park at = Wanasari,=20 a small village north west of Denpasar and north of Tabanan.
Hot springs are a feature of many = places in Bali,=20 not too surprising considering the volcanic nature of the area. Try = Banyuwedang Natural Hot Spring - Pemuteran, 60 km = west of=20 Singaraja and located partially on the grounds of the Mimpi Resort = Menjangan, http://www= .mimpi.com/mimpi-menjangan-banyuwedang.html,=20 http://www= .balilife.com/mimpimenjangan/activities.htm.=20 Yeh Panes - Penetahan, http://www.indonesi= aphoto.com/article46.html,=20 http:/= /www.baliaga.com/english/tour/e_wst3_hotspring.html.=20 Toya Bungkah Hot Springs - Mt Batur, 8km from Penelokan. A public = bathing spot=20 frequented mostly by Indonesians. Banjar Hot Springs - Banjar Tega,10 km = west of=20 Lovina. There are photos at: http://www.wright-photo.= com/banjar1.htm.=20 = http://baliforfamilies.com/banjar_hot_springs_are_in_the_hi.htm.=20
Hot Springs in=20 Bali:http://members.ld.infoseek.co.jp/k_yokoi/bali.html#Holyhotsprings.You=20 can take a tethered ride in a hot air balloon in Nusa Dua. Called = 'Bali=20 Eye' the rides are about a quarter of an hour for US$15 adult and US$10 = for=20 kidz.
Waterfalls abound in = Bali and if=20 you click 'EDIT' at the top of this screen, select 'Find" in the drop = down menu,=20 type 'waterfall' into the box and click on the 'Find next' button you = will=20 immediately go to the first of many references to waterfalls in this = document.=20 Clicking 'Find next' repeatedly will take you to all of the references, = one by=20 one. You might also like to visit http://micbali.proboards21.com/index.cgi?b= oard=3Dplaces&action=3Ddisplay&thread=3D1371 where you will find more = information.

The Bali Safari & = Marine=20 park has a great following, particularly but not exclusively = amongst=20 kidz. On Jl By Pass Prof Dr Ida Bagus Mantra, Km 19.8, GIANYAR. Ph (+62 = 361) 950=20 000. http://www.balisafarimarine= park.com/.=20

10. INTERNET / = MOBILE=20 PHONES. Including post codes, stamps and direct dialling=20 codes.

11. TOILETS, LOOS = AND=20 DUNNIES ! =96 A =91convenient=92 list for your comfort and to = avoid additional=20 distress.

12. DRIVERS. -=20 Including =96

1.    Taxis - Blue Bird = taxis -=20 public and = hire = transport =96 Fares =96 Hire = =96 Shuttle = Bus =96=20

2.    Tourists= =20 driving =96 Hiring motor = bikes=20 - Tourist police=20 and the threat of corruption -

3.    RECOMMENDED = DRIVERS=20 and the general costs of=20 getting around.

13. TRAVEL TIMES=20 & DISTANCES between common destinations.

13. ACCOMMODAT= ION =96=20 General information lists with some comments if available.=20

For recent reviews of hotels, restaurants, shops etc, with = pictures=20 to make informed choices try Mic=92s Bali =96 http://balimic.tripod.com/ . =

14. RECOMMENDED=20 PLACES  but some of unknown location.

15. BALI = & THE=20 BALINESE IN BRIEF.

A potted=20 description of the origins, history, life style, religion and character = of Bali=20 and its citizens.

 

 

DISTRICT INFORMATION CONTENTS=20 LIST.

These entries include information, covering Shopping, = Eating,=20 Drinking, Visiting, Doing, Drivers, People and Accommodation (both = standard and=20 cheap) for each district.

Generally the latest recommendations are at the end of each = list in=20 the District section but long-standing, out standing and/or regular=20 recommendations tend to move towards the top of each list.

# 1 =96 TUBAN and = KUTA=20 DISTRICT SECTION. =96

Kuta is the centre of the original 'surfer tourist' = industry in Bali.=20 The surrounding district developments that are now attached to Kuta, or = nearly=20 so, are Tuban and Jimbaran Bay which is cut off only by the airport. To = the=20 north are the joining districts of Legian, Seminyak and now Kerobokan = which=20 reaches to within a kilometre or two of the capital city Denpasar. In = the only=20 other direction, towards the east, is Sanur on the opposite shore. =
Most=20 tourists come to Bali, and perhaps reluctantly leave their air = conditioned hotel=20 room and swim-up pool bar, only to shop and there is no doubt that Kuta = caters=20 to that wish. Eating, drinking, shopping, entertainment, relaxing and = bodily=20 pampering are the local industries here, from the beaches to the top = levels of=20 the department stores and supermarkets.

1.    Shopping= -=20 (Leather /=20 Tailors /=20 Silver= / Jewelle= ry /=20 Watches /=20 CDs=20 and software / fishing=20 gear / etc ) =96

2.     Eating= =96 There=20 are over 80 entries here and there are probably another 80 that could be = entered.

3.     Drinking= =96=20

4.     Visiting= =96=20

5.     Doing = =96

6.     People= =96

7.     Accommodation =96 (Standa= rd=20 and Cheap<= /A>).

#=20 2 =96 LEGIAN=20 and SEMINYAK DISTRICT SECTION =96

This section includes recent information on Canggu and Kerobokan, an=20 emerging tourist area north of Seminyak. It has been said that the = further you=20 get away from Kuta the more upmarket lifestyles become and whilst I = would not=20 want to engage in any inter-district rivalries I have to say that = walking north=20 along Jl Raya Kuta - Jl Legian - Jl Seminyak - Jl Basangkasa which = passes Jl=20 Laksmana, (often called 'Oberoi Street' from the grand hotel at the = beach end or=20 'Eat Street' from the new restaurants that are springing up like = mushrooms) and=20 becomes Jl Kerobokan, it seems to me that the shops are a little = classier and=20 the restaurants a little more refined.
Following the terrorist's = bombing of=20 the Sari Club in Kuta there seems to have been a movement of nightlife = to=20 Seminyak.

1.    Shopping - (Leather = / Tailors = /  Pearls / = Clothing / Handcraft= s /=20 CD/Software=20 / Pottery = / pets - etc )=20 =96

2.    Eating = =96 There=20 are over 60 entries here. Jl Laksmana (becoming known locally as 'Eat = Street')=20 in Kerobokan=20 is worth investigating.

3.    Drinking =96=20 Sammi and Sussi=92s =93BaliTravelForum=20 Bar=94.

4.    Visiting =96

5.    Doing - =

6.    Drivers= -

6.    People = =96

7.    Accommodation =96 (Standard=20 and Cheap).

#=20 3 - JIMBARAN=20 BEACH DISTRICT SECTION. =96

Jimbaran Bay has several beaches, Jimbaran Beach is one in = the middle=20 of the bay. Muaya Beach is at the southern end near the Bali = Intercontinental=20 and Four Seasons Hotels. The great divergence of cultures that tourism = has=20 wrought in Bali can be seen by walking the beach from the Four Seasons = Resort at=20 the southern end to the local fish market and boat harbour at the = northern end=20 by the airport runway. It is interesting to see, however, that sunset = hides the=20 culture chasm and all can be seen enjoying the seafood dining on the = beach; the=20 tourists enjoying the spectacular sunsets and frequently ordinary food = and the=20 locals enjoying the easy money that rolls in.

1.    Shopping

2.    Eating = =96

3.    Drinking= =96

4.    Visiting =96

5.    Doing =96 =

6.    Drivers = -

7.    People = =96

8.    Accommodation =96 (Standard=20 and Cheap).

#=20 4 =96 NUSA,=20 BENOA and BUALU DISTRICT SECTION. =96

Nusa Dua means two islands but very few of those who now = call=20 themselves locals can point out the two islands. They are really not = islands at=20 all, unless the tides are exceptionally high, but two lumpy headlands = normally=20 joined to the land by sand bridges. One juts out from the southern end = of the=20 beach at the Melia Bali Hotel and the other from the northern end of the = adjacent Grand Hyatt Bali. There is a story of my = morning=20 visit to the former, part of a long diary of our = 2000holiday.
 The Nusa=20 Dua enclave was planned to avoid the haphazard development that will = forever=20 plague Kuta Beach. The area was chosen because it was virtually a = wasteland (and=20 presumably therefore cheap to purchase) and because there was seen to be = a need=20 to draw tourism away from Kuta in the boom years. Because Kuta had such = a cheap=20 reputation it was thought best not to directly compete with what might = be called=20 the 'surfer tourists' and the concept of 'elite tourism' was formed. = This meant=20 high-paying, mainly Japanese and American tourists, thus attracting the=20 prosperous American hotel chains with their 5*+ accommodations. =
Anything=20 less than sumptuous Balinese involvement was kept out (except for the = very small=20 fishing villages, one between the two headlands and the other just north = of the=20 Nusa Dua Beach Hotel which was due to be overbuilt in 2000 but will = perhaps be=20 saved by the downfall of tourism following the Kuta terrorist bombing. = The=20 nearest thing tourists in Nusa Dua can get to the 'real Bali' is either = the=20 village of Bualu which is within walking distance from the main hotels = and is=20 where many of the hotels' workers rent rooms, or Tanjung Benoa, (the = Benoa=20 Peninsula) just north of the enclave and a $2 taxi ride away. In either = place=20 you can find more typical Asian foods and goods at more typical Asian = prices but=20 this is still a long way from the original 'country Bali'.

1.    Shopping= - in=20 Nusa is expensive but gets considerably cheaper the further away from = the hotels=20 you walk.

2.    Eating = =96 Although=20 are nearly 20 entries here, there are certainly many more in the = district.

3.    Drinking =96

4.    Visiting = =96

5.    Doing =96 =

6.    People = =96

7.    Accommodation =96 (Standard=20 and Cheap).

#=20 5 =96 SANUR, =20 DENPASAR & LEMBONGAN=20 ISLAND DISTRICT SECTIONS. =96 

Sanur was the centre of tourism when the boom really took = off after=20 WW II and the massive Bali Beach Hotel was built with Japanese war = reparation=20 funds. Standing on the beach at the Sindhu Markets and looking north I = always=20 think what a good thing it was that someone recognised the obscenity of = this=20 development and proposed that no future building on the island should be = taller=20 than a coconut palm tree.
Sanur is still quieter than Kuta (a = blessing) and=20 has shopping and eating that is just as good; there is simply not so = much of it=20 in your face.
Denpasar is the capital of the island. It is a shopping = centre=20 but also a business and government centre too.
Lembongan Island and = the other=20 lesser known ones of Penida and Ceningan attract a growing number of = tourists to=20 the relaxed life, the diving (which can be dangerous during flood tides = if=20 you're not prepared for the currents), snorkelling and water sports. = Other=20 attractions are the lifestyles of the locals and the seaweed farming = that seems=20 to sustain their economy.

  1. Shopping= =96=20 Wholesale Watches=20 / Money=20 changers / Leather = / Tailors = / Spectacles=20 / Gold = / VCDs, = CDs,=20 software etc. / Markets = /=20 Curtains & Fab= rics=20 and curtains including Silks / = Fishing=20 Tackle / Camera = Repairs / Perfume = / Ladies=20 shoes - / Freight / Wartel = / Department=20 stores /

  2. Eating = =96 There=20 are over 40 restaurants listed here, mainly in Sanur.

  3. Drinking =96=20

  4. Visiting =96=20

  5. Doing = =96

  6. Drivers -

  7. People = =96

  8. Accommodation =96 (Standard=20 and Cheap=20 and NOT=20 cheap!).

#=20 6 - UBUD = DISTRICT=20 SECTION. =96

Ubud is about 30 kilometres north of the airport and about = a 40=20 minute drive if you don't shop at the shopping mecca called Sukawati on = the way=20 or the more local markets nearby at Guwang. It's a nice day visit from = the south=20 or if you want to stay there are wide selections available in both=20 accommodations and eating establishments.
Ubud is touted as the 'Arts = Centre'=20 of Bali and if this is so then I guess it depends on what you expect = from an=20 Arts Centre. There are a number of galleries, large and small, from the = well=20 known Neka Museum, the Puri Lukisan collection of art objects and = Antonio=20 Blanco's home and fanciful museum/gallery to the small shops up and down = Monkey=20 Forest and Hanoman roads.
Ubud is more a cultural centre to me, = being close=20 to the old temples, palaces and archaeological sites and the  = museum in and=20 along the river valleys and ridges just a few kilometres to the east and = north.

  1. Shopping = -=20 including Markets, = Silver &=20 Jewellery =96 Crafts = =96 Galleries = =96 Tailor = =96 Home = ware shops -=20

  2. Eating=20 =96 There are over 40 choices here.

  3. Drinking = -

  4. Visiting = =96

  5. Doing=20 =96

  6. Drivers = =96

  7. People - =

  8. Accommodation =96 (Standard=20 and Cheap).=20

#=20 7 - BEDUGUL = DISTRICT=20 SECTION. =96

Bedugul is a main = town in the=20 central mountain district about 50 Km north of Kuta, Sanur and Denpasar. = It is=20 where the colonials of years gone by sent the family (and themselves if = they=20 could manage it) to avoid the worst of the hot and humid weather. On the = way up=20 from the south have a brief stop at Pacung to see the remarkable views = from the=20 dining room of the Pacung Indah Hotel (on the right) or the old timber = portion=20 of the Pacung Mountain Resort (opposite on the left side of the road) = that dates=20 to the Dutch era, with its olde world 'inclinator' that will take you = down into=20 the deep valley.

A little further up = is the=20 local market at Baturiti on the left. I don't think you'll see another = quite the=20 same in all of Bali.

Bedugul and = Candikuning are=20 almost joined villages at either end of Lake Beratan (or Bratan as the = locals=20 say). Bedugul is associated with 'the temple in the lake', Pura Ulun = Danau, a=20 shared Buddhist and Hindu temple area, but the temple is actually in=20 Candikuning.

Everyone seems to = remember=20 the flower, fruit, vegetable, nuts and spices market at Bedugul, = particularly=20 when the strawberries are in season, but when they've seen the temple = they often=20 turn around and go back to their hotel in the south without recognising=20 Candikuning. I always think that his is a pity because just a bit = further up the=20 road and around to the left are the now divided Lakes Buyan and = Tamblingan, some=20 wondrous scenery with little roadside picnic tables, a great coffee = 'factory' at=20 a roadside cafe named Ngireng Ngewedang, and the peaceful and serene = falls at=20 Munduk.

  1. Shopping =96=20

  2. Eating = -

  3. Drinking -=20

  4. Visiting -=20

  5. Doing - =

  6. Drivers = -

  7. People = =96

  8. Accommodation =96 (Standard=20 and Cheap).=20

 # 8 =96 LOVINA = and=20 SINGARAJA DISTRICT SECTION. - (Have a look also at the Western Bali = section=20 below.)

Singaraja was=20 known as Buleleng, and is still sometimes referred to in this way by = older=20 Balinese. It is the capital of Buleleng Kabupaten (District), perhaps = the=20 largest of the eight Districts of Bali. Buleleng Kabupaten runs all = across the=20 top of Bali from the west coast to the central north east coast and = southwards=20 almost to the central lakes Tamblingan, Buyan and Bratan. The Kabupaten = were=20 known as Regencies under the Dutch rule and generally coincide with the=20 boundaries of the old Kingdoms. Singaraja was the island capital under = the Dutch=20 rule and the port of entry to the island before the invasion of the = south gave=20 access to harbours at Benoa, Padang Bai and to a lesser extent Kusamba. = Around=20 the old dock area there are still easily recognised signs of those old = times in=20 the streets, the markets, the seamen's temples and the 'house-over-shop' = architecture introduced to the whole island by the Dutch.

Lovina is a quiet=20 resort area with some cheap and some wondrous eateries. The 'black' sand = beaches=20 (grey actually but still sand and not mud) are take off points for early = morning=20 dolphin watching trips and to snorkel the reef. The Bali Sea of these = shores is=20 protected, calm, shallow and warm, encouraging water activities.

  1. Shopping -=20

  2. Eating = =96

  3. Drinking =96=20

  4. Drivers = -

  5. Visiting =96=20

  6. Doing = =96

  7. People = =96

  8. Accommodation =96 (Standard=20 and Cheap)=20 =96 and to the east of Singaraja towards Candi Dasa -

#=20 8A - THE=20 NORTH EAST COAST  DISTRICT SECTION. - (Have a look also = at the=20 Singaraja/Lovina section above.)

This is the area from Lovina/Singaraja = around the=20 top and 'right hand side' of the island towards Tulamben, Amed and Candi = Dasa. I=20 confess that I do not have personal experience of the area but I am = beginning to=20 collect information from other travellers in preparation for  a = future=20 trip.

  1. Shopping= -

  2. Eating=20 =96

  3. Drinking= =96

  4. Drivers = -

  5. Visiting = =96

  6. Doing=20 =96

  7. People = =96

  8. Accommodation =96 (Standa= rd=20 and=20 Cheap).

#=20 9 - CANDI=20 DASA DISTRICT SECTION. - Also includes Amed, Padang = Bai, Amlapura,= Tirtagangg= a,=20 and Tulamben. -=20

Candi Dasa is on the south east coast of Bali, in the = district of=20 Karangasem (capital city Amlapura), at the northern corner of a fairly=20 deep-water port and at the foot of some very steep foothills of Mount = Agung. On=20 the southern corner of the bay is Padang Bai, in a small inlet which is = the port=20 for large ferries, fuel tankers and cargo ships that ply the routes to = Lombok,=20 Nusa Penida and other Indonesian island ports to the north and east. It = is also=20 the site of a small fishing village that caters to the surfing tourists = and a=20 few mid-range people who come to soak of the tranquil beauty of it's = clear=20 turquoise waters.
If you are taking a ferry at Padang Bai do not let = go of=20 your cases when you leave the transit bus or they will be picked up and = carried=20 onto the ferry for you at an exorbitant fee by 'porters' who are also = stand-over=20 merchants.
Candi Dasa is not a lively place, certainly it will never = threaten=20 the liveliness of Kuta or the night life of Seminyak, but for relaxation = and a=20 range of sights and different locations it is an admirable base. The = eroded=20 beach that fell to the need for lime to be added to building cement is = slowly=20 returning under the influence of the groynes and breakwaters (that may = well have=20 been built using lime concrete from some other reef) and within their = sheltered=20 enclosure there is some easy if not spectacular snorkelling to be = had.
Within=20 an easy days drive is Tenganan, the home of the original Balinese who = have=20 resisted the changes to the pure form of Hinduism that originated from = India via=20 Java. To the north, over the lower slopes of Mount Agung and through the = brilliant greens of the Bugbug rice valleys is the district capital of = Amlapura.=20 Once known as Karangasem the name was changed to hide the town from the = demons=20 that made Mt Agung erupt in 1963, blocking the roads and isolating the = city. A=20 visit to the market and surrounding shops here is really a step into a = view of=20 Balinese life no longer found around the southern tourist areas. =
From=20 Amlapura there is a circular route which can be travelled in either = direction=20 and which will take you past the Rajah's Water Palace at Tirtagganga = ("water of=20 the Ganges'), the spectacular rice terraces around the village of Abang, = through=20 Amed and Bunutan to the spectacular coastal views from  Kusambi = (not=20 Kusamba which is a beach port between Candi Dasa and Sanur), to Seraya = and the=20 Floating Palace at Puri Taman Ujong  being restored in '03. It was = built by=20 the last King of Karangasem, Anak Agung Anglura (whose father wanted him = to=20 always be first on the roll at school), and the same Rajah who had = Tirtagganga=20 constructed. From here the road returns to Amlapura.

  1. Shopping= -=20

  2. Eating = =96

  3. Drinking= -=20

  4. Drivers = -

  5. Visiting= =96=20

  6. Doing = =96

  7. People = =96

  8. Accommodation =96 (Standard=20 and Cheap).=20 Our experiences at Amed suggest that there is no cheap accommodation = if you=20 want a few luxuries more than the 2* places will offer. =20

# 10 = =96 WESTERN = BALI=20 SECTION.  

It=92s at most 3 hours from Kuta to Gilimanuk in the far = west, with not=20 a lot to see along the way if you believe the maps and a lot of the = travel=20 books, unless you happen to be in Negara when the bull races are on = between=20 August to October. But take the trip and see for yourself, a different = Bali,=20 dryer, more open with kilometres of straight, black sand surfing and = sheltered=20 swimming beaches. It's a place that the surfing crowd have kept to = themselves=20 for too long. Have a look at some pictures from our last Negara trip, one in = '04 and=20 others to the orphanage in '05.

The narrow, flat coastal strip of land between the = mountains of the=20 Barat National Park inland and the sea always reminds me of our home in = Adelaide=20 but the flatter rice and vegetable fields, the coconut groves and the = banana=20 plantations always say 'Bali'.

From Gilimanuk along the north coast to Lovina is another = leisurely 3=20 hours with a even more to see and do along the way.

It's really a shame that more tourists don't venture out = this far,=20 but then again the area would lose many of it's charms and it's easy = living if=20 they did.

  1. Shopping= -

  2. Eating = =96

  3. Drinking= -

  4. Drivers = -

  5. Visiting= =96

  6. Doing = =96

  7. People = -

  8. Accommodation =96 (Standard=20 and Cheap).=20

# 11 - = LOMBOK DISTRICT=20 SECTION. =96 How will you get = there?=20

Lombok is a frustrating mixture of, and differences to, = Bali. Without=20 doubt it is another in the chain of small, equatorial, volcanic islands = (Gunung=20 Rinjani) in the line between Java and Irian Jaya/Papua New Guinea. = Without doubt=20 in its history it has been influenced by cultural and religious events = on Bali=20 as in the past it has ruled over, and been ruled by, parts of that = island=20 neighbour. Equally without doubt tourists to Lombok can easily feel that = they=20 are in a time warp of Bali 20 years previous. At the same time there are = differences that cannot be ignored for long in this enigmatic place.

Lombok has a majority Muslin religion, adhering closely to = the=20 original tenets of that faith. Here the peaceful Hindus are a minority = but I=20 can't help feeling that, perhaps some young hot-heads aside, the fire of = Lombok's Islam has been tempered by the passive nature of Balinese = influence.=20 Village life, arts and crafts (particularly weaving and pottery) and = family are=20 all important features of life and culture, as in Bali. The 'native' = inhabitants=20 are the Sasaks.
The capital is Mataram, in about the centre of the = western=20 side with the domestic airport nearby. Further north is the main tourist = centre=20 around Sengiggi and further north again are 'the gilis', three offshore = islands=20 which are also a tourist focus. The sea port is at the port of Lembar on = the=20 south west coast, quite a drive to Mataram and even further to = Sengiggi.

  1. Shopping - Pearls =96=20

  2. Eating = =96

  3. Drinking -=20

  4. Drivers = -

  5. Visiting =96=20

  6. Doing = =96

  7. People = -

  8. Accommodation =96 (Standard=20 and Cheap). =20

 

GENERAL INFORMATION =96 Part=20 2.

 

CONTACTS AND=20 INFORMATION =96

Bali is The Island of the Gods, The = Island=20 of Smiles, Paradise Island, and many other wonderful, laudable things = =96 but it=20 is also a =91third world=92 country and if something goes wrong and you = need help=20 then you need to know where to go.
It=92s been said that some of the = following=20 information might be better placed at the end of this file where it=92s = not so =91in=20 your face=92, but I have come to the conclusion that that=92s where it = will not be=20 seen and therefore it might as well not be in the file at all.
It=92s = here=20 where you can find it in case you need it, it=92s not here to put you = off=20 travelling to Bali, which is probably safer than travelling in many = =91first=20 world=92 countries. Be cautious as you would normally be =96 but don=92t = spoil your=20 holiday by unnecessary worry.
If you want to check on the latest = information=20 about shots recommended before undertaking travel in Bali (or elsewhere) = log=20 onto http://www.tmvc.com.au/ in = Oz. Other=20 countries will doubtless have similar sites.

  1. If you get sick your hotel will = call a=20 reputable doctor to come and see you.
    Don=92t delay and risk = ruining your=20 holiday. It might cost you over A$100 but you=92ve got insurance =96 = use it and=20 save your $1000=92s holiday.

  2. PHONE=20 NUMBERS =96
    * Police 110
    * Fire = 113
    * Ambulance=20 118
    * Search & Rescue 51 111
    * Hospitals, Dentists, Blood = Service=20 and other professional services =96 see the following lists. Don't = hesitate to=20 get your hotel to call a local doctor for mini emergencies like cuts , = vomiting, Bali Belly etc. They are responsive, generally western = trained and=20 very competent in treating tourist problems.
    * If you=92re overseas = and want=20 to find out if your risk situation has changed call the Australian = Consular=20 Emergency Service for current information on =91+=92 61 26 261 3305. = From=20 Indonesia (Bali) the =91+=92 is either 001 801 (via Indosat) or 008 = 801 (via=20 SatelIndo). The Telephone Codes pages in the back (usually) of your = local=20 phone book will give you the codes for other = countries.    =20

  3. Operator Assisted = calls within=20 Indonesia (which includes Bali of course) Ph 100 -
    - International = Ph=20 106.
    Directory Information for Bali - Ph 108 or for Indonesia as a = whole Ph=20 106.

  4. Emergency numbers = to home =96=20
    *** Australian Consulate in Canberra (Australia) if you've got = real=20 problems; - 001 61 1300 555 135. If you're on a mobile use a + instead = of the=20 001 at the start. Available 24 hours a day. An alternative number is = +61 2 626=20 13305.
    * Visa Aust 1800 621 199;  Visa International 1800 450=20 346;  Lost Travellers Cheques 1800 127 477;  Master Card = Aust (02)=20 9466 3700;  Master Card International 1800 120 113;  ANZ = Freecall=20 1800 033 844;  BankWest 131 718;  CitiBank 132 484; =20 Commonwealth Bank 132 221;   National Bank 132 265;  St = George=20 Bank 1800 028 208;  Westpac Bank 1800 2300 144;  BankCard = Aust (02)=20 9281 6633;  Medicare Aust 132 001;  CentreLink Fraud line = 137=20 230;  Seniors Card Aust 1300 364 758;  Passport enquiries = 131=20 232.

  5. CBA Aust bank in Jl Teuku = Umar in=20 Denpasar. Transaction fees only $1.50.

  6. **** There is a growing market for tourist cosmetic = procedures=20 in Bali. Be aware that most Ex-pats in Bali also travel overseas (to=20 Australia, Bangkok or Singapore for surgical and dental procedures!!!! = "In=20 Bali disasters are the rule" - success the exception.
    Bali International Medical Centre. Medical = and=20 dental. On the airport By Pass road opposite Matahari Tuban Plaza in = Tuban=20 (not Kuta) and in mid-'05 moving a little further down the street to = 100X Jl=20 Ngurah Rai, Tuban. Ph 228 996 or 761 263. Only 5 mins by taxi from = Kuta BIMC=20 employs expatriate western staff from around the world. Only local = doctors are=20 allowed to practise in Indonesia. BIMC has full emergency/ambulance = &=20 diagnostic equipment, radiology department and = on-line=20 medical consultation services via video conferencing. International = Travel=20 Insurance policies accept BIMC. http://www.bimcbali.com/=20 . There=20 was some criticism of BIMC early in '06 - that they required payment = in-hand=20 before a patient would even be seen by a doctor (Aus$250 not always = quickly=20 available for stretched tourists towards the end of their holiday) and = their=20 final costs seemed excessive compared with other hospitals although = covered by=20 good insurance eventually.

  7. International SOS Medika Klinik Bali, = (764 515 or=20 755 768), Jl By Pass Ngurah Rai 24X, KUTA. Almost directly across from = BIMC=20 (see above). Ph 764 556. The 24 hour alarm centre, Ph 756=20 768. Global HQ is in Singapore. They have a branch in Sydney = (Aust) at 4=20 Martin Place, Ph 9372 2400.

  8. Merdeka Medical Centre (MMC), Jl = Merdeka, /2 Renon,=20 Denpasar. 24-hour clinic and chemist. A number of specialists, = laboratory,=20 x-ray equipment.

  9. The International = Tourist=20 Medical Services has facilities in Bali at No 363 Jl Legian, Kuta, in = the Si=20 Doi Shopping Area next to the ASR Surf Shop. Dr Harry Wirawan is in = charge and=20 the phone number is +62 (361) 761 443 or in Ubud, +62 (361) 975 814. = Their=20 emergency number is 081 138 0691. E-mail itmbali@dps.centrin.net.id= .=20

  10. Rumah Sakit = Dharma Husada=20 (Hospital) Jl Panglima Sudirman No 50 Denpasar. Ph 227 560. =

  11. Rumah Sakit Umum = Sanglah=20 (Hospital) Jl Diponegoro, Denpasar. Ph 227 911.

  12. Bali Sanglah General Hospital (RSUP = Sanglah) began=20 a CT Scan facility mid 2002.

  13. Kuta Clinic, Jl = Raya Kuta 100X,=20 Kuta. Ph 753 268.

  14. Nusa Dua Clinic. = Jl; Pratama No=20 18A Nusa Dua. Ph 771 324.

  15. Ubud Clinic =96 (24 hour service) Jl = Raya Ubud No 36,=20 Camphuan. 974 911.

  16. Padma Clinic. On Padma = Utara near Le=20 Monde restaurant or the entrance to the Besakih Hotel- often with an = ambulance=20 parked nearby.

  17. In '09 we found Kasih Ibu, = an=20 International Private Hospital with speedy service at Jl Teuku Umar = 120,=20 Denpasar, Bali. It seems to provide a service mainly for locals but I = wouldn't=20 hesitate to go there if I got run over in the vicinity as a couple of = NZ=20 bikers did while we were there. A two-shot X-ray at Rp70.000 was = cheaper than=20 a local Pizza Hut offering at Rp79.000. Apotic service for tablets is = upstairs=20 and delivered to our friends before the bill was paid. http://www.kasihibuhospital.com= /.=20

  18. No list of this sort would = be complete=20 without mention of the John Fawcett Foundation in Sanur. The = Foundation, with=20 the assistance of the Australian Government (Lordy, I like to see my = taxes=20 being used in this way) provides FREE, yes, check it again, FREE = cataract and=20 eye surgery for poor locals with prescription glasses at the end of = the=20 process. In by 9, out by 5 with a friend to take them home. Thousands = of=20 procedures have been performed from this centre for people all over = Indonesia.=20 They also arrange TB checks and treatment, facial surgery, cleft = palate and=20 hernia repair as well as other emergency surgery for locals, with = transfer to=20 Oz if needed. Jl Pengembak 16, Sanur. Ph+62 361 270 812, http://www.balieye.org/ . = Donations can be=20 made directly to Bank Lippo in Bali. They also run daily licensed = tours to=20 help defray costs and their prices seem very competitive. For example = a 10=20 hour Karangasem tour to East Bali takes in the beach salt works at = Kusamba,=20 the Temple and Bat Cave, Tenganan village, the King's Palace at Ujong, = the=20 Water Palace at Tirtagangga, Putung village valley and lunch at Candi = Dasa all=20 for US$40pp for a minimum of two people. There are eight other full = day tours=20 and six half-day tours from US$28pp. Check out = ayujayatours.com.

  19. International Red = Cross; Ph 26=20 465.

  20. Bali Blood = Bank. Run by Red=20 Cross, =91safe, modern, skilful and efficient=92 says an Aussie = nurse. Severe=20 shortages of negative blood as Indonesians are virtually all positive. = Help=20 yourself and other tourists.  DONATE! Ph 227224 or 247 739 in=20 Bali. Mobile service comes to you!
    Be a show-off =96 donate = by the=20 pool.
    There is a blood transfusion service unit in Denpasar (ph = 227 224)=20 or call Freddy Subianto of Rotary if you have language difficulties = =96 daytime=20 751 687 or 765 884 or night time at the Kura Kura Bar & Grill in = Seminyak,=20 730 445.  They=92ll pick up a group of you from your hotel in a = mini=20 ambulance! Now there=92s something to talk about.
    Supported by = Bali=20 Rotary clubs. Only sterile, disposable needles are used. Australian = health=20 professionals who have investigated and used the service praise it = highly.=20

  21. Doctor =96 Dr Coney, GP, Jl Bypass = Sanur. 288=20 128.
               - = Dr=20 Conny Pangkahila, Jl Bypass Ngurah Rai 25X, Sanur, near Ritra Cargo=20 depot.
               = - Dr AA=20 Made Djelantik, Jl Hayam Waruk Denpasar.    =20
               - in = Ubud=20 there is a recommended doctor in Monkey Forest Road, on the Ubud = Village Hotel=20 side of the street, upstairs.=20
               - Dr = Ari=20 Sudhewa, Mob 08 123 954 567 or 081 3295 4567. Office ph 0361 225 230, = fax 0361=20 728 955, e-mail ari_medicaldoctor@yahoo.com is a=20 friendly young man, well trained in western medicine as well as = eastern=20 alternatives, who cares for the locals beyond just their medical = needs. We=20 have involved him twice to give advice and treatment to local friends = who=20 simply could not afford it themselves. He diagnoses and will arrange=20 specialist services if necessary. We found the costs to be incredibly = cheap=20 when arrangements were made this way.  We suspect that he did not = charge=20 us for his own services as he was treating fellow Balinese. We highly=20 recommend him. His office is in Sanur but we have found that he will = come to a=20 patient=20 = anywhere.
              =  =20 - Dr Tjokorda Gede Subiamia, an older gentleman (as the title might = suggest)=20 has a clinic and nurse service at his home in Legian. Jl Gunung Guntur = Gang xx=20 No16. Kelod Padang Sambian (80117) Kec, Denpasar Barat. Ph 0811 392 = 071 or=20 0812 3866 772. Western trained and two children also in medical = practise keep=20 him up to=20 = date.
              &nbs= p; -=20 There is a afternoon doctor's clinic at the Kartika Plaza hotel, = serviced by=20 staff from Sangala Hospital in=20 = Denpasar.
              =  =20 - One recommended by well known ex-pats is Dr Ristie Darwaman on Jl = Dewi Sri,=20 No45, Kuta; Ph(0361) 761 929 or Mob 0361 7429=20 = 923.
               = ; -=20 Dr Harry Wirawan S, Kuta Clinic, (0361) 761 443 or (0361) 751=20 981.

  22. Dentist =96 = Ritjie Rihartinah, Jl=20 Pratama No 81, Nusa Dua. 771 324. 
    ** Also Dr Sucipto, near = the Bali=20 Bank in Jl Diponogoro, 150 A32/34, Denpasar. Ph 222 541. Very good = dentist=20 with up-to-date equipment and quite cheap but in a very scruffy = looking=20 shopping area. Appointments required and work guaranteed! http://www.drsucipto.com/. = E-mail sucipito-angga@yahoo.com. = Make sure=20 that you do have an appointment or you will probably be shuffled of = onto a=20 lesser person if some '05 reports are accurate. Some of the 'lesser = persons'=20 reportedly created havoc with at least some straightforward repair = work in=20 early '06. In '07 there were more reports that were not complimentary = also!!!=20 Even a claim that the receptionist worked on teeth! and the original = quote was=20 greatly exceeded.
    ** Also Bali 911 Dental Clinic in the Bali Mall = Galeria,=20 Lantai Dasar No1A/08.  It=92s a couple of doors away from the = BIMC, see=20 note 3 above. This clinic is open from noon to 9 pm. No appointment is = required. English is spoken - clearly. The equipment is as you would = expect to=20 find in the best practice in your home town, in fact the system of = taking=20 x-rays and showing them instantly on a screen next to the chair is = much better=20 than my dentist at home. The place is spotlessly clean and there is a = gentle=20 and caring attitude from all the staff. In =9207 the dentist here was = Rudyard=20 (Rudi) Salindeho. (0361) 766 255 or 744 9911. Mall Bali Galeria near = Planet=20 Hollywood. (A home quote of  Aus$2554 for one traveller was about = Aus$600=20 at this clinic - '05.) In '07 we took our beach friend Monica to Rudy = for=20 assessment and then treatment. (Monica is 32 years old, a mother of = 3 and=20 had never been through a dentist's door in all her life. The = required=20 work was general cleaning and one filling !!!) The reason we took = her was=20 that her teeth were far too large for her tiny mouth. They were = overlapping=20 and growing at odd angles. This had embarrassed her all her life to = the extent=20 that she rarely smiled and covered her mouth with a hand when she = laughed. On=20 the first visit her teeth were cleaned, a filling done and one tooth=20 extracted. Cost Rp1.3 million or about Aus$170. The second visit a = week later=20 was for 3 extractions to make space for the displaced teeth to move = into over=20 time. Cost Rp1 million or Aus$120 - total less that $300 to give her a = new=20 outlook on life. We were all overjoyed and wait anxiously for the free = 3 month=20 report of progress, hoping that a small brace will not be required. = You too=20 can make a huge difference to someone's life in Bali for a relatively = small=20 cost. Do it !!       http://www.balitra= velforum.com/msg/32173.html=20 Rudi is recommended by BIMC. http://www.balidentalclinic.com= /=20 or look for their advertisement in the Bali Yellow Pages. The 911 = Dental=20 Clinik is also recommended for urgent work and maintenance such as a = cut and=20 polish. Often appointments are not needed for small jobs. Equipment = and=20 practices are of international standard. In '09 I had a filling = replaced by=20 his assistant dentist, Dr Dewi Ismaya. My home dentist checked the = work and=20 said it required no further attention. Aus$40.
    ** Also Dr Retno = (female)=20 opposite McDonalds on the By Pass, next to the bread shop on the = corner.=20 Highly recommended by the Australian Consulate and not expensive by = overseas=20 standards, She will refer you for extractions. Very polite with good = English=20 and a sense of humour.
    **
    ** I Wayan Parwata was recommended = for=20 emergency work in March '06. Ph 62 361 222 541 or 081 338 415 = 724.
    ** A new=20 dental site on the net reflects the growth nature of the dental = treatment=20 business in Bali; http://www.ivodent.com/.
    ** = In the=20 Tuban area look for Dr Atmaja studied and worked in the US for 10 = years before=20 returning to Bali to practise. Very good and very accommodating in an=20 emergency - and aren't they all good when you've got a tooth ache? = Modern=20 equipment. 6 fillings plus clean and de-scale, 1.5 hours, = Rp210,000,000 or=20 about Aus$300. Claim on your travel insurance. You do have travel = insurance=20 don't you???? Further good reports from satisfied customers in '07. Jl = Dukuh=20 Indah No55 Kerobokan/Umalas near the stables. Ph 0361 847 5179. Open = Mon to=20 Fri and Sat by appointment. Any good driver will find it for = you.
    ** Dr=20 Indra Guizot. Jl Pattimura 19 Denpasar. Ph (0361) 222 445 249 = 749. =20 e-mail iguizot@indosat.net.id.=20 Highly recommended in '07. Fixed up work done and botched by another = popular=20 dentist. Very straightforward in describing your = problems.

