SB_issue55_Digital

Know before you go.
Knowledge is power, and a little planning goes a long way
in a foreign country. There are so many brilliant online and
printed resources available, you simply have no reason to not
do your research before you go. Planning will take the mental
load off for when you hit that busy airport terminal.
Some recommendations? The evergreen Indo Surf and Lingo
book by the late Peter Neely still stands the test of time
and is a valuable offline guide for surfers of all abilities. For
more general info online, Bali Buddies (balibuddies.com) is
an excellent resource to answer your pre-travel questions,
like currency exchange tips and advice on being respectful
of Balinese culture. The Bali Bible (thebalibible.com) is a bit
more commercial travel and accommodation-focused, but
has some handy inspiration on everything from activities to
accommodation options, dining, nightlife and more. Other
than that? Google.
Make it out of the airport
and get around.
You’ll be swamped with offers of taxis and transport at the
airport. One easy way to prepare is to get a driver to pick you
up. Rates are generally reasonable and you know you have
local knowledge on your side.
Jason, otherwise known as “Ade”, is a local artist who also
drives, and is the Smorgasboarder go-to for airport pickup
and driving around the island. It’s great to have someone you
get to know and trust. Most often the local recommendations
are worth more than the transport. Contact Ade on
WhatsApp +6287861026492 or Instagram @coastin_bali.
To keep things super cheap and flexible, download the Gojek
app – the Balinese Uber. Using Gojek, you can get around on
the back of a moped, or in a car, for a couple of dollars. Plus,
you can use it to order food, which is really handy.
If you do hop in a cab or onto a scooter, just make sure you
negotiate the rate first! People will shout “taxi” and hoot at
you no matter where you are walking. If you hop in, or on a
vehicle – even with the Gojek branding – and you haven’t
negotiated a rate you will pay up to 10 times the price
you would pay by using the App. Make sure you have the
correct money if possible (change can sometimes end in an
awkward negotiation).
GET SOME CASH
Keep your life simple – not all places accept cards in Bali, and
cash is generally king. Shop around for a decent currency
exchange rate locally and have some Rupiah in your wallet
ready to go. Plus, you get to feel super rich with all those
millions in your moneybag...
When in Bali, try to only use an ATM inside a bank or other
reputable business. Steer clear of street money changers.
You might get your money changed into thin air...