Bali is one of more than 13,000 islands in the Indonesian archipelago.
Location – Bali sits off the eastern tip of the main Indonesian island of Java.
Area – 5,632 sq km
Population – 3.1 million
Capital city – Denpasar
Country name – Republic of Indonesia
Government – Republic; declared independence from The Netherlands in 1945
Climate – Bali enjoys a warm, humid and tropical climate with an average temperature of 30°C year round. However, temperatures do vary across the island, from 33°C to 21°C, ranging from hot on the coast to cooler in the highlands. It can drop to 5°C at night in the mountains. The rainy season lasts from October to March and the dry season from April to September.
Time Zone – GMT/UTC +8 hours
Currency – Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
Electricity – 120/230 volts at 50hz. European two-pin and UK-style three-pin plugs.
Language – Balinese and Bahasa Indonesia; English is widely understood.
Useful phrases – Try these Indonesian phrases: Selamat [pagi, siang, sore, malam] – ‘good [morning, day, afternoon, evening’]; Terima kasih – ‘thank you’; Ya – ‘Yes’. (often means no); Tidak – ‘No’; Apa kabar? – ‘How are you? What's new?’; Baik, dan [bapak, Ibu]? – ‘Fine, and you?’ (to man, woman); Selamat [jalan, tinggal] – ‘good-bye’ (to person leaving, to person staying).
Tipping – Tipping is not usually practiced in Bali but it is becoming more common among hospitality staff and taxi drivers – around RP1,000. If service is not included in a bill and the service warrants it, tip between 5 to 10 per cent.
What to pack – Dress is casual and informal throughout the islands
Religion – Mainly Balinese Hinduism (a combination of existing local beliefs and Hindu influences) as well as Islamic, Christian and Buddhist minorities
Local etiquette – Visitors are requested not to offend local sensibilities. Swimwear should only be worn on the beaches and women should dress conservatively.
The Hindu New Year, Nyepi, is celebrated in the spring by a day of silence. On this day everyone stays at home and tourists are encouraged to remain in their hotels. The Balinese eat with their right hand, as the left is impure, a common belief throughout Indonesia.
Tip – Hats and sunscreen are a must and sneakers or sandals are advisable for walking and swimming around coral. If you cut yourself on coral pour lemon or lime juice over the wound to relieve the pain, or use hydrogen peroxide.
Did you know? – Bali’s size – just 5,632 sq km – makes it easy to explore on day tours.
Latest update: What to do in Bali: 26 May, 2022
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