  23. Chiropractor =96 Dr=20 J Taylor, Jl Kajeng No35, Ubud. 974=20 = 393.
               = ;        =20 - Tony Dawson =96 western trained. Kuta Poleng Centre near Dijon deli = at the=20 roundabout=20 = Sanur-Kuta.
             &nbs= p;         =20 - Don=92t overlook the locals. (Not the beach massagers but the = village=20 practitioners.) Some are amazing with skills developed over years of=20 experience.=20 =
               &nb= sp;       =20 - In the Kuta Galeria (near Alta Moda and Ace Hardware is Global=20 Chiropractise. Google 'globalchiro.net'.

  24. Paediatrician =96 Dr Sugita, Jl = Tuban, Kuta. 751=20 301.=20

  25. Eye=20 Clinic =96 John Fawcett =96 Jl=20 Pengembak No 14 Banjar Blanjong Sanur. Also collects your old glasses = for=20 treatment of locals who cannot afford others. rmcc@dps.mega.net.id . Ph = (0361) 287=20 707 or 270 812.  John Fawcett Foundation and = Yayasan=20 Kemanusiian, Indonesia. http://www.balieye.org/.=20

  26. Midwife =96 Kim (also works at BIMC = on Tuesdays =96=20 see above) 0811 386 256 or (0361) 289 913. balikim@hotmail.com .The sign = =91BIDAN=94=20 indicates the midwifes clinic. There is a maternity Hospital, Kasih = Ibu, near=20 Denpasar. Local drivers know how to get there. There is also a = Birthing Clinic=20 next to the orphanage in the village of Palasari in West=20 Bali.=20 http://gentlebirthsbali.org/.

  27. Nurse. Australian = trained. Kim P.=20 0811 386 256 for advice if all else fails. E-mail info@chcbali.com or see=20 www.chcbali.com.

  28. Wheelchairs in Bali are not = something you=20 necessarily think about when you start your holiday but, on occasion, = they are=20 needed. =91Smudge, Chris and Ken=92 with the help of some Aussies have = some which=20 can be borrowed and all they ask is a donation to Southern Cross Bali=20 Association so that good works can continue. If you=92re in need = contact=20 Smudge@balivision.com. or call at nearby Ricky's Bar in = Jl=20 Padma Utara in Legian, often frequented by Smudge and a place where = you can=20 safely leave donations.
    Bali Access Travel also have 'chairs for = hire -=20 Rp60,000/day (Au$6) over 3 weeks and a refundable security deposit of=20 Rp1,000,000, About Au$125. E-mail david@accesstravel.com. =
    In recent=20 times many of the classier hotels, perhaps mindful of the finer points = of the=20 law and litigation, have chairs and crutches available for guests who = injure=20 themselves on the property. There are advisory sites on the net, http://www.wheelyaccessible.c= o.uk/=20 and http://www.baliaccesstravel.com= /=20 and recently Bali Discovery tours has opened a web site to assist = disabled=20 travellers. I'm told that it will remain open and be regularly updated = with=20 any relevant information. Go to http://= www.balidiscovery.com/special_needs_travelers.asp=20 .
    Access to restaurants is often a problem and a phone call or = preliminary=20 visit is advisable, Similarly access to shops can frequently be=20 impossible.
    *** Wheelchair-friendly hotels and restaurants that I = have=20 heard about include;
    - the Balihai Resort and Spa in Tuban where = there are=20 ramps and a lift. (Closed '07. Future uncertain, supposed to re-open = early=20 '09.)
    - the Ramada Bintang also in Tuban. There is a disabled room = which is=20 excellent with good shower, hand basin etc etc. The pool was a little=20 difficult but certainly not impossible.
    - the Dynasty, also in = Tuban, has a=20 disabled-friendly room which is very good. The lift was not so good = being just=20 a bit too small. The front ramp up to the hotel lobby required 2 = strong men to=20 push the chair. The dining room and tables were friendly and the pool = had just=20 a few shallow steps to negotiate. The staff were always happy to = help.
    -=20 Hotel Sanur Beach, the Segara Village in Sanur, the Sanur Paradise = Plaza, the=20 Inna Bali Beach Hotel (Sanur), the Bali Hyatt.
    - The Legian Beach = Hotel and=20 the Bali Padma Hotel in Legian.
    - The=20 Nusa Dua Beach Hotel, the Westin Resort, Bali Aga, Grand Hyatt, Nikko = Bali=20 Resort and Bali Hilton, all in Nusa Dua, a very upmarket area for=20 resorts.
    - In Jimbaran Bay the Ritz Carlton, Bali Cliff and Bali=20 Intercontinental are all 'chair friendly.
    - Le Meridien Nirwana has = 3=20 special rooms and graded pathways around the resort.
    - The Sol = Lovina has=20 reasonably easy access but no special rooms or fittings.
    -  = The=20 Kartika Plaza is generally handicapped accessible throughout but = significantly=20 so is the pool, often overlooked at other places.
    -  The beach = path at=20 Sanur is great for 'chair users and many of the restaurants along the = path are=20 accessible and some even have accessible toilets.
    -   
    -  Gophers = can be=20 hired at Bali Mobility, http://www.balimobility.com/. = Ask for=20 Cookie when you call. 'chair friendly vehicles also available.
    - In = Lombok,=20 Bali's neighbouring island, the Holiday Inn Resort and the Sheraton = Sengiggi=20 are both 'chair friendly in the rooms and in the = gardens.

    *** Be aware that the footpaths in = Bali=20 are NOT wheelchair friendly with many steep changes in level. Most = wheelchairs=20 I have seen were being used on the edges of the roads and were getting = very=20 sympathetic reactions from passing drivers which will not surprise any = Bali-phile. Local restaurants outside of these hotels may not always = be 'chair=20 friendly.
    Deep Tissue Therapy = massage.=20 3 qualified, blind men work at the Bumi Ayu Bungalows in Sanur.  = Ph 289=20 101.=20

  29. CONSULATES:
    Australia, Canada = & New=20 Zealand. Jl Prof Yamin No 4, Renon, Denpasar. Ph (62-361) 235 092, Fax = (62-361) 231 990. E-Mail     ausconbali@denpasar.wasantara.net.id . Aussies=20 who can=92t go on holidays without taking their sports baggage with = them should=20 check with www.homesick,com.au/index.= html=20 for all the latest info.
    British =96 Jl Mertassi N0 2 Sanur. Ph 235 = 092.
    Dutch =96 Jl H R Resuna Said Kav, S-3, 12950 Kuningan, = Jakarta. Ph (021)=20 525 1515.
    French =96 Bypass Road No 35X, Sanur. 285 485.
    German = =96 Jl=20 Pantai Karang No 17 Sanur. 288 535.
    Japan =96 Jl Raya Puputan, = Renon. 227=20 628.
    Swiss & Austria =96 John P Zurcher, Komplex Istana = Galleria, Blok=20 Valet No 12, Jl Patih Jelantik, Kuta. Ph (+62-(0)0361 - 751 735, Fax=20 +62-(0)361 =96 754-457..
    Sweden & Finland =96 Jl Segara Ayu, = Sanur. 288=20 407.
    USA =96 Jl Hayam Waruk No 188, Denpasar. 233 = 605.     =

  30. Credit card = matters - American=20 Express; Grand Bali Beach Hotel, Sanur, Ph 288 511, Extension = 111.
    -=20 Mastercard; Bank Central Asia, Jl Cockroaminoto, Denpasar. Ph 222 = 652.
    -=20 Visa; Bank Duta, Jl Hayam Wuruk 165, Denpasar. Ph 226 578.

  31. Avoid Wayan and Melody Fullmoon if = you=92re after=20 business advice or assistance.

  32. LAWYER =96 Peter = Johnson, LL.B.=20 Called a =91Legal Consultant=92 in Bali. Australian married to = Balinese. Ph 759=20 722, Mobile 081 2380 2550. E-mail johnsonp@denpasar.wasa= ntara.net.id.=20

  33. NOTARIES - = PROPERTY PURCHASE.=20 Notaries are not quite the same as lawyers but are authorised by the=20 Indonesian government to legalise a range of official documents and = papers.=20 For foreign recognition of a Notary=92s verification the notary must = hold=20 accreditation from the foreign country. A particular level of Notary, = known as=20 a =91PPAT=92 must be used for property matters. = Foreigners can own=20 building structures in Indonesia but may only lease land, either short = or long=20 term - up to 50 years is possible. Kurnia at the Bali Immigration and = Advisory=20 Service in Jl Batu Belig in Seminyak is a Notary. There are many with=20 street-front shops who are reliable but for O/S travellers finding one = with=20 your language skills might be a problem. One recommended twice in '05 = and=20 again in '06, with good English and an honest reputation, is Made = Puryatama,=20 home ph (0361) 422 948, office ph (+) 226 782, fax (+) 232 620. He is = also=20 recognised by the Italian Trade Commission.
    SCAMS:=20 There are almost as many house, land property and business share scams = in Bali=20 as there are money scams. Non-Indonesians can not own land or property = in=20 Bali. It must be held in the name of a local and that leaves the = foreigner at=20 the mercy of lawyers and courts. Not a bright prospect in this = country. Land=20 can be leased but the longest period (and very rare) is 50 years. At = the end=20 of the lease you have neither the land nor any improvements you have = put on=20 it, eg a house. Similarly your position is risky if you want to buy = shares in=20 a Bali business (which might or might not involve property). It can be = very=20 difficult to find out if the person offering you a share is really the = owner,=20 and great faith can not be put in any official-looking documents you = might be=20 shown. At least get the services of a recommended notary and/or lawyer = as=20 noted above, but be sure that they are recommended as an INDEPENDENT = person in=20 the possible transaction, certainly not one recommended by the seller. =
    A=20 useful contact in Bali if you're thinking of business opportunities is = 'Dadvet' at dowdvet@aol.com. He = says he=20 has learnt of all the pitfalls the hard way and is willing to share = his=20 experiences.

  34. Local banks.=20 The locals who are shopkeepers, beach sellers, drivers and hotel = workers seem=20 to prefer to use the Desa (district) banks when times are good. One of = these=20 that seems very popular with our friends is Lembaga Pekreditan Desa, = Desa Adat=20 Kuta at Jl Singosari No 64, Kuta, not far from the Kuta markets. In = 2007 their=20 holdings were over 11 billion rupiah (if I read their brochure = correctly) an=20 improvement of over 7% on the previous year. The preference seems to = be=20 related to the activities of the banks in local projects which are = seen and=20 appreciated, unlike the works of the larger banks which are seen as = just=20 another government collection agency.

  35. VETS =96 Dr Dharma. = Used by Bali=20 Society for the Protection of Animals. Jl Raya Sesetan, 338 = Pesanggaran,=20 Denpasar. Ph/fax 726 856.
    Dr Listriani. Has a foundation to care = for=20 street animals. Very caring, compassionate. She also makes house calls = in=20 Bali. Ph 081 239 03756 and 264067.
    * Also Dr Made Restiati at = (0361) 7442=20 430.

  36. Airline = contact numbers=20 and office addresses as well as timetables at Ngurah Rai airport in = Bali can=20 be found at www.bali-thepages.co= m/airlines.shtml=20 . Garuda have moved their office in Bali. It is now in the Kuta = Paradiso=20 Hotel, Ph (62-361) 751 179. You can go there and get a seat allocation = for=20 your return trip if you want to.
    Pacific Blue (Virgin) has an = office on the=20 By Pass road in Kuta. You do not have to confirm your return flights = but it is=20 a good idea to check the departure time for any changes. Go to the = Virgin=20 'Guest Contact Centre' on the web.

  37. =91Bali = Belly=92 is a pain=20 in the - - - -, for at least 24 hours.
    There are many recommended = remedies=20 but its best not to get it in the first place. Personal hygiene needs to be watched more carefully than at = home,=20 particularly hand washing. You=92ll know that you=92ve got it about = 3-4 hours=20 after you get it =96 the bug that is. You might not want to believe it = at first=20 but a couple of hours later there=92ll be no denying it.
    DO=20 NOT DRINK THE WATER FROM THE TAPS!
    Be especially careful of = this when=20 your guard is down =96 in your hotel shower and when cleaning your=20 teeth.    =20 If=20 you have trouble remembering that you must not rinse your mouth with = the tap=20 water in Bali, tie a handkerchief or a red ribbon around the tap. For = children=20 practise at home for a week or so before you leave.=20 Keep bottled water in your bathroom at all times. Purchase your own if = you are=20 in a cheaper hotel that does not supply it. You must however drink = adequate=20 water or you will dangerously dehydrate in the tropical climate. Safe, = bottled=20 water is cheap and readily available virtually all over the island. = You know=20 you=92re on a good thing when you see the locals doing it!  Guys = (and=20 Gals?) if you use a blade razor to shave do not rinse it under the = tap. Rinse=20 it in bottled water also or you might break out in a rash that is not = nice in=20 sensitive areas.
    Wash your hands = after=20 visiting the toilet or handling money particularly. See =91HEALTH = PROTECTION=92=20 below.
    Do not lick your fingers or bite your nails!
    Don=92t = drink using=20 straws as they are washed and re-used in some places.
    Don=92t buy = bottled=20 drinks that are kept cool in ice/water slurry cold chests. Purchase = only from=20 refrigerated cabinets.
    Ice in the tourist areas is made under = government=20 control and should be safe in drinks.
    The time from infection to = symptoms=20 varies from less than a day to 2 weeks and the problem is contagious=20 throughout the period that the organism exists in the gut and is being = passed.=20 Warning to Mum's and Dad's - Take care not to catch it from the kids = (or a=20 partner). For the full details go to http://www.aafp.org/af= p/990700ap/119.html.=20
    Imodium is a common clinical remedy (A$2.00 app; take 2 tablets = straight=20 away and 1 next morning).
    Some say this is only a =91stop gap=92 = (is that a=20 good choice of words?) for situations where you must travel as it can=20 interfere with the bodily functions and inhibit the flushing out the = bacteria=20 and toxins. These antagonists would say that Pepto-bismol is a better = way to=20 go. 8 tablets a day, every day, all at once or spread out thro=92 the = day.=20 Changes the acidity of your gut and drives the bugs out so they = don=92t multiply=20 faster than your system can handle them.
    Loperomide usually works = within 1=20 hour. Others recommend daily Acidophilous tablets as a = preventative to=20 ward off the bugs.
    Cipro or Ciproxin is a common prescription = cure-all anti=20 biotic.
    Another remedy is Norritt, little black activated charcoal = tablets=20 available at Matahari Supermarkets and many other places in Bali, = including=20 many Circle K stores and Mini Marts, for Rp6700 for 40 tablets. 6 to 9 = tablets=20 three times a day.
    Some travellers swear by lots of Entrostop = charcoal=20 tablets from a local =91Apotic=92 (chemist or drugstore). They should = not be used=20 with other medication =96 or at least not within 4 hours as the = beneficial=20 effects of both may be cancelled out.
    Locals reputedly use SG = Tablets from=20 their local =91Apotic=92 (chemist). They are not easy to find and you = may be told=20 that they are no longer made. Keep = searching.
    Frequent=20 Gastrolyte drinks are claimed by some to be better than sports drinks = like=20 Gatorade as they replace the essential electrolytes in your fluid = systems=20 without the high sugar content which really causes more=20 dehydration.
    Entrostop, available in Bali at Apotics = (chemists/drugstores)=20 and Circle K, are better than most western medications and at A$2 = should be a=20 first line of attack against BB.
    A=20 recently recommended preventative with solid (no pun intended) support = is=20 Raspberry juice =96 with at least 30%, preferably more, real juice in = the blend.=20 Mix it strong =96 25% cordial: 75% bottled water. Ellagic acid is the = ingredient=20 that makes the difference! Some people have a neat swig every morning = before=20 breakfast, about 10 mil of 100% strength, 20 mil for 50% etc. Good for = kids.=20 Pack your bottle in an Aussie Post wine pack in Polystyrene or = cardboard for=20 safety or you can now buy concentrate at the new ('07) Carrefour = called=20 Framezon(?).
    ** Now (2007) available at Makro on the Bypass road. = 100%=20 pure, 750mg,Rp30,000 ($4). Dilute 3 or 4 water to 1 juice. Glass full = every=20 morning.
    * * 100% natural Garden Fresh raspberry fruit syrup is = available=20 at the Pasadena Foodland in South Oz, A$5.50 for 750 ml bottle, also = Golden=20 Grove Village and North Adelaide Foodlands. Other Foodland managers = can get=20 stock in for you with a little persuasion. Contains only sugar, = raspberry=20 juice and citric acid. Used for drink flavouring and dessert = toppings.
    *=20 Also raspberry syrup available at Gaganis Bros just off South Road at = the=20 intersection with Grange Road. 1.5 litres for A$4.95. and at the = supermarket=20 section of the Brickworks Market in Torrensville on the South = Road.
    * A=20 surprise was to find 1 litre juice at Shillabeers Butchers in Regency = Park=20 near the South Road corner on the southern side of Regency Road. = $6.50.
    *=20 Also in South Oz (and maybe other parts of Oz or the world) - Kevron = Aust, 188=20 Glynburn Rd Tranmere Ph 8332 6055 or fax 8364 0739 , E-mail kevin@kevronfoods.com.au. = Also -=20 Aust Food Innovators, PO Box 970 Berri SA 5343 Ph 8582 4233 Fax 8582 = 4344,=20 E-mail sales@austfoodinnovators.= com.au. =20 Pure raspberry juice with no artificial flavours, sugars or = preservatives,=20 100% natural.
    * Also at Foodland in North Adelaide on the top = shelves in=20 the cordial section. Don't get juice and cordial mixed up.
    * The = Junction=20 Markets (cnr Grand Junction and Prospect Roads)  has juice as = does=20 Miyani's on Saints Road Salisbury Park and Foodland at Pasadena.
    * = Marsaka=20 brand Raspberry Juice has a 65% concentration of juice. Available in=20 Continental delis, even some butchers and supermarkets. In a 1 litre = glass=20 bottle so best to decant into plastic drink bottles for the trip over. = The=20 importers are Marco Polo Foods in Campsie, NSW. Ph 02 9718 8922 to = find out=20 your nearest stockists. In Adelaide the distributors number is 8345 = 3792 for=20 your nearest stockist.     In Australia many = of the=20 Croatian run shops sell imported  Maraska which costs about A$6 = per=20 litre. Some Woolworths stores also stock this in their ethnic sections = . Check=20 your local phone book.
    * In '05 the Coles Supermarket at = the=20 Colonnades Shopping Centre had Fresh Attitude 100% Raspberry Crush (in = the=20 fruit and veg section) - 300ml bottles for $4.98
    * Anchor Cordial = is=20 available from Dawson's and Supa Valu in the northern Perth suburbs. = Check the=20 concentration of raspberry.
    * Cascade Raspberry Fruit Juice Syrup = is also=20 good. Ph Freecall 1800 641 647 for stockists in your (Oz) area.
    * = Dick=20 Smith and Golden Circle (in Oz) both have raspberry cordial with 40%=20 juice. 
    Coles (at Warwick in WA and Colonnades in SA at least) = had=20 100% Natural Raspberry Crush made by Fresh Attitudes in '05. $4.50 for = 300ml.=20 $4.95 in SA. No added sugar no preservatives, no concentrates. Check = the=20 expiry date and refrigerate after opening. Can be = frozen.

  38. * Also in Coles stores is = a 100%=20 raspberry juice at the Icecream topping section. 'Fresh Attitude = Australia' -=20 250ml for #3.99.
    * In WA Berry = Sweet, 100%,=20 is available from the Malaga Markets in the northern suburbs. It is = stocked by=20 a stall next to the stage in the food court where you can also get = fresh OJ=20 and yoghurt. It is $5 for 350ml bottles.
    Get the good = oil from=20 this web address - http://www.abc.net.= au/worldtoday/s263898.htm=20 .
    * 100% concentrate is available from Bramble Farm in Langwarrin,=20 Victoria, Australia from Di Benson who will post you a supply COD =96 = Di Benson=20 at brambleb@bigpond.com. = Ph 03 9776=20 7018. Take 10 mils undiluted twice a day. Tastes good, berry flavour, = not=20 sickly sweet.
    * Also from Shepparton at http://www.berrysweet.com.au/.=
    *=20 In Sydney try Macro Wholefoods Supermarket on Oxford Street in Bondi = Junction.=20 300ml for $7.95.
    Warringah Mall has a country growers market where = you can=20 get Marco Polo Foods juice. Ph 02 9718 8922 for your nearest = stockist.
    * *=20 * * Now available at the Gourmet Garage in Jimbaran Bay I'm told. = Easier with=20 the new ('07) restrictions on liquids in hand luggage.
    Some = travellers also=20 recommend a daily =92Yakult=92 yoghurt = drink.  Similar=20 anti-bacterial agents are available in tablet forms.  One is = Megadophalus=20 from health food store or chemist.  Start taking a daily dose up = to a=20 month before you leave.
    If you want to go the natural way be = prepared to=20 start up to 3 months before you leave as the body is slow to adapt to = a new=20 regime and develop the required resistances to invading bugs.
    A = recent=20 recommendation for recovery is a can of Coke or similar with a pinch = of salt=20 and a squeeze of real lemon juice to replace salts and electrolytes = lost from=20 the body systems.
    For 'light relief' carry a copy of "Shi**ing = Pretty",=20 written by a doctor with personal experience.
    Another natural way = to ward=20 off the bug is Acidophilus Capsules from Health Food stores. Somewhat = similar=20 to Yakult. Best to start well before you go.
    GETTING OVER = IT.
    The Bali=20 International Medical Clinic has dietary recommendations if you=92re = unlucky (or=20 careless) enough to get it.
    AVOID =96 greasy fried foods, soft = drinks,=20 alcohol, coffee, dairy foods except plain natural yoghurt, spicy = foods,=20 excessive smoking and any food or drink that is either very hot or = very=20 cold.
    * * * A potential risk that has recently been identified is = the=20 collection of questionable material under the outer edges of bottle = seals. It=20 is suggested that the necks of bottles be carefully wiped before = contact with=20 your mouth.
    RECOMMENDED =96 Isotonic sports=20 drinks such as Gatorade, Pocari, Sweat etc, apples, bananas, plain = rice or=20 porridge, oats and semolina custard, clear soups, herbal teas, natural = yoghurt=20 and acidophilus/ biphodophilis supplements, ginger and peppermint oils = in=20 lollies or teas, small quantities of fluids regularly (although = some=20 doctors recommend at least one glass of safe water or other fluid = after every=20 trip to the toilet to ensure dehydration does not complicate things). = Babies=20 and young children may become temporarily intolerant to cows milk but = should=20 be able to handle soy milk. Lactose free milk is easily available but = usually=20 the long life packs.
    It is always best to discuss these things with = your=20 doctor before you go of course (and if you are travelling with = children be=20 sure about child-size doses too), but if you get =91caught short=92 = then try=20 something that has provided relief or protection to others rather than = do=20 nothing.
    If you get it (the dreaded =91BB=92 that is), drinking = lots of water,=20 light teas, perhaps a little boiled rice will do no harm. Most would = agree=20 that if you are feverish and vomiting with stomach cramps and the = squirts get=20 a doctor and have a shot in the bum, and no arguments. (You do have = travel=20 insurance =96 don=92t you!) If you vomit after having prescribed = tablets cut them=20 in half and take the lighter dose twice as often. See also = =91Eating=92 and=20 =91Drinking in Safety=92 below.
    Don=92t confuse the body=92s normal = reaction to a=20 sudden change of diet, especially a diet with heaps of fresh fruit in = it, with=20 Bali Belly.  Change your diet slowly, working from your normal = foods to=20 more exotic ones in easy stages and small doses. Within a few = days you=20 will be safely ready for anything that exotic Bali can provide for you = =96=20 except the reticulated water!
    Whilst it is prudent to be cautious = and use=20 common (or un-common) sense do not let senseless paranoia ruin your=20 holiday.    =20

  39. Carry toilet = paper with you=20 everywhere in Bali even if you don=92t have Bali Belly. The chance of = you=20 finding a good, clean, comfortable, useable, flush toilet when = you=92re=20 out-and-about in Bali is slim. The chances of you finding good, clean, = comfortable, useable toilet paper in public places away from your = hotel, even=20 in reasonable restaurants, is almost zero! You might like to look = at=20 =91Toilets, Loos and Dunnies=92, below.

  40. HEALTH = PROTECTION.
    Be wary=20 but not paranoid to the point where you ruin your holiday. The vast = majority=20 of travellers never catch anything, but most are prepared and take = simple=20 precautions whilst on holiday.
    You should consult with your medical = advisor=20 about your possible need for the following shots before=20 visiting some parts of Bali, Lombok and other Indonesian = islands:
    Be=20 aware that Codeine is considered a dangerous drug in Indonesia, which = includes=20 Bali of course, and in some other Asian countries.
    Have a look = at the=20 Q & A section of the Better Health website to find some valuable = facts=20 rather than listen to helpful but probably ill-informed friends.
    ** = Diphtheria/tetanus =96 up-dating with booster shots strongly advised, = even if=20 you=92re not going to travel.
    ** Polio. A good idea to be current = with your=20 protection anywhere in the world =96 even at home. 33 new cases were = detected in=20 Indonesia in '04 bringing the total to 355. 6.5 million children have = been=20 vaccinated in West Java alone. Public vaccinations for 24 million = children=20 throughout Indonesia are planned for 2005.
    ** Hepatitis A. Many = doctors=20 will advise it. A follow-up shot after 6 months will give you the best = lifetime protection that=92s available at the moment. Don=92t forget = it if you=20 intend to travel in the future.
    **Hepatitis B. Do you live a bit on = the=20 wild side? =96 take a few risks? =96 Then certainly get this = shot.
    ** Typhoid.=20 Particularly advised for some areas. In early '05 it was revealed that = a=20 doctor had diagnosed and reported typhus in Singaraja.
    ** Malaria = is=20 particular risk in Lombok and other islands and only somewhat less so = in=20 Bali. 
    You should be a bit concerned that malaria is = reportedly on the=20 rise in Bali despite conflicting claims that the island is malaria=20 free. In the southern tourist areas alone there were 688 cases = reported=20 within the first quarter of 2002. The whole of 2001 for this area saw = only 753=20 cases with 8 deaths. Protection is wise. Dress to cover legs and arms = from=20 sundown on. Use skin repellents liberally and ask for a mozzie coil to = be=20 placed under your table when dining.
    ** Dengue Fever is another = mosquito=20 borne disease which can sneak up on you anywhere in the tropics. There = was an=20 upsurge in Bali in late '07 and early '08. The mozzie is smaller, = quieter,=20 less painful and active during the day, which of course increases the = risk of=20 being bitten. It pays to use repellent all the time. The local Autan = is=20 effective. In high risk areas ensure mozzie-proof sleeping quarters or = carry=20 and use mosquito nets. Be particularly careful with children. Symptoms = take 3=20 to 14 days to develop. If you suddenly develop a fever with a rash, = headaches,=20 muscle and joint aches, pain behind the eyes or bleeding then call a = doctor.=20 Some travellers suggest that vitamin B1, started 2 weeks before you go = and=20 continued while you are there makes the skin unattractive to the = Dengue=20 mosquito. A virulent form results in profuse bleeding and will require = blood=20 transfusions and other medical treatment. If you are a = mozzie-attracter you=20 should consider long sleeves and trousers in high risk areas. Light = coloured=20 clothes make the little blighters easier to see and swat.
    - If your = travels=20 are going to take you further north the risk situation would be=20 worse. 
    4 to 6 weeks before travel consult your doctor for = CURRENT=20 medical advice and preventative medicines (be very careful in = maintaining the=20 dose schedule) rather than relying on out-of-date travel books or past = freedom=20 from infection. 
    - Precautions are simple to take. Doryx = is a=20 commonly prescribed anti-malarial.
    - Anti typhoid might also be=20 wise.
    Have a look at http://www.cdc.gov/travel/s= easia.htm =20 or  www.expat.or.id/medic= al/dengue.html=20 . This might be a little slow to load. Be patient.
    DO CONSULT YOUR = DOCTOR=20 (who knows YOUR medical history) FOR CURRENT ADVICE.
    When in Bali = wear=20 clothes that cover bare skin particularly around the hours of sundown = - when=20 mozzies are particularly active =96 and dawn or on dull days. Use = personal=20 repellents and aerosol sprays or the recent brightly coloured silicon=20 wrist/ankle bands that campers use - available in camping stores, = K-mart etc.=20 Contain citronella plus vitamin B1 and last for a few days. Kids think = they're=20 cool. Ask for a mozzie coil to be lit under your restaurant table. = Mozzie nets=20 might be advisable for sleeping in northern areas where there might be = no=20 window screens. Some travellers even dip them in = insecticide. They are=20 not all that common in the shops in Bali but there is a shop in the = small=20 street that runs between Jls Melasti and Padma. Also further along Jl = Legian=20 towards Seminyak there are some other shops. Another shop is in Jl = Sahadewa=20 (also known as Garlic Lane) towards the end nearest Melasti Street = where the=20 Taman Legian Gardens Restaurant is on the corner. Shops which = sell=20 cushions also seem to have them frequently.
    The Oz Army uses = Johnsons Baby=20 Clear Lotion Anti Mosquito (with a light green cap in 2002) in = tropical jungle=20 work. Has no DEET so good for those with=20 sensitivities. - - - =93 . . it worked for us too!=94.
    Aquaear for tropical fungus ear infection = prevention.=20
    Dermasoft and/or Dermaclean Lotion, disinfectant, instant dry for = hands or=20 a waterless antibacterial hand wash, available in the Matahari = supermarket in=20 Kuta. Has moisturiser and is self-drying. 100 ml tube. Use it before = eating=20 especially if you=92ve been handling money =96 which you will ALWAYS = be doing, I=20 guarantee!
    Aqium Gel. Waterless hand wash. Not sticky. 70 & = 375 ml=20 containers. $3.95 and $6.95 from pharmacies in Oz. Pump pack and purse = pack.=20 Cheaper than hand wipes and nothing to throw away afterwards. Very = cheap at=20 Makro's in Bali.
    Wet Ones Anti-bacterial=20 Wipes. Check supermarkets for Johnsons in baby section. Also = Dettol Wipes=20 are in a green and white pack, a bit stronger than baby wipes=20 perhaps.
    Nice'n'clean wipes are available in a small pocket/purse = pack.=20 Soft blue re-sealable pack.
    Antis, a waterless hand gel, is = available from=20 Makro and some supermarkets in Bali. Same as Aqium ?
    Nuvo Hand = Sanitiser=20 gel available in Bali. Approx 50 cents for 85mil bottle. Often in a = 3-pack.=20 Nice smell.
    ** Head lice are not uncommon in Bali and are often = rife=20 amongst orphanages and schools. PediTox is a local shampoo available = from=20 Apotics (local chemists) for Rp3.000 a bottle. Try the Apotic next to = the=20 Bintang Supermarket on Jl Legian. Nits are called 'kutu'  by the=20 Balinese. If giving to locals away from the tourist areas explain the = need for=20 EVERYONE to be treated on a regular basis until the nit-egg cycle is = broken. A=20 small trigger bottle for spraying in the corners of rooms and amongst = bedding=20 might also be useful. Take care that there is not broken skin on the = scalp=20 from frustrated scratching. The best long-term prevention is = probably=20 regular hair care with a good shampoo and a good conditioner. A bulk = purchase=20 of this for your friends is much better than a bulk supply of nit = treatment=20 solution.

  41. ** Beware of temporary tattoos. Many people have severe reactions to the = chemical=20 cocktail called PDD which is used instead of real henna, and which is = toxic=20 and can cause liver and kidney problems. Most severe in children with = recent=20 reports saying that one in five children will be = effected. The=20 scars after blistering may be permanent and flare up at times of = stress. Refer=20 to http://www.hennapag= e.com/henna/warnings.html,=20 or http://sphosting/rev= erendbunny/mediappd.htm=20 or http:= //www.dermcoll.asn.au/downloads/Henna_Tattoos_000.pdf  or http://w= ww.expat.or.id/medical/blackhennareactions.html=20 and http://www.hennapa= ge.com/henna/ppd/index.html . Cortisone cream applied regularly gives some relief = but would=20 you want to be doing this for the rest of your life - or condemn your = children=20 to this???
    Researchers in Germany have also uncovered a link = between=20 temporary tattoos and permanent, lifelong dermatitis. (3D World = Magazine issue=20 #569). Sufferers remain allergic to some metals, detergents and foods = FOR=20 LIFE!
    ** Be even more careful of permanent Tattoos. Ensure that you = un-seal=20 any sterile equipment and that you see the gun sterilised before use. = Insist=20 on new ink/dyes as these can also transmit Hep C.

  42. If you=92re travelling with=20 kids take (or purchase there) a half litre, trigger operated, = plastic=20 spray bottle and fill it with (bottled) water. Spray the kids, or let = them=20 spray themselves when they (and you) get hot. You might also find = interesting=20 information about travelling with children at http://www.filosbali.net/ and = look for=20 BaliWithKidz in the left hand column.

  43. If you (or the = Kidz) pick up=20 some head lice don't despair, the locals have a better answer than you = will=20 probably have available at home. Look for Pedi Tox at the local Apotic = (Chemist/Drug Store) for about Rp4,00 a bottle which will treat 2 Kidz = or one=20 long haired adult. Two bottles for a family of 4  for less than = Aus$2.=20 That's good value. It does not have a strong smell nor hurt little = eyes. Seems=20 to be no problem to bring a supply back home either.

  44. Balians are the = traditional=20 healers of Bali have enviable reputations for diagnosing and treating = long=20 suffering tourists. One such is Tjokorda Gede Rai in Sukawati. Get = your hotel=20 reception people to phone him and make an appointment for you. Another = is the=20 Surya Dharma clinic in Ubud. Its on the western end of the main Ubud = road, Ph=20 (361) 976 123.

  45. Beware Cane = mites or Wood=20 Lice and midges from chairs bars etc if allergic. Some people bang the = chairs=20 sharply on the floor and look for white or reddish dust which is = actually the=20 mites. Amongst others, the Bali Aroma has caught at least one = unfortunate=20 sufferer. Use Autin (pink) liberally. Avoid perfume and make-up as = much as=20 possible that seems to attract them although the basic attrac. Use = moisturiser=20 at bedtime to compensate. Spray your room liberally several times a = week as=20 you go out for the day. If you have cane furniture you can spray it = with=20 Baygon. It also oils squeaky doors and toilet seats but take care with = it and=20 don=92t get it on the floor as it=92s slippery. Try Phenergan cream = (anti=20 histamine ingredient) if all your avoidance tactics fail. If you have = hive=20 type symptoms take Telfast tablets from home. If all else fails call = the hotel=20 doctor and get a shot of cortisone or take cortisone and/or = anti-histamine=20 tablets from your home doctor if you know from experience that = you=92ll have a=20 problem. Locals recommend a lemon juice rub down to neutralize the = toxins and=20 allergic reaction followed by the local product Tiger Balm (some claim = that=20 Silver Clove is a better product) ointment or Balsem (balm) or liquid = Minyak=20 Angin in a green bottle from local Apotics to ease the rash and itch. = Jerman=20 Caplung, green menthol sort of stuff also from local Apotics, take = care of the=20 itch. Ypu're safer if there are cushions on the chair, which is = becoming more=20 common, or carry a hand towel to put over the seat. It doesn't take = much of a=20 barrier to keep your beauty safe from them. Try not to wear short = shorts or=20 dresses and don=92t rely on sarongs to protect your legs and butt. = Also watch=20 out if you are in the habit of resting your elbows or chest on the bar = =96 and=20 the bar has a cane edge. Very painful and = embarrassing.
    The local 'Apotics" (chemists or drugstores) are = really=20 very knowledgeable and helpful. Do not shun them if you need help or = disdain=20 local medications.
    Kimia Farma is a local chain of apotics. Kuta = (near=20 Animale), Tuban, Denpasar etc.
    *=20 Balsem Gosok is a good alternative to the likes of Vicks = VapoRub.  The=20 green minty style has good credentials. Also good for bites and = stings. All=20 sizes available including a little purse size which is good for = clearing the=20 nasal pipes in flight.
    * Silver Clove has also been recommended = (about=20 Rp20,000 or about Aus$3)tight muscles.
    * Lawar Root Oil is often = sold in=20 little bottle by wandering sellers. Really clove root oil. Its great = for=20 rheumatic type problems and no problem to bring back into Oz despite = the plant=20 root that is in the bottle. It never seems to run out or loose its = value if=20 you keep topping it up with Baby oil or your local favourite massage = oil.=20 Prices are around Rp15-25,000. Called Minyak Oles Bokashi it often = comes in a=20 white bottle with green label. Headaches, gargle, mozzie bites, = infections,=20 scratches and grazes, upset stomach, burns, eczema, rashes, = dermatitis,=20 bathwater for freshness, infections, muscle aches, temporary tattoo = rashes,- -=20 - -, Contains citronella, coconut, peppermint, cajuput and other = plants and=20 oils. Sells for about Aus$12.50 in Oz.
    * Minyak Angin; coughs colds = etc.=20 Sniff it, gargle it, put a few drops in black tea, rub on sore areas = if the=20 skin is not broken (stings like hell), rub on chest, throat etc before = sleep.=20 Also tooth ache administered to the tooth with a cotton stick. Cap = Lang=20 similar. Also Minyak Kayu Putih, Minyak Kepala (coconut oil for = massage),=20 Minyak Telon (stomach aches),No problem bringing back into Oz.
    * = Pesan for=20 pain and inflammation.
    * = Paramex=20 for migraine.
    * Local Tramadol (Tramal or generic Zydol by scrip = only in=20 Oz) is Rp7,200 for 10!! Tramal also available but costs Rp75,000, no = scrip=20 required. Best painkiller except for opiates.
    * Ponstan is an=20 anti-spasmodic like buscopan. Popular with women in the 60's and still = going.

  46. Similarly beware of jellyfish=20 stings. An immediate treatment is lots of vinegar poured over the site = followed by an anti-histamine injection as soon as possible. Adrenalin = injections also work but only if anti-histamines are not=20 available.

