Facts About Bali

Location Bali is one of more than 13,000 islands in the Indonesian archipelago and is located off the eastern tip of the main Indonesian island of Java, around

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 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

Religions 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.

Getting there Fly direct to Bali’s Ngurah Rai Airport on Virgin Blue, Jetstar or Qantas Airways, with connections from all major Australian airports.

Flight time 6 hours from Brisbane, 7.5 hours from Sydney, 4 hours from Perth Flying in Ngurah Rai Airport is located 13km southwest of Denpasar and 2.5km south of Kuta. Hotels and resorts generally provide pre-arranged transport for guests. Taxis and hire cars are also available.

Entry requirements A passport valid for at least six months beyond intended period of stay as well as a ticket for return or onward travel. Australian citizens can get a visa on arrival for a stay of up to 30 days.

Getting around Buses are inexpensive and reliable while tourist shuttle buses are more expensive, but comfortable and convenient. Cars, taxis, motorcycles and bicycles are all easily hired. Balinese drive on the left.

Public Holidays 2010 2010 1 Jan – New Year's Day; 14 Feb – Chinese New Year; 26 Feb – Mouloud (Birth of the Prophet); 16 Mar – Nyepi (Hindu New Year); 2 Apr – Good Friday; 28 Apr – Waisak Day (Buddha's Birthday); 13 May – Ascension; 17 Aug – Indonesian Independence Day; 9 Jul – Lailat al Miraj (Ascension of the Prophet); 11 Sep – Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan); 17 Nov – Eid al-Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice); 7 Dec – Islamic New Year; 25 Dec – Christmas Day; 26 Dec – Boxing Day.