The Island Bali

Island of the gods and of the demons

Its not only pure coincidence that Bali is often called the "Island of Happiness", the "Island of Smiles" or the "Island of Light". On this island, each day seems to be dedicated to a different deity. Not only Shiva, Brahma and Vishnu are worshipped, but also the Christian Saints, Buddha as well as the rice and the water ghosts. Every evening offerings to the gods are made in the shrine of each community household.
All beings are in the care of the gods, also guests. They are no strangers, but part of this Island. Therefore it is also common, that the native people of Bali consider guests as friends. There is always time for a little chat, for a joke, for exchange of news.
In Bali, sensual pleasure, dance, music and flowers - yes, even the greeting ceremonies - are part of an obliging friendliness, which has its roots deep in the Balinese tradition.

Landscape

To the visitors, the Island presents itself in a quite exotic manner. Bizarre coastal lines, miles of beaches, some are white, some are Volcanic black, interrupted by peaceful palm groves. Breathtaking views of holy mountains varied by tranquil rice fields and terraces. But not only tropical abundance is awaiting the visitors, also drought regions with dry bushes are waiting for exploration. Nevertheless, everybody will always be fascinated by the rice fields, where the palette of colors extends from deep rich green to flashing golden yellow. Further in Eastern Bali you will find also banana and coconut plantations. Here the tourism has not yet left its negative influence, the life in the pastoral community has still priority to busy tourism. Those who are looking for rest and relaxation, they will find it here.

Entry

Flight Information

Ngurah Rai International Airport, the Airport of Denpasar, the Capital of Bali, can be reached from almost all Capital Cities in the world. You may choose the Airline of your choice, e.g. Thai International Airways, Singapore Airlines, Qantas, Malaysian Airlines, British Airways etc.. The flight from Europe lasts about 16 hours.

Entry Visa

Citizens of the European Community require a passport which must have at least a remaining validity of six months. A 30 days Visa can be applied at the Airport upon arrival, it is non prolongable and costs approximately US$ 25,-
For citizens of other countries, we recommend to contact either the Indonesian Embassy or an Indonesian Consulate of the respective countries for information about the Visa application.

Vaccination

Vaccinations are not mandatory, but we would like to recommend prophylactic vaccination for Hepatitis A/B and Typhus. Please contact the nearest Tropical Institute near your domicile for advice.

Currency

The local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah. Moneychangers accept Traveller Cheques and Banknotes, but unfortunately the exchange rate differs from Bank to Bank, also among the Authorisized Moneychangers. Smaller US$-notes up to US$ 50.- has lower exchange rates than US$ 100,- Banknotes.
Most of the Hotels and shops accept Credit Cards and Traveller Cheques, but as cabé Bali is a small private site, at the moment we are not in the position to accept Credit Cards and Traveller Cheques. We prefer cash payment in Rupiah (IDR).

Language

The national language is the Bahasa Indonesia. Many local languages and dialects apply in each respective region, e.g. Balinese, Javanese, Sundanese etc. Balinese people communicate in their community and family in the Balinese language.
In most of the tourist centres the local people will understand and speak broken English.

Climate and clothing

In Bali, res. in whole Indonesia, tropical climate applies with an average ambient temperature of approx. 27 Centigrades with a high humidity in the air, especially in the coastal regions. In the mountains, at a higher altitude, the air is rather cooler.

Custom Clearance

Personal needs, such as books, films, cosmetics, cameras, handycams etc. can be taken with you. Custom clearance is required for 200 pcs cigarettes or 50 cigars or 100 gr. tobacco, 1 lt. spirits and gifts up to US$ 100.-. It is strictly prohibited to bring with you firearms, pornographic material and narcotics res. drugs.
Leaving the country, you are not allowed to take with you precious historical objects without export permit, in general they are objects of art older than 50 years age.