  47. Beware of temporary tattoos.=20 Many people have severe reactions to the chemical cocktail called PDD = which is=20 used instead of real henna, and which is toxic and can cause liver and = kidney=20 problems. Most severe in children where the effects may be = life-long!!!! Refer=20 to http://www.hennapag= e.com/henna/warnings.html,=20 or http://sphosting/rev= erendbunny/mediappd.htm=20 or http://w= ww.expat.or.id/medical/blackhennareactions.html=20 and http://www.hennapa= ge.com/henna/ppd/index.html .=20 Cortisone cream applied regularly gives some relief. Researchers in = Germany=20 have also uncovered a link between temporary tattoos and permanent, = lifelong=20 dermatitis. (3D World Magazine issue #569). Sufferers remain allergic = to some=20 metals, detergents and foods.
    Be even more careful of permanent = Tattoos.=20 Ensure that you un-seal any sterile equipment and that you see the gun = sterilised before use. Insist on new ink/dyes as these can also = transmit Hep=20 C.

  48. Do not risk unprotected sex in=20 Bali. AIDS/HIV are at declared =91concentrated = epidemic levels=92=20 (Kuta Conference 2004) in Indonesia, and Bali is a part of Indonesia = with a=20 high level of comparatively wealthy travellers and consequently a high = level=20 of sex workers and =91incidental=92 sexual activity. In '07 evidence = indicated=20 that for the first time the greatest proportion of new infections = resulted=20 from sexual activity rather than drug use and that over 10% of the = known=20 prostitutes were HIV/AIDS infected. It is estimated ('07) that  = well over=20 half of the sex customers in Bali are at risk of serious infection if = THEY=20 THEMSELVES do not take precautions. The 2004 conference detailed = 90-3,000=20 known cases of infected people but in 2007 the total number of cases = was over=20 4,000 including 60 cases amongst secondary students.  67% of = cases are=20 linked to sexual transmission and 33% to drug use.
    Evidence = suggests that=20 one third of cases result from shared needles in drug use and the = remainder=20 mainly from sexual activity. Drug use, possession = and sale in=20 Indonesia is a very risky business with incarceration in some of the = worst=20 third world gaols being only part of the risk. That friendly supplier = who is=20 offering you a trip to paradise is very likely to be a police informer = as well=20 as an addict who will finger you to ensure his own protection.
    The = National=20 Narcotic Agency (BNN) reported 4389 cases of HIV/AIDS - April '05 = figures. 53%=20 of these were in Bali and are claimed to have resulted from shared = drug/needle=20 use. t is further claimed that these figures, although official, are = only 'the=20 tip of the iceberg' with most cases not being reported or not being = detected=20 and so not being treated.
    In 2007 new cases of AIDS = accumulated at=20 almost 50 a month!
    Condoms are available. Many travellers = recommend=20 bringing your own. In '07 a specialised condom shop opened in the = Discovery=20 Mall centre on Jl Kartika Plaza in Tuban. Very small but easy to see = in its=20 bright red paintwork. The range is 'mind boggling' according to the = local=20 press report.
    The most active brothels are in Jl Danau Poso, Sanur. =
    There are no compulsory medical checks of sex workers in = Indonesia. On=20 Bali, recent census results indicate 8,000 'commercial sex workers' in = Bali=20 serve (?) 90,000 clients. Part of the 'tsunami' of AIDS is attributed = to the=20 spread of night entertainment venues with their attendant commercial = sex=20 workers, into the suburban fringes and rural areas.

  49. Cuts and = scratches.=20 TREAT THEM! Try local Teih Ta Yao Gin Chinese medicine as dressing. If = you=20 want to take something with you try =91Savlon". Locals love to get the = remainder=20 in the tube when you leave.

  50. Mosquitos. = Cover up at dusk.=20 Mozzies love light coloured skin. Baygon electric repellent dispensers = at=20 night. Cheap in Bali. Amcal chemists have citronella wrist bands in = funky=20 colours and patterns for kids. No worries about areas missed with rub = on=20 stuff.  Some travellers recommend mixing lavender oil with hand = cream for=20 a nicer smelling repelant.

  51. =91Autan=92 insect=20 repellent is available in Bali at Matahari stores or =91Apotics". = Pink tube=20 or lotion in pink bottle. Smells better to humans than Aerogard. =
    Ask=20 restaurants to light a mosquito coil and put it under your dinner = table.=20
    Carry a stick of dry =91Repel=92 in your bum bag. (ps. Put a small = flash light=20 in there too, just for the normal power failures and for walking home = in=20 poorly lit streets with un-even surfaces.)
    Dusk and dawn are the = bad times=20 for mozzies.
    RID and OFF are also good.
    =91Skin-So-Soft=92 by = Avon also=20 works for some.
    Generally repellents containing DEET (NOT=20 RECOMMENDED for young children nor for frequent, generous application = to=20 adults =96 see the =91NO=20 DEET=92 note under =91Health=92, above.) are good although some = smell so bad=20 that humans are repelled also. Body chemistry seems to react = differently to=20 different products.
    If you are bitten despite all your precautions = then=20 use =91Soov=92 gel, Australian made by Ego Pharmaceutical, with = antiseptic and=20 anaesthetic properties, its magic! Also recommended is a local product = (Yes,=20 the locals also get bitten) called Tiger Balm. Rp6,000 for a small jar = with a=20 yellow screw top. Stings like crazy for a second when applied to fresh = bites=20 but then the itching is all gone.
    There are also lotions available = that=20 combine sunscreen and insect repellent. Ask at your pharmacy or check = in your=20 local Army Surplus Store.

  52. Ultra Swim shampoo, or Aloe Rid (by = Nexus), for=20 getting pool chlorine out of your hair thereby keeping blondes the way their menfolk prefer them. Hair = Conditioner=20 is sometimes called Hair Cream.

    Megan Gale has invisible = zinc cream in=20 tubes that is great for bare scalp in partings etc. $30 for 150=20 grams.
    Anika Salon = and Spa in=20 Tuban is a recommended hairdresser. There are others; see = 'Hairdressers' in=20 the alphabetic index above.
    To prevent green chlorine hair from = pool use=20 try Purifying shampoo or a cheap shampoo or even, on a once-only basis = use=20 soap or a little dishwashing detergent to strip the hair of past = build-up.=20 Then use Delva Solar Care both before and after pool use. If you=92ve = got a bad=20 dose another trick is to use any purple/blue coloured shampoo as the = colour=20 ingredient tones down yellow/green colours in the hair.
    Talk to = your own=20 hairdresser before you go to Bali if you are prone to green tinges = from pool=20 chlorine. If they are any good they will know your hair = characteristics and=20 will recommend a product to use. Delva Spray Sheen is a daily = moisturiser=20 which will help most hair develop some resistance to chemical attack. = Begin=20 using it before you go.
    Frizzy hair because of the humidity = in Bali?=20 Banish the half Afro look with these suggestions that will not make = your hair=20 oily =96     = = <= /TR>= = =
    3Dbullet

    * Sunsilk Curl booster and Anti=20 = Frizz,

    3Dbullet

    * Garnier Fructis Sleek =91n = Shine Smoothing=20 = Serum,

    3Dbullet

    * Schwartzkopf Leave-in Shine=20 = Treatment,
    3Dbullet

    * Schwartzkopf = Frizz-Free,

    3Dbullet

    * l=92Oreal Liss Serum =96 can be = used=20 = daily,

    3Dbullet

    * VO5 Leave-in Conditioner=20 = Spray,

    3Dbullet

    * Cristalli Anti-Frizz -=20 $24.95.

  53. SUNSCREEN =96 = If you believe=20 you can=92t be sunburnt you=92ve never been to Bali. Most brands of = sunscreen are=20 available, but not cheaply, in Bali supermarkets. Use nothing less = than 15+ -=20 30+ and more as necessary. It should be re-applied frequently on any = bare=20 skin. Really it=92s best not to have any bare skin. Take a look at the = burnt=20 boobs on Kuta beach any day. How nightly activities are pleasurable is = beyond=20 comprehension. Farmland 15+ in pump pack is good. Includes = moisturiser. Also=20 good for massages, particularly with a little of the local Tiger Balm = or=20 Silver Clove ointments. Most local massage oils are just coconut = bastes for=20 cooking flesh and are difficult to wash off.
    Absolute Magic, Bingo, = also=20 Rid+ with anti-mosquito agent for sand fly infested evenings. Similar=20 combination preparations are also available at Army Surplus Stores.=20

  54. A BALI FIRST-AID = KIT.
    Despite the very good doctors and chemists (Apotics) in = the=20 southern tourist areas one traveller took more than the usual = precautions that=20 might be of interest to others -
    Antibiotic ointment (Betadine) or=20 similar),
    Antibiotic tablets,
    Antifungal = cream/powder,
    Panadol, in=20 suspension if for children,
    Antihistamine=20 (Clarantyne),
    Band-aids,
    Calamine lotion =96 Stingose = gel,
    Gauze=20 bandage, non-stick if possible,
    Electrolyte replacement tablets to = replace=20 lost fluids, Hydrolyte can be frozen like an iceblock stick for=20 children,
    Imodium for adults, Donnagel for kids,
    Insect = repellent, with=20 or without DEET, RID roll-on is handy to carry in your bum = bag,
    Personal=20 medications as required =96 with prescriptions in case you are = questioned in=20 Customs,
    Safety pins and scissors =96 (not in your hand = luggage),
    Soap,=20 sunscreen and Aloe Vera for sun burn,
    Non-mercury = thermometer,
    Ti Tree=20 Oil antiseptic,
    Toilet paper and hand/nose tissues and =91Wet=20 Ones=92,
    Tweezers.
    To this you might want to add - = Imodium,=20 sterile water (small packs), sterile strips and pads, Aquim waterless = hand=20 wash, antiseptic powder, mozzie coils, tropical mozzie repellent - = remember=20 'tiger mozzies' attack during the day and give dengue fever, = anti-sting=20 treatment, Aqua ear, sunscreen, zinc, mercyndol or other medication if = you get=20 migraines, waterproof=20 wound dressing in a spray pack.
    Carrying this pack will surely keep = you fit=20 and well!
    If you have an allergy that = requires=20 medication from time to time, take the medication with you as it may = not be=20 available in Bali. Also have a letter from your doctor that clears = your=20 prescription through any Customs inspections. Indonesian authorities = are=20 (rightly in some cases) suspicious of tablet, capsule and injectable=20 medicines.
    ***  Be aware that Codiene is a prohibited drug = in=20 Indonesia - and that means Bali.

  55. ELECTRICITY; = The=20 Indonesian supply is 220 volts at 50 cycles or Hertz. Multipoint adaptors (to connect the world=92s various = plugs to the=20 Indonesian socket which has 2 round plugs) are provided by most hotels = if you=20 phone Room Service or Housekeeping. Speak clearly and with an = explanation when=20 you ask for an adaptor or you=92ll get a doctor, as friends of ours = once did.=20  
    Electrical=20 adaptors that allow you to use your normal home appliances in overseas = countries come in several different types.
    Find out which one you = need for=20 any destination at www.korjo.com/cpa/htm/fs_secondary.asp?load=3D= htm_adaptor_guide.asp&page_id=3D6=20 or www.voltagevalet.co= m/country/all.html. =20 or at https://www.volta= gesvalet.com/country/all.html.=20
    These adaptors can also be purchased at the department stores = in Bali=20 for about Rp20,000 which is a bit over US$2. If you are a regular = visitor to=20 Indonesia it might be worth considering buying one of these and having = it=20 fitted to a power board of 4 outlets so that you have it available for = more=20 convenient multiple power outlets when you next visit.
    If your home = supply=20 is 110 volts and your electrical equipment does not have a 110/220 or = 110/240=20 switch you will need to get a voltage converter to step the Indonesian = 220=20 volts down to 110 volts. These are best purchased in your home country = as they=20 are surprisingly difficult to find in Bali and if you do they are = bulky and of=20 unreliable quality.

  56. Things which = it  might be=20 wise to check are your phone charger, camera chargers, electric = toothbrushes,=20 travelling clothes irons, hair curlers, shavers, hair dryers, laptop = chargers=20 etc.

  57. Electrical=20 equipment and appliances are generally risky buys in Bali as the = warranty will=20 probably not be honoured at home. An exception might be portable DVD = players=20 which will overcome the frustration of a hotel with only Indo=20 programs.

  58. SHIPPING:  Freight=20 & duty to and in Oz will be about the same as the cost of the = goods in=20 Bali, i.e. the cost of the goods landed in Australia will at least = double=20 their price in Bali. Keep your receipts. 
    An alternative that = we found=20 in '07 is a stout cardboard box of either 25 Kg capacity or a larger = 100 Kg=20 version that can be cut down to any size. These are available from DHL = freighters (At the airport or on Raya Seminyak.) and the freight rates = we=20 found were about a third of the excess luggage rate. It is not yet an = airport=20 to your door service but soon will be we were told. Shop early for the = heavy=20 stuff and freight it home while you shop on.
    EMS Indonesia Post = (Express=20 Mail Service), http://ems.posindonesia.co.id/.=20 Rp1.3 to 1.6 million for 20Kg; Aus$110 for 11.5Kg; including = insurance. Prices=20 vary from one PO to another. Freight is by air and to your door in Oz = or=20 elsewhere. PO staff must do the packing; no CD's or DVD's. Depending = on your=20 declared value Duty may be payable in Oz. Sea freight is cheaper but = much=20 longer.
    Note that Duty Free only applies to goods that actually = accompany=20 you on your trip home. If you post stuff you will have to pay duty, if = you=20 ever get items posted from Bali that is!
    Don=92t try to bring = banana products=20 into Oz. Water Hyacinth is a water weed often woven into table = runners, place=20 mats, cushion covers and the like. It is light brown in colour and = soft if=20 pressed with a finger nail. Customs/quarantine offers go ballistic if = they see=20 any little piece and frantically search for more. Many other plant = materials=20 will either cause you hassles or lots of money to have goods = fumigated.
    Try=20 to arrange your requirements with a freight-forwarder at home if you = can find=20 one with experience of Bali shipping. Later questions/problems can = more easily=20 be answered at home by a local agent.
    * Furniture to Oz =96Buy Bali = Direct. Harry Kellerman, Collaroy NSW, balidrec@ans.com.au .
    * = Mari =96 0361=20 759 980 =96 furniture to Australia.
    Note that much of the furniture in Bali is really made in = Java and just=20 finished in Bali. Much also is of poor quality under the surface = finish and=20 most is made from only partly dried timber that will shrink, warp and = crack=20 when you get it home unless your climate is tropical and therefore = very=20 similar to that of Bali.
    * Freight office at the entrance to Bumi = Ayu Hotel=20 in Sanur, across the road from Besakih.
    * Pt Twin Mandala = Indocargo,=20 Seminyak. E-mail twin@dps.centrin.net.id or = contact=20 Dewa Parwita =96 dewaparwita@hotmail.com.
    * Robin Furniture, = Kerobokan.=20 Quality teak. 6 seater dining table, Rp1,500,000; 6 chairs to match = Rp269,000.=20 Transport A$300/cubic metre to Sydney. Add 10% import duty and 10% = GST.
    *=20 Oka Sari Cargo. Ibu Agung speaks fluent English. =91Been using them = for years to=20 Oz. Highest recommendation=92.
    * Fullmoon Exports =96 Petitenget = Road,=20 KEROKOBAN, Kuta, Bali. Indonesia 80361. Ph 62 361 731 262, Fax 62 361 = 733 123.=20 E-mail info@fullmoonexport.bizla= nd.com. =20
    * Melody Kariata (ex-pat Aussie) and husband Wayan. Recommended by = Shar^kie. Melody Kariata, purnamabali@hotmail.com.
    *= =20 Balioky International Cargo. Ph + 62 (361) 755 156 Fax + 62 361 755 = 154.
    *=20 Ritra Cargo. Managed by Sari. Her E-mail is sari@ritra.com.
    * ASAS = International=20 Cargo. 62 361 465-601. See Arta or Agus.
    * Budi Prasetyo, WUS = Cargo, 728=20 335, Mob 081 238 463 22. =934 years no problem service.=94
    * PT = Abriadi Utama=20 Kargo for shipping freight. In Monkey Forest Road, Ubud, just around = the=20 corner opposite the markets. They will carefully pack for you. = About 10=20 weeks from Ubud to Melbourne Australia.
    * Karya Cargo in Sanur did = a good=20 job but Aus Customs would not accept the fumigation certificate and = insisted=20 on doing the job again at a cost of A$250.00. Probably a good idea to = e-mail=20 Customs while you are in Bali and make sure that they will accept = fumigation=20 certificates from any agent you want to use.
    * Sapta Prima Cargo. = Excellent=20 documentation for Aus Customs. Good packing. Reasonably quick delivery = too.
    * Mitha at Bali Buyers does shopping tours for home wares and=20 furniture and has freight contacts. Ph 0812 3800 599.
    * Indosakti = attracted=20 some consumer criticism in '05. Freight pre-paid was not honoured and = had to=20 be re-paid before clearance and delivery. Indosakti did not respond at = all to=20 calls! The latest news is that they seem to have=20 folded.
    * Sinta Maroe is a=20 recommended shipping agent and shopping tour organiser. Check her home = pages=20 at www.mohr4u.de/sinta.
    * = Avoid Bali=20 Bargain Hunters some would say. - 'Furniture in their hands January = '05 still=20 in Bali warehouse July '06 but they insisted that it was sent!?'
    * = Sint=20 Maroe recommended July '06.
    * IndoStyle are based in the central = Coast NSW=20 and ship into Sydney. Flat rate charges plus Sales Tax and Duty to = your door.=20 http://www.indostyle.com.au/. = Their=20 Bali end is handled by BaliMove.

  59. What will we do now hat Golden Bali has = closed=20 ('06) and Putu Les has gone to live in Bali??? Golden Bali travel agents (Adelaide office in South = Australia but=20 would quote anywhere) was run by =91Putu=92 Les Williams. Specialists = in Bali and=20 seemed to know it backwards and in all directions with a Bali office = to solve=20 your problems if any arose over there. The latest I heard from Les was = a=20 recommendation for Adelaide travellers to contact Josh Moore at Jetset = Norwood.

  60. Internet = Travel.
    *=20 Halo-bali.com ,
    * baliroomfinder.net ,
    * asiatravel.com (**), =
    *=20 baliwww.com/bali-villas/index3.htm.
    * ABL Tours not recommended.=20

  61. South Yarra Travel has its adherents = and=20 detractors. Claims of unreliable and unfriendly service as well as = deceit=20 arose in =9203.

  62. BestFlights seem to be getting a = reputation for=20 advertising cheap packages that =91disappear=92 just before you rang = but there are=20 always others available at a higher cost. They get a bit agro if you = query the=20 sales people too! (2003). Try =91Bali Packages=92.  http://www.= bestflights,au/cgi-bin/5/flights?mainlist=20 . Ph 1300 767 757.

  63. In '05-'06 Nicki Lawson = got much=20 praise for her Nickno Travel (E-mail alltrav@bigpond.net.au.) = at = All Round=20 Travel on the Gold Coast but you don=92t have to live there. Her = service is=20 prompt and the price will be attractive. E-mail = alltrav@bigpond.net.au=20

  64. There have been cases of credit card = mis-use when=20 booking hotels through indo.com. Complaints seem to fall on deaf=20 ears.

  65. Bali Villas =96 the Bali Travel Forum = hosts =96 http://balitravelforum.com/ = =96 Guarantee=20 cheapest hotel accommodation but no discount air fares, except by = Singapore=20 Airways from US. An Australian service is due =91soon=92. =

  66. Travel = Insurance can=20 only be highly recommended. Medical costs are enough to ruin your = holiday and=20 quite a bit of your life thereafter if you=92re not covered. A single = doctor=92s=20 visit to your hotel to give you a shot for Bali Belly will cost you = A$120=20 (2003). Most decent travel insurance policies will ensure that you get = a full=20 refund on your return home.
    Some insurance is very good and not = expensive=20 although many travel agents stock lines are to be avoided.
    Also = recommended=20 is Covermore or internet providers (www.travelinsurancedirect.com.au), = your=20 private health insurer or perhaps your credit card provider or local = motoring=20 organisation. The thing not to overlook is the excess you will be = required to=20 pay. It can often turn a bargain into a nightmare when you have to = claim. Look=20 for the added cost to reduce the excess.

  67. Consistent = recommendation are=20 seen for http://www.onlinetravel= insurance.com.au/.=20 Cheap and no excess to pay when you have a claim.
    =92Cover More=92 (see above), through Flight Centre or = on-line or other=20 agencies refunds expenses without deducting any excess.     =

  68. Qantas "Attendants" (?) are regularly = reported to=20 be inattentive if not rude and aggressive! The 747=92s are real cattle = trucks.=20 Garuda are using new aircraft from Australia and have the most = favourable=20 reputation at the moment (2001) as well as being the cheapest carrier. =

  69. BOOKS:
    * =93At Cost Bali=94 =96 = easy to=20 carry/refer-to book. Ideal for first time travellers.
    * "The Knopf = Guides=20 to Bali", travel book.
    * "BaliPlus Guide Book", free in Bali. =
    * "Bali,=20 A Paradise Created" Balinese recent history by Australian Adrian = Vickers.=20 Periplus editions after 1996 are second printings. ISBN 0-945971-28-1. = Perhaps=20 the first book to read if you=92re serious about discovering the roots = of the=20 Balinese and their culture. It=92s very easy to read for what could be = called a=20 modern history text.
    * "Bali From the Air", Lloyd and Yogerst, R = Ian Lloyd=20 productions. Spectacular aerial views of the Bali countryside and = shores, each=20 with short location/explanation text.
    * The Rough Guide to Bali and = Lombok.=20 Recent, very accurate easy to carry.     http://www.travel.rough/ .
    * = =93The Other Side=20 of Morning=94 is Australian Ron Tassell=92s tale of the supernatural = aspects of=20 Bali=92s village culture experienced over two decades.
    * =93The Art = and Culture=20 of Bali=94, U Ramseyer edited by Schwabe and Basel. ISBN 3-7965-1886-9 = 1977 A=20 large and detailed work with lots of pictures to illustrate the points = made in=20 the text.
    * =93The Island of Bali=94. Miguel Covarrubias. One of = the earliest=20 books to describe Bali, and consequently seen as something of a = classic in the=20 history anthology list. A good perspective of the impact of tourism = from the=20 very beginning, detailed descriptions of life and everts and a host of = interesting old photos.
    * =93Bali; Living in Two Worlds. A Critical = self-portrait=94. Edited by Urs Ramsayer and published by the Museum = der=20 Kulturen in Basel. Mainly Balinese writers and photos by acclaimed=20 photographer Rama Surya. Available in Bali.
    * =93Jakarta Shadows=94 = is a fairly=20 new fiction and has remarkable insights into local history and culture = covering Bali and Java. It is available in Bali at Ganesha Books in = Ubud.
    *=20 =94Patch of Paradise=94 is Gaia Grant=92s story of her family = establishing a (now=20 successful) business in Bali. Good reading and will strike a chord in = those a=20 bit familiar with Bali.
    * =94A Little Bit One O=92Clock =96 Living = with a=20 Balinese Family=94 by W Ingram is the factual recounting of the lives = of a=20 American couple and their daily lives in Bali and their interactions = with a=20 Balinese family. Easy reading. ISBN 979-95322-0-5.
    * Our Hotel in = Kuta =96=20 Louise & Bob Koke. The story of the establishment of the first = hotel in=20 Kuta in the 1930s. Humorous in places and illustrated with period = photos. Easy=20 to read and entertaining.
    * Bali, Sekala and Niskala. F B Eiseman. = ISBN=20 0-945971-03-6 Three volumes of the deepest investigations of Bali and = its=20 cultural cosmos. =91Sekala=92 is the physical, visible side of Bali = and Niskala=92=20 is the hidden and mysterious spiritual Bali.
    * =93Bali Moon =96 A = Spiritual=20 Odyssey=94 Odyle Knight. Give it a miss if titles such as this = foretell of=20 things not in your style. Historical/cultural information not well = wrapped in=20 a story line. ISBN 1-86505-138-1.
     The following three reviews = come=20 from Sandra Alexander, with her recommendations = -
    * "Fragrant Rice" = by Janet de=20 Neefe, published 2003 by Harper Collins/Flamingo. Readily available = now. Janet=20 and her husband Ketut Suardana run the Casa Luna and Indus restaurants = in=20 Ubud, the Honeymoon Guesthouse and the Casa Luna Homewares Emporium. = Janet=20 also runs the very (and deservedly) popular Casa Luna Cooking School. = The book=20 is a memoir and a cookbook. Janet's lived in Bali for 14 years, and = reflects=20 on her time and her life on the island. Excellent background and = smashing=20 recipes.
    * "Island of Bali" by Miguel Covarrubias. Originally = published in=20 the 1930's, now published by Oxford. A classic and wonderful account = of=20 Balinese life. Extraordinary. Covarrubias was a Mexican-born = artist and=20 cartoonist who lived in the USA. He was a fine artist and as well a = cartoonist=20 for "Vanity Fair=94 - he was really well connected in the show = business circles=20 of his day. He and his wife spent quite some time in Bali in the = 1930's,=20 and the book is the result of their experiences. Beautifully written = with=20 superb illustrations - by Covarrubias of course. Still amazingly = current.
    *=20 "A House in Bali" by Colin McPhee, originally published 1944, = re-published=20 2002, Victor Gollancz. McPhee was a composer who lived for a long = time in=20 Bali in the 1930's. The new edition has an informative preface by = James=20 Murdoch. The book is as much about Balinese music as about 'a house'. =
    * In=20 The Arms Of Angels is a recent book by Kim Patras (an ex-pat, nurse = and=20 mother) which deals with the recent bombing in graphic detail. Highly=20 recommended if you want to either settle or stir the demons = within.
    * A=20 Short History of Bali. A very recent book (2004) which traces the = history of=20 Bali from Neolithic times to the present, including the infamous Kuta = bombing.=20 (Aus$30.) The author draws from a host of sources (all carefully = documented)=20 and provides a book that is an excellent first reader for those = becoming=20 interested in the history and development of Bali from the bronze/iron = age to=20 the recent Kuta bombing, including pre-tourist life, the Indian = influence=20 (ever wondered why the country is called =91Indonesia=92?) the Dutch = and Japanese=20 occupations, Hinduism/Islam and modern tourism.
    * The Butterflies = of=20 Bali.
    *     'Offerings' written by a local lady, Francine Brinkworth, is = available=20 in Bali and makes interesting reading.
    * Visitors to Bali are soon = aware of=20 the importance of the Arts to the Balinese. It seems at times as = though every=20 second meeting is with someone who is or aspires to be an artist of = some sort;=20 in painting and drawing, music, dance, drama, jewellery or other = adornment,=20 fabric and clothing and carving in stone and wood. The Balinese are = also proud=20 of their long history ands the artefacts recovered by archaeologists = that=20 record and give form to their history. Not surprisingly there are a = number of=20 major and many more minor museums and galleries to store, display and=20 occasionally sell art items. Finding these places, except for those = that are=20 very well known, is often a matter of luck or local knowledge. That is = until=20 2006 when the 'Treasures of Bali' was first published. In its = almost=20 200 pages of quality paper and colour photographs there are 21 = displays=20 individually listed as well as 22 smaller and or more commercial=20 establishments and detailed maps guiding the curious to each location. = Fir=20 those with an interest in archaeology, history and the various art = forms this=20 is more than just a nice coffee-table tome. Written and edited by = Richard Mann=20 with some minor proof reading errors slipping past Ian L Betts, the = book is=20 produced by Gateway Books International in collaboration with the = Museums=20 Association of Bali. IBSN 979-99853-4-X.
    * "Monumental Bali: = Introduction=20 to Balinese Archaeology and Guide to the Monuments" is another book = for those=20 with an interest in the history, heritage  and archaeology of the = island=20 and it's neighbours. AJ Bernet Kempers is the author and the book is = published=20 by Periplus, 1991.
    **  Not exactly a map but maybe better - a = web site=20 containing a GPS map of Bali that can be downloaded to your modern = phone. Go=20 to www.balinavigator.com/ . Not cheap to buy the various Garmin-based = units=20 but rentable from only US$7 per day. (Oct'08).

  70. DICTIONARIES:
    * Bali Pocket Dictionary is a = three-way=20 dictionary (English, Indonesian and three levels of Balinese) usually = stocked=20 in the book departments of Tiara Dewata ("Where the locals shop") and = Matahari=20 stores in Denpasar. It is published by Yayasan Swastiasu. It makes a = good=20 =91Oleh oleh=92 (gift) for some Balinese families.
    * Other = dictionaries are=20 =91Kamus Indonesia Inggris=92 =96 John M Echols and =91English = Indonesian Dictionary=92=20 =96 Hassan Shadily. Many such books are fairly easily obtained in Bali = but not=20 so easy in your home country perhaps.
    * Periplus =91Practical = Balinese=92 (they=20 do a good fold out map of Bali too) written by Gunter Spritzing has = basic=20 Balinese (Note: not Bahasa Indonesia but Balinese, which is little = used these=20 days.) and the Aksara script and common travellers phrases.
    * On = the Web=20 try www.ewgate.com/ewtranslit= e.html =20 (Chinese and Malaysian also), The Risanda page has a basic translation = option,=20 www.e-rice.com/dictionary.a= sp.=20

  71. There is now ('05) an = Indonesian=20 language version of the National = Geographic=20 magazine available in Bali. 'NG' as it's commonly referred to is = one of=20 the world's great magazines, despite accusations of an American bias = by some.=20 It is a great way to bring a view of the world at large to Indonesians = and it=20 seems to appeal to all ages, the children being drawn to magnificent=20 photography and adults to maps and stories that seem to be written in = a=20 universal style appreciated by all. Subscriptions can be arranged at = the=20 Gramedia shops around the island for little more than my local = subscriptions=20 cost at home. I have subscriptions for orphanages and a friends = housekeeper's=20 school age children and all are welcomed and passed on and on and = on.=20

  72. MAPS: Maps of = Bali are=20 really difficult to get if you are looking for something special. I = use the=20 Bali map from Periplus Travel Map of Indonesia in the Regional series, = ISBN=20 0-945971-49-4 that costs about Aus$8. 
    *  Others = recommend Bali=20 Pathfinder that has some hiking and biking routes as well as the road = network.=20 Can be obtained from the Alas Arum supermarket in = Sanur. 
    *  Maps=20 on the net are either very vague or of a scale that obscures the = detail you=20 want if you=92re interested in a map. Try http://www.balipathfinder.com/ or do=20 a general search =93Bali+maps=94.
    *  In '06 I came across an = unexpected=20 source of maps in Bali, on the first floor of the SuperNova department = store=20 in Legian. If you want a valued gift for a school that's a bit = different get a=20 topographical one of 'Provinsi Bali' at 1:150,000 scale showing roads, = towns,=20 ports, rivers, lakes and provincial borders for only Rp20,450 or = Aus$3.00=20 approx. How cheap can a reasonable quality wall map get? They also had = similar=20 maps of Indonesia, Australia and the world.
    *  Periplus now = have a=20 Bali Street Atlas which covers an astonishing amount of Bali in great = detail.=20 3 different scales used according to size of town/village. Not real = cheap at=20 Rp165,000 (Aus$33) in Periplus stores in Bali Galleria, Warung Made=20 (Seminyak), the airport and Gramedia in Matahari=92s, but invaluable = if you=92re a=20 regular adventurer in Bali.
    *  A recently available = alternative to=20 maps is a GPS based pilot, hand-held or vehicle mounted. Now available = in Bali=20 to purchase or cheaply hire. Go to http://www.balinavigator.com/.= =20

  73. Book shops. = Glossy, high=20 class and much desired books are fairly expensive to buy in Bali but = there are=20 some swap and used book outlets for that holiday read. The main new = outlets=20 are Gramedia and Periplus.
    New book shops =96 At Periplus = in the Bali=20 Galeria complex near the airport road roundabout, on the ground floor. = On the=20 first floor is Gramedia, also on the 4th level of Matahari's in Kuta = and in=20 Denpasar. Periplus are also in Legian Street, Seminyak, near = Made=92s=20 Warung. In Ubud on Jl Raya near Ary=92s Warung. In the basement of = Matahari's =96=20 mainly in Indonesian but some in English. A variety of comics here = also as=20 well as some classy foreign magazines. Charisma above the KFC store = next to=20 the petrol station on Jl Raya Kuta is mainly a Christian and = educational=20 outlet but some general stock also.     Reading books and = 'coffee=20 table' style books are stocked by the Bintang (meaning =91star=92) = Supermarket in=20 Legian/Seminyak. A wide selection available there and also at a = Periplus=20 bookshop a little further along Jl Seminyak. Some other supermarkets = also have=20 book sections, like the top floor of Matahari's in Kuta. Ubud has the = renowned=20 Ganesha Bookshop in Monkey Forest Road where the assistants are very=20 knowledgeable.
    Used and = swap=20 shops =96 Many hotels have a small library of books that guests = can borrow.=20 You can also add to these collections for future guests and to = maintain the=20 stock levels as some inevitably go off to travel with guests who = leave. At=20 shops ask for the return price before you buy. It should be about half = of the=20 cost but it will be next to nothing if you don=92t clarify the issue = first.=20
    At Garuda in Ubud, near the post office.
    In Poppies Lane II in = Kuta,=20 next to the fish and chip shop. The books here are repaired by the = owner and=20 sold with justifiable pride by the owner. English, Dutch, German and = French=20 languages abound. Prices from Rp80,000.
    There is also one in = Poppies I, on=20 the left if you're going to the beach, about mid way.
    In Candi Dasa = on the=20 hills side of the main road there are two bookshops.
    Near Bemo = Corner in=20 Kuta, turn left from Legian Street and go towards Denpasar. Look for a = Circle=20 K and a hairdresser.
    On Padma Utara near the Melasti Beach Hotel. = Nirwana=20 is near Bemo corner in Kuta.
    In Sanur the Kalimantan Restaurant on = Jl=20 Pantai Sindhu has a 'help yourself/swap shelf of some size. Good, = cheap eats=20 too.
    Also a small stall along the beach front between Bonsai = Restaurant=20 and Beno's just past the DVD stall. Run by Coco. Good selection. =
    There is=20 a second hand book shop next to the All Seasons Hotel on Padma Utara = at the=20 start of the Three Brothers Lane. Good stocks.

  74. Astronomy your = thing? The=20 southern sky is visible in Bali and northern hemisphere visitors find = this=20 exciting and strange. To get a fore-taste of what you=92ll see go to = http://www.heavens-above.com/ = , enter=20 =91Denpasar=92, the date(s) of your holiday, select =91Whole Sky = Chart=92 and enjoy=20 the view. Print off a copy to take with you as a reference. You=92ll = see the=20 famous (in Australia and neighbours at least) Southern Cross (or = Crux). An=20 avid amateur star-gazer in Bali is =91Balibent=92. If you contact him = by posting=20 on the Bali Travel Forum he can perhaps arrange a telescopic session = for=20 you.
    Speaking of stars the Bahasa Indonesia word is =91Bintang=92 = which is also=20 the name of the local beer that you=92re sure to enjoy while it=92s = helping avoid=20 your dehydration.

  75. DOGS in Bali = are often near=20 starvation but they don=92t have rabies. They are generally not pets = and should=20 be treated at least with respect if not caution. The Balinese = traditionally=20 regard them as reincarnations and evil spirits, consequently they try = not to=20 see them, or at least ignore them, although when they cannot do so = they treat=20 them with gentleness and respect (or is it just caution?). There are = some=20 obvious signs that this is slowly changing as a result of an = educational and=20 care campaign carried out in recent years. More and more dogs are = actually=20 appearing to be healthy =96 but still don=92t treat them as pets.
    I = recall the=20 time a very mangy beach dog with pups insisted on sleeping under the = sun=20 lounges near a hotel pool. This obviously could not be accepted and = eventually=20 it was the pool attendant who accepted the responsibility of doing = something=20 about her. Armed with nothing more than a paper serviette he talked = softly and=20 gently to the dog, with no obvious threats or intimidating sounds and = the dog=20 responded by slowly raising herself from a comfortable repose with the = pups=20 and ambling off back to the beach.
    The guests applauded the pool=20 attendant, as much for his gentle approach I think as for his bravery = in doing=20 something no one else had the courage to try.
    There are currently = two=20 organisations in Bali dedicated to helping sick and injured animals of = all=20 types. Desexing is an essential part of their service. The = long-established=20 Yudisthura Swarga Foundation, =91Bali Street Dogs Foundation=92, has = been at work=20 for a number of years and now has a fully equipped mobile clinic. Look = at http://www.balistreetdogs.org.= au/=20 . or www.yamp.com/balidogs. Their=20 clinic number is (361) 742 4048. Dr Listriani's mobile is 081 2390 = 3756 and=20 the Clinic aide (named Dayu) is 081 2363 6925.
    The 'Bali Society = for the=20 Protection of Animals=92 is a more recent assembly of carers who have=20 established a shelter with a full time caretaker to tend sick animals. = All=20 involved are volunteers giving time when necessary to picking up and = caring=20 for sick animals. Their Clinic number is 7(361) 742 4048. Dr = Listrian's number=20 is 081 2363 3756.  The Carer number is 081 2363 6925 (Dayu). = Sarita=92s=20 mobile is 081 236 57927. The address of the shelter is Jl Graha = Wisata=20 No1A, Sidakarya, Denpasar Selatan.
    Dr Restiati is another = recommended Vet.=20 His number is (0361) 744 2430.
    Donations of dry food (expensive to = buy in=20 Bali =96 airlines will often grant passage to overweight baggage if = prior=20 approvals are obtained from local offices), clean bedding, medicines = etc, are=20 welcomed by both groups. Vets travelling to Bali might consider giving = a day=20 of their professional services.
    * There is a growing awareness of = dogs as=20 pets both within the ex-pat community and the = Balinese=20 themselves. In =9203 we noticed a number of pet shops appearing. There = is one=20 opposite the Supernova in Kuta which has a wide range of products but = which=20 regrettably keeps dogs for sale in appalling conditions. One which is = becoming=20 well known for dog and cat clothing is the Dogs Tail on Jl Raya = Seminyak 4C,=20 Seminyak. Ph 731 111. Its next to Made's Warung. =91Expensive but = cute.=92 There=20 is even a dog trainer and consultancy offering obedience training, = behaviour=20 therapy, socialisation and boarding. Phone R Christine on 081 238 139 = 28. Two=20 shops are to be found close together in Legian street between Padma = and=20 Seminyak proper.

  76. FURNITURE =96 = See also Shipping = =96 above.=20 Beware of any banana material if returning to Australia.
    Mari of = Mari=92s=20 Gallery, Melasti Street. Ph 759980 or 0811 388 697. Her English is = excellent=20 and she is honest.
    Kenny, Seminyak. Most drivers know where to find = him.=20
    Made Patra. E-mail tamukami@indosat.net.id = which is a=20 hotel run by Made=92s wife, Miss Mudiasih.
    Beware Jimbaran Rattan, = run by=20 Susie & Yoga Iswara at 38X on the By Pass road at Jimbaran. =
    Geneva=20 Handcrafts and Geneva Furniture, Jl Raya Kerobokan, No 100. Ph (62 = 361) 733=20 571. About Rp10,000 cab fare from Legian.

  77. Storage of goods = and bags is=20 available at Ngurah Rai Airport. Turn to the left as you leave the = arrivals=20 hall. Or is it right since the renovations? Anyway it=92s behind = McDonalds=20 towards the end of the buildings. Charges are Rp5,500 per item per = day. It=20 appears well organised and reliable - under the sign, "Titipan = Barang".=20

  78. Official rate for luggage handling by = porters at the airport is Rp1,500/item. (Approx Aus = 35=20 cents.) The Chief of the Airport Authority requests that porters = demanding=20 more be reported to him. However, this is perhaps not the best time to = be=20 technically correct but mean spirited.
    Don't pay the porters until = your=20 bags are in the taxi or they'll leave you at the kerb or the taxi = window and=20 you'll have to pay another lot to get to the car.

  79. If you want to use an airport lounge to pass the waiting time or = to avoid=20 late check-out costs at your hotel the situation is confusing. You can = follow=20 some recommendations and try the Prada Lounge just past the  = immigration=20 desks in the departure level of Ngurah Rai airport between gates 5/6 = and=20 7/8/9. Rp100,000 (don't fall for any request for more than this nor = believe=20 the story that the Premier Lounge around the corner does not allow = Qantas=20 passengers) for nice soft seating, international and Asian food, full = bar=20 service, showers etc, free local phone calls wide TV reception (but = all=20 Indonesian), papers and magazines. Some would say that, at the price, = it is=20 better than the Premier Lounge near departure gate No1 on the floor = above=20 which costs US$20 or about Rp195,000 (US$20) although other travellers = claim=20 just the opposite.
    The Dewa Dewi Lounge at Ngurah Rai costs=20 Rp100,000.

  80. Which ever lounge you = choose to use do=20 NOT rely on any promised 'personal' flight calls; watch the clock=20 yourself!

  81. Taxi = voucher desk is on=20 the right as you leave airport reception. It=92s about 25 paces from = the exit=20 door. Look for the glass window, probably at the head of a long queue. = See=20 also the DRIVERS=20 section below.
    Advertised fares from the airport are: (A complaint = in '06=20 was that they tried to get you to pay above the fixed rate. Point to = the price=20 board if the do and they'll apologise - Very sorry. Mistake. !!!)
    - = to Kuta=20 Rp45,000 (although its only about Rp15-20,000 on the meter of a street = taxi=20 you can find down by the local terminal about 100 meters to you right = as you=20 leave the International one. Be aware that they are not allowed to = come up to=20 the big terminal to collect your luggage.); to Legian Rp50,000, = Seminyak=20 55,000, Oberoi 60,000, Kerobokan 50,000, Jimbaran 60,000, Four Seasons = 60,000,=20 Nusa Dua 85,000, Sanur 85,000, Denpasar 60-80,000, Ubud 175,000, Candi = Dasa=20 300,000, Canggu 110,000, Tanah Lot 170,000.

  82. Most cheaper=20 VCD=92s are mainly terrible copies or filmed from the theatre screen = priced at=20 Rp25,000. Originals (or copies of) priced at Rp54-75,000 are fairly = good. Test=20 them if you can =96 reject them if you can=92t.

    DVD=92s are a = good buy. Rp50,000 at=20 Ramayana and other large department stores ('02). Rp60,000 around = Kuta. In '04=20 we were buying for less than Rp10,000 each in larger quantities. =
    Most of=20 the shops that sold computer software and music CD's a year or so ago = have now=20 closed or switched to movie DVD's because they are far more lucrative. = In '05=20 I brought back 8 computer program discs for myself and friends but = Herself=20 brought home over 100 movie DVD's. You can guess who got most = attention in the=20 shops!
    There are many outlets. Check the 'SHOPPING' advice in the = Districts=20 sections for TUBAN-KUTA, LEGIAN-SEMINYAK and=20 SANUR-DENPASAR.
    Helgie is an = established=20 supplier of DVD's, CD's and game discs who has opened a new shop = (=9205) in=20 Tuban on Jl Wana Segara (the Balihai Resort ex Holiday Inn, SA Cafe = etc=20 street). The range on view is not great but doubtless copies will be = obtained=20 if you ask.
    The new kid on the block for computer software might be = Istana=20 CD in the newish Kuta Mal Galeria on the opposite side to the bus/bemo = park=20 and Ace Hardware. He has a large stock for both PC's and Macs = (surprise) and=20 has them organised into categories on his racks. He is also prepared = to be=20 helpful if you ask.

  83. DVD virus = first appeared in=20 =9204. Check by putting your DVD=92s in a computer that has a good = virus=20 checker.
    To open got to My Computer, right click on the DVD drive = icon.=20 Click Search. To All or part of the file name enter this string - = *.hex;*.bin=20 =96 Enter. (Note the semi-colon.) If there are any hex or bin files do = not use=20 that disc in a stand-alone DVD player or it will freeze up. It is OK = to view=20 on the computer which is not affected.
    Similar virus=92 have also = been=20 reported on photo CD=92s. One way to avoid them with the new self-use = machines=20 is said to be not dragging from the card icon to the computer icon to = get a CD=20 burnt. Select 'copy' or similar. Don't drag files back onto your card=20 icon.

  84. Music CD=92s = Rp60-80,000. Double=20 albums Rp140,000. PC CD games Rp 35,000. ('05)

  85. MP3=92s Rp35,000 = with 200 tracks.=20

  86. PHOTOGRAPHY = =96 Digital is=20 obviously the way of the future and good mid-range SLR digital cameras = with=20 larger CCD's (charge coupled devices or 'image recorders') should be = on the=20 market at realistic prices by the end of '05. The era of endlessly = changing=20 low end 'Happy Snapper' models is showing signs or slowing down = perhaps=20 because the market is saturated with newer models that do a really = good job in=20 hands that are a bit more skilled and knowledgeable than average. =
    Be aware=20 that the increasing number of 'photo kiosks' or self use print = machines that=20 take your camera chip give you ink printed pictures on good quality = absorbent=20 papers. They do not use the light sensitive papers of true photography = and the=20 sharpness and durability of the prints are both inferior to 'real'=20 photos.
    You can still buy normal photographic films ('06) and have = them=20 processed in the normal way (negatives and prints) but ask for = digitised=20 processing as well. All your images are digitised on the CD ROM for = $12 extra.=20 There are many outlets and '1 hour' shops giving terrible quality = because of=20 the smaller quantity of work these days means that machines are not = run up to=20 correct temperatures and chemical solutions are kept well past their = use-by=20 dates.
    Frontech FOTO will develop digital images onto normal = photographic=20 paper. They are in Jl Raya Kuta.
    Sanur Dewata Foto Digital Studio = 60, in Jl=20 Danau Buyan (just near the traffic lights), will download digital = pictures=20 onto CDs from your camera or from flash cards. Their charge is = Rp70,000 per=20 CD, with as many images as will fit onto the disc. Prints can also be = made at=20 prices up to Rp45,000 for the largest. There are a growing number of = stores=20 that will now do the same thing. Mid =9204 prices were Rp1600/postcard = size=20 print =96 about 30 cents Aust. To Rp9,700 (about $1.85 Aust) for a = 10=94 x 8=94=20 enlargement. Your memory device goes into their computer and you = select the=20 shots you want.
    Fuji Pantai Digital Foto Centre in Jl Legian 204, = Kuta, is=20 also recommended
    Beware of virus infections = in your=20 memory devices. One outlet to pass on a virus is at the intersection = of=20 Poppies II and Legian another the Kodak shop in front of the Dynasty. = They=20 were cheap and proved to be dirty too. Your download computer, with a = good=20 virus program, will quarantine the file and will clean it up.
    If = you want=20 to do your own downloads laptop = computers can=20 be hired in Bali but the age and quality of the machines is not known = in =9204.=20 Try Dhidli at dhidhi143@yahoo.com.=20
    Buy the most memory that you can afford for your camera. Bali will = bedazzle you with photo opportunities. Download onto CD=92s which will = hold=20 about 60 pics, depending on the resolution you choose of course. Take = your own=20 top quality CD=92s as some shops will download onto junk CD=92s.
    A = wide range=20 of memory devices can be downloaded at Legian Cyber in Sahadewa street = Legian.=20 Rp25,000 on their CD=92s or Rp15,000 on your own. Internet facilities = there=20 also.
    Get your good shots enlarged in Bali =96 it=92s very cheap = and the=20 quality is quite reasonable.
    Get an extra print as a present for = your=20 Balinese friends. See point 5 under =91Remember =96 cultural things=92 = below.
    If=20 you are planning to go snorkelling get a disposable underwater camera. = Cheaper=20 in Oz ($14) than in Bali. Big-W, K-mart etc often have them on = special, very=20 cheap.
    Cameras often suffer from fogging when they are taken out = of=20 air-conditioned rooms into the heat and humidity outside and even when = they're=20 taken out of cars with good A/C systems. Give it time to clear from = the lens.=20 Try keeping your camera wrapped up in some clothing in a cupboard or = drawer=20 away from the coldest blast of the A/C for fewer problems. Digital = equipment=20 often have humidity sensors that will turn things off and prevent = short=20 circuiting until they have dried out a bit. Open up battery covers and = storage=20 media covers or tape doors to hasten the drying process which can take = up to=20 45 minutes.

  87. Photography = is commonly=20 accepted in Bali, even in temples during most ceremonies. Some beach = rats will=20 ask you for payment after you=92ve snapped them. Ask, "Bisa ambil = foto?" (Can I=20 take a photo?) if in doubt.

  88. Camera = repairs. Call Mr=20 Iwan (Ivan?) Widiantara, Ph (0361) 486 961 (or +62 361 486 961) or 081 = 2397=20 7974. His address is registered in Bali Traveller Guide, Ruko Terminal = Tegal=20 Sari 27, Jalan Imam Bonjol, Denpasar. In business for over 20 years.=20

  89. Simple watch=20 repairs might be undertaken by any of the watch sellers all over = Bali but=20 for your valuable home watch (or clocks) try the shop opposite the = Ramayana=20 Department store in Denpasar. If you're looking for a good (genuine) = watch or=20 clock at much better prices than at home try them. In '07 a Citizen = Eco drive=20 date/waterproof watch was Aus$100.
    Another watch mechanic who is a = repairer=20 of above average abilities and a bit handier than the shop above is = Dudy=20 Kristiano of BWS Bali Watch Service. On the second floor of Matahari's = right=20 up in the very back left hand corner at a tiny little counter near the = Revlon=20 counter. Charged $43 for a repair that was quoted at over $200 in = Australia.=20 New extendable band and service to a 50 year old automatic watch for = Aus$70 in=20 '09, work that was laughed at back in Oz! Only after midday. Ph 081 = 337 340=20 953 or 081 338 660 154. If you want to buy a new, real watch = he'll take=20 you to the suppliers in Denpasar.
    Another repairer and seller of = genuine=20 watches is in the Bali Galleria in Sunset Road. The shop is just = outside=20 Matahari. An Aus$90 'just to look' was just $25 to fix here and after = 2 years=20 is still going strong.
    ** There is (or was in early '08) a = totally crook=20 watch seller (also sunglasses etc) in Jl Werkudara, Legian, in a = shop=20 called Puri Delta. Watches that don't work by the time = you get=20 back to your hotel will not be accepted for return nor even new = batteries of=20 the correct size fitted. Verbal and physical threats from the owner = and his=20 mates seem common. He probably won't stay there long but he may want = to re-use=20 his 'Puti Delta' signs. Be warned. Go to the Tourist Police if you're=20 threatened.

  90. Common 35mm films are readily available = throughout=20 Bali but for a range of special and better quality films (up to = professional),=20 best to bring them from home.
    Film is very slightly affected by = airport=20 x-rays. You=92re not likely to notice the changes unless you=92re = very fussy=20 and are using higher than standard quality films. If you=92re worried, = then ask=20 for it to be inspected manually rather than going through the = scanner.
    If=20 you are going to use films of above the normal standard it might be = better to=20 purchase them from a specialty photographic shop at home before you = go. They=20 are likely to be fresher and have probably been stored in cool = refrigerators.=20 Films of these qualities in Bali on the other hand, tend to sit on hot = shop=20 shelves for a long time in Bali =96 if indeed you can find them at = all.
    If=20 you keep your film in the bar fridge in Bali be very careful to let it = slowly=20 come up to room temperature before you seal it up in your camera where = condensation can do terrible things to both the film and the = camera.
    If you=20 are interested in taking photos for slides (shown on a screen or wall = using a=20 projector) you will be getting very fine grain film with dense and = brilliant=20 colours. These slides can be scanned and converted to superb photos = and web=20 pages to stun your family and e-mail contacts =96 but the process is = not=20 cheap.

  91. Days with sea breezes are better as the = tropical=20 haze is blown away a bit. The light seems softer than in Aus. US, = Europe,=20 perhaps because of the usual fires, humidity etc and some people = recommend=20 film with saturated emulsion such as =91Velvia=92.

  92. A piece of advice I can offer is the = use of those=20 very small and cheap tripods with springy wire legs that will fit = fairly=20 comfortably into a 'bum bag' if you don't have a camera bag.
    They = can be=20 screwed onto the bottom of most small cameras and the legs spread to = rest the=20 camera on a car bonnet or a wall or fencepost or up-turned box, = anything that=20 will keep the camera steady. (Do make sure that the car engine is = turned off=20 if you're using the bonnet, and that the kids are not about to jump in = and=20 have a fight.)
    Adjust the bend of the legs to point the thing in = the=20 required direction. Use the delayed shutter release mode of the = camera, you=20 know, the one that lets you press the button and then gives you time = to run=20 around the front and get into the picture yourself. This way you take = the shot=20 without any risk of the camera shaking in your hands as you press the = button.=20 Without doubt this camera movement causes the ruination of most shots, = and the=20 new crop of small pocket cameras with zoom lenses do, of course, = greatly=20 emphasise the smallest of shakes.

  93. Digital = photos can be=20 processed in Bali, the number of shops offering the service is = increasing. One=20 well established shop is Legian Cyber. They are in Sahadewa Street. = Also a=20 cyber caf=E9/internet shop. Try Frontec Photo, Jl Raya Kuta N0 104 = Blok D, Ph=20 751 222. Download your memory card to CDs - Rp50,000 on your own CD or = Rp=20 70,000 on a new CD. Prints Rp1800 each.

  94. COMPUTER = SOFTWARE =96 I=20 am amazed at the decline in availability of software in the 2 years = from '03=20 to '05. Some outlets have simply closed, some have stopped stocking = software=20 titles and others have only very limited offerings now. All have been=20 influenced by the more lucrative trade in DVD movies. This I = understand as I=20 buy 5 or 6 pieces of software while herself buys 100+ DVD's. In '09 I = found=20 Techron Computers on Jl Pulau Kawe 40C and Jl Dewi Sri No 9 , Kuta, Ph = (0361)=20 311 3603 or (361) 742 5271.
    See the shopping=20 section in the Denpasar District lists below and the Legian/Seminyak=20 section for more detailed information.

  95. Used=20 computers. If you would like to donate a second hand computer to a = sponsored child, a school, an orphanage or a friend then contact = Siddiq, a=20 local computer techie who keeps the computers of both locals and = ex-pats=20 running. Phone 08 123 803 444 (in Bali). Through his main work he has = an=20 up-to-date knowledge of what is available and where. Give him two or = three=20 days to check around and give you some options. He does not recommend = used=20 printers but through his contacts in the business he can pair a used = computer=20 with a new printer; Canon S200SP or I25P for about Rp 400-500,000 in = Feb '05.=20 Used desktop computers range up to about Rp1,000,000 depending on = chip, memory=20 and vintage. All up cost for a good system might therefore be = Rp1,500,000 or=20 Aus$225. That's probably better than you'll get in Oz and no excess = freight to=20 be added. Service of course would be provided locally in Bali at the = best=20 rates.
    In '05 we got a nice little NEC Versa Pro laptop, 1999 = model,=20 Celeron 333MHz chip,128Mb RAM and 6Gb HDD, running Windows Me and = loaded with=20 Office Pro 2000 for Au$300 or Rp2,250,000. It left a nice young girl = at the=20 Negara orphanage gobsmacked and over however long it takes she will = learn to=20 use it for an additional Rp250,000 or Au$34, knowledge she will pass = on to=20 others there and make them feel far more comfortable with technology = perhaps=20 for the rest of their lives.

  96. Printing: = business cards=20 (including. plastic), stickers, T-shirts. =91Keyhole Print Shop=92, Jl = Padma, app=20 60 metres on right from Jl Legian. Ask for Tarka.
    * Also = =91Indographs=92,=20 graphic and art offset printing of all types. Off Jl Legian near = a=20 leather shop called =91Merinos=92. http://www.indographs.com/ for = prices=20 and range.
    * Deka Grafika can do cards as well as stubby holders = and other=20 sorts of promotional material. deka_suradnya@yahoo.com. =
    * Harry=20 is a sign writer and also does T-shirts, stubby holders, stickers, = neon signs=20 etc. Warna Recklame, Jl Raya Kuta No81, Tuban. Ph 081 558 157=20 721.

  97. Printing. Bags with corporate logos = etc. Scale=20 Grafika in Padma Street behind OKA Cargo. See Agus.

  98. Cast metal=20 signs and letters in aluminium or brass (may be bronze). =
    Talent Art=20 Shop, Jl Legian Tengah No 420, KUTA. E-mail alloytalent@yahoo.com. There = are three=20 metal shops together.
    Also R2B on Jl Tangkuban Perahu No = 22.
    Also Golden=20 Buffalo on Sunset Road about No 12, next to Cosy.

  99. WEDDINGS. = Weddings are popular=20 in Bali and there are several companies specialising in arrangements. = One to=20 avoid is Silvies =91baliwedding.com=92. Do not confuse this company = with Bali=20 Weddings International, which is frequently recommended. 
    A=20 'Certificate of No Impediment' is required from the Australian=20 Consulate.
    Check the Bali Romantic Weddings web site at http://romantic-weddings.com/ = ,=20 E-mail info@romantic-weddings.com= =20 .
    Rama Shinta Weddings, Deden Kung and staff, has also been=20 recommended.
    There are good reports about Tamu Seseh, villas in the = rice=20 fields overlooking the ocean. ' - - 100 bamboo torches stretching away = in the=20 rice fields is unforgettable.' -  http://www.tamugroup.com/.=20
    Dominique's Bali Wedding = Photography is=20 a local firm that has had some recommendations but they're not super = cheap. www.weddingphotographybal= i.com/.=20
    Another is iva@pthaeinternational.com= =20

  100. GETTING = ABOUT. Taxis are very cheap, hiring a driver and vehicle = from anywhere=20 on the street is also very cheap. The traffic in Bali has to be seen = to be=20 believed. I can NOT recommend driving = yourself or=20 riding yourself but if you=92re determined or part of the invincible = youth then=20 hiring vehicles is quite easy if you have = an=20 international licence, A$15 plus passport photo from your local = automobile=20 association for 12 months. Only available for the classes you already = have=20 endorsed on your home licence.. You can also get a temporary Bali = licence in=20 about 20 min at a local Polisi station although this is rumoured to = change to=20 Kerobokan only some time in '05 and you'll need your genuine passport. = Cost=20 Rp200,000 for 3 months and valid anywhere in Indonesia. There is a = written=20 test in Bahasa Indonesia and for a small fee the police will 'assist' = you with=20 the test. Time taken is about 3 hours total. If you pass you get a = receipt on=20 the spot and the licence will be available next day. Excess of US$500 = for the=20 vehicle hire can be asked. Make sure you get insurance when you hire = and that=20 your traveller=92s insurance will also cover you. Try C V Jaya Mertha = II, Ph 756=20 204, US$925 for a Suzuki Katana Jimny for 10 days. Be sure of the time = for=20 vehicle return and anything else that is =91No worry Boss. She be = OK=92, and it is=20 until you try to deviate and then all hell breaks loose =96 and your = wallet with=20 it. Wary hirers always take photos of themselves and the four = sides of=20 the vehicle at the front of the shop before they drive off. Make sure = all=20 dents and scratches are visible. Kijangs cost about Rp100,000 for a = day, Jimny=20 about Rp80,000. Clean Diahatsu Feroza complete with dashboard offering = for=20 Rp230,000/day plus Rp350,000 excess. Car delivered and picked up from = hotel.=20 In '07 a 10 day hire worked out at about Rp150,000 a day including an=20 Insurance upgrade. Be aware that despite all the recommendations above = it is=20 not a LEGAL option for you to sign any sort of  document in = Indonesia. If=20 you prang or injure someone that hire agreement and the insurance = policy might=20 be invalid and you WILL be at fault regardless of the circumstances of = the=20 accident.
    Quote from the Bali Travel Forum -
    If you have not = been to=20 Bali before (and even if you have) I would strongly recommend against = driving=20 yourself.
    Traffic conditions and patterns are often described as = 'chaotic'=20 by first timers and, although they're not really if you are used to = them, they=20 are different.
    Think of the poor driver who has to negotiate the = apparent=20 mayhem! He or she will not see anything of the sights, nor will = whoever is=20 trying to navigate through the one-way streets, the short cuts and = maps that=20 can only be described as just slightly related to the actual position = and=20 names of roads.
    On top of this you might add insurance concerns = even if you=20 don't have a real accident. Others before you have lamented that they = had not=20 taken numerous photos of the hired vehicle (with the smiling salesman = in each=20 photo) before they even stepped into it to help prove on their return = that=20 those dents and scratches really were not their fault.
    Breakdown = scams are=20 numerous, police checks at which you will feel obliged to buy tickets = to the=20 Policeman's Ball (or else!), parking fees at tourist rates and fraud = at the=20 infrequent fuel pumps might be other worries.
    Compare this with the = cheapness and peace of mind of hiring a vehicle and driver on any = street in=20 the island almost. A driver and local guide all rolled into one. Hire = for an 8=20 hour day should cost you no more than Rp300,000. Convert that into = your home=20 currency and see the value.

  101. Sports shoes = are popular=20 buys in Bali but many are very poor quality and, unless you=92re = looking for a=20 cheap pair, caution is required. If you are in a position to compare = various=20 offerings try gripping the toe and heel and twist the sole. Better = shoes will=20 not twist very easily. Another test is to try pushing the heel (at the = finger=20 loop) in towards the sole at the instep. If it gives then the heel = support is=20 paper or cardboard rather the rigid plastic and the shoes are not = genuine ones=20 from a name brand =96 no matter what the words or symbols = show.
     Don=92t=20 believe that well-known names in the shoe retail business will only = sell the=20 genuine article either!
    Watch out for =91Rebok=92 brand and = 'Niike=92 or similar=20 mis-spelt names.
    Hand made to measure, leather shoes, are not as = popular in=20 the buying stakes but probably represent better value than sports=20 shoes. Guys can get shoes in common styles in black, brown, grey, = green=20 etc and for the ladies what better than a coloured leather coat or = pants with=20 an exactly matching pair of fashionable boots or shoes. Take a picture = of your=20 favourite style or rely on the leather shops=92 catalogues.
    There = is a shoe=20 warehouse in Legian. Coming from Kuta turn into Jl Padma and then = right into=20 Padma Utara; at the dog-leg where the Fairy shop is go left and you'll = find it=20 just a few shops along. Its actually almost at the back driveway of = the=20 Niksoma Hotel to the right. There are no signs ('05) but look into the = glass=20 doors. If you come to a handbag and scarf shop (also good) you've = passed=20 it.
    For large sizes in men's shoes try Joycelyn's Shoes on Jl = Melasti not=20 far from Bali Rock going towards Jl Legian.

  102. Musical=20 instruments are available on the top floor of the Supernova = Department=20 store on Jl Kuta. Guitars from the department stores and Tom's (below) = are=20 generally the cheaper brands. King Audio (below) has better quality=20 instruments. Have a look at the Marlique website;=20 www.marliqueguitars.com/english/englishhome.html.
    * Also at Tom's = Music=20 & Sports Hyperstore on Jl Ngurah Rai Bypass 88X, Kuta. Ph = (+62-361) 766=20 788 - e-mail tommusic@indosat.net.id - = 5 string=20 Ibanex Bass Rp 2.2 million, about a quarter of the Aussie price for = same=20 instrument.
    * Also on the top floor of Hardys Grosir Supermarket = on the=20 main street of Sanur,
    * Gramedia shops,
    * Matahari's in = Denpasar, down=20 the escalator and turn left. Guitars - Cort, Washburn, Epiphones etc = from=20 Rp700,000 to 5 million.
    * Guitars in Bali are easy to find and a = great=20 range of qualities and prices. Almost all department stores have = instrument=20 sections. Also Tom's, Sound Quality, King Audio. Know your instruments = and=20 home prices and you'll find a bargain.
    * "- - in 2005 we bought an = acoustic=20 guitar for A$90, and electric bass for A$110, an electric Ibanez RGX = with 5=20 strings, strap. 6M lead and hard case for A$285."
    * Epiphone Les = Paul=20 model. A$240, Centro, '06.
    * Also in the shop opposite Mataharis in = Denpasar.
    * Upstairs in Matahari, Kuta.
    * In Centro, the new = Discovery=20 Mall (in a hardware shop would you believe?) and the Kuta Galleria. A=20 remarkable range from Jew's Harps to 3/4 violins at approx Aus$80 with = velvet=20 lined, hard case. Appraised in Australia as 'good value'. Guitars=20 Aus$250.  Try before you buy here.
    * The Sound Quality store = on Jl=20 Imam Bonjol at N0338B in Denpasar is also worth checking. Ph. 0361 484 = 904.=20 Ask for Lalut.
    * Ibanez RGX. C/WFN twin humbucks, single coil = pickup,=20 locking bridge, hard case, 5 packs strings, gold end leads strap and = 100 picks=20 - Aus$280. ('07).
    * Kings Audio Jl Bedugul 51, Denpasar. E-mail kings@dps.centrin.net.id.*=20 Ramayana Denpasar, ground floor. Good selection.
    * Yamaha Music = Indonesia=20 has a store in Denpasar. Check the yellow phone book at your hotel = reception=20 for the address.
    * Bali Bedcovers and Guitars does not sound like a = place=20 where you might meet Paco Pena or some other great musician but you'll = be=20 surprised at the range of good guitars at great prices. Poppies Lane I = near=20 the Legian end and Poppies Restaurant. Good service from knowledgeable = staff.=20 Yamaha pack in Oz at $289 was $143 here.

  103. In '07 a warning was = posted about surf boards sold under the PC brand. Palu got = better=20 reviews - www.baliblog.com/news/archives/002960.shtml.

  104. BARGAINING. An American=20 tourist offers these hard-nosed suggestions about getting the best = possible=20 value for your money when bargaining in Bali.
    FINDING OUT WHAT = THINGS=20 REALLY COST =96 or =91The Impossible Dream.=92
    Most important; = you've got to be=20 willing to walk away. You'll never get the lowest price standing in = one spot=20 and discussing it. Nine times out of ten, the seller=92s price will = drop closer=20 to your last offer if you walk away.
    Method 1: Try and try again. =
    Pick=20 something that is common throughout markets and set yourself a very = low target=20 price. Try to bargain for it. Fail? Raise your price a little and try=20 somewhere else. Do it again, until someone agrees. It's good practice, = but=20 remember that if the seller accepts your offer convention dictates = that you=20 must buy at that price.
    Method 2: Eavesdrop on other tourists. =
    Listen=20 to them bargain, and find out what they paid. Often, the shopkeeper = will sell=20 you the same thing for the same price but try to go a bit lower. This = really=20 works best with two friends; it=92s less effective but still possible = with two=20 strangers.
    Method 3: Go on a day tour, and observe the hawkers at = all the=20 stops made on the tour.
    You will find that these tour sellers are = among=20 the hardest on all of Bali (except perhaps those at Kintamani). Here's = where=20 you'll get the "Ten thousand! Ten thousand!" sarong price offers right = off the=20 bat. What they shout at you as you walk away, or the prices they quote = while=20 they're wedging their shoulder into your car door and preventing you = from=20 closing your door are often the lowest prices that the item can be had = for=20 anywhere.
    Method 4: Go to a fixed price store (like Matahari in = Kuta) and=20 have a look around. Set your target for similar goods in the markets = at 30-50%=20 off of those prices. This is a way of at least getting within the = ballpark=20 range of a "real" price, especially if you have no idea whether = something=20 should cost Rp10,000 or 100,000.
    Some things the vendor will = nearly always=20 do to unsettle you:
    1) - Laugh outrageously at your starting price =
    2)=20 - Invoke peer pressure, either by telling other shopkeepers what = you've=20 offered and having them laugh, or saying "but your friend paid . . ." =
    3) -=20 Say "Ten thousand? No, this quality (picks up other object) ten = thousand.=94=20 They'll always drag in other cheaper examples of what you're trying to = buy, to=20 try to make your intended purchase look like the higher quality = version and=20 worthy of the price they want.
    4) - Never drop close to their = lowest price=20 until you start to walk away. When come back you can haggle some more = from a=20 new starting point.
    Things you should always do:
    1) - have a = good idea=20 of what an item should cost if it's a common item or  - or = what=20 you're willing to pay if it's a harder-to-find item.
    2) - Calculate = a goal=20 somewhere between 20 and 50% of the shopkeeper's starting price (if = you have=20 no idea what it costs).
    3) - Start BELOW that price and come up = only in=20 small increments (like 5000, or even 1000 at a time, depending on the=20 price).
    4) - Allow yourself four or five rounds of = negotiation.
    5) -=20 Say, "Ah, no thank you, too expensive.=94 Then WALK AWAY. If they're = willing to=20 keep going, they'll say "OK OK" and wave you back. Then they'll drop a = little=20 more, but not necessarily yet to the price you want. It can still go = several=20 rounds after walking away.
    Things that are handy:
    1) - Having = exact=20 change. If you're tired of the transaction and you know you're = offering a fair=20 price, you can take out your money and say "This is all I have" or = "Here, yes,=20 30,000" to speed the deal.
    2) Keep a couple extra thousand on = hand, to=20 sweeten the deal if necessary. Do not show these to the vendor, or = they'll try=20 to incorporate them in the final price.
    Things you should not = do:
    1) -=20 Get angry or shout. It's just business, and the Balinese like to = conduct it in=20 a friendly, easygoing, "You funny! What a JOKE your price is!" sort of = way.
    2) - Say how much you paid for something. It will give away = your=20 knowledge of prices and what you're willing to pay.
    3) =96 Refuse = to buy (or=20 continue to try to bargain lower) when your last offer has been=20 accepted.
    Finally, keep the value of the money involved in some = sort of=20 perspective. If you find yourself refusing a deal because of a = difference of a=20 few hundred rupiah then stop and work out just how insignificant such = a sum=20 really is to you. Then stop and think of how valuable this sum is to = the=20 seller.

  105. There are a number of fixed price=20 shops appearing in Bali. You frequently have to ask for the fixed = price=20 after which it is very rude if you try to bargain.
    All of the = supermarkets=20 and restaurants are fixed price of course but others include;
    * = Jenny's=20 Shop on Jl Kartika Plaza at the front of the Green Garden in = Tuban.
    *=20 Dianne's is the shop next to Jenny's and also fixed price.
    * = Patrick's=20 Shop in the Legian Art Markets, Block C, No 26, Jl Melasti, Legian = Kelod.
    *=20 Tootsies, perhaps the first and certainly a Forum favourite in the = Sindhu=20 Beach Markets, Sanur.
    * Jenny's, next to Tootsies and no doubt = responding=20 to the pressure.
    * Also in Sanur is Noma's Shop No 31A in the = Sindhu Beach=20 Markets. If she hasn't got the size or colour you want she'll try to = get it=20 for you.
    * Ketuts, shop 14, Gang Sorga Lines, off Jl Sahadewa in=20 Legian.
    * Willie's shop in the area of the Legian Markets facing = Sahadewa=20 street, No 39.
    * Yanthi Clothing  owned by Wayan in Jl = Sahadewa near=20 the Melasti end. Sells Billabong and Quicksilver from her house at the = rear of=20 the shop. Shirts Rp90K, T's and shorts Rp40K.
    * Nyoman's Camphuan = shop at=20 the bottom of the hill in Jl Raya near the Camphuan Bridge in Ubud. = Ask for=20 Made.
    * There is also a Nyoman's at shop 111 in the Kuta Art = Markets. Also=20 shop 39.
    * Ketut's in Poppies Lane I.
    * In Poppies II there is = an 'L'=20 shaped group of shops just through the S bend if you're heading = towards the=20 beach. Wayan, right on the corner is a nice lady and will give you = fixed=20 prices if you ask.
    * Golden Buffalo for silver and bronze statues, = buddas,=20 heads, candle holders, frames etc, etc. Sunset Road Legian next to = Cosy with=20 the sign on tall legs.
    * Geneva Homewares and furniture in = Kerobokan on the=20 main road.
    * Pipit Shop opposite the Legian Art Markets, Shop 17 = (or=20 117?)  Blok C. Perhaps the cheapest of all in '05. Turn right out = of Jl=20 Sahadewa, towards the beach and Pipits is on the left.
    * Miss = Debbie in=20 Legian on the right of Garlic Lane (Jl Sahadewa) going towards Melasti = St. Ask=20 for Billabong and you will be taken into the house to see the = collection. Some=20 shoppers say she is a bit rude. Maybe they asked for fixed price and = then=20 still tried to bargain?
    * There is also a Black and White Sports = Store on=20 Jl Kartika Plaza about 3 doors from the Bali Rani.
    * Shop 39 in the = Kuta=20 Art Markets.
    * In Ubud try the River Valley shop in Monkey Forest = Road=20 opposite Uluwatu Lace. Different fashions at cheaper prices then Kuta=20 etc.
    * In Seminyak go to Jacques Ruc on Raya Seminyak at No 54-56. = Designer=20 shop with a different array of mix-n-match for both larger and smaller = figures. Go past Bintang Supermarket towards Seminyak central or = Kerobokan and=20 its on your right.

2.    MONEY  

Most of=20 this information is regularly updated on a separate page so that it will = upload=20 more quickly when you want to check something or print it out to take = with you.=20 This link, 'MONEY',= will=20 take you straight there and you just hit the 'Back'; button to return=20 here.

There is also a Shoppers = Cheat Sheet=20 that you can print off to take with you at this link - 'Cheat = Sheet'.

If you want to do accurate = conversions=20 via your pocket calculator follow these steps -
    - = divide 1=20 by the exchange rate for the day (remember this might change a couple of = times a=20 day.)
    - enter the result into the calculators=20 memory.
    - enter the price of anything and multiply = it by=20 'memory' (or the number you got when you divided = above.)
   =20 This will give the correct result in any currency you initially entered = as the=20 exchange=20 rate.
          &nbs= p; For=20 example: Exchange rate is 7800 rupiah to 1=20 dollar
          &nb= sp;           &nbs= p;        =20 1 divided by 7800 =3D=20 0.0001282
          =             &= nbsp;        =20 0.0001282 multiplied by Rp200.000 =3D $25.64.

Carry your=20 money in a =91bum bag=92 but keep it under your shirt if it contains a = lot. Exposed=20 bum bag straps can be easily cut and the offender away on the pillion of = a=20 passing motorbike before you can blink. (Before you condemn the Balinese = for=20 this sort of criminal activity just ask yourself if it could or = couldn=92t happen=20 in your home town.) If you have large amounts keep it in several = different=20 places. I use a skin coloured cloth money pouch which hangs around my = neck under=20 the shirt as a less obvious and more secure device. Its been useful when = I've=20 been invited into that little back room at Customs and I can show an = empty=20 wallet except for travellers=20 cheques.

'Don't put all your eggs in = one basket'=20 my old grandmother used to say - to no one in particular but to anyone = who'd=20 listen. In money terms it means don't just take cash or just plastic = cards or=20 just Travellers Cheques. Have a bit of everything then if your cash gets = pinched=20 you still have the credit cards and if there is a power failure and the = ATM's=20 don't work you can fall back on your TC's which will be replaced in 24 = hours if=20 they get stolen. 'Nope! Won't happen to me' I can hear some of you say, = to which=20 I can only say I hope you won't be sorry and I hope you won't get mad = when I=20 say, "I told you so!' Check this=20 post on http://www.balitra= velforum.com/msg/12829.html=20 to see what can happen in real life.

"Posted by=20 ####### on Saturday, 3. January 2009 at 09:34 Bali Time: =

I'm not=20 the type of person to run anyone or anything down but I believe those of = you=20 intending to stay at the ######## ###### ### should be aware of what = happened to=20 us & think twice before doing so.

On a=20 positive note the rooms where good for the price but the beds are = extremely=20 hard, the showers, aircon, pool etc all good.

The=20 negative & most disappointing side is the room safes & that = there is a=20 THIEF among their staff, also that the Australian owner could not have = cared=20 less.

We arrived=20 on the 23rd December & between the night of the 23rd & xmas = night my=20 friend was ROBBED $3,300 AUD, which consisted of his & his 14 year = old=20 daughters money."

That bit about eggs in the = basket also=20 applies to your money in Bali. Don't carry it all onto the street at any = one=20 time. Leave some in your hotel safe and what you do carry with you split = up=20 between a bum bag, a purse and a pocket or wherever.
 

  1. The=20 local money is the Indonesian = rupiah =96=20 (Rp.).
    * Coins are Rp1,000 =96 500 =96 100 =96 50 and = 25. Supermarkets=20 use lollies (candy) as small change for less than = 25=20 rupiah.
    * Notes are Rp100,000 (Ask for these when changing = money as=20 they=92re easy to count for you and not easy for the tricky money = changers to=20 mis-count.) - 50,000 =96 20,000 =96 10,000 =96 5,000 (About A$1.00 / = US$0.50.) =96=20 1,000 =96 500 =96 100.
    * Take care that you don=92t get Rp10,000 = notes passed to=20 you in the middle of a stack of Rp100,000 notes, or 5,000s in a stack = of=20 50,000s and so on.
    * THE SAFEST = MONEY=20 CHANGERS ARE AT THE WARTELS (Government telephoning shops) WHICH = OFTEN=20 HAVE AUTHORISED MONEY CHANGING OFFICES ALSO. The changers will be = PT Bali=20 Valas or PT Bali Masprint or something similar. Their rates are the = same as PT=20 Central. Most importantly they will change Travellers Cheques with a = photo=20 copy of your passport ID page. I DO NOT RECOMMEND =91PT CENTRAL=92 = AGENCIES IN THE=20 KODAK SHOPS (or in the larger Department stores) AS THEY NOW REQUIRE = YOUR=20 ORIGINAL PASSPORT TO CHANGE TRAVELLERS CHEQUES. I will not take my = passport=20 out of the hotel safe until I=92m ready to go home =96 then I know I = can get home=20 without days of hassle. If your passport is stolen on the streets your = holiday=20 will be ruined and it will take days to get it replaced. Many = travellers are=20 now ('07) re-evaluating their trust in the Kodak shop money changers. = Of=20 concern in one instance was the Kodak shop almost opposite the Kin = Khao=20 restaurant on Jl Kartika in Tuban. We once happily used this shop for = years=20 before finding the wartels and true authorised money changers.
    * = Take care=20 also if you=92re tempted to do business with any moneychanger who is = offering a=20 better than usual exchange rate. The only way he will make up the = difference=20 between the official rate (at which they all buy their money) and the = higher=20 rate that he is offering is to cheat you. Credit card scams abound = including a=20 new one reported in '05 which uses the information gleaned by the = older card=20 machines used in Bali. This information includes the full number and = expiry=20 date. In the finance office of any company that handles your card = transactions=20 an employee can copy all the needed details and a new card with a new = photo=20 and signature even, can be made in a few hours and put to use anywhere = in the=20 world.
    If there is a LEGITIMATE Security Guard in the shop it may = be better=20 than some of the others.
    Check the 'MONEY' link above (in blue = type) for=20 more information on the money risks that abound in Bali.     =

  2. If you=20 would like to see pictures of the Rupiah notes (face and reverse = sides) go to=20 www.balimic.tripod.= com/bali/id16.html=20 . You=92ll find a lot of other good info there too, especially clear = photos of=20 many popular hotels in Bali.

  3. Don=92t purchase rupiah at you local home = bank, as=20 your exchange rate will be terrible. Wait until you get to Bali. If = you intend=20 to take cash then take your own currency. You can change virtually any = currency to rupiah in Bali. If in doubt simply post the question on = the Bali=20 Travel Forum, http://www.balitravelforum.com/<= /A>. =20 Changing it into something else only loses a bit each time. You = can=20 change just about any world currency into rupiahs in Bali. =

  4. Money exchange is both an art and a con in = Bali. You=20 can exchange virtually any world currency via cash (large = denomination, new=20 notes are best =96 marked or damaged notes may be rejected. = Never use=20 a strange ATM when you're just a little bit drunk. A friend says = either be=20 sober or so drunk you've got no idea how to start it so you can't muck = it up.=20 It's actually good advice. Have a look at the 'MONEY' section below. = (Check=20 the index at the beginning of these pages.)

  5. Since the introduction of = the Visa-On-Arrival requirement the banks now = handle=20 foreign exchange rates at the airport visa counter and its a good = place to get=20 a bit of change for those urgent purchases like a bottle of water. An = Aus$50=20 note gets you into the country and enough for a taxi and a drink or = clean=20 teeth.

  6. Don=92t=20 take your passport onto the street to = change=20 Travellers Cheques. Use a photocopy of the first (identification) page = for=20 this. If you find an occasional moneychanger who won=92t accept your = photocopy=20 then leave and go to the next one who won=92t be far away. Make at = least one=20 copy for each week that you will be in Bali as paper deteriorates = rapidly in=20 the humidity.

  7. Beware=20 of bag snatchers on motorbike pillions. = Carry your=20 bag on the side away from the roadway. Don=92t carry a lot of money in = your bag,=20 and never your passport. Use a body belt or chest bag strung around = your neck.=20 Don=92t leave your bags in a vehicle unless you are very sure that the = driver is=20 reliable and that the vehicle can be securely locked =96 not just = locked. To=20 have your bags stolen with all of your documentation in them must be a = traveller=92s greatest nightmare, and it happens not only in Bali but = in Sydney=20 and London and New York and - - - - .

  8. Some =91wartels=92 (post and phone shops) are also bank = agencies. As=20 such they are also reliable money changers and recommended for = changing=20 travellers cheques because they accept photo copies of your passport = which=20 means the real one is back in the safe at your hotel. There are many = Wartels=20 in districts all over Bali. Generally open at 6 am to service = the=20 locals.
    Pt. Bali Maspintjinra are the ones we     always try to = use.=20 Never had a problem here.
    They are at 16 Raya Seminyak; =
    Jl=20 Legian Tengah No438B;
    Jl Sriwijaya No2, Kuta;
    Jl = Danu=20 Tamblingan No18, Sanur, about 60 paces south of the Sindhu = Beach=20 markets. How handy is that?
    and also in Lombok on Raya = Sengiggi,=20 Km13.

  9. There=20 are honest street changers I am told, who offer slightly higher rates, = but=20 beware and be warned =96 many, if not most, will not only try to cheat = you but=20 will succeed! Even career bank tellers report that they have been done = over!=20 These street moneychangers are the experts in all of the tricks ever = dreamed=20 up anywhere in the world, including re-wired calculators and super = slippery=20 fingers. You are just the most recent in a very long line of suckers. = Dodgy=20 money changing is their life and you are their lifeblood. Always count = your=20 money without being distracted by an accomplice at your shoulder and = always be=20 the last to touch the money. If someone else picks it up, even if only = to hand=20 it to you, then sit down and count it again! Chances are you will be = amazed. A=20 neat reversal of this con is to give you the right amount but when you = hand=20 over your 4 x $50 bills (which you=92ve been smart enough to hang on = to tightly=20 until this time) he will find that you=92re one short and you=92ve = only given him=20 three. The other one has been dropped on the floor at his feet or into = his=20 open money drawer which he smoothly closes with his thighs as he = stands=20 up.

  10. KNOWN=20 CROOK MONEY CHANGERS.  Immediately suspect any = street=20 changer who offers a better exchange rate than the really authorised = changers=20 such as the local Wartel (the government telephoning shops), PT = Central,=20 generally found in supermarkets and Kodak shops. Be aware that these = slick=20 merchants will move from location to location on a regular basis as = their=20 dishonesty becomes known locally. Some good money changers might be = mentioned=20 in the District sections that follow several pages down.
    * Beware = of the=20 moneychangers in Rose Tailor, opposite the Bali Aussie. A well = documented=20 rip-off centre. All of the tricks in the book will be tried and if you = pick=20 them all the supply of money will be =91all gone=92 and you=92ll be = intimidated and=20 shown the door. If you manage to change some money you=92ll know = you=92ve been=20 cheated but you wont know how.
    * Avoid the moneychangers at =96 Jl = Dhyana=20 near Bestest Caf=E9 and the one across the street in a post office = type shop=20 also. Stick with the Kodak guys further towards the beach.
    * Also = avoid the=20 moneychangers near the Aston Bali Hotel. Great dropper of money into = his lap,=20 claims it is =91commission=92 if caught even though his sign clearly = claims =91No=20 Commis.=92.
    * On Legian Street, in the alley between Mammas German = Restaurant=20 and the Fuji Film shop. A first class note shuffler.
    * Opposite the = Restu=20 in Legian. Small notes (Rp5,000) in the middle of a stack of = Rp50,000=92s.
    *=20 Not quite a crook moneychanger but in the Bintang store in Legian do = your own=20 adding up to arrive at your total bill and calculate and check your = change=20 carefully unless you can afford to lose $10 in a 100. I don't believe = that=20 this is a policy of the store but rather the pressing needs of one of = the=20 check-out girls from time to time. We use Bintang regularly and (as = far as we=20 know) have never been short changed.
    * The changer next to = Billy=92s Bar on=20 Jl Sahadewa is =91a scumbag=92.
    * In Legian avoid the moneychanger = opposite the=20 Puri Raja in Jl Padma Utara. He is in the centre one of three small = shops,=20 right in the back.
    * Also = in Legian=20 avoid the one on the corner of Sahadewa and Padma in a music shop. = There is a=20 safe Kodak nearby.
    * Kids Zone (a children=92s clothing shop near = Timezone=20 and Matahari's) in Legian and also a changer just opposite Kids Zone = in Jl=20 Legian.
    * A deadly variation on the game of chance is played by a=20 moneychanger on Legian street opposite the end of Poppies Lane I. He = will try=20 to cheat you in the usual way and if you catch him he will, = begrudgingly, give=20 you back your $100 (or whatever) bills. You will stomp out in high = dudgeon,=20 not realising that he has NOT given you back YOUR notes, but has given = you at=20 least one quite good forgery. If you go back to complain later he will = argue=20 that you must have got them somewhere else =96 and how con you = convincingly=20 argue otherwise?
    * On Melasti Street near Top Ten and Leong DVD is = a unique=20 cheat who actually keeps a written record of how much he=92s cheated = you. If you=20 get done for Rp300,000 and try to say it was Rp500,000 he will pull = out his=20 book and correct you. He will also cheat you again when he gives you = the=20 refund!!
    * On the corner of Poppies 2 and Jl Legian, at the back of = a photo=20 printing shop.
    * On Jl = Melasti about=20 30 paces from Jl Legian on the corner of a narrow lane there is an=20 advertisement for =91no commis=92 and very good rates. If something = appears too=20 good to be true you can bet that it=92s not =96 and particularly if = you choose to=20 dice with this money changer you=92ll learn that the hard way. =
    * Near=20 the Kumala Pantai there is a Mini Mart with perhaps the worst money = changer in=20 all of Bali. Not only totally dishonest but aggressive too.
    * Not = too far=20 from the scoundrel above there is relief opposite the Bali Aussie in = Melasti=20 street.
    * Opposite Made's Warung and down a corridor opposite a = luggage=20 shop. 'Short-changed Rp650,000 and we had no idea until much = later'!
    * On=20 Jl Padma Utara, only a few doors from a safe Kodak shop, near Posers = Bar.=20 These guys will trick you the first time and when you go and demand = your money=20 back they will trick you again! All in hope of a 50Rp better rate = (less than a=20 cent)!
    * Do not use the changer at the Kamala Mini Mart by the = Kumala=20 Pantai Hotel. You might think that the low rate offered indicates an = honest=20 changer but this is certainly not so. The Mini Mart itself is not to = be=20 trusted either. Prices change from the shelves to the checkout and = extra items=20 can be added to your bill. The owner becomes VERY aggressive when=20 challenged.
    * The changer on the beach at the back of the Jayakarta = is well=20 known. 'and if you buy a drink and a bag of chips you need to check = the prices=20 charged' and make sure you still have your underwear when you = leave.
    * The=20 Kumala Mini Mart (On the beach side between the Kumala Pantai Hotel = and the=20 Blue Ocean restaurant.) will surely do you over big time as he has = done for=20 many years judging by the bad reports. You are at risk of bad change = if you=20 buy anything there. Use the Circle K instead. Not cheap but at least = honest=20 with money.
    * In Sanur one traveller claims that they were ripped = off at=20 the Wartel but I find it hard to believe.
    * In Tanjung Benoa beware = of the=20 money changer who is NEXT to a Kodak shop (What a coincidence!)  = on the=20 main road, Jl Pratama. His street-side board has 'Kantor Cabang' = across he=20 top.

  11. In Nusa Dua avoid the = small money=20 changer in a small arcade of shopos opposite the Grabd Mirage = Hotel.=20

  12. GOOD=20 MONEY CHANGERS, besides the government run Wartels which we highly = recommend, the department stores and the Kodak shops are noted in the = various=20 'SHOPPING' sections of the District notes. In '05 and '06 there were = some=20 concerns expressed about 'errors' made in some Kodak shops. Perhaps = this=20 happened as a result of the very difficult circumstances all of Bali = was in=20 following the bombings, so even here it pays to check your cash = carefully. In=20 addition to those mentioned in the District Sections there are some = listed=20 here that have been tried and recommended.
    Seminyak; = -PT.=20 Bali Maspintjinra at Jl Raya Seminyak No16A, Kuta. Ph (0361) 733 = 618.
    *=20     In Jl Werkudara not far in from Jl Seminyak opposite the tall = brick wall=20 around the local school, is PT Bali Saudara Valas. Small shop with air = con.
    Kuta     - At the beach end of Poppies I in 'The = phone=20 booth' about 20 metres from he beach road you'll find the reliable = Ketut.=20
    * Also across Legian St at the end of Poppies I about 2 doors from = Bemo=20 corner.
    * Diagonally across Bemo corner   and a = bit to=20 your left as you cross there is a Wartel (a Government telephoning = office)=20 that is also a money changer. These changers are computer linked to = the=20 official exchange rate, are absolutely honest and will change your = Travellers=20 Cheques using only a photocopy of the first page of your Passport - = which of=20 course means that you can leave the real thing locked in the safe at = your=20 hotel.
    Legian     - Opposite the La Mond Restaurant, Jl = Padma=20 Utara, in a shop with glass doors. ATM next to it. -
    * PT. Artha = Giri=20 Kencana, Jl Legian Tengah No420. Ph 754 083.
    * PT. Bali = Maspintjinra at Jl=20 Legian Tengah No438B. Ph(0361) 767 260.
    * Pt Balidavalas at the = Kodak shop=20 on the corner of Jl Legian and Poppies II. Big notes; no=20 'magic'.
    * They are also at Kuta; Jl Srwijaya (Pureh Puseh) = No2. Ph=20 (0361) 756 968.
    * In Jl Sahadewa, Legian, there is an honest = changer near=20 Dolphin Leather and Dolphin Restaurant. Nice young lady working there, = good=20 rates and transparent honesty.
    * Opposite the Bali Aussie in = Melasti=20 street. Small shop but reliable.
    * Opposite the Jayakarta is Rum = Jungle=20 Road (Jl Pura Bagus Teruna) where there a a lot of quality eateries = including=20 Yutz' and the Flying Piano. Opposite the Olde Fookin Pub (I'm told the = food is=20 better than the name) is a bank with an ATM inside and a security = guard. Good=20 for Rp3 million at a time.  ### See '3 million ATM's'=20 below.
    Kerobokan - Opposite the Legian Hotel in a = small shop=20 with a tour desk. There is an exchange rate board out the front. -=20     A=20 reliable moneychanger in the northern districts is at the front office = of the=20 Bali Mystique on Jl Petititenget in Kerobokan.
    Sanur = - Three=20 shops down from the Swastika Hotel. He does not charge commission or = tax and=20 never touches the money after he has counted it out for = you.
    PT. Bali Maspintjinra at Jl Danau Tamblingan = No18 Sanur.=20 Ph (0361) 281 229.
    Next to the entrance to the Puri Santrian on Jl = Kalianget. Set back from the road a bit on the seaward side at a=20 restaurant/bar. Better rate than Kodak and usually has Rp100,000 bills = which=20 are easier to check for your peace of mind.
    Opposite the La Travena = Hotel=20 is a local Wartel (Government telephone shop) which changes money. = Receipts=20 issued. Uniformed and armed security in attendance.
    Straight across = the=20 road from the Paradise Plaza between a restaurant (good food) and a = small shop=20 (where you can get laundry done) there is a charming lady who will = change your=20 money without a worry on your part.
    Just around the corner from the = BNI=20 Bank on the left after about 100 paces towards the Sindhu Beach=20 markets.
    Ubud - Jineng Tourist Service, Hanoman = Street 22X,=20 Ph (62 361) 976 488.
    The Ubud Music shop in the main street = opposite Cafe=20 Lotus and one at the top end of Monkey Forest Road are = reliable.
    Avoid one=20 just a few doors up from the Ubud Village hotel and avoid the internet = shop=20 here also' ('05).
    Candi Dasa - CNI Gogo Silver &=20 Authorised Money Changer, Jl Raya Candi Dasa-Amlapura, Ph (0363) 41=20 081.
    Lovina - P T Central, Lovina, Nick Money = Changer, Open=20 Stage, Jl Singaraja-Seririt (Lovina). Ph (0362) 41 966. There is a = book shop=20 next door which might make it easier to spot.

  13. 3 million rupia ATM's. = Most ATM's in=20 Bali will give you 1.5 million rupia in Rp50,000 notes at each = transaction,=20 for which your bank will debit your account about $4. Some machines = will=20 dispense 2.5 million in Rp100,000 notes (these machines usually have a = 'Rp100,000' sticker on them). a few machines will dispense 3 million = and you=20 will still only be debited $4 by your bank. This makes them better = valkue of=20 course. The 3 million machines that I know of are at:-

    ** Tuban about opposite = the Bali=20 Garden Hotel, near Waterbom Park. There are 4 or 5 machines in a row = right on=20 the edge of the footpath and the 3mill machine is the one on your far = right -=20 at the end nearest the airport.

    ** On Pantai Kuta at the = Hard Rock=20 corner. Walk towards Matahari from the Hard Rock and there are 2 = machines on=20 your left just before you get to the pool entrance. Use the first, = often with=20 a Security Guard outside.

    ** Look also for the = Circle K store on=20 Jl Legian a bit south of Jl Benasari.

    ** Outside the Bintang = Supermarket on=20 Jl Legian.** On Rum Jungle Road (Jl Werkudara) in the Permata Bank = near the Jl=20 Legian end.

    ** Also the Permata ATM on = Jl Legian=20 just walk a bit towards Kuta from the Bintang.

  14. If you=20 use plastic Credit Cards for purchases do = not let it=20 out of your sight or you risk having it swiped a second time onto an = open=20 account slip, and also take or personally destroy the carbon copy of = the=20 impression or watch it done in front of you. Do not trust it being = tossed into=20 the waste paper basket. Fearful stories abound in S E Asia of credit = card=20 scams, sometimes done from the impression on the carbon = slip. Even the=20 biggest supermarkets, hotels and a bank have been implicated in the=20 scam.

  15. Watch=20 out for risky ATM=92s which hold onto = your card until=20 the very last minute and then require a key entry to release it. It is = very=20 easy to forget it while you=92re counting your money and leave the = card in the=20 machine for the next customer to use because your PIN is logged into = the=20 machine and does not have to be re-entered.

  16. A recent ATM risk is = 'skimming'. A=20 device (or devices) read your card and a hidden camera records your = PIN=20 key-strokes. Have a look at the pictures here - http://www.utexas.= edu/police/alerts/atm_scam/.=20

  17. Some=20 stores add a surcharge when items are paid for with credit cards.=20

  18. If you=20 are heading north (or east or west) be aware that the best exchange = rates are=20 offered in the southern tourist areas and get worse as you go out, = even only=20 as far as Ubud but certainly Bedugul and beyond.

  19. Keep=20 Rp150,000 in local money for your departure=20 tax to be paid at the airport. A good suggestion is to put your = first=20 Rp100,000 note and your first Rp50,000 note in your passport as soon = as you=20 get it and then forget its there until you need it at the airport. = Children=20 occupying a seat are required to pay. This raises around Rp 400 = billion each=20 year =96 all of which goes to the Indonesian Government in Java =96 = none at all=20 for Bali improvements.
    Make sure you don=92t loose the white = immigration slip=20 you get when you arrive. Keep it with your passport (and that first = Rp150,000=20 mentioned above) and keep that in your hotel safe at all times. =
    You don=92t=20 need to take your passport onto the street for anything, including = changing=20 traveller=92s cheques. That you can do with a photocopy of the first = ID page at=20 any Wartel money changer.
    Also don=92t forget to confirm your = departure with=20 the airline as required, and get to the airport with a couple of hours = to=20 spare to ensure you get your baggage checked in and seat allocation = completed=20 in time. If you=92re flying Garuda you can do your check-in and get = your=20 boarding pass (thus ensuring that you don=92t get =91bumped off=92 the = flight=20 because of over-bookings) by going to their offices the day before = your=20 flight. They can be found in Denpasar and at the Hotel Sanur Beach or = the Kuta=20 Paradiso. Also, if you do this =91City Check In=92 you wont be = required at the=20 airport until an hour before your flight.      The Garuda = Business=20 class is not what it used to be ('06). Although the seats are larger = and leg=20 room longer the service is much the same as Economy and the luxury = food and=20 drink of before have now gone.

  20. Tie your purse = onto your=20 bum bag with a piece of fishing line. That way you=92ll never leave it = on the=20 shop counter or in a taxi. Just coil the line up when you want to put = it all=20 back again. If you have trouble tying fishing line use a length of = that=20 brightly coloured brickies cord that=92s a few cents for a big reel at = your=20 hardware store

  21. When=20 bargaining for goods keep a balanced perspective on=20 what you are bargaining over. An extra Rp1,000 or Rp 5,000 is really = just=20 small change in your home currency. Don=92t risk high blood pressure = to beat the=20 last cent or pfennig out of someone who is just trying to make a = living after=20 all. Late in =9202 a kilo of rice cost about Rp3,000 (mid '05 - = Rp4250). This=20 would be enough to feed an extended family for a day =96 that is about = 60 cents=20 Oz or 30 cents US. You wont miss this much but it is enough to keep = them=20 alive. Please think about it!
    A Shoppers Aid or bargaining Cheat Sheet covering many currency exchange = rates is=20 available at http://www.filosbali.net/. Look = for=20 'Cheat Sheets' in the left side column. They are in either MS Word or = MS Excel=20 formats.

  22. TIPPING. Balinese do not generally expect tips but = generosity=20 is appreciated. It is sometimes difficult to tip an individual person = in a=20 restaurant as a tip included in the bill often simply goes into the = open-ended=20 bucket along with the =93Service Charge=94 that you=92ll find added on = almost=20 everywhere. If you want to single out and show appreciation to a = particular=20 waiter then ask them to come back after the bill has been quite = finalised,=20 then use their body as a shield from the peering eyes of the boss, = give them=20 something, =91For you=92. It is a frequent occurrence that the = person who=20 brings the bill is not the person who actually served you but the boss = who is=20 hoping you will not be alert and will give him the tip. On the other = hand it=92s=20 very easy to round up the fare to the next 1000 or 5000 rupiah and = thereby=20 give a taxi driver a reward for his (otherwise very cheap)=20 services.
    Monetary donations to families are usually spent on = general=20 family priorities rather than something that might be special to the=20 individual you wished to reward.
    Women will inevitably spend extra = money=20 or their families rather than on themselves, which is why some = practical gifts=20 of appreciation, or 'oleh olehs' (gifts), become very personal and are = appreciated so much.
    A well known ex-pat who admits to being = generous but=20 claims to be rewarded for it, recommends as follows =96 food and = drink, 15% of=20 pre tax bill; cabs =96 10%; hotel staff Rp15,000; other services 10% = if you=92re=20 happy with the service.

  23. If you=20 have friends in Bali and you would = like to=20 provide some financial help to them between visits, but still be in = control,=20 set up a low fee or free account with your bank or credit union with = an ATM=20 Cashcard (not a Credit Card). Give your friends in Bali the card and = the PIN=20 number. About half an hour after you deposit cash in the account at = home it=20 will be available to your friends with the card and PIN number in Bali = for=20 only about Rp5,000 fee per withdrawal.

  24. DON'T=20 SEND MONEY THROUGH THE POST! It will almost certainly be = =91lost=92.=20

3.    REMEMBER =96 Cultural things.

  1. Balinese names.=20 There are 4 castes within Balinese society. The = most common=20 of these by far, and therefore the group of people that the tourist = will=20 interact with most often, is the Sundra caste. Note that these people = are=20 basically not priests, nobles, warriors nor court servants who make up = the=20 other 3 castes: they are not =91untouchable=92 as can be found in = other cultures.=20 The Sundra generally name their children in a fairly strict rotation = of only=20 four names regardless of the child's sex. The first child is Wayan = (meaning=20 =91oldest=92) Pron =91Why-ahn. =96 Second is Made (=91between=92 or = =91centre=92) Pron.=20 =91Marr-day=92, not =91Mah-dee=92. =96 Third is Nyoman = (=91smallest=92) Pron. Nee-yoh-Mahn,=20 =91Nee=92 & =91Yoh=92 blend together in short sound =96 = =91Nyoh-Mahn=92, not =91Norman=92=20 but close to it. =96 Fourth is Ketut (meaning =91tail=92) Pron. = =91K-Toot=92 as in book,=20 not as in a trumpet=92s toot. After 4 they commonly go back to Wayan = and start=20 over again. Alternatives occasionally used are Putu or Gede (pron = almost as=20 G=92day) for the first-born and Nengah or Kadek for the = second-born.
    I=20 (=91eye=92) Wayan =96 signifies male. Ni (=91knee=92) Wayan =96 = signifies female if this=20 is significant on the occasion.
    It=92s always a hit to work out = what your=20 name would be if you were Balinese and introduce yourself by that = name.
    If=20 you stand on the beach and yell out, =93Ayo Wayan!=94 at the top of = your voice, do=20 not be surprised at the number of locals who will turn and say = =93Ayo?=94=20
    There are variations to the system and other names may be used = either=20 formally or as 'nick names'. These include, Putu or Gede for the first = child,=20 Nengah or Kadek for the second child and Komang for the third.
    The = caste of=20 a person is denoted by a prefix at times when this is ceremonially or = socially=20 necessary. (Tourists will almost certainly never be in a situation = where this=20 nicety is required.)
    A very detailed account of Balinese naming can = be=20 found at htt= p://www.murnis.com/culture/articlenamestitlesandcaste.htm=20 .
    * The Brahmana caste of priests are addressed as Ida Bagus (male) = or Ida=20 Ayu (female). These are the people who officiate at ceremonies and who = prepare=20 the holiest of holy water. It is considered impolite to have your head = at a=20 higher level that any Brahmana nearby. Be a little careful if you are = invited=20 to a ceremony and are tempted to climb up on something for a better = shot.
    *=20 The names of the Ksatria caste of rulers and warriors are prefixed by = Cokorda=20 or Tjokorda for males and Cokorda Istri for females. Some members of = this=20 caste prefer Anak Agung.
    * There are trade/occupation castes known = as=20 the  Wesia.      Names of the Wesia are prefixed by Gusti or = Dewa for=20 males and Desak for females.     (Blacksmiths and  metalworkers are highly = respected=20 and have their own caste known as the Pande. They are addressed as Pan = or=20 Pande when they are working.) 
    * The overwhelming majority of Balinese are = Sudra=20 caste where names are prefixed by I ('eye') for males and Ni ('knee') = for=20 females.
    An interesting observation is that only male names end = with the=20 letters 'a' and only female names end in 'i'. I don't know if this is=20 significant or not, and if so why it is done.

  2. The small=20 offerings in little square, woven palm leaf = containers=20 that you will find by all the shops and gates and temples, both big = and small,=20 are called =91Banten=92 or 'Canang'. They are offerings to both the = gods and the=20 spirits for personal health, protection and good luck as well as being = a mark=20 of respect. It is considered to be very rude if you step on these, = even=20 accidentally. Make an effort to re-arrange it if you do and offer a = small=20 apology to someone nearby. They are a means of maintaining the all = important=20 balance between the gods and the demons, between the physical world = and the=20 hidden spiritual world -  between 'Siskala' and 'Niskala'. They = are=20 placed on a shrine for the gods and on the ground for the demon = spirits, a=20 little holy water is sprinkled over them (usually from the petals of a = flower)=20 and a quiet mantra recited. If there is a burning incense stick the = smoke=20 is  a symbolic stairway to the seats of the gods. This ritual = gives the=20 offering life and  the essence of the offering is immediately = absorbed by=20 the spirits, leaving only the base substance for the local dogs. A = book,=20 'Offerings' written by a local lady, Francine Brinkworth, is available = in Bali=20 and makes interesting reading.
    The offerings contain 5 elements (as = does=20 the hole for the foundation post of a new building) honouring the 5 = main gods=20 (Brahma, Wisnu, Iswara, Mahadewa and Siwa) and this spiritual = component is=20 most complete when it has a Kepeng (old Chinese copper coin with a = square hole=20 in the centre) placed on top. The kepeng represents the 5 elements of = the=20 material world.

  3. Don=92t touch=20 anyone on the head. The head is the sacred receptacle of the spirit. = The feet=20 by contrast are the least respected area and it is considered quite = rude to=20 show someone the soles of your feet. This is probably why locals might = be=20 offended if you show the bottom of your shoes to their offerings on = the=20 street. (See above note.)

  4. Don=92t use=20 the left hand to pass/pay/etc. It is the toilet hand and seen as = unclean.=20

  5. Don=92t=20 point or beckon with the forefinger or fold your arms when talking to = someone.=20 A palm-down beckoning motion with all the fingers is an accepted = request to=20 'come here please'.

  6. Remove=20 your shoes when invited into a Balinese home, or at least go through = the=20 motions of doing so until your host indicated that it will be OK to = keep them=20 on, as will most often happen to a tourist.

  7. Balinese=20 welcome modest dressing by tourists when = outside of=20 the clear tourist areas, and ritual dressing with sashes and sarongs = is=20 required in most temples. These items of apparel can be purchased = easily, or=20 can be hired at the temple. Jl Double 6 in Legian is noted for its = unique=20 range of quality sarongs at good = prices.=20

  8. If you are=20 involved in a confrontation try not to lose your temper or even speak = loudly.=20 Polite responses are seen as a sign = of good=20 manners, which often becomes translated into right being on your side. = This is=20 particularly important when dealing with officials such as at = Immigration,=20 Customs, Security or =91Polisi=92.

  9. Nyepi Day is a=20 ceremony of religious/cultural observance which = takes=20 place every 210 days, which is  a Balinese year in their 'Saka' = calendar.=20 Nyepi means 'quiet' but it is like New Years Eve to the Balinese = although it=20 is a very religious day with firm obligations on every person. It is a = day of=20 silence and inactivity, for spiritual cleansing, meditation and = personal=20 introspection. These expectations are often enforced by the village = (Banjar)=20 security forces ('Pecalang') or the state =91Polisi=92 on Balinese and = non-Balinese alike, the only exceptions being for emergencies for = which a=20 tourists hotel management will arrange Police dispensation. Even the = airport=20 shuts down, except for emergencies and for re-fuelling through = flights,=20 although passengers are not allowed to alight. At night no lights are = to be=20 shown anywhere and no sounds may be made. The belief is that evil = spirits that=20 were frightened off by the noise and frantic activity of the day = before will=20 not be able to find a dark and silent island to return to, and any = that might=20 have remained for some reason will leave. Tourists will not be able to = leave=20 their hotel where a minimal service only will be offered and even room = lights=20 must be dimmed and curtains/blinds drawn. On the noisy night before = Nyepi=20 (which is much more like a westerners idea of New Years Eve) a = procession of=20 large figures are paraded through the streets of the towns and = villages. This=20 is the parade of the =91Ogoh-ogoh=92. It is a = spectacular=20 reward for tourists who will be confined to their hotels for the next = day but=20 can now see the fun from a street anywhere near their hotels. Driving = will be=20 virtually impossible on any road both before and during the parades. = Most=20 shops will close about midday although restaurants will remain open. = For a=20 detailed comment on the religious and cultural significance of nyepi = to the=20 Balinese have a look at www.thejakartapost.com/news/2008/03/05/nyepi-search-silenc= e-within.html.=20 The things I found interesting are: The concept that nyepi is an = orchestrated=20 play intended to take the Balinese to a perfect spiritual state or=20 'sunia'. The play is in three parts - 1.  The people are = asked to=20 purify their bodies and souls in the presence of their deities, often = at a=20 beach or river where the deities associated with land, water and air = are=20 present - 2.  at significant points (the ancient animists trees,=20 mountains, river junctions or, these days, local road junctions) a = sacrificial=20 ritual of burning aims to pacify restless spirits, often referred to = as=20 'demons' - 3.  the use of sound through the villages to scare off = the=20 local demons is also a means of 'scaring off' personal demons which = flaw the=20 Balinese body and soul.  The contrasting day of silence which = follows is=20 also identified with the silence of internal peace, a forerunner to=20 sunia,  the personal and eternal peace.

  10. Odalan=20 Ceremonies are the anniversaries of individual temples. Given the = thousands of=20 temples in Bali, and their 210 day year, it is easy to find a handy = temple=20 having its Odalan ceremony. Odalan is the time when the Gods return to = the=20 temple to be entertained by the villagers. Many of the ceremonies go = on for=20 two or three days and they are as entertaining for visitors of the = tourist=20 kind as for the Godly kind. If you can refer to a Balinese calendar, = where all=20 of these ceremonies are noted, you will find some special ones with a = red=20 circle around the date. These are the ceremonies that coincide with = the full=20 moon and are especially important and spectacular: well worth going = out of=20 your way to visit. Visitors are welcome to participate but dress is = important,=20 Balinese dress is appreciated even if only in the form of a temple = sash.=20

  11. The Ngaben ceremony is = the Balinese=20 death ritual which is beautiful, compelling and an artistic = presentation not=20 to be missed if there is one in your area. Ask at your hotel=20 desk.

  12. Galungan is=20 often likened to the Balinese Christmas and many will go back to their = villages of origin for the ceremonies. About a week or 10 days later = are the=20 Kuningan ceremonies which are like New Year. Although some shops and = market=20 stalls might close there is little effect in the tourist=20 hotels.=20 Galungan is really the celebration of good over evil. Businesses are = often=20 closed or open with reduced staff because people go back to their home = villages to attend rituals and make offerings to the ancestors. = Penjor, those=20 unbelievably tall bamboo poles with highly decorated leaves and = attachments,=20 will decorate the streets of every village and the doorways of most = houses to=20 recall the victory of Dharma over an evil and godless Balinese king,=20 Mayadanawa. The later ceremony of Kuningan is often described as All = Saints=20 Day for the Balinese. While this likeness is not totally accurate its = a pretty=20 good approximation for understanding the basis of the rituals. It is = during=20 this time between Galungan and Kuningan that the ancestor spirits who = have=20 returned to the village are feted, feasted and entertained by dances = and=20 feasts. Temples are cleaned and decorated for the offerings intended = to please=20 the ancestor spirits and encourage their watchful care of the village = and the=20 villagers for the next 210 days of the Balinese year. The whole period = is one=20 during which the Balinese strive to achieve balance between the = opposing=20 forces of their cosmos. The important Hindu principles of balance=20 between;
    Man and Nature,
    Man and his God(s)
    Man and fellow=20 Man,
    are emphasised in their activities and negative disruptive = thoughts=20 and actions such as theft, deception, anger and violence, jealousy and = lust=20 are avoided so everyone displays their best behaviour. It is a time = when you=20 will see displays of the finest clothes in the wardrobe, the most = graceful=20 dancing and the most colourful foods, offerings and = decorations.

  13. Indonesia's Independence Day is 17th of August. = There are=20 always some celebrations and some of the big shops are either closed = or only=20 open for a short time.

  14. =91Oleh-oleh=92 are small gifts=20 given when you return from a journey, something you might take for a = friend=20 when you return to Bali.
    A gift given to your host for their = hospitality,=20 or to a friend for kindness or simply as something you would like to = do is=20 =91Kado=92 or =91Pemberian=92. If you win the raffle or = a prize or 'buy=20 one get one free' that's 'hadiah'.
    New babies are very = special in=20 Bali. They are seen as having come from the Gods and are as pure = as a=20 human can ever be. I've been told that a very welcome gift that = respects=20 Balinese tradition is nice, new, clean money (value not important = really) in a=20 red envelope. The red envelope is obviously a hangover from part of = their=20 adopted Chinese traditions. If you decorate the envelope with your own = artistic talents, even a carefully written or printed Babies name will = do, but=20 more is better to tickle their artistic sensibilities, like stick-on = cartoon=20 figures or shiny stars, glitter adhered with a glue pen or stick, etc = (see=20 your local newsagent).
    The money is a symbol of your wish for the = child's=20 prosperous life (what Balinese does not want a rich child to look = after them=20 in their old age) and the hand decorated envelope is a very personal = touch=20 that is seen a super special for that baby.
    Put the envelope in = the right=20 (clean) hand of course and the parent will help in this regard as they = will=20 immediately recognise what you are doing. Remember not to touch the = babies=20 head.
    Anything after this dims into insignificance, almost, but you = might=20 find some suggestions below.
    It may not be a good idea to give out = presents=20 to every child that you meet as this could set up an expectation that = all that=20 visitors are good for is handouts. If in doubt ask the parents first. = (Think=20 of yourself as a parent in similar circumstances =96 =91What is that = stranger=20 giving my children?=92)
    Large handouts of sweets may not be in the = best=20 interests of children=92s health.
    I really can=92t recommend the = unbelievable=20 suggestion I recently read that tourists drive along the streets and = throw out=20 sweets to children from the moving car. Apart from the dangers it = seems to be=20 a waste of a golden opportunity to talk to them.
    Children love soap = bubbles, readily available in little bottles with blowing rings = attached under=20 the lids, from party supply stores. Also now available at Matahari's = and other=20 supermarkets in Bali. Keep one in your pocket and casually blow = bubbles in the=20 street when you come across some kids. You won=92t believe how big a = hit you are=20 =96 but have a good supply if you=92re going to start giving them=20 away.
    Families welcome bottled water dispenser (20-litre size) with = tap.=20
    Women like bright fabrics of western pattern. 1.5m. for kebayas = (upper=20 garment). Rp15,000 for tailor to sew.
    Even though western style = goods are=20 available in Bali they are not often bought by the Balinese for = themselves, =96=20 the younger generation excepted perhaps, so don=92t shy away from = purchasing=20 locally.
    Blokes are not easy to get something for although strange = things=20 such as formal ties (expensive in Bali and often yuk!) and even bow = ties are=20 sometimes welcomed by drivers and young blades out to impress the lady = of=20 their fancy as wealthy men of business substance
    Some favour body = sprays=20 such as Lynx, deodorants etc that they would never spend their money = on in=20 Bali. Baseball type caps with Aussie (or your home country) style = logos.=20 Picture postcards from home. Picture books of animals or plants from = home or=20 home travel books with pictures - local auto club or tourism = office.
    Short=20 sleeved dress shirts in Plantation white and pastel = colours.   Even=20 condoms so I've heard although I've never been asked for them. =20 Sunglasses which is another surprise but even cheap Aussie ones are = better=20 quality than the cheap Bali ones.
    For musicians a plastic Recorder = (wind=20 instrument) or a set of guitar strings. For drivers try car shampoos = and waxes=20 or Aussie style stickers of rampant kangaroos etc.
    Good quality = playing=20 cards, chess sets, even a box of fishing tackle and good quality line = if they=20 are shore dwellers and have an interest in this direction
    A small = bag of=20 lollies (sweets) to share around at unexpected times (or a big bag on = the=20 beach =96 or a bag full of small bags) is a great treat. Good = chocolate bars.=20 Bali chocolate is not as sweet as ours. Try Cadbury Dairy Milk, = Caramello,=20 mint chocolate etc. Also Natural Food Company candy, jubes etc.
    For = children small dolls or miniature cars and motorbikes are welcomed, as = toys=20 are not high on the Balinese shopping priorities. Little kangaroos and = koalas=20 with clothing clips. Badges and stickers, address books and autograph = books,=20 drink holders, magnets. Super bouncing balls in 6-packs in the party = section=20 of your local supermarket.
    Lipsticks, nail polishes, skin creams = =96 even the=20 unused remnants of your own supply when you leave at the end of your = holiday.=20
    Cheap bangles in bright colours. Small toy cars. Sun visors in = preference=20 to caps. Water pistols. Hand-held maze games with little ball bearings = in them=20 that you have to roll into holes. 'Magic Blackboards' (lines disappear = when=20 the film is lifted). Keep an eye out at local garage sales. Small = mirrors;=20 check your local plastics store of wardrobe manufacturers for off-cuts = of=20 plastic mirror which can be cut and shaped with regular woodwork=20 tools.
    Colouring books and pencils, particularly with animal shape = erasers=20 on the end. Hair bands and clips. Lollies and chips from the local=20 supermarkets. McDonalds toys. Tennis balls. Plastic whistles. = Balloons,=20 particularly if they blow up to animal shapes rather than just = round.
    The=20 shopping bags that are now common in Australia - green or blue and=20 particularly the brightly coloured ones just available for our June = '06=20 trip.
    Stickers and transfers. Coloured lip salves that youngsters = use to=20 paint stripes and flowers on their cheeks. Face paints and = brushes.
    Warm=20 clothes (old jeans and jumpers) for people living in the cold central=20 highlands particularly.
    Best of all - photos of themselves, with = or=20 without you, enlarged at the nearby Kodak shop (very cheap in Bali) = and put in=20 a frame for them. Perhaps an extra one of them with you, for their=20 parents/children/friends.
    Picture books. Jigsaw puzzles (no = language=20 problems, available for all ages and both sexes and re-useable for=20 generations). School writing books, lined or graph and blank. Text = books and=20 old novels in English are fine, particularly if there are pictures = that relate=20 to the text. Try your local Op Shop where you might get a dozen for $2 = or even=20 a number for free if they know you=92re giving them to a school or = village=20 library in Bali.
    A bit of a = different gift to=20 take to a special friend in Bali is Aussie chocolate. Smoother and = more to the=20 Balinese taste than even their local brands you will be a hit at any=20 party.
    Paper=20 hats, masks, Indian headdress (with feathers). Sheets of stickers for = school=20 books and other prize possessions.
    Balinese women particularly love = to get=20 your old bras as they are beyond the means of most family budgets to = buy new.=20 Take up a collection of them at the office and donate to a worthy = cause.=20
    FOR FAMILIES;
    'Sembako' is short for 'Sembilan bahan pokok' or = the=20 government proclaimed nine food staples. These are -
    - rice
    - = sugar
    -=20 cooking oil
    - kerosine (or kerosene) (or other heating fuel such as = gas in=20 steel cylinders_
    - eggs
    - milk (powdered or tinned best for poor = families - remember no refrigeration)
    - salt
    - meat - beef, = chicken or=20 fish.
    Large boxes of instant noodles will also be a big hit as they = will be=20 something different in their diet.
    Frozen beef.
    Biscuits in the = Australiana tins.
    Sheets and towels, pillows and pillow cases, = maybe even a=20 good quality mattress if you know this would be welcomed.
    Odd = kitchen=20 utensils =96 big spoons, egg flips etc. Plastic containers with good = seals for=20 storing rice, meats etc. Pots and saucepans, frypans, baking dishes,=20 colanders, strainers, fine mesh skimmers, ladles and big serving = spoons,=20 tongs, meat tenderisers, wooden spoons, mops and brooms, dustpans, = food=20 processors, mixers/beaters/whisks/ rice cookers (buy locally), = cutlery,=20 crockery, glasses, mugs and cups, teapots, kettles (open fire and = electric,=20 cleaning equipment,
    Bags of mixed lollies (candy). Tubs of = ice-cream and a=20 stack of plastic spoons.
    A big bag of fruit. Most families = grow some=20 fruit and veg but can=92t grow every thing, or every variety, so fruit = is always=20 welcome particularly so if you know what they don=92t grow themselves. = Similarly=20 tea, coffee, sugar, green vegetables, fish and meat, chillies, garlic = or=20 onions, powdered milk, hot sauces and rice are always welcome. If = possible=20 accompany your friends to their markets where they can select their = produce=20 and you pay for it. This not only ensures that they get the quality of = vegetables etc that they prefer but a side benefit is the heightened = esteem=20 that their friends have for them when a foreign visitor goes shopping = with=20 them. It also means that you are supporting the very local economy = rather than=20 someone unknown in Java or somewhere.
    Store medicines and health = supplies=20 as simple as Bandaids, cotton balls, ointments (local ones if you = can), adults=20 and kids Panadol etc are also welcomed. Ointments and salves that = sting like=20 crazy or smell outrageously seem to be thought of more highly than = mild=20 ones!
    OTHER SUGGESTIONS;
    If a friend is due to have a birthday a = hand=20 made birthday card in a decorated envelope is about the pinnacle of = respect=20 that you can pay to the artistically inclined Balinese.
    A cheap or=20 disposable camera. Bought Duty Free it=92s not such a great expense.=20
    Electric fans are fairly cheap to by in Bali. Check the family = needs=20 first.  An old radio/cassette tape player. The = men=20 particularly are often chess fanatics so a chess set and board will = elevate=20 his standing amongst his friends.
    Balinese are passionate about = soccer (the=20 world game) and soccer balls at schools and orphanages are always=20 welcome.
    Badminton is a national sport and racquets and 'birdies' = are=20 great, particularly for the girls. Frisbees for the beach. Beach = tennis bats=20 and tennis balls, soccer balls (particularly miniature balls for the = younger=20 children) and even Aussie rules footballs (again smaller sizes for = children).=20 Balls that have super bounces, particularly if they are clear with = animal/bird=20 images in the middle of the ball.
    All sorts of school supplies in = any=20 quantity. School fees are between Rp30,000 and 45,000 per month per = child.=20 Uniforms and materials are on top of this as are fees for ceremonies. = It is=20 common to see children going into schools on Saturdays armed with = whiskbrooms=20 instead of books. They are expected to clean the buildings. There are = no=20 government concessions of any sort for education (even for the = children in=20 orphanages) in Indonesia. Wax crayons, Textas (felt-tip pens) and = coloured=20 chalks. One traveller regularly collects pens, pencils rulers etc from = polling=20 booths after elections for donating to orphanages and schools. Get = approval=20 from the electoral office beforehand, in writing if possible. Many = regular=20 travellers sponsor a child=92s education as an on-going gift to a = Balinese=20 family or to an orphanage child. Fees are about Aus$100/year for = primary=20 education, doubling for secondary school and even more if a student = proceeds=20 to senior secondary.
    For school sponsors consider a set of wall = maps for=20 the classrooms. In '06 I came across a supply on the first floor of = the Super=20 Nova department store on Jl Raya Kuta.      If you want a valued gift = that's a=20 bit different get a topographical one of 'Provinsi Bali' at 1:150,000 = scale=20 showing roads, towns, ports, rivers, lakes and provincial borders for = only=20 Rp20,450 or Aus$3.00 approx. How cheap can a reasonable quality wall = map get?=20 They also had similar maps of Indonesia, Australia and the=20 world.
    Indo-English dictionary. If you're = sitting out in=20 the cool of the evening chatting with friends and a food cart ('kaki = lima')=20 goes past buy them all something to eat. Its only about Rp3,000 each = or 40=20 cents a meal!
    Sales brochures for cars (particularly for small = 4-WD=92s like=20 their own =91Kijangs=92) and motorbikes with lots of pictures =96 and = your home=20 prices so they can =91Oooh=92 and =91Ahhhh=92!.
    Packs of Disney = cards. Kids sun=20 glasses, TeleTubbie dolls ***(or whatever is the current television = cartoon=20 craze amongst kids). Key rings with a flavour of you own country. =
    Beads=20 and string for bracelets. Skipping ropes. A4 or Legal size paper, = envelopes of=20 all sizes, sticky tape, pens and highlighters, calculators, computer = software,=20 glue sticks, =91Post it=92 sticky notes, stamps and stamp pad, clip = boards, manila=20 folders, staplers and staples, photo albums, plastic envelopes, rubber = bands,
    You can take English language schoolbooks and educational = magazines=20 for the free English teaching program run in the smallest Bali = villages. Gaye=20 will pick them up from your hotel. Ph 758 737 or you can drop them off = at her=20 shop called =91Eclipse=92 on the right side in the Kuta markets as you = walk=20 through to the beach.
    If you=92re good at tying little animals and = stuff with=20 those long thin balloons you will be an instant hit in Bali =96 but = make sure=20 that you can tie them fast and take an enormous supply.
    The current = crop of=20 brightly coloured eco-friendly shopping bags available almost = everywhere in Oz=20 are great favourites. Get one for each family of friends, or one for = each=20 member of the family and put other little gifts into them that you = think that=20 person would like.
    FOR SCHOOLS =96 = Schooling is=20 not free in Indonesia and the costs of education and required uniforms = is not=20 cheap, especially for the orphanages of course. If you want to help = with a=20 child's education there are organisations such as the Helen = Flavel=20 Foundation and YKIP=20 that will give you good advice. The costs seem to vary inexplicably = with the=20 Foundation giving the best options but it only operates in the = northern areas=20 at present, mainly from a lack of reliable and trustworthy contacts = 'on the=20 ground' in other places. 
    The usual school supplies of pens, = pencils,=20 erasers pads, books and so on are always welcome because they are = always being=20 used. Buy them cheaply in Bali to save on your freight weight and to = give the=20 students the size and style of materials that they are familiar with. = Coloured=20 pencils are sometimes seen as an extravagance as there is = not the=20 money to replace them when they are worn out. Don=92t forget the = teachers=20 who work under similar handicaps to the pupils. Red and green = pens as=20 well as black and blue. Stamps, stamp pads and replenishment inks. = Chalk, good=20 quality with strong colours not the wishy washy sort. Dustless chalk.=20 Blackboard erasers. Blackboard paint and a good brush. Books about = your home=20 flora and fauna. Illustrated books with simple English text. Pencil=20 sharpeners, particularly the good type rotary ones that are screwed to = the=20 wall or door frame. Coloured crayons. Rulers, setsquares and French = curves,=20 lettering templates in a variety of sizes. If you really want to make = a=20 lasting impression offer to fund playground facilities such as paving = bricks=20 to eliminate the rainy season mud and the dry season dust. Sporting = goods are=20 always welcome. Soccer is a passion in Bali, as is chess and badminton = is=20 almost a national game with world champions being local heroes.
    ** = Head=20 lice are not uncommon in Bali and are often rife amongst orphanages = and=20 schools. PediTox is a local shampoo available from Apotics (local = chemists)=20 for Rp3.000 a bottle. Try the Apotic next to the Bintang Supermarket = on Jl=20 Legian. Nits are called 'kutu'  by the Balinese. If giving to = locals away=20 from the tourist areas explain the need for EVERYONE to be treated on = a=20 regular basis until the nit-egg cycle is broken. A small trigger = bottle for=20 spraying in the corners of rooms and amongst bedding might also be = useful.=20 Take care that there is not broken skin on the scalp from frustrated=20 scratching. The best long-term prevention is probably regular hair = care with a=20 good shampoo and a good conditioner. A bulk purchase of this for your = friends=20 is much better than a bulk supply of nit treatment=20 solution.

    FOR BABIES =96 Money is always welcome and = considered not=20 only lucky but is also essential for the 3-month and 6-month = ceremonies. It=20 would be seen as good luck if the first thing you did was to put a = note in the=20 baby=92s hand. (Much like the custom of tapping all the goods in a = market stall=20 with the money from the first sale of the day.) It will also be = especially=20 valued if it is a crisp, new note, and is put into a new, sealed = envelope=20 containing a nice =91congratulations=92 or =91baby=92 card and which = is especially=20 hand written and decorated to honour the occasion. 
    If money = is not=20 really a factor a pram, pusher, bassinet or cot will seem luxurious to = new=20 parents. On a less-grand scale disposable nappies for special = occasions or=20 soft cloth nappies (and pins)  will be welcomed. For struggling = families=20 a supply of baby formula and/or long life milk. Perhaps a baby bath = bought in=20 Bali.

    Lightweight=20 baby sleeping bags with a bunny rug for a throw-over. Heavier weight = sleeping=20 bags will be useful for a family living up in the mountains where it = gets damn=20 cold even though Bali is generally thought of a tropical.

    Bonds suits or=20 other one-piece clothing is not commonly used as kidz run around = without=20 nappies for many months.
    Traditionally within Bali a package is put = together=20 for a new baby. In a woven basket there will be a new set of clothes, = soap,=20 powder etc, and for the parents some rice, sugar and coffee. This = helps to=20 feed the visitors who will come to see the baby and who must be = offered food=20 and drink.
    Some supermarkets have gift vouchers (Matahari).
    Hand = drawn=20 flowers or toys done with coloured pens and glue sprinkled with = glitter will=20 appeal to the Balinese love of handcrafted things.
    Grow suits, such = as=20 Bonds, are not used by the Balinese.
    A toy (stuffed) or mobile = will be=20 appreciated, as the usually scarce monetary resources would not be = spent on=20 such =91luxuries=92. If it=92s been used that=92s OK =96 wash it in = your machine with a=20 dose of antiseptic before you take it.
    Mittens and bootees, in = cotton, will=20 be used. A shawl or jacket in crochet, particularly if you can make it = yourself, will become a family heirloom. Formula milk powder (buy in = Bali)=20 baby powder, heat rash cream, nappy rash cream.
    Used toys scrounged = from=20 friends and neighbours at home will be welcome. Soccer balls = (they=92re=20 soccer mad in Bali) volleyballs and nets, table tennis gear, exercise = mats,=20 running shoes for boys and girls, tennis racquets and balls.
    First = Aid=20 stuff such as antiseptic cream, sticking plasters, cotton balls, = Detol,=20 bandages, tweezers, Panadol/aspirin, eye wash cups, aloe vera gel, = cotton=20 sheets.
    Hair brushes and combs (clean with antiseptic solutions = before=20 taking them if they have been used), towels, face washers, sheets, = pillow=20 cases, hairclips, electric iron, fans, talc powder, shampoo and soaps, = hair=20 clips and ribbons. See also nit control advice above.
    Jigsaw = puzzles and=20 other table-top board games, creative toys such as Lego, sewing kits,=20 educational posters such as world maps or maps of Asia, posters of = places=20 people of different cultures, the human body, musical instrument = posters,=20 portable tape players., pop star posters,
    Take your old and=20 no-longer-favourite music cassettes. If you find a nice driver he will = probably have a player in his vehicle and will welcome your old tapes = as a=20 relief (?) from the ever-present gamelan orchestra.
    PAPER=20 for gift wrapping, and stationery, from Garuda Wisnu, Jl Teuku Umar = almost=20 into Denpasar on the left coming from Kuta about 1 km past Hero=92s = and Libby=20 supermarkets. Set back a bit off the road. Old building reflects the = long=20 existence of the business.
    Also Inti Grafika, also Teuku Umar. Ph = 231 552=20 and the Bintang Supermarket in Seminyak.

  15. ART. Art is now an inseparable part of the Balinese = web of daily=20 life. Balinese art can be seen in painting, carving =96 both stone and = wood =96=20 writing and the decoration of temples and Palaces particularly. This = present=20 flourish of creativity was not always in evidence however. = Historically,=20 Balinese art was simply a means of unremarkably producing religious = objects=20 and a means of covering the surfaces of dull royal buildings to = distinguish=20 them from dull civic buildings.
    To help this file load a little = quicker=20 the whole of the 'Art' piece has been given a page of its own. Use = this link -=20 BALI ART - or go = to our HOME PAGES and look in = the left=20 column contents list.

  16. * = Art tutoring c/- Ramoto=92s Gallery, Kutuh, = UBUD. rodanet@denpasar.wasant= ara.net.id=20 . Tutor is a graduate from Oz. Live models. Best to be early or the = locals=20 will take the best views.

  17. * = ART SHOPPERS looking for art materials will be = amazed at=20 the range and prices at Duta Warna, Jl Diponegoro 206A, Denpasar, Ph = 234 320.=20 The staff are knowledgeable but you will need to make a little = allowance for=20 their stilted English. The Chinese owner = seems=20 grumpy but the stocks and the knowledgeable service makes this = fa=E7ade easy to=20 ignore or joke about. 
    On Jl Imam Bonjol, going towards = Denpasar,=20 about 300 metres past Alfa Supermarket and 50 past the big deckchair = is a=20 billboard for Windsor and Newton supplies. Stuff for kids work also.=20 Interesting building supply and tool centre next door for=20 non-artists.
    Artists seeking framers can rely on Artistica on Imam = Bonjol=20 No322 in Denpasar. Rudy knows art and framing. A rush is all in a days = work=20 for him.
    The Gramedia outlets in larger stores are another good = source.=20 Faber Castel materials are very cheap by Australian = standards.
    Upstairs at=20 the Supernova Department store in Kuta you will find artists canvasses = of all=20 sizes, art supplies also, at very cheap prices.
    Tiara Dewata = department=20 store in Denpasar also has large offerings in their stationary=20 section.
    Ubud is often called the centre of the arts in Bali and = has=20 several supply stores.

  18. WORLD HERITAGE SITES.
    Bali has = nominated four=20 World Heritage Sites that are a =91must visit=92 before they are = over-run and=20 over-commercialised.
    * The Taman Ayun Temple. A classic = water-temple and=20 moat in Mengwi.
    * The Pakerisan River Basin in the Gianyar Regency = (running=20 north-south around the town of Gianyar just east of Ubud). Scenic and=20 archaeological sites of pre-historic and pre-Majapahit sites that are=20 significant in the early Balinese Hindu and even earlier Buddhist=20 history.
    * The rice paddy fields around Jatiluwih village in the = district=20 of Tabanan which is west by north west of Denpasar. It is the oldest = and most=20 complex Subak terracing system.
    * The Bali Barat National Park in = the north=20 west corner of Bali was nominated for inclusion but has not been = selected.=20 (=9204).

  19. CHARITIES and ORPHANAGES = -=20  
    Note that there are 4 types of =91orphans=92 in = Bali;=20 =93Ekonomi=94 which means that the child actually does have parents = but they and=20 the extended family are financially not able to support children. The=20 circumstances that cause this may be temporary or continue for years. = =93Yatim=94=20 means that the child has no father. =93Piatu=94 means that the child = has no=20 mother. =93Yatim-Piatu=94 of course means that the child has neither = mother nor=20 father. Most Yatim and Piatu orphans are of the opposite sex to the = surviving=20 parent, or there may be problems related to sexual behaviour in the=20 family.
    We feel deeply about the situation of these children who = simply do=20 not exist as far as the government is concerned. We have been there = and=20 memories still come back every time we see our own children and = grandchildren.=20 For information go to http://www.filosbali= .net/tuka_orphanage.htm=20 or http://www.filosbali= .net/BaliOrphanages.htm =20 where you=92ll find directions and info on other orphanages. For the = story of=20 our visit go to www.filosba= li.net/BaliStory2000.htm#Day%2015/ =20 but be aware that this is towards the end of a 400 page 'book' and = will take a=20 few minutes to load.
    * A definitive page listing Indonesian = Orphanages,=20 although without any helpful details, can be found at www.yakee.de/o= rphanage/Bali-Orphanage.php3=20 . From the list of 27 =96 in March 2003 - you=92re bound to find one = close to=20 wherever you=92re staying.
    Also have a look at http://micbali.proboards21.com/index.cgi?b= oard=3Dreport&action=3Ddisplay&thread=3D1754=20 for names and locations.
    ***=20 If you are interested in sponsoring the=20 education of a child or supporting a small English language school = or=20 remote and needy Balinese we strongly recommend that you have a look at=20 :-
    *** Helen Flavels Foundation, where=20 every cent donated goes to the needy and all = expenses,=20 except bank fees, are met by Helen and Ron's retirement funds (now = that they=20 are no longer in business which has funded their activities in the = past);=20     http://www.helenflavelfoundation.org/.  The costs of = sponsoring a=20 child's primary education through the Foundation is only Aus$120, = which might=20 be a small price to pay for future peace by keeping the children out = of the=20 hands of fundamentalist schools. Made Dedut is the driver they suggest you = use for your=20 northern excursions. He is a driver frequently used by the Helen = Flavel=20 Foundation and therefore knows where all the schools, orphanages and=20 retirement homes are. His Bali number is 08155 8014 108 or (081 338 = 727 461).=20 A couple of days notice might be needed. Donations to=20 schools, orphanages, and people. Virtually anything will be put to = good use,=20 modified or altered or traded for higher priority stuff. Do not be = backward=20 about offering whatever you have.
    ***=20 In Western Australia the Swan Valley Rotary Club is a big supporter of = Bali's=20 orphans and will assist you in sponsoring a child (or children) = through their=20 education years for a little over A$100. This organisation is similar = to the=20 Helen Flavel Foundation described above and is just as involved and = just as=20 reliable. E-mail Noel at noel@lonarch.com.au.
    *** Similarly in = South=20 Australia the Gawler Light Rotary club has a support program for A$110 = per=20 child. Have a look at http:= //www.gawlerlightrotary.org.au/default.asp?page=3Desp.=20 or contact Jacquie at esp@gawlerlightrotary.org.au.
    The Legian = Gardens=20 Restaurant in Jl Melasti is a drop-off point for donations. There is a = large=20 box there.
    Almost a local is Pat Scott a New Zealander who works = with the=20 Rotary clubs of Bali helping mainly children who are part of the East = Bali=20 Poverty Project (See lower down.). = thebalivilla@gmail.com/.
    * =20 Our own favourite was the Orphanage at Tuka, a small village = about 3 Km=20 north off the road to Tanah Lot temple and about 8-10 kilometres north = west of=20 Denpasar and they are now doing quite well compared with other places. = (http://www.tukaorphanage.net/)= Their=20 address is Panti Asuhan Sidi Asthu, Jl Raya Tuka, Banjar = Dalung, which=20 any reasonable driver will find. The phone is (0361) 229-582 and it is = a good=20 idea to phone ahead of your visit.  The best = visiting times=20 are Sunday after 9 am or weekdays after 3 when school is over and the=20 afternoon rest period is done. Our visit in October =9204 suggested to = us that=20 it had improved greatly over the years and quite by chance we found = the -=20 -
    *  Panti Asuhan Alas Kasih is in Negara up on = the=20 south west coast, which we have decided to sponsor now. The address is = Jl=20 Ngurah Rai, NEGARA. Ph 0365 41168 and the managers mobile is 081 557 = 11391.=20 It=92s a day trip up there but a rarely visited section of Bali that = has some=20 exceptional scenery that is a bit different. Go to our home page at http://www.filosbali.net/ and = look for=20 Negara in the left side column when it opens. Donations of goods (not = money)=20 can be left with Haaris at the Bali Cyber Cafe and Restaurant in = Legian. From=20 May '06 the new address will be 9 Komplex Sriwijaya, Jl Putih = Jelantic, KUTA.=20 This is just off Jl Legian a bit south of the Melasti = intersection.
    The=20 place is really a bit more than your average cafe and we can recommend = it for=20 a good meal from a menu with some differences.]
    *  = Yayasan -=20 Panti Asuan Yasa Kerthi Karangasem, Jl Ngurah Rai No45,=20 Amlapura, past Candi Dasa. Ph (0363) 21210. It's an = orphanage=20 that is off the beaten track in east Bali. The desperate poverty out = that way=20 generates a need for food before 'luxuries'. Run by Ni Kadek, Ph 085 = 935 124=20 257. Best to get an Indo speaker to do the phoning for you ans ask her = what=20 she needs most before you go..
    Soap, medicated shampoo, tooth = brushes and=20 tooth paste are commonly needed essentials, combs and hair brushes are = welcome=20 but fancy thinks like hair scrunchies and/or bright ribbons, soft = toys, $2=20 radios (with spare batteries) and similar non-essentials will always = win the=20 kids over, here or at any other orphanage you visit.
    Rice is always = needed=20 at these places since the government cut the rice allowance by 50% in = '05. If=20 you can get them there in reasonable condition meat, fish, vegetables = and=20 fruit are also welcomed but as there is no refrigeration (power costs = too=20 high) larger quantities cannot be kept. A 40 pack carton of dry = noodles for=20 about Rp50,000 at most. Things like cooking oil, nuts and so on will = last=20 until used and provide an alternative to boiled rice. Think of the = things that=20 you keep on the pantry shelves at home for more inspiration.=20      
    The 9 basic food list generated as a months = sustenance supply=20 for a family of four after the bomb included; 30Kg rice, sugar, = cooking oil or=20 margarine, beef and chicken meat, eggs, milk powder, corn, kerosene = (also=20 called paraffin) for cooking fuel, and iodised salt. A simpler = =91quick fix=92 was=20 rice, sugar, oil, instant noodles and iodised salt.
    We believe = that the=20 older kids here, especially the girls, show signs of iron deficiency = because=20 of a shortage of meat and fish in their diet. Someone who knows might = suggest=20 that bulk supplies of iron or multi vitamin tablets would be good. If = you have=20 knowledge in this area we'd like to hear from you.
    ***  If you = can't=20 decide or can't make a trip think about donations of cash to Bali = Kids. They=20 get involved in all sorts of things for any orphanage but mainly they = provide=20 for visiting medical care to the kids. Their Mobile Medical Care = facility has=20 over 5,000 kids in the register and treated over 1750 kids in the = first 3=20 months of '07. A unique service and not cheap!!! Yayuk Kanti is the = Director=20 and you can phone him about donations on (0011) (62) 0812 3858 337 or = e-mail=20 yayuk_balikids@yahoo.com. =
    Someone has set up a web site for the = orphanage at=20 http://www.a;askasih.org.id/.=20
    Good quality mattresses are also needed (mid '05) and Karya Subur = at Jl=20 Gatot Subroto in Denpasar has the best value/quality at Rp310,000 for = the=20 common 120 x 200 size 'Pinang Special'.
    * Out east from Kuta - = Sanur, near=20 Klungkung, is Yayasan Kripana Putra Dharma Panti Asuhan Semara=20 Putra, at Sekreteriat Jl. Dewi Sartika N0 5 KLUNKUNG. Very = poor and=20 rarely visited they are as worthy of your help as is Negara (above) = because=20 both are isolated to a greater than normal degree.
    * People = who=20 distribute gifts to needy families, and who know the really needy = cases are=20 the women of Bali, the Bali International Women=92s Association = (BIWA).=20 Check their website at www.biwabali.com/ or www.bali123.com/biwaba= li/index.htm.=20 In 2003 they ran their annual Bazaar with nearly 3000 attending and = over Rp250=20 million was raised in one day for AIDS victims, HIV prevention and aid = to=20 underprivileged children. Local support at this level indicates a = known and=20 respected organisation.
    * The East Bali Poverty Project = helps=20 disadvantaged children to help themselves. Sort of =91Give a man a = fish and feed=20 him for a day, Teach a man to fish and feed him for a lifetime.=92 Go = to http://www.eastbalipovert= yproject.org/=20 for details of this worthy cause. David Booth who is = both=20 founder and currently chairman of the East Bali Poverty Project has = been=20 awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his =91services to = sustain=20 development in rural East Bali=92. 2004. East Bali has an endemic = iodine=20 deficiency in the poor rural areas. The Project tries to remedy this = by=20 education, provision of clean water, a balanced diet and personal and = local=20 hygiene.
     * Panti Asuhan Kesayan Ikang Papa is a small=20 orphanage for about 20 handicapped children in Gianyar on Jl Elangga. = Gianyar=20 is east of the southern tourist areas, past Sukawati where the great = markets=20 are, towards Klungkung, Candi Dasa, Amlapura, Tirthagangga and Amed. = Its about=20 30 Km from Kuta and much less from Sanur of course. As its a bit off = the=20 common tourist paths they don't get a lot of visitors but still need a = lot of=20 help as you can imagine. The kids are mostly hearing impaired and some = have=20 intellectual problems as well. Be warned that you will lose your heart = if you=20 visit them. A driver familiar with the place and the rout is Kadek = Artana who=20 can be contacted on (+62 812) 380 7 160 or e-mail Artana_Kadek@yahoo.com. We = visited in=20 '06 and I felt that the carers here were especially good and dedicated = to what=20 must be a trying task.
    * There is an orphanage in Singaraja which = is not=20 far from Lovina and Richard, the owner of the Rambutan Cottages where = we=20 usually stay, or his wife Tini will happily take you there. Phone them = at=20 Rambutan Cottages (upgraded late in '05)on 0362 413 88, mobile 081 238 = 319=20 41.  The place is housed in a school which went bankrupt (I'll = leave you=20 to guess why) and caters for a mix of Hindu and Buddhist children. = They are=20 the most delightful kids who will charm the visitor who wants to spend = some=20 time there. I go to jelly when some innocent little kid just wants to = put the=20 tip of his (or her) finger on the back of my hand to be recognised. = Their=20 address is Dana Punia, Kampus Afgar, Banyuning. Its easy to visit = being not=20 far off the main road into Singaraja and reasonably well signposted = (there is=20 a right turn just after crossing a bridge over a spectacular river = ravine)=20 although down a short but steep entry road with a very sharp left hand = bend at=20 the bottom. Your driver will have no problems even though he might = have to ask=20 for directions from a local a couple of times.
    * Gloria=92s Crisis=20 Care Centre=92 operates in north Bali around Lovina. Gloria offers = free=20 health care to impoverished Balinese villagers who would otherwise get = no=20 assistance at all. See =91Glorias<= /A>=92.=20
    * Carry For Kids is an organisation fostering the = carrying of=20 selected goods to many third world locations including Bali. Many = (Most? =96=20 All?) travellers to Bali soon learn to go lightly and buy essential = supplies=20 at their destination, but return home with bulging cases. This = organisation=20 seeks to use the empty suitcase space going in to Bali by taking = donations to=20 charities. http://carryforkids.o= rg/about/history.html=20 will give you the idea. They care equally for all needy children in = Indonesia,=20 regardless of race or creed.
    * The Hope Children=92s = Home.=20 Provides accommodation to about 100 children of all ages until they = become=20 independent. Ages range from a few months to early 20=92s. A child = here can be=20 fully sponsored for US$20 per month. It is unashamedly a Christian=20 organisation and teaching the doctrines and conversion are an = essential part=20 of their program for the children in their care. http://www.helpingbali.com/ ; = e-mail info@helpingbali.com. =
    * St=20 Francis of Assisi Orphanage in Dalung about 35 min by car from = Kuta.=20 English language is a bit of a problem. Check with Kerry or Milton at = the Indo=20 National Restaurant now in Jl Padma, Legian, near the Lokha Hotel but = on the=20 opposite side.
    * An orphanage way out on the west coast (and = which,=20 like Alas Kasih in Negara, consequently gets overlooked usually) is = Giri=20 Asih at the small village of Malaya in the Negara district near = Gilimanuk=20 which is the ferry port to Java. Donations of money are welcomed and = are=20 officially registered and can be for very specific, donor elected = projects,=20 which is a bit unusual. Donors are encouraged to visit and re-visit to = check=20 on progress of their selected project. For info and photos contact barrygw@bigpond.com.
    * = Yayasan=20 Anak-Anak is in Mengwi, about 40 minutes east of the southern tourist = areas at=20 Banjar Gede, Abian Base, MENGWI, Badung. Ph 081 2385 8337. The = Director is=20 Yayuk Kanti; E-mail y_kanti@hotmail.com. =
    * =20 The Kupu Kupu (=91Butterfly=92) Foundation cares for the = needs of=20 physically and mentally handicapped Balinese. They have a gallery at = Jl Tirta=20 Tawar 22A, Banjar Kutuh Kelod, UBUD. Ph Begonia Lopez (62) 081 = 236 287=20 20. E-mail kupubali@yahoo.com, web=20 site www.yamp.com/kupukupu . Their=20 aim is to release these people from the confining cocoon of their=20 disabilities. http://yamp.com/KupuKupu/ . = Located in=20 Jimbaran it is easy to visit here.
    * YKIP http://www.ykip.org/ or (http://www.mitrais.com/ , contact = Wiwie=20 Harris) and YKIDS (http://www.mysitespace.com/ = contact=20 Sarti Pramana) are organisations set up by business to organise = educational=20 relief for children orphaned in the Bali=20 bombing at the Kuta = nightclubs. Both=20 contact persons are English speakers. The costs of administering the = donations=20 are absorbed into the normal daily business costs and ALL donations go = to the=20 children=92s benefit. Following the terrorist bombing  YKIP = estimated that=20 31% of children were forced out of education (either temporarily or=20 permanently) in Bali. Following the tsunami devastation at Christmas = time in=20 '04 YKIP has estimated that over half a million dollars (Australian) = is needed=20 to get children back into schools in Indonesia. Donations of US$150 = per year=20 to YKIP ('05 costs) will meet the costs of a child's primary = education. US$250=20 is required for secondary students. If these costs help prevent future = terrorism they may be insignificant in the future lives of ourselves = and our=20 children.
    * KEMBALI is an educational = support=20 program in the Gianyar Regency with links to Rotary but run by the = Bali Hotels=20 Association through YKIP, a well known and respected organisation.=20 www.ykip.org/.
    * IDEP Foundation is an Indo Non Government=20 Organisation that seems to believe in teaching men to fish =     instead of giving them fish every day. = Presently (=9205)=20 focused on Aceh after the tsunami the have many environmentally = friendly=20 projects to help the Balinese in all sorts of ways. Have a look at = their very=20 comprehensive web site, www.idepfoundation.org/index.html. =
    * The=20 Southern Cross Bali Association Incorporated is organised by Ken and=20 Christine,     southerncrossbaliassocinc@hotmail.com, = with help=20 from others including travellers Scully, Smudge and Roo-Ted, who do = all sorts=20 of good works, in schools and particularly for the disabled. They have = wheelchairs to lend to those in need, tourists included. All they ask = is a=20 donation to the Association in return. Phone numbers are 0414 924 745 = and 0431=20 985 878. Even if you don=92t need a wheelchair or some other help in = Bali you=20 can still make a donation to Westpac account 036-127-177967, ABN 22615 = 162=20 524. Part of their works also involves clothes, medications, bandages, = antiseptics, saline solutions and stomach soothers. Donations are=20 welcomed.
    * Kerri and Milton at the Indo = National=20 Restaurant in Jl Padma have good and independent     contacts in the charitable organisations of = Bali. If=20 you really want to know what is needed and how to help go and talk to = them.=20 (And have a meal too, you won=92t be disappointed.)
    * Asri = Mara at Alus=20 Tailors E-mail alusasri@yahoo.com, is=20 a member of the Bali-Taman Rotary Club which has school = projects going=20 on in different areas. Work includes providing basic furniture such as = student=20 desks and re-roofing schools to keep the kids dry. She has excellent = English=20 skills and is a fine tailor. Alus Tailor and Boutique, Jl Raya Kuta = No. 408,=20 Ph(0361) 753 646.
    * Another Rotary contact is in Nusa Dua, nusaduarotary@vsrotarybali= .org.=20 In particular they support a school for deaf children, Sekola Luar=20 Biasa-Bali, in Jimbaran. The school takes children from anywhere = in Bali=20 or the nearby islands, 150 in total in 2003 with about 50 from outside = Bali=20 who get no financial support from their homes. Their need is for funds = for=20 fees (this is a common need at schools and orphanages throughout Bali = as there=20 is no government support) and for normal school supplies of pencils, = pens,=20 books, paper and art materials.
    * There is a Muslim orphanage, = Al-Islam,=20 at 178 Jl Raya Pemogan, Ph 725 075. They may be Muslim but they are = still just=20 kids in need and I don't think we should lower ourselves by = discriminating.=20 Perhaps being Muslim our visits and donations here might have more = future=20 impact than we realise.
    * If you want to provide food for a = deprived group,=20 try a large box of Sari Mie instant noodles (40 packs) for = Rp30,000,=20 and a large container of drinking water Rp5,000 (about 75 cents Aust.) = a bit=20 over Aus$5 in total.
    * Readers of the Bali Travel Forum have = recently=20 been made aware of the =91Rubbish Tip People=92 near Sanur. If = you=92ve ever=20 wondered where all of the islands rubbish goes it is here, in = meters-high=20 mounds running for kilometres. People actually live here on the dump,=20 scavenging for an existence. Donations of almost anything connected = with the=20 essences of life will be welcomed and can be left at the Adopta Coop on Jl Gunung Sari 28C. To = find it go=20 along Jl Imam Bonjol towards Denpesar, past the Alpha Supermarket (on = your=20 left) and turn right just after the petrol station onto Gunung = Sari.Adopota is=20 on the left side of the road. Ph Niluh on     0813 = 5320=20 5646 for closer directions or driver = Made on=20 0812 395 7296. E-mail erni_erniati@yahoo.com. = They also now=20 have a more central shop in Gang Ronta off Poppies Lane II in = Legian-Kuta. The=20 Adopta Coop is a group of women made widows by the Sari Club bombing. = They=20 have learnt sewing skills and with donated machines organised = themselves into=20 a business cooperative and are now more than self-supporting, they are = helping=20 others such as the Rubbish Dump people and orphanages. Go and see = their wares=20 and support their self-help initiative. They will print polo's and = T-shirts=20 for you. Polo's about Aus$12 each. Their web site is at http://pacungbali.com/adopta.=20
    Rice, noodles, water, insect repellent, sunhats, gloves - - - . = The 9=20 basic food list generated as a months sustenance supply for a family = of four=20 after the bomb included; 30Kg rice, sugar, cooking oil or margarine, = beef and=20 chicken meat, eggs, milk powder, corn, kerosene (also called paraffin) = for=20 cooking fuel, and iodised salt. A simpler =91quick fix=92 was rice, = sugar, oil,=20 instant noodles and iodised salt.
    Text books in English are fine,=20 preferably with pictures that relate to the writing. Op Shops or other = charitable outlets in your home town are often inundated with books = and might=20 be happy to give you a number for a worthy cause. Airlines will often = allow=20 you a few Kg=92s over weight if you are taking donations and = arrangements are=20 made beforehand.
    * Panti Asuhan Salam is a = small=20 Orphanage in Tabanan. The address is Jalan Rama Gang 1/No9, TABANAN, = Bali. Ph=20 (62 361) 810 086. The Director is I Gusti Ketut Suardana. The = orphanage is=20 north west of Ubud off the road to Tanah Lot. There were 17 girls and = 28 boys=20 there in '05, aged from 5 to 18 years. Like all orphanages any = donation will=20 be put to good use but the greatest need is for money to pay school = fees.
    *=20 The Rotary Club of Ubud has a Support Ubud Schools scheme. You can = drop off=20 goods for the schools at Saraswati Bungalows on Jl Raya, Ubud, across = the road=20 from the Casa Luna Restaurant and a bit right. You can also use Ibah = Resorts=20 and Spa. You will be invited to use a visitors book to log details of = your=20 donations as across check that everything get where you intend and = there will=20 be a follow-up thank you too.
    *=20 A new (mid '06) support program for children in 3 schools in = Bontihing, about=20 25 Km east of Singaraja, is run by the Gawler and Light Rotary club. = There are=20 400 children needing education sponsorship and the program follows a = very well=20 known one set up by the Swan Districts Rotary. http://www.gawlerlightrotar= y.org.au/.=20 E-mail esp@gawlerlightrotary.org.au= =20 .

  20. Panti Asuhan=20 Jodie O'Shea is a fairly new orphanage in Denpasar. Jodie O'Shay was a = young=20 Australian woman who died from her injusies following the Bali = bombing. Her=20 courage convinced her Balinese carer to establish a memorial. The = orphanage=20 was established with the aid of a US$15,000 donation and initially = housed=20 children taken from another orphanage where they were being abused and = is now=20 also helped by tha Southern Cross Bali Association. It now houses = about 35=20 children (Jan '08) with a large proportion from very poor farming = communities=20 on the island of Sumba. There are more details at http://www.careforkidsbali.com/<= /A>.=20

  21. The tall,=20 slim, colourful flags on bamboo poles are common. They are called = =91Lelontek=92=20 or =91Umble umble=92. You can buy them on = the very top=20 floor of the Denpasar markets. AppRp.60,000. These are = traditionally=20 religious decorations with their origins in ancient China, their = colours=20 associated with the arts of feng shui. They signify the presence of a = god at=20 an event. The tapering top that droops over towards the ground = symbolises the=20 belief that even the mightiest of gods or beings must have humility = and=20 respect for the earth that nourishes them. =91Man must be like the = stalk of=20 rice, the more bountiful the head of grain the more the stalk bows to = its=20 source.=92 They are now frequently used simply as graceful decorations = in=20 motion. If you buy some for the back yard Aussie Customs will not let = you=20 bring in the bamboo poles and the same variety and size are not easy = to find=20 in milder Oz. In South Australia smallish bamboos can be found along=20 un-developed river banks but there are larger ones around Pt Wakefield = and at=20 Stone Hut on the way to Pt Augusta I hear. Let me know if you hear of = others=20 please.
    Similar in style but made from a bamboo stalk with highly=20 decorative cut fronds are the ceremonial village street decorations = called=20 =91Penjor=92.
    The temple umbrellas, usually = in crimson or=20 gold colour and on long poles, are called =91Payung=92. They are = associated wit=20 religious ceremonies and therefore not seen as decorations by the = Balinese.=20 They serve to shade the gods and indicate their importance, thus = pleasing the=20 deities.
    A great source of Umble Umbles is Ud Sri Rejeki at Jl = Raya Kuta=20 No 97, Ph 753 477 or 765 739. Not only flags and decorations but all = sorts of=20 bits and pieces for ceremonies. Flags are about Rp40-50,000 depending = on how=20 many you want and how well you can bargain.

  22. August is=20 the beginning of the dry season and is popular for cremations, to which tourists will be welcomed = if they are=20 not too intrusive.

4.    SAYING =96=20 language prompts.=20

Try http://www.filosbali.net/Ph= rases.htm =20 for a pocket-size list you can print off and take with you. It fits = easily into=20 a shirt pocket, wallet or purse.

  1. One of=20 the best =91ice-breakers=92 we have found in Bali is to introduce = yourself (and=20 you will be asked who you are, nicely, a number of times) in the = Balinese=20 fashion. You are Wayan if you are first born, Made if you are the = second=20 child, Nyoman if the third and Ketut if you are the fourth then add = your given=20 name. For example; I=92m Wayan John and this is Nyoman Betty. =

  2. Another ice breaker is the = formal=20 Hindu greeting, 'Om swasti astu', (may God watch you, spoken with the = normal=20 Christian hand in prayer attitude) that even Muslims accept although = they are=20 even more impressed if you can remember their special version, = 'Assalam mu=20 alaikum' which does not need the hand action.

  3. =91Salamat=20 pagi=92, Good morning =96 to 11am. =91S.. siang=92 =96 11 to 3. =91S.. = soree=92 =96 to 6pm.=20 =91S.. malam=92 =96 Good night. The spoken emphasis is on the last = syllable, eg=20 =91Salamat pageeee=92. The reply if often simply, = =91Pageeee=92.=20

  4. =91Salamat=20 tidur=92 =96 Sleep well. =91S.. tingal=92, Goodbye (when leaving). = =91S..jalan=92 =96=20 Goodbye (when you are the one who is staying and a guest is leaving).=20

  5. =91Halo!=92=20 (=91Ahhloh=92), Hello. =91Ayo=92, Hey/Hello (informal). =91Sampi = jumpa=92, See you, Bye=20 bye (informal).

  6. =91Terima=20 kasih=92, Thank you.

  7. =91Sama=20 sama=92 You are welcome =96 the response to =91Terima kasih=92. =

  8. =91Apa=20 kabar?=92, How are you? =91Bagus.=92 - Exceptionally good. =91Baik = baik=92. =96 Very Well.=20 =91Baik=92. =96 Well.

  9. 'Enak' or 'enak enak' -=20 delicious.

  10. =91Sin can=20 can=92 =96 No problem!

  11. =91Ma=92af=92=20 =96 Sorry. =91Permissi=92 =96 Excuse me.

  12. =91Berapa=92=20 (pron =91brapa=92) =96 =91How much=92. Understand that once said you = have already=20 entered into the bargaining/purchase process and if the vendor agrees = to your=20 last price you are morally obliged to buy the goods. =

  13. =91Ya=92,=20 Yes. =91Tidak=92. No, (Not polite. Avoid if possible.) =91Tidak Mau=92 = =96 don=92t want.=20 =91Singla pis=92 =96 no money.

  14. =91Hari=20 ini=92 =96 today. =91Besok=92 =96 tomorrow. =91Besok = besok=92 =96 sometime.=20

  15. =91Bisa=20 ambil foto?=92 =96 Can I take a photo?

  16. =91Saya=20 belum lancar di Bahasa Indonesia=92. =96 I=92m not fluent in = Indonesian.=20

  17. =91Tolong=20 Bicara pelan-pelan=92 =96 Please speak slowly.

  18. =91Saya=20 kurang mengerti=92 =96 I don=92t understand.

  19. =91Air=20 panas dan dingin=92 =96 Hot and cold water. =91Botol air minum=92. =96 = Bottled drinking=20 water.

  20. =91Ketas=20 wese=92 - Toilet paper. =91Way-say=92 =96 W.C. Dimana kamar kecil?=92 = =96 Where is the=20 toilet?

  21. =91Berapper hargar?=92 =96 How much? =

  22. =91Cepat=20 cepat!=92 Hurry =96 But don=92t expect any reaction. =

  23. =91Apotic=92=20 =96 chemist - pharmacy.

  24. =91Jalan=20 Jalan=92 =96 walking. =91Jalan Jalan Jalan=92 =96 walking a long way. =

  25. =91Satu=92 =96=20 one. =91Dua=92 =96 two. =91Tiga=92 =96 three. =91Empat=92 =96 four. = =91Lima=92 =96 five.=20

5.    SHOPPING.

If = you=92re not sure=20 what you can safely (legally) bring back into Oz have a look at the = horses mouth=20 =96 www.customs.gov.au/osgoods= .htm.=20 Other countries will certainly have a similar site for=20 reference.

Shopping can be a frightening experience for the first-time traveller = to=20 Bali. The shop-keepers and the street seller (there are now very few of = these=20 compared with the legions laying in wait for you just a few years ago) = are=20 easily seen as over-the-top and aggressive, even rude and abusive in = their=20 persistent verbal and physical insistence that you come into their shop = and buy=20 something.
The trick is difficult for the westerner because it seems = so=20 rude, but it is best to be steadfast and not even acknowledge their = existence.=20 Not by a pause in your stride, by a turn of the head or eyes in their = direction,=20 not by an acknowledgement of their, 'Good morning Boss' or 'I know = you!'. If you=20 don't want to buy you must keep going though they will try all of their = many=20 tricks, learned from greater experience than yours, to make you pause. = If you=20 do, you indicate that you just MIGHT want to buy something and the = gentle=20 sucking of the leech turns immediately into the grip of a tiger.
If = you=20 recognise what your purchase might actually mean to them their actions = will seem=20 a little bit more understandable. A sale might really be the difference = between=20 putting rice in front of their children and another night of hunger. = These days=20 (post the Sari club bombing when tourist numbers are at an all time low) = you=20 will often see a shopkeeper take your money from a sale and brush it = against all=20 of the other items left in the shop. This is for good luck and is an = indication=20 that the sale is his or her first for the day - even though it might be = late in=20 the afternoon.
Never take the easy way out and say, 'Maybe tomorrow,' = because=20 if you do pass that way tomorrow they will recognise you and remind you = that you=20 promised to buy something from them today.
After a while most=20 travellers get used to the system, overcome the hard-sell approaches and = can=20 actually enjoy talking to the people. They are really wonderful human = beings=20 with a great sense of humour and a genuine curiosity about you and = particularly=20 your family. When you reach this sort of relationship you can say you = are a=20 seasoned Bali traveller and begin to appreciate the people, their much = different=20 lives and their fascinating culture.

There are always sales on somewhere in the = southern tourist=20 areas, and there are really some amazing bargains to be had for the = ardent=20 shopper who knows their prices.  Look in the free Bali Beat or = Hello Bali=20 magazines, usually available at your hotel desk at no cost or look for = the=20 window signs as you walk or drive around. If you want a particular thing = ask the=20 ladies at your hotel reception desk. They are also good shoppers, from = necessity=20 more than desire most often.

There are = a growing=20 number of fixed price outlets in Bali (all major department stores and=20 restaurants are fixed price) but generally off the streets and in the = markets=20 you will be expected to bargain. The opening price will be about two or = three=20 times the price that the seller expects. With good grace and some humour = you=20 debate the sums until you reach a figure they all are happy with. You = will get=20 used to hearing, =93Good for you =96 good for me=94; =93I give you best = morning price=94=20 and =93You mak me bunkroot!=94 frequently.
It is considered to be = the height of=20 rudeness to begin bargaining for something you really don=92t want to = buy or to=20 refuse the purchase if the seller accepts your offer.
There is a good = section=20 on one travellers views an the art of bargaining at this link. Bargaining=20 advice.

A recent = scam which=20 is upsetting shoppers is the habit in some smaller stores of ringing up = extra=20 items at the till, or entering incorrect (higher) prices for purchased = goods.=20 When you leave a correction is made and the difference pocketed by the = operator.=20 If you think you=92re being cheated don=92t be afraid to check the bill = or to go=20 back and check the shelf price of an item. 
Be polite when you = point=20 out the =91unfortunate=92 error =96 losing = your cool is seen=20 as a degrading weakness by the Balinese. Calm and reasoned logic will = gain you=20 far more respect and cooperation.
Try to keep a sense of perspective = during=20 the process and remember that a difference of a few hundred rupiah is = really=20 chicken feed! =96 a few cents or pence or escuderas or punts or=20 something.

=91Wartels=92, post &=20 phone shops, are often also bank agencies and very reliable money = changers=20 (perhaps even more so than Kodak/PT Central outlets) who are happy to = accept a=20 photo copy of the first page of your Passport when changing Travellers = Cheques =96=20 a much safer option. They are not as well used as PT Central outlets yet = but as=20 travellers find out about them they will become much more popular.=20  
Exchange rates are best in the south around=20 Kuta. 

Regulars suggest as follows - Food stuffs = try Makro=20 or Galael or Pepitos: for clothes try Ramayana or Matahari's although = Ramayana=20 might be better for larger western sizes: Tiara Dewata is popular with = the=20 locals but may be a bit dearer for foods.

  1. Photo=20 enlargements are very cheap. Take with you, from home, any negatives = of photos=20 you want enlarged and get them done in Bali. Get the good photos you = take=20 there enlarged to take home also. (Get digitised service in addition. = $12 on=20 CD-ROM.)
    8" x 6" (20cm x 15 cm) enlargements are Rp4,000 (less = than A$1),=20 14" x 10" Rp13,000 (A$2.75) up to 60cm x 50cm Rp52,500 (A$11.25). =
    Take=20 photos of your Bali friends and give them enlargements as = gifts.
    Disposable=20 underwater cameras are great if snorkelling. Cheaper in Oz at app $17 = instead=20 of Rp140-150,000.

  2. SUPERMARKETS =96=20 Large & small.
    Most supermarkets in the larger centres are open from 9 am to 10 pm. The Bintang in Legian is open = from 8 to=20 11.
    It can be slow and frustrating to endure the payment process at = many=20 supermarkets. Dockets seem to be written for every item, taken to a = supervisor=20 for checking and eventually passed down a line of '=91do-ers & = more=20 checkers'=92 at the registers. It seems to be the Balinese way of = keeping up=20 female employment but it=92s not swift.
    Simple electrical goods = such as hot=20 water jugs, toasters etc are cheap to buy (try Macro or the new in, = '07,=20 Carrefour=96 see below) and cheap enough to give to a local family = when you=20 leave. Complex electronic stuff will be a worry if you take it = home and=20 need to claim on a warranty.

  3. Patent medicines are = available and=20 cheap at the supermarkets. Local medicines ('Chinese' medicines often) = are=20 also available and should not be ignored. Arthritis sufferers might = try Salon=20 Pas Gel first or even one of the stronger rubs available such as = Voltaren Gell=20 at Rp97,000 in '05.
    Local disinfectants for wounds, scratches and=20 abrasions are effective and much better than ignoring it until you = have a=20 full-blown tropical infection problem.
    The local chemists or drug = stores=20 are called 'Apotic's'.

  4. Tiara=20 Grosir supermarket, Jl Teuku Umar on the west side of Denpasar. = Wholesale=20 warehouse that welcomes Bali tourists. Also has food stalls for meals = and 2=20 bakeries. Same owners as Alpha, which is a branch closer to Kuta on Jl = Imam=20 Bonjol. Not as big as Macro but there is no charge to enter.=20

  5. Macro=20 SuperStore. Between Kuta & Sanur on left. A sort of a local bulk = store.=20 Rp5,000 entrance fee. No children allowed. Multi packs of wide variety = of=20 goods very cheap but allow for 10% tax and cost of bags at the check = out. Eg.=20 Sharp Rice Cooker A$28. Most consumable goods are in bulk or largest = packets.=20 If you don=92t buy in bulk the prices are about the same as in the = more popular=20 department stores such as Matahari=92s. A crate of 16 large beer is = just over=20 Rp100,000 and the crate has a deposit of Rp30,000 is cheap being about = Aus$1.60 a bottle. If you don=92t want to take your crate and bottles = back give=20 it to your driver or the person who cleans your room. 24 x 600 ml of = water for=20 less than Rp25.000. Chupa Chups (a candy ball on a short stick) are = about=20 Rp40,000 for a 100 pack; about Aus 8-10 cents each. The copy-cat = Starburst=20 lollypops are a bit cheaper but generally not to the liking of either = the=20 Balinese or me after the real thing. If you=92re going to an orphanage = or a=20 school this is a great place to stock up on a dozen tubes of tooth = paste and=20 100 tooth brushes. A carton of soaps and shampoo, feminine toiletries = (yes,=20 the young Balinese girls do use them if they can get them =96 if not - = - -?) etc=20 etc.
    *  There are three Matahari stores in Bali. Kuta, = Denpasar and=20 Bali Mall Galeria near the roundabout. There was a fourth in Jl Legian = but it=20 closed about 2001.

  6. Bintang=20 Supermarket on the main road in Seminyak is quite large and well=20 stocked.

  7. There is a Hardy's store = at Tabanan,=20 or actually on the by-pass road around Tabanan, a few hundred metres = on the=20 right from the start. It is huge and recommended by serious local = shoppers=20 despite the distance from the tourist areas. Have a look in if you're = passing=20 through.

  8. The SuperNova department = store on Jl=20 Raya Kuta in Legian is a bit of a surprise in many ways. The range of=20 cosmetics, for example, is not large but if you find what you're = looking for=20 they're incredibly cheap. In '06 I came across an unexpected = source=20 of maps in Bali, on the first floor of the store. If you want a valued = gift=20 for a school that's a bit different get a topographical one of = 'Provinsi Bali'=20 at 1:150,000 scale showing roads, towns, ports, rivers, lakes and = provincial=20 borders for only Rp20,450 or Aus$3.00 approx. How cheap can a = reasonable=20 quality wall map get? They also had similar maps of Indonesia, = Australia and=20 the world. Also on the first floor are stationery and paper items that = I have=20 seen nowhere else at similarly good prices.

  9. The new ('07) Carrefour is = a French=20 chain and a remarkable place to see. At least one local says most = things are=20 cheaper elsewhere but obviously many tourists are not convinced = yet.=20

  10. There is=20 a One Dollar Shop in Kuta at the end of Bakungsari street, opposite = the pet=20 shop and next to Super Nova department store. An amazing range of = goods all=20 priced at Rp5,000. Jl Raya Legian No 135, Kuta-Legian. There is also = one in=20 the Ramayana in Denpasar. Here items are either Rp5,000 or Rp10,000. = Another=20 is part of Hardy's super store in Singaraja up north. =

  11. Locals=20 in Seminyak and Legian often prefer the Alfa Supermarket on Jl = Imam=20 Bonjol, Denpasar. In Pasar Sanglah. Ask any decent taxi driver. Very = large=20 like the Makro but it=92s not necessary to buy in bulk = here.

  12. Many clothing 'names' have = outlets=20 that sell seconds which are often just excess = stock. One=20 is Amimale at 82 Jl Raya Kuta. Ph 757 015 or 783 135 and from August = '08 also=20 on Jl Raya Legian on the same side as the Bintang Supermarket but a = bit up=20 towards Seminyak.

  13. For=20 electrical appliances and equipment try UD Kartika Elektronic, Jl = Blambangan=20 No 6, Kuta. Ph 754 658. Not far from the Supernova Dept = Store.=20

  14. Hairdressing scissors and similar equipment. = Try Fortuna=20 opposite Tragia Department store in Denpasar. A surprising range and = good to=20 professional quality.
    Also Hair Dressing Supplies, Jl By Pass = Ngurah Rai=20 No8, Tuban. It's within walking distance of the Bali Galeria. 5" = Jaguar=20 scissors Aus$28.

  15. Almost=20 opposite (about 1 Km ?) Macro Superstore on the Sanur By Pass road (on = the=20 Kuta side of the turn-off to Benoa Harbour) is a wine=20 shop ('Indowines'?) that sells wine made from Western Australian = grape=20 juice for Rp85,000, $15, per bottle. NOT TO BE MISSED! It has a large = bottle=20 at the front of the shop. Tourists welcome for a tasting. They will = deliver to=20 nearby hotels =96 (0361) 726 883, Fax (0361) 726 884. Also available = at Matahari=20 store in Kuta for Rp125,000, which makes it worth a 5 min taxi ride to = get=20 your supplies from the winery. French wines are often cheaper that = Australian=20 ones. See =91Drinking =96 safely=92 just below or via the link = in the General=20 section above, and also =91Eating =96 safely & enjoyably=92 just = below or via=20 the link above.
    * Another nearby is Pembangunan Balidwepa Mandiri = opposite=20 Bali Kopi on the Bypass road at number 546, Sanur. Ph 284 122; e-mail = pbm@indo.net.id. Wines from around = the world=20 for less than Rp200,000 including reputable Aussie and French wines as = well as=20 casks. Spirits are cheaper than Duty Free I'm told!!
    * The cheapest = wine=20 available in Bali is locally made Indico Wines for about Rp 42,000. = Hatten=20 Wines, also local, are a bit dearer and a bit more palatable but not = to=20 everyone=92s taste. We can recommend their slightly sweet 'Alexandria' = white=20 wine which won a medal at the London Wine and Spirits Exhibition. = Their Bali=20 Hatten Sparkling has also some minor gongs and is quite passable. Easy = to get=20 in Ubud but you need to ask around a bit in the south or give Hattens = a call=20 for sources.
    * Indowines, Raya Sunset Road No. 166 sells Chilean = champagne=20 for about Aus$25 which is quite good. Also stock other good wines. Ph = +62 361=20 756 781.
    * Bali Deli also stocks wine, some of which is quite good = but=20 beware of flagon wines that may have spent weeks in an oven-like = container=20 before being cleared by Customs. I have been told they will willingly = exchange=20 stuff you're not happy with. They open at 11 am but are closed on = Tuesdays=20 (April '07).
    * Pit Stop     on the=20 beach road next to the Karma Sutra night club is also a good wine = source.
    *=20 In '07 there were wine outlets at Bali Jaya Supermarket in Kuta, about = 50=20 strides from Bemo Corner, Nirmala Supermarket on Jl Uluwatu II in = Jimbaran and=20 Angusan, Pepito Supermarket in Tuban and the Bintang Supermarket in=20 Seminyak.
    * If you're out on the By Pass Road about 150 metres = before Makro=20 try PT Bali Surya Utama (Ph (0361) 723 014) where single bottles or = cases are=20 well priced. Jacobs Creek Rp 80,000 (Aus$11) or Rp100,000 for their = bubbly=20 (Aus$14), Jim Beam Rp120,000 (Aus$16.75).
    * On the beach road = ('pantai')=20 between Seminyak and Kuta you will find the Bottle Shop. You'll find = it south=20 of Padma and about 200 paces further south from Melasti St a bit past = the=20 Circle K. 700 ml bottles of spirits for Rp130,000 ($14.50 app) Less = than Duty=20 Free. If you come to a vacant food court that is only open in the = evenings you=20 have passed it.

  16. Dijon=20 Food Specialties store is also near this roundabout; or go left from = Bemo=20 Corner near Matahari in Kuta =96 over the bridge and right after the = petrol=20 station =96 about 120 paces on your left from this direction. It = stocks many=20 items that you would be familiar with from home and Euro-deli lines. = Kuta=20 Poleng Mall, Blok A1-A2, Jl Setiabudhi, Kuta. Ph (0361) 759-636 or = 759-638.=20 E-mail dijonfs@indosat.net.id. Web=20 site at http://www.dijon-bali.com/.=20

  17. Alfa=20 Supermart similar to Macro. On Jl Imam Bonjol just out of Kuta going = towards=20 Denpasar, 2-3 km. Have a look at the rice cookers and warmers used by = the=20 world=92s experts on rice. 220 volts but work OK on Ozzie 240v. There = is no=20 alcohol sold now (or at Tiara Grossir) as the owners are=20 Islamic.

  18. The small mini mart in Jl = Padma not=20 far from the corner of Jl Padma Utara got some bad press about prices = and=20 funny addition in '05.
    The nearby Loji Supermarket or the Bintang = on Jl=20 Legian are probably safer places.

  19. Matahari. In Kuta Square and near McDonalds at = No 117 Jl=20 Raya Legian in Legian St. Also classy new DFS Mal Galleria, Simpansura = St with=20 many other shops near the roundabout with the chariot statue just out = of Kuta=20 =96 NOT Nusa Dua. Also Denpasar. White taxis operate here and need = firm=20 persuasion to put the meter on.

  20. Ramayana. Denpasar. Recommended hairdresser on = top, Johnie=20 Andreas. Foot =91reflexi" Rp15,000 hair cream bath = Rp25,000.=20 Good when you think you=92re shopped out.
    There is also = a=20 recommended hairdressing shop , including straightening that tropic = frizz, at=20 the Secret Garden. Have a look at www.secretgarden-bali.com/= . There=20 is an e-mail link where you can make a booking.
    Other recommended=20 hairdressers are;
    Celebes in Legian (see also the Legian District = section)=20 do hair straightening amongst the other more normal treatments. Cut = and 8=20 foils for Rp82,000 (Aus$12 app.) mid '06.
    Kudas in Jl Legian near = Rum=20 Jungle Road - a colourful shop;
    Cristy's Salon in the lane behind = Etnik=20 Cafe on Jl Legian - Ph 766 739 - does not look flash but the results = are=20 great;
    Eva Salon near Bemo Corner at the end of Jl Legian - great = facials=20 too - ask for Sheryl;
    At the Secret Garden on Jl Melasti near the = entrance=20 to the Kuta Lagoon Resort and the traffic lights on Jl Melasti; =
    Across the=20 road from the back entrance to the Jayakarta in Legian, in the street = that=20 runs parallel to the beach - 'meticulous cut'; 
    De Luzern at = Istana=20 Kuta Galeria near Tiara Dewata and Ace Hardware. Yoyo for cutting and = Jimmy=20 for colour.
    Celebes Spa and Beauty, Jl Padma Utara No3 - off Jl = Padma. next=20 to the Garden View in Legian. Ask for Poppy or e-mail poppysudibyo2000@yahoo.com= .=20 Foils, blow wave, blonding etc etc for Rp198.000. Ph 1361 756 420 or = 081 3385=20 126 55; Almost next door to GVC, opposite Loji Supermarket and by a = Kodak=20 money changer. Hairdressing ground floor and massage first = floor;
    Melasti=20 Spa in Jl Padma Utara, Legian. Good cuts, colour and spa treatments = and=20 wonderful decor.

  21. Tragia.=20 Diagonally opposite Ramayana, about 400 meters from the exit near = Pizza Hut.=20

  22. Tiara=20 Dewata =96 has a section for collectors of mint and used stamps = and notes,=20 including. Japanese Occupation currency. Cheap children=92s clothing. = Larger=20 version of Alpha (se above.) Also has bumper cars for the kids = amusement (and=20 the dads too?) Always seems to us to be somehow different from the = usual=20 supermarket/department stores which makes it interesting to stroll = through.=20 Have a look at their developing ('07) web site at  = http://www.tiara-dewata.com/ = . Jl May=20 Jend Sutayo 55, Denpasar. (62 361) 235 733.

  23. Tiara=20 Grosir.

  24. The new Centro Kartika = Plaza shopping=20 centre opened late in '04. It's huge with many different shops. = Opening=20 specials were bargains but this may not last for too long. It's huge - = you=20 can't miss it on the seaward side of Jl Kartika Plaza.

  25. For Balinese paintings = that are=20 perhaps a bit more original than many try a shop in Jl Legian Kuta = between=20 Paddies nightclub and Bemo Corner. Reasonable prices to start with but = you can=20 still bargain.

  26. The=20 Geneva Handicraft Centre in Kerobokan is establishing a good = reputation (=9204).=20 It=92s at No100 Jl Raya Kerobokan, over the top of the Geneva = furniture store.=20 Ph 62 361 733 571. geneva_handicraft@hotmail.c= om.=20

  27. There are factories making = real cane=20 and synthetic cane furniture around the back streets of Kerbokan we = believe.=20 Real cane furniture is a feature of shopping in Lombok, the next = island to the=20 east of Bali.

  28. There is=20 a factory outlet for brand-name clothes called Big Buy Bakungsari. = There is on=20 Jl Bakungsari Noss Kuta and at Big Buy, Kuta Centre. =

  29. Need cossies? Hard=20 to fit? Try Climax shop in a small lane off Jl Legian half way between = Poppies=20 II and Melasti street on the beach side. If you come to Bank Negara = Indonesia=20 you've gone past it. Standard sizes and made to measure. Their = material or=20 yours. mailto:climaxghs@yahoo.com. http://www.climaxswimwear.com/. Jl=20 Legian 363, Kelod Kuta. Ask for Wayan (who else, its Bali after all). = Cost=20 Rp80,000 with your own material for one piece. Two pairs for $20 using = their=20 own material. Their range is a bit limited.
    ** Also BALI KAYA, Jl = Sarinade=20 #2, (off Jl Dyhanapura), Seminyak, Kuta 80361. E-mail mailto:bali0kaya@bigfoot.com. = Website=20 http://www.bali_kaya.com/. =

    ** Visit Alta Rica or Alta = Moda fabric=20 shop in the Kuta Istana Galleria shopping centre for a range of = lycra's and=20 other stuff. Less than Rp50,000 for enough for one swim suit. =

  30. If you=20 are not sure of the clothing sizes that = are use in=20 Bali try www.onlineconversion.com/ = or www.coasts= hop.com.au/tourist/clothes_sizes.htm=20 .

  31. Larger=20 sizes up to 4XL are available in Ketut's shop in Garlic Lane, = otherwise=20 known as Sahadewa Street in Legian.
    Also Seashell Shop, Jl Raya = Kuta No37,=20 BR Abianbase. 'seashellgirl' on the web. Sizes up to 4XL.
    Also shop = opposite The Pub'
    Jacques Ruc also has large sizes. Jl Raya = Seminyak=20 No54-56, past the Bintang Supermarket and on the opposite side, set = back a bit=20 from the footpath. Ph(+62)61-72 734. 'Like a Double Bay boutique'. = Fixed=20 prices.
    "Chitra". In Jl Legian No439. Ph 762 471. Past Melasti = street=20 towards Seminyak.
    Large shoes at Jocelyn's shop opposite Matahari = in=20 Kuta.

  32. For shoe size conversions  = try  http://www.i18nguy.com/l1= 0n/shoes.html=20 .

  33. For shoes try R2U ('Ready to Use'), have mover from No5 = Padma Utara in=20 early '08. It can only be because they needed more space to hold their = stock!=20 They are now at Kamponeng Bali, Jl Merta Nadi No77X, Kuta. Phone Lely=20 Tjandrawati on 081 138 5079 or the shop at (0361) 240 991. Be warned = that=20 Lely's phone English is not too good but she is OK face to face. = 'Packed to=20 the ceiling with shoes'. Same with handbags next door, and ask to see = the=20 beaded shawls too. Next door to the old shop in Padma Utara is an = authorised=20 Swarovski crystal shop.

  34. CHILDREN=92S FOOD =96 Many familiar brands are available in = most tourist=20 centres but to make sure of a peaceful start to your holiday take 1 or = 2 days=20 supply of familiar food with you and slowly wean baby on to more = readily=20 available products if necessary. Nappies, powder etc are readily = available but=20 probably not much cheaper than home prices as many are imported. 2 for = 2 and=20 free giveaways are often offered. Milton tablets, a sterilising = container and=20 a bottle brush might be worth the space when you are packing however. = Remember=20 not to use the reticulated water in Bali for anything except careful = washing.=20
    Several brands of nappies are available. Mamma Poko got the thumbs = up from=20 one mum in '06. The weight/size information on the pack  seems=20 correct

  35. Baby=20 sitting services are provided by many of the larger hotels but if = you're=20 does not the services of Casey, who lives in Sanur but works also in = the=20 Kuta/Legian areas has been recommended by Forumites who have use her = services.=20 A 42 year old single mum of two now teenage boys, she knows the ropes. = Ph 081=20 337 290 491.

  36. CHILDREN=92S CLOTHES -
    Indigo Kids in = Legian-Kuta.
    Matahari=92s=20 Department Store.
    Kuta Kidz near Bemo Corner, Kuta. They also have = a=20 seconds shop towards Seminyak.
    At a little shop next to an ATM that = proved=20 a godsend in the main street through Kediri, a small town near = Tabanan, there=20 is Maya Gogo, rated the best and cheapest in all Bali if you're out = that=20 way.
    There are fairy shops in Bali where you can get all of the = current=20 costumes as well as the old favourites. One is about 300 metres from = the=20 MacDonalds entry to Poppies I from the beach end, on the left by a=20 hairdressers and across the lane from a Mini Mart.  Another = called Swells=20 is in Jl Melasti and a third is on the second dogleg corner of Jl = Padma Utara=20 in Legian. Another is at No 54 Jl Double Six in = Legian/Seminyak.
    'Stroberi'=20 (Strawberry) is a little teenagers shop on the Bali Mall Baleria. = Funky=20 accessories that these kidz love. It's on the right as you go to the=20 supermarket.

  37. Laundry. Getting=20 your clothes clean and pressed is easy with most hotels having a good = service.=20 There are also many (cheaper but still good to very good) laundries on = the=20 streets. 'So Clean' are developing a small chain across the island and = have=20 the recommendation of ex-pats living on the island. Look for the 'So = Clean'=20 signs in your local district. Some travellers even get all of their = clothes=20 both new and used, cleaned before they leave. Their smell of Bali = brings back=20 memories for weeks afterwards at home. Many laundries will pick up and = deliver=20 too. Some prices ('07) - Business Shirt washed and pressed (folded or = on your=20 hanger) Rp1,700 (about 20 cents Aus); Dress as above Rp2,300; = Bras/panties=20 Rp1,000; Jacket Rp3,000 etc.

  38. HAND BAGS. Most of=20 the big stores carry the standard lines, often at great discounts. A = small=20 store that dares to be different is Top Ten Branded in Melasti Street = near the=20 Legian Beach Hotel, also in Jl Padma on the left a little past the = junction=20 with Padma Utara.
    Tommy in Kuta Square also has A grade bags from = the well=20 known makers.

  39. Super=20 Nova. Kuta. Good internet room on top. Reports in '06 said that they = had the=20 cheapest range of cosmetics in Bali.

  40.  Arum Agung. Jl Danau Tamblingan not too far from = the Hyatt=20 in Sanur.

  41. Sarina=92s=20 on the By Pass Road near the Raddison Hotel.

  42. Hero=92s.=20 On the left about half way between Tuban and Denpasar. Fruit & = Veg. Time=20 Zone. Stationery.

  43. If=20 you=92re shopping for clothes it=92s not a bad idea to wear a pair of = bathers=20 rather than normal underclothes. This makes changing easier and can = also free=20 you from the change room queue if you can duck behind a rack.=20

  44. Stock=20 House, several, Jl Raya Kuta 100 M from petrol station. Export quality = including larger sizes.

  45. Surf=20 Gear factory outlet. Jl Ngurah Rai By Pass near the big statue, on = opposite=20 side of road about 400 m past Bali Mall and Galleria. Ph 766 646. Rip = Curl=20 button collared shirts Rp 122,000 =96 Volcon dress Rp90,000 =96 Rip = Curl dresses=20 Rp70-150,000 =96 men=92s T=92s from Rp80,000 =96 bikinis Rp122,000. =

  46. Sarong=20 Warehouses, Jl 66, off Jl Raya Legian, it goes to the beach where you = can get=20 a cold drink from Benny=92s before going back for all of those things = you=20 decided not to buy on your way down first time. Fixed prices from = Rp10,000.=20 Different patterns in each shop.

  47. Geneva=20 Handicrafts and Furniture =96 Jl Raya Legian. Wholesale = prices.=20

  48. =91Baliopoly=92, local board game like = =91Monopoly=92. Rp200,000.=20 A$40. - Cheapest delivered by makers =96 732 617 baliopoly@yahoo.com =20 www.baliopoly.webkita.com. Don=92t expect great quality after the = first edition.=20 In fact, can you get it at all now or has production ended? In 2005 = this=20 seemed to be the situation and the only options now will probably be = to find a=20 second hand set although the following was posted by 'Cooper' in late=20 August;  'We were in Bali in July/August and I saw = it at=20 Gramedia in the Discovery mall in Kuta. It was as you walk in, go = straight=20 ahead to the sporting section, and it was in front of the desk where = you buy=20 the tennis rackets and squash rackets. There would have been at least = 10 games=20 if not more. And they were about $25 AUD. Also seen Sept '05 in the = Centro=20 Store in Discovery Mall. It's on the first floor in the sports section = near=20 the book shop overlooking Jl Kartika Plaza. Plain and magnetic sets = available.=20 Further reports of availability in mid '07.

  49. Business=20 Cards =96 Colourful plastic =96 Aus$5/100 =96 Phone Ketut 082 361 = 3573. Also=20 stickers, labels, T-shirts. I have to say that I find plastic cards a = pain in=20 the you-know-what because you can't write on them, which is highly = desirable=20 when, 12 months later, you want a note of who and what and why you got = it.

  50. Spa=20 products are available from The Spa Factory in Jimbaran on Jl Toya = ring.

  51. Your=20 friendly shopkeeper will politely ask you where you are staying. Do = not=20 confess to staying anywhere in Nusa Dua as this is the signal to = extract the=20 highest price from a rich tourist.

  52. Gold prices. If you have a home price per = ounce=20 dividing this by 30.1034 will give you the price per gram. 24 ct. Bali = gold is=20 usually 22 ct. but the above calculation will be close enough to give = you a=20 good idea of comparative prices. In March '05 the price was about = Aus$10/gram.=20 If your purchases are weighed beware of the weight of cheap stones = being=20 included in the weight and charged at gold prices. Better quality = stones can=20 be purchased and put into your jewellery for the cost of the stone and = app=20 Rp25,000 fitting charge. Price varies daily. It was Rp70,000/gram = April =9201=20 and Rp70,000 again in late =9202, but varied greatly in between. 18 ct = (stamped=20 =9170%=92, which is actually 16.9 ct.) is also available and may be = preferable in=20 some items where there is a risk of greater wear that the softer 22 = ct. will=20 not stand for long. You=92ll pay about 1/3 of the western prices for = similar=20 items. Most of the gold dealers are Chinese or Arab. Jl Hasanuddin in = Denpasar=20 is generally regarded as the =91gold street=92 in Bali. =

  53. Superior=20 quality jewellery =96 Mayang Bali store is on = an acute=20 corner between Kuta markets and the =91back=92 entrance to Matahari = Department=20 store.
     * If you're really into internationally classy = jewellery you=20 must visit the Runa Museum and Gallery at Banjar Abiansemal, = Lodtunduh, Ubud.=20 Its not far off the main road into Ubud and a question or two by your = driver=20 if you give him this address will see you at the serene entrance to an = eye-popping display of commissioned works and work for sale. Ph = (62-361)980=20 710. E-mail runa@elga.net.id = or runa_bali@hotmail.com. = There's a=20 Rp10,000 entry charge but if you buck at this then you're not really=20 serious.
    * To turn your personal designs into reality try Perama = Dewata=20 Gems and Jewellery at 6 Kalimantan Road, Denpasar (03161 242 334 or = 081 933=20 091 946. The owner is Bruhan who speaks excellent English. Inexpensive = and=20 reliable. 
    * Also Putu Artana, in the village of Anturan near = Lovina=20 in the north. He is a Master Craftsman who makes unique pieces and = will make=20 jewellery to your design in gold or silver.
    * In '06 we found = Solomon=20 Silver II in Jl Werkudara in Legian, not far from the Flying Piano = Restaurant=20 and Yutz's place, either of which will feed you delightfully while you = gloat=20 over your purchases. Do not confuse the quality of the silver = available here=20 with that you can get more cheaply at street stalls. A little dearer = but your=20 girlfriend will know the difference in quality and workmanship. If you = buy=20 enough you will automatically get business prices!
    * Most outlets = in Celuk=20 (the so called 'silver village') are for tourist with tourist prices = but SSS=20 Silver and UC Silver are exceptions. The former  have a wide = selection=20 although nothing really unique but the prices are very good. UC Silver = (great=20 toilets) has great jewellery of different designs and top quality. = Good value=20 but this does not mean cheap.
    * Also Bujangga Silver, Jl Tuban on = way to=20 airport, on right next to ANA restaurant.
    * Purnama Silver = Jewellery at=20 Lodtundah Ubud. Visit http://www.purnama-sari.com/.* =20 Also in Ubud try Studio Perak and Hari Ini Silver. Nice pieces = available at=20 reasonable prices.
    * Made Murjani (fortuna@denpasar.wasant= ara.net.id)=20 manufactures jewellery in a small factory and exports, mainly to the = US. She=20 will do custom work also. A display of the work can be seen at her = home in=20 Bedulu.
    * There is a group of crafts people at the Bandem Community = of=20 Silversmiths in Singapadu, just north of the Bird and Reptile Parks. = Look for=20 the sign on the main road. They have jewellery and beads.  =
    *=20 Perama Dewata, Jl Padanggalk No 11/4, Denpasar (Ph 288 398) has=20 recommendations as an honest jewellery sales and repair place with = cheaper=20 prices than 'Gold Street', Jl Hasanuddin.
    * Putra Silver is in the = village=20 of Batubulan on the way to Ubud. A 2 story, white building on the = right hand=20 side. Good prices.
    * U C Silver is a very large manufacturer in the = village=20 of Batu Bulan. Big exporters with many fine designs.
    * Putu Yasa in = Jl=20 Melasti almost opposite Gosha's Restaurant. High quality, helpful and=20 reliable.
    * Bintang Silver. Jl Padma Utara on the right going = towards Rum=20 Jungle Road. Fixed price and easy to deal with.
    * Jewellery repairs can be reliably done at = many=20 places including Mayang Bali (see above) where you can watch the = jewellers at=20 work and keep an eye on your stones. It is also done by jewellers in = the gold shops near the markets in Hasanudin = street in=20 Denpasar. One recommended is Permata Dewata, 6 Kalimantan Road, = Denpasar. Ph=20 (0361) 242 334. Bruhan is the owner and his English is excellent. =
    * Also=20 in the jewellery shop in the Balihai Resort building in Tuban at the = end of Jl=20 Wana Segara and in the Kuta Paradiso Hotel.
    * An honest jeweller = who is=20 making something smaller to fit will give you the gold or whatever = that he has=20 taken out. It does not burn up when it's removed.
    ** Highly=20 recommended in '07 is Audrey Veronika who was a jeweller with another = company=20 until it changed hands and the new policies re dealing with tourists = jewellery=20 did not suit her standards. She has branched out on her own as Bali = Gold=20 Jewellery in the foyer of the Kuta Paradiso Hotel on Kartika Plaza = street in=20 Tuban. Have a look at http://www.baligoldjewelry.com/<= /A> .=20 Phone +62.361.761414 ext 7809 or Mobiles +62.81.139 7889 or = +62.361.797 1855;=20 e-mail mailto:Audrey@baligoldjeweler= y.com.=20 Mention Leonie from the Bali Travel Forum for especially dedicated = business.=20 New pieces to your design or stock items and top quality repairs or=20 re-modelling.
    * Permata Dewata Gems and Jewellery is at No6, = Kalimantan=20 Road, Denpasar. Ph (0361) 242 334 or 081 2387 5252.  Bruhan is = the=20 craftsman who will supply, make or re-make anything in jewellery. = Quality and=20 integrity at low prices.
    * Nyoman Sanggra is a gold and silver = smith at=20 Selat Apuan Singapadu in Gianyar. It will be easiest if you have an = Indonesian=20 speaker with you if one sided conversations around a calculator bother = you.=20 The work is of very high quality.
    * If a group intends to buy in = quantity=20 at least 1 million rupiah (about Aus$150) try Gede at igedeparta_bagus@hotmail.com= or=20 phone him on +62 81 558 787 269. He will bring an enormous selection = to your=20 hotel room for your selection. Ask for men's or women's jewellery or a = mixture=20 of both. It is of high quality and very cheap when bought in large in=20 quantity.
    * Perlu Jewellery on Jl Laksmana No44A (opposite = Cornerstore) has=20 been describes as a place for silver jewellery you WILL wear and not = look as=20 though you've just been to Bali.

  54. A jewellery making course = is run at=20 Studio Perak on Jl Hanoman in Ubud, about 100 paces down from Raya=20 Ubud.

  55. =91Face To=20 Face Engraving=92. Have a look at www.facetoface-bali.com= /index.htm=20 . They engrave your photos onto gold, silver brooches, bracelets, = lockets etc.=20 Ramayana, Bali Mall, Jl Diponegoro Denpasar, Floor 1, south entrance. = Ph 0817=20 345 744.

  56. WOODEN WARE. Customs in your home country will = probably=20 want to look very closely at all wooden stuff that you want to bring = home from=20 Bali. When you buy stuff it=92s a good idea to give it a few sharp = taps on a=20 solid surface and look closely to see if any fine dust falls out that = might=20 indicate a borer infestation. Do this for bamboo furniture as wall as = other=20 wood; it=92s no fun to get it home and find that your house is = suddenly infested=20 with an exotic pest. Check the surfaces, including the bottom and = under any=20 legs that might have been in contact with the ground, for small holes = which=20 might either be open or might have been plugged with dust or glued-in=20 plugs.
    Customs seem to appreciate it if you put all your small = wooden ware=20 in one bag so that their job is a little easier. We use a cloth bag = with a=20 draw string in the neck. It=92s easy to carry over and to bring back. = If you=20 find an infestation in some small article you could try putting it = into a=20 suitable size plastic bag and sealing it up with a dose of Diazinon = (commonly=20 found as an ingredient in pet washes) or Lorsban from garden = supplies.
    Top=20 quality wooden things are quite expensive, not at all like the cheap = market=20 goods. Some of the best is available at the Tliem Gallery in Mas, a = village=20 north of Seminyak. It is a short walk north of the Tantra Gallery, = also a=20 place to buy quality art works in wood. Small pieces are really not = expensive=20 but the big works are although they are excellent value if you want to = collect=20 quality pieces. Even if you=92re not prepared to pay the prices asked = they are=20 worth a visit to get an idea of how the quality and the prices vary. = We also=20 find that Mayang Bali in Kuta between Matahari and the art markets = have=20 excellent stuff.
    Much of the wood products purchased in Bali are = made from=20 timber that is only partly dried (if at all) and when taken home to = less=20 tropical climes will dry out somewhat and warp, shrink, bend or split. = Be=20 prepared for this and don't blame the workers.

  57. Duty = Free=20 allowances into Australia are now goods to the value of A$900 (half = for those=20 under 18 years),2.25 litres of alcohol for over 18's only, 250 = cigarettes or=20 250gm tobacco. If you are over in any one of these categories = you will=20 be charged duty on ALL of your possessions in that = category.  Note=20 that these allowances do NOT apply to stuff you might want to take = into=20 Indonesia where the allowances are less, only 1 litre of alcohol for=20 example.

  58. Customs=20 will not allow Banana products into Oz as they are very dangerous. = Similarly=20 raw hide (like dog chews) that is sometimes used in craft products and = to=20 encase candles etc. Water hyacinth is another product that will set = off alarm=20 bells with Customs. If they see one piece of it they will turn you = upside down=20 looking for any more - or anything else. It is a pale brown grass-like = strand=20 often woven into table runners, place mats, cushion covers etc. If you = press=20 on it with your finger nail it is soft, even when dry. Any of these=20 things  will cost you from $60 to have irradiated if you really = want to=20 keep them!!!
    Other products which are prohibited imports from Bali to Australia (and = other=20 countries probably have similar restrictions/web pages) can be = reviewed at http://www.customs.gov.au/site/page.cfm?area_id=3D5&nav-id=3D292= =20 .

  59. Stone=20 carvings are very common in Bali and add an atmosphere to your = garden at=20 home. Try the carving village of Batubulan, a few kilometres towards=20 Gianyar  north of Ubud and about 30 minutes from Seminyak, or 40 = from=20 Kuta. Drive slowly up the road looking at the wares and them get out = and walk=20 downhill to do your shopping. Your driver can follow you in the car = and pick=20 up your goods so you wont have the load to carry. Some shoppers say = that the=20 village of Singapadu, just off the main road at Batubulan, is even = better.=20 There is spectacular scenery around here also.

  60. Ask someone to point out a = tree of=20 Tupaka flowers. The wonderful perfume will attract you because it will = be=20 familiar but identifying it is elusive.
    Want flowers=20 for a gift? Strangely they are not easy to find in the land of a = thousand=20 flowers but if you're in Bedugul there will be a good selection.
    * = If=20 you're not in Bedugul try Heliconia shop in Seminyak, Jl Raya = Seminyak. Ph=20 (62-361) 732 700. The shop is next to a large gallery on the right = hand side=20 as you go up north. Highly recommended. They will deliver but you = might need=20 to say that its for a room if you order sight unseen. One order at a = common=20 Aussie price was so large that it had to be left in the hotel = foyer.
    * Just=20 out of Sanur, on the road to Denpasar there are many gardens including = orchid=20 growers where you can buy the ultimate flower, Anggrek, or orchids. = The Bali=20 Orchid Gardens regrettably do not now sell cut flowers ('05). Or do = they? In=20 '06 there was a post that said they had started again. Anyway its = worth a trip=20 to see the variety.
    * Pepitos Supermarket in Tuban, towards the = airport end=20 of town always has some nice arrangements in a flower cooler.
    * = Rosa=20 Flowers Ph 081 558 009 350.
    * In Sanur try Tropicana which is = opposite=20 Hardy's Supermart and use all tropical flowers.
    * At the end of Jl = Seminyak=20 turn sharpish left into Jl Oberoi. There is a good florist almost at = the=20 intersection. In '07 Tuberose were Rp400 a stem. There are lots of = exotic=20 blooms to choose from and they will make up to your wishes and deliver = for=20 you.

  61. BEADS =96 in June of '06 we were staggered by the = number of bead=20 outlets that had blossomed since our previous visit only 6 months = before. Jl=20 Werkudara is only a short, sort of backwater street in Legian but here = alone I=20 counted 17 shops offering beads in bulk, matched strings or made up = into=20 jewellery and 'bling'.
    * A warehouse for beads and related items = in Jl=20 Werkudara is Mandans Mas. Ph (62 361) 633 633. http://www.mandanamas.com/. =
    * Toko=20 Central is on a prominent corner in Kuta and I bet you've seen it a = dozen=20 times and never realised what an amazing place it really is. Even if = you're=20 not into beads and other sewing things you'll be stunned by the sheer = size,=20 variety and colour of their shop stock and the warehouse at the other = end of=20 the row of shops. This is where the locals shop and you'll get the = same prices=20 - no bargaining! Huge variety. 4Kg A$40. 100 grams for as little as = Rp2,000.=20 Lucky Chinese brass coins and tokens as well as beads and threads and = sewing=20 equipment. From Jl Legian turn left at Bemo Corner and go on until you = cross=20 the river bridge. The road bends to the left and there is a group of = shops=20 right on the corner on the right with a sign, =91Toko Central=92. Its = only about=20 half a kilometre from Bemo Corner. Their English is not too good but = point or=20 self-select and they write the price down form you. Be patient. No = silver=20 beads but lots of glazed, seed and plastic ones. A variety of other = stocks -=20 woven cotton necklace threads, glues, sequins, buttons, ribbons, = patches,=20 cloth flowers, feathers etc. also. INCREDIBLE.
    [The address, Jl = Raya Kuta=20 No 105 C-D, Kuta. Ph 764 323, is for either Toko Central or Bujangga = Silver.=20 I=92d be pleased if someone could confirm which it is.]
    * Olivias = is in Jl=20 Sahadewa (between Melasti and Padma) towards the Melasti end on the = western=20 side. Smaller than Toko Central but they have tubular beads which = Central do=20 not. This is also a great shopping street with a market on the corner = and=20 further down there are DVD=92s, leather, shoes and good = restaurants.
    *=20 Bujangga Silver on Jl Raya Tuban between the airport and Kuta has = silver beads=20 and pendants that are rare. Rp3,000/gram.
    * Toko Mawar might be an = offshoot of Toko Central. Its on Jl Imam Bonjol in Denpasar.
    * = Behind=20 Queen's Tandoor Indian Restaurant, across the road from Made's Warung = in=20 Legian, is a bead shop in a house. Ask the Security guy to show you. = May be=20 better than Toko Central.
    * Silver beads are made and sold at a = small shop=20 in Bedroom Mukti, Singapadu, Sukawati. Ni Wayan Supartiwi, who does = not have a=20 good command of English, (so patience is needed,) owns the shop. A = good local=20 driver will get you there without worries. The phone number is 0361 = 294 232,=20 but unless you have a good command of Bahasa Indonesia get your hotel = clerk to=20 phone for you. Prices are in the range of Rp2,500 / gram.
    * You can = also=20 try the Bandem Community of Silversmiths, Bedroom Sengguan Singapuda = in=20 Sukawati (0361 298 688 (bandemsilver@dps.centrin.= net.id)=20 or Koming Ayu, I Nyoman Rupadana, Jl Raya Celuk Sukawati, Gianyar, = 0361 298=20 302, rupanada@indo.net.id.
    * Solomon Silver II is in Jl Werkudara, = Legian,=20 just around from Jl Padma Utara. If you buy enough you are given = business=20 prices.
    There is (was) a stall on the second level of the old = Denpasar=20 markets. It has probably moved to the new ones.
    * Buana Raya is = also in=20 Denpasar. A local cab driver could find it for you.
    * Bali Silver = Beads, http://bali-silver-beads.com/ = , Jl=20 Sidakarya, Perum. Calista Karya Indah A-10, Denpasar. Ph (62 812) 391=20 9977.
    * Vista Shop Jl Legian Kelod 386, Legian. By Circle K store. = Silver=20 beads.
    * A bead shop on Jl 66. It is on the right as you come from = Jl=20 Legian.
    * Happy Art Shop Ocean Beads is owned by Benny B and can be = found=20 at Jl Legian-Kuta-Bali No.426-Z. Ph/Fax (0361) 761 508, Mob 0381 3387 = 31204.=20 They have large size resin beads and others.    * Bintang Silver = Collection in Jl=20 Padma Utara, Legian. Near Puri Raja Hotel. Fixed price and cheap.
    * = Jl Pura=20 Bagus Taruna (once known as Rum Jungle Road) has a shop named Dani = Collection.=20 Beads, shells, silver, accessories. Good English.
    * There are = outlets along=20 Jl Padma Utara in Legian/Seminyak and two near the Bintang supermarket = on Jl=20 Legian. One of these stocks silver findings.
    * Bali Silver Beads = and=20 Jewellery Shop, Jl Gunung Sari A8, Padang Sambian Kaja, Denpasar. Ph = +62 361=20 744 2262. E-mail sales@bali-silver-beads.com.=20
    * Sanzik Shop is at Jl Sahadewa No17C, Legian. sanzik_shop@yahoo.com. More = beads than=20 you can shake a stick at!
    * Satria is across the road from the = Supernova=20 Department Store in the building with the green 'Shalom' sign on top. = Closed=20 Sundays. 250 grams for Rp7,500. Jl Raya Kuta No200X, Kuta. satria@satria-bali.com. http://www.satria-bali.com/. =20     They also have a store at Jl Gajah Mada No134 in Denpasar. Seed = beads=20 and sequins, bugle and acrylic beads, stone chips also.
    * Jl Double = Six in=20 Legian/Seminyak seems to be becoming the place to hunt for beads, = accessories=20 and craft supplies in many of the shops.
    * Ramayana have = Swarovski=20 crystals and fresh water pearls in a stall on the ground floor = near the=20 front entrance.
    * In Ubud there are several in Monkey Forest Road. = Try the=20 one right on the corner near the Monkey Forest for a few different=20 varieties.
    * The new (and expensive) fashion seems to be Pandora = Beads. Try=20 Perlu Jewellery, Jl Laksmana, Seminyak. Rp70-100,000=20 each.
        Also at Perlu in Jl Laksmana; muranto = glass and=20 ceramic.
        Also opposite Garden View Cottages on = Padma=20 Utara, Legian. Copies that have reportedly worn very little after much = wearing.
        Alsi Charlie Brown's stall on the path = facing=20 the beach at Sindhu Beach markets. You need to be a tough bargainer=20 here!

  62. Swarovski Crystals also at Almas Enterprises, = Ruko=20 Padma No6, Padma Utara in Legian, Ph (0361) 750 336. They are official = agents.=20 They also have pearls and will make up anything that you want.
    * = Irian Jaya=20 Tarigan, Jaya Central Pancing, Jl By Pass I Gusti Ngurah Rai No354C, = Kuta,=20 near the Tuban end of the road. Ph(0361) 766 598.
    * On the second = floor of=20 the Denpasar markets, on the handicraft side of the river towards the = back of=20 the building there is a range of beads available at 'local' = prices.
    * For=20 silver beads try Solomon Silver II, Jl Werkudara No522 J, Legian.
    * = UC=20 Beads is on the opposite side of the Bintang Supermarket in Seminyak. = It has=20 been said that you can get wholesale prices for total purchases over = Rp2=20 million, that's about Aus$300.
    * Use 'bead wholesalers Bali' as key = words=20 for a Google search.
    * Bali Beads in Celuk, just north of Denpasar, = also=20 has other jewellery at wholesale rates as well as silver = findings.
    * long=20 strings of glass beads are up to Rp15,000, decreasing for = quantities.
    *=20 Yasa Beads and Silversmiths, Br Cemenggaon, Celuk, Sukawati, Gianyar = is run by=20 Kadek Sudarsa who communicates fairly well in English. The phone = number is (62=20 361) 294 649. They specialise in silver beads and various findings = such as=20 catches. Their stock range is large and well made and they will also = make to=20 order. Prices are by the gram and thus depend on the current price of = silver.=20 Ask almost anywhere in Celuk and most shops will be able to direct you = as he=20 is probably their supplier. He also does mail orders.
    * Purpa = Silver on=20 Monkey Forest Road in Ubud. Also reliable money changer.
    * = Ubud=20 Beads has wonderful gemstone beads. Two shops in Monkey Forest Road = and one=20 also in Celuk. (They are closed on = Sundays I am=20 told.) Zillions of beads makes the hardest part choosing!
    * Ruby = Star is at=20 the end of Hasanuddin street (the gold sellers street) in Denpasar. = Crystals,=20 pearls, Sterling silver findings, gemstones by the bucket = load!
    BUTTONS =96=20 Try H. Shata Shop at 404 Jl Raya Legion near Jl Padma. Ph 758 = 538. Also=20 at 429 Jl Legian Tengah.
    SEQUINS =96 Try Jl Sulawesi, Denpasar. = The shops=20 are off Jl Hasanuddin near the markets. Quite often you can buy them = in bulk=20 by weight.

  63. CRAFT SUPPLIES: Toko have 3 outlets in = Bali;
    Toko=20 Central, 105 Jl Raya Kuta. Stone chips Rp7,000/strand, Cloisonn=E9 = Rp87,500 for=20 100 gm, findings Rp20,000/gross, wires Rp20,000 for 4mm D. Also stocks = findings and other craft items, glues, buttons etc.
    Toko Abadi, 65 = Jl Raya=20 Tuban
    Toko Kita 445 Jl Imam Bonjol, = Denpasar.
    Shalom, opposite=20 the Supernova in Tuban has craft supplies.

  64. For mirrors of all sizes, able to be shipped back home = in safety,=20 try Aman Shop, Jl Raya Seminyak No 38.

  65. Cloth and fabrics including single and = double=20 ikat and songket are available throughout Bali but usually the best = must be=20 discovered in out-of-the-way places. A good place to start is in the = gold=20 street of Denpasar near the markets, Jalan Hasanuddin. Any taxi driver = will=20 know where to take you. Other places will be found by using the = 'Search'=20 feature of your computer. Just click on the 'Edit' tab at the top of = your=20 screen, then the word 'Find' on the little menu that will drop down. = Type=20 'Ikat' or 'cloth' or 'songket' in the space and continue to click = 'Find Next'=20 to go to every place where that word is to be found in this entire=20 document.
    The sacred 'bebali ' cloth, used in traditional temple = rituals is=20 again being made ('06) in Sideman, at Pejenk near Ubud (where the = 'Moon of=20 Pejeng' bronze drum is kept) and at Seraya in east Bali.
    * In Ubud = try=20 Wardini's for a great range of ikat, batik, endek, songket and other=20 fabrics.
    * Sulawasi street in Denpasar is also near the markets. = Lots of=20 materials for quilting, cushion covers and gold embroidered material. = A=20 'guide' will probable attach themselves to you and demand money at the = end of=20 your shopping but its not a bad idea to bargain with them over their = fee the=20 first time you go as they know what all the shops stock. Materials are = very=20 cheap if you can bargain hard. Remember that these shop keepers are = not the=20 poorest of Balinese!
    * Alta Moda is on Jl Patih Jelantik. Three = levels and=20 a glass cage lift. If you want a dress designer/maker they will call = Linda=20 from Belinda House of Fashion, Ph 0361 743 7626, who does excellent = work.
    *=20 Another quality dressmaker at a budget price is Janoko Tailors in = Poppies Lane=20 II not too far from Legian Street. Ph 0361 753 230.

  66. Temple=20 umbrellas are made in a small village just north of Klungkung on the = road to=20 Karangasem, not far past the bridge. There are many varieties but = you=92ll need=20 all of your bargaining skills.
    They are also available in the = Denpasar=20 markets on the top floor but the variety is not so great. Three = layered large=20 size are app Rp70,000.
    Flags are available here also, Rp18,000 = approx =96=20 three sizes, 2, 3 and 5 M. in plain colours and various=20 patterns.

  67. For=20 different gift ideas try Bali Boxes, Jl Dyana Pura 4, Kuta. = Ph(62-0361) 731=20 415 or 731 637.

  68. Some=20 common items such as toothbrushes and toothpaste (strongly flavoured) = are=20 remarkably cheap =96 even for Bali.

  69. Computer=20 software (all pirated of course) is great buying but nowhere near as = easy to=20 source as they were only a year or so ago. Many of the shops have = disappeared=20 on no longer stock programs as the current craze for movie DVD's is = far more=20 lucrative and popular.
    The new kid on the block seems to be Istana = CD in=20 the newish Kuta Galeria complex, on the side opposite the bus-bemo = park and=20 Ace hardware. They have a great range (for PC and Macs !!!!) that are = actually=20 organised into categories on the shelves. The young guy who runs the = place=20 even has a good idea of what he's got in stock and will happily help = you find=20 your needs. A great difference to other stores. E-mail istana_cd_palace@yahoo.com= . Ph=20 (0361) 769 420 or 769 146. Fax (0361) 769 420. PC discs are Rp20,000 = each and=20 Mac stuff or DVD programs are Rp60,000.
    If the occasional program = really=20 refuses to run you will not have lost much in cash terms. Even full = blown=20 programs such as MS Office Pro are only Rp35,000/disc =96 that=92s = about A$7.00=20 !!! If you have trouble at the =91enter the number=92 stage and the = appropriate=20 number is not written on the box, label or disc, then open the disc in = your=20 computer (put the disc in the drive then - =91Start=92 =96 = =91Programs=92 =96 =91Windows=20 Explorer=92 =96 =91CD-Rom drive=92 or just =91Start=92 - =91Run=92) = and then open each file=20 you see =96 look at the contents of the =91Read Me=92 file too, or = look for a file=20 that might be called =91comment=92, =91serial=92, =91crack=92 (if the = start code has been=20 =91cracked=92) =91key-gen=92 =91S.N.=92 or a file ending in =91.txt=92 = - the copiers often put=20 the number in the disc contents rather than on a piece of paper which = can get=20 lost. Look also for a file called =91Crack=92 or =91Crack.exe=92 = which will=20 contain the code. Copy and paste this code into the folder on your c: = drive=20 that contains the game. You might get a prompt pop up asking if you = want to=20 replace the existing file =96 click Yes of OK. Failing that log = on to=20 Google (search) and try "warez" and "serial numbers" for an extensive = list to=20 help you. http://www.astalavista.box.sk/ and=20 http://www.subserials.com/ = are other=20 sites with opening codes.
    Don=92t phone Bill Gates at home and ask = for after=20 sales service!

  70. Helgie=20 is a favourite PS2, CD, DVD etc, supplier for Forumites, delivering to = your=20 hotel or posting to your home. Contact Helgie at mcshop@hotmail.com or Dede,=20 (Deedee)  ddbaligong@hotmail.com or = visit his=20 web site, www.geocities.com= /mcshop2002/helgie.htm.=20 Ph (0011) (62) (361) 759 843. Shop in Garlic Lane off Melasti Street = just=20 opposite Dolphin Leather (recommended) and the Dolphin Cafe. He will = mail=20 discs to you at your home. You pay into his local bank account in Oz = before=20 the order is accepted. Yes, this has been proven to be reliable for = many=20 users. Takes about 10 days. He also guarantees the discs, which no one = else=20 seems to do. In '05 we found that he had no computer software at all = and very=20 little of anything else except movie DVD's.

  71. Engineering and other computer software is still = available=20 from Softcomp Centre, Jl Legian Kelod No 408C and Poppies II =96 as = well as new=20 outlets in Jl Wana Segara, Tuban and Kuta Square Blok F number 11 = opposite the=20 art Markets as well as Jl Padma No 77 next to Warung Jogya in = Legian.  softcomp_2000@yahoo.com = for list.=20 MP3=92s for Rp35,000 with 200 tracks.
    Other computer software = outlets; See=20 the Denpasar=20 District section.

  72. DVD=92s=20 are the current fashion and are readily available at ridiculous prices = =96 but=20 be careful. Some VCD=92s are very poor copies made from movie cameras = in picture=20 theatres. Check the quality on a player before you buy. No player =96 = no buy.=20 App Rp45,000 each. Bargain for volume purchases. At Ramayana = Department store=20 you can=92t bargain but they commonly offer 1 free for purchase of 10 = or 3 free=20 for 20.

  73. Playstation games from Rp3,000 / CD (top floor = Ramayana=20 shopping centre) to Rp5,000.

  74. Prices for some everyday items (June 2001) =96 = Crochet=20 tablecloth (Git Git) Rp45,000 =96 Adidas V neck men=92s=92 tops (Kuta = Markets)=20 Rp25,000 =96 5 watches (Kuta Beach Markets) Rp 25,000 each. =96 = Toddlers and baby=20 outfits at department stores. Rp30-40,000. Men=92s=92 business = trousers=20 (Matahari=92s) Rp127,000. =96 Business shirts Rp50,000. =96 Italian = ties (Discon)=20 Rp100,000. =96 Long sleeve surf shirts (Kuta markets) Rp25,000 / short = sleeve=20 Rp20,000. =96 New music CD=92s (everywhere) Rp70,000. =96 Small = leather shoulder=20 bags. Rp25,000. =96 Play Station games. Rp5,000. =96 Aussie coin = bangles, matching=20 mum-=91n-daughter. Rp 80,000 the pair. =96 Leather belts =96 Nike, = Billabong etc, 10=20 for Rp300,000. =96 Hair braiding Rp30,000 =96 Bali girls hats Rp10,000 = =96 Kids=20 T-shirts Rp 20,000 =96 Men=92s Nike knitted singlets Rp25,000 =96 = Billabong kids=20 shorts Rp15,000 =96 two long suede jackets A$290 =96 stubby holders = Rp5,000 =96=20 watches Rp25,000 average =96 kids shirts Rp20,000 =96 men=92s shirts = Rp25,000 =96 4=20 stone lanterns Rp200,000 =96 wrap-round, short skirt Rp20,000 =96 =BE = pants Rp25,000=20 =96 girls shorts Rp20,000 =96 girls skirts Rp20,000 =96 XXL Bali bag = Rp70,000 =96=20 massage Rp25-50,000 depending on time/quality (you=92ll get what you = pay for) =96=20 sarongs Rp10-25,000 depending on fabric and size) =96 strapped dresses = Rp25,000=20 -
    Lombok carved wooden place mats. Rp15,000.

  75. FISHING GEAR: Telescopic rods, 2m, Rp65,000. 3m, = Rp95,000.=20 Rod & tackle bags Rp20-25,000. 4 bearing reels Rp60-70,000. Fabric = coated=20 squid jigs Rp15,000.

  76. Boat rides=20 can be arranged at almost any beach where you can see the traditional = Prahus=20 (pron. 'prah-huu'.) or Jukungs (pron. 'juu-koong'.) pulled up on the = sand.=20 Most are now powered by an outboard motor but if you find a sailing = boat on=20 some non-tourist beach then I recommend that you take it and = experience the=20 real thing. Show some interest in the boat and someone will soon come = down and=20 ask if you want to go out. Surfers commonly pay Rp20,000 for a ride to = the=20 reefs which is maybe 20 minutes to half an hour there and back for the = fisherman. The cost is more if you want him to wait for you to finish = or wipe=20 out. A ride along the shore is an interesting (and safe) experience = and you=20 will pay probably about Rp50-75,000 for an hour if you start the = bargaining at=20 about Rp20,000. Big game fishing on large, up-market boats can cost up = to=20 US$120 per person.

  77. Larger=20 size clothing. Try Miss Debbie=92s in Jl Sahadewa, beach side about 50 = M north=20 of Jl Melasti.

  78. Big=20 sizes off the rack in Ubud at Mutiara, Jl Raya and Real Bodies, Jl = Hanuman opp=20 Bodyworks.

  79. Batiks=20 and Ikat cloth readily available at most markets, including Sukawati. = The best=20 batiks are dyed right through the cloth. If the colour/pattern is = stronger on=20 one side it is probably printed or stamped which is not the best.=20

  80. Prescription spectacles = are good=20 buying in Bali. Some Australian Health insurers will refund on costs = of Bali=20 glasses if you have Extras cover for spectacles. Have your receipt. = There are=20 outlets in most tourist areas such as Nusa, Sanur, Denpasar and Kuta. = Try Bali=20 Top Opticor Optic Seis or Optic Melawai or Harisha Optical (115 Jl = Raya Kuta),=20 for contacts, single focus, bi-focals and multi focals. Also = prescription sun=20 glasses. Transitional prescription glasses $120 in Denpasar, depending = on=20 frame quality. With cheap frames bi-focals can be as cheap as A$60. = Eye=20 testing is free or they can be made to your own prescription. Complex=20 prescriptions can take 7-9 days (go early in your holiday) although = simple=20 reading glasses are same day or even =91call back when you=92ve = finished=20 shopping=92! Check the fit of the lens in the frames.
    Optic, ground = floor=20 Ramayana Department store; In Kuta about 5 doors down from Matahari = Department=20 store (A$260 for multi-focal cf. $700 in Oz.).
    Harisna Optical, Jl = Raya=20 Kuta N0 105. From Bemo corner walk towards Denpasar (north), over the = bridge=20 and it=92s on the right hand side where the road bears left. = Multi-focals,=20 rimless titanium frames, A$163. Locals seem to prefer this = outlet.
    ** =20 Many locals go straight to the source and visit Optik Jaya Mandiri in = Jl=20 Legian Gang Melani No3. The Gang runs off Legian towards the east = between=20 Melasti and Jl Patih Jelantik. The phone number is (0361) 786 360. = This outlet=20 also makes lenses for other suppliers so it must be good.
    Contact = lens =96=20 Bali Galleria at the optometrists. Rp135,000 for a 6-pack. Made in = Indonesia=20 by Ciba Vision.
    In Sanur there are two outlets, one in Hardy=92s = Mall (the=20 big supermarket-shopping centre) and another in the main street a = short=20 distance north of the Santrian Hotel.
    Transition lenses in good = frames were=20 Rp450,000 in early '05, including eye testing. Graduated transition = lenses=20 (not including frames) quoted at Aus$225 by Optic Seis in Kuta Square = February=20 '05.
    Lalu Mustakim is reported to give excellent service in your = own hotel=20 room rather than having to sit in a hot shop.Ph0815 5809 7823. Honest, = reliable and quality work at very competitive prices.
    Nasional = Optikal=20 Kompani in Hasanuddin Street, Denpasar, give a 12 month guarantee with = their=20 work and they have an agent in Australia for convenient = service.
    Lalu will=20 come to your hotel, give you a full eye check and show you the = different=20 frames that he has. Rp400,000 (about Aus$60) for reading glasses ('06) = ready=20 in 3 days. Ph 0815 5809 7823.
    Optic Jaya Mandiri is about 10 paces = along=20 the small lane that goes east off Jl Legian about 50-60 paces south = (towards=20 Kuta) from the Melasti St traffic lights. Run by young Nur who has the = latest=20 training and equipment. Some other travelling salesmen get their real = work=20 done here.    *** '09 - I tried Nur in January and was = very=20 disturbed by the encounter. I have one eye which sees lower than the = other and=20 requires a wedge shape in that lens to correct things. I told Nur this = before=20 I sat down but he still persisted until 20 minutes later when he gave = up=20 trying to tell me the double vision I had was imagination! I think if = I had=20 not been as determined as he (or more so) he would have happily sold = me=20 useless glasses.
    Not always easy to find saline solution. Optic in = Denpasar=20 is an outlet.

  81. Hearing=20 Aids are available for Aus$453 for the latest types down to less = than=20 A$200 for older technology.
    Lily Kasoem Optikal on Jl Teuku Umar,=20 Denpasar, Ph 283 405 test your hearing in about 15 minutes (results = have been=20 found to be identical to tests done in Australia) internal = (Rp3,500,000 -=20 Aus$460), external and the old pocket models with a thin cable up to = the ear=20 (like a spectacle retaining cord) at about Rp1,400,000, about Aus$180. = Deposit=20 of Rp1,000,000 required and production takes about a week.
    Also = Audiotone=20 Pt, Canal Audio, Ph62 21 739 4060, e-mailaudiotone@cbn.net.id= .=20
    Also  in Kuta  Optika Melawi near the Dokar ranks on Jl = Kartika=20 by the Stadium Cafe.

  82. Orchid=20 plants are available in Bali and may be brought back into Australia if = they=20 are small tissue cultured examples growing in sterile medium in glass = flasks.=20 There may be up to 25 plants in a bottle and there are reports of = strike rates=20 as high as 75% when planted out. A maximum of 6 flasks per person are = allowed=20 and it is best to get a permit from Customs before you leave Oz. Go to = AQIS on=20 your computer and look for =91tissue cultures=92.
    The Bali Orchid = Garden has=20 over 100 varieties on show and over 100 varieties in flasks. Ph 466 = 010 or Mob=20 081 2383 5155.
    Flora Bali in the village of Kesiman near Sanur can = also=20 supply. Ask for Ibu Sylvia Muti or Pak Arnold.
    The = cheapest=20 source is at Royal Orchids in Ubung, Denpasar. Rp20-25,000 and the = greatest=20 variety anywhere.

  83. If you are interested in a night market try the Kereng Bemo station in = Denpasar.=20 At about 4.00 pm it slowly closes as a station and changes into a = market for=20 food, clothes jewellery, and a lot of other stuff. As it is mainly for = locals=20 the prices are amazing but tourists are welcomed.

  84. For board bags (and other = carry bags=20 made to order) try 'BBB', Bali Board Bags, in Gang (lane) Benasari = which is=20 off Melasti Street next to Legian Cafe. 9' board bag Rp375,000 (about = Aus$50).=20 Also protective carry bags for musical instruments, skis etc. Wayan = Surwita,=20 Ph 081 2466 0773.

6.    EATING=20 =96 with safety and enjoyably.

There must=20 be thousands of restaurants, cafes and warungs (the local=92s equivalent = of fast=20 food outlets) in Bali, offering a worldwide selection of = cuisines. Many=20 travellers report that they have eaten every meal at a different place = and never=20 had a bad one. Indeed, amongst such competition it can easily be = believed=20 that any that are bad would soon close up, but some dubious ones=20 remain.

Balinese=20 traditionally do not have the more-or-less fixed eating times common to=20 westernised cultures but rather eat whenever they are = hungry. Consequently=20 eating is not a social occasion as we accept it. If you are out for = travelling the day, your driver will understand that you will want to = eat three=20 meals a day. Don=92t be either surprised or offended however if he = declines your=20 invitation to eat with you. He might prefer to rest and snooze in = the car,=20 talk =91local shop=92 with other drivers, eat non-westernised local food = from a=20 warung or a passing food cart or (as at the Pacung Indah Guesthouse and=20 Restaurant near Bedugul) eat in the separated drivers area provided = especially=20 for their own needs.
If you are hosting Balinese for a meal they will = eat=20 lots of white rice and sambals to spice anything up to their = taste will=20 be welcomed. Without asking have tea and/or coffee available with lots = of sugar=20 and pour it for them as part of their meal. You will find that if you = ask they=20 will not want anything in case you think they are imposing on your = generosity.=20 Remember to specifically ask them to begin or they will wait an eternity = in case=20 they start too early and appear greedy. If it's your responsibility to = prepare=20 the menu it might be better to decide on Chinese, Indian or Thai rather = than=20 muck up their own local food.

Further=20 down you will find many restaurants, cafes & warungs named in the = various=20 District sections. Travel