There
are many modes of transportstion to help you around Bali. A variety
of excellent half day, full day and overnight tour packages are
available from your hotel desk or any of the numerous travel agents
and tour operators which abound in Bali. Or you can find a car
and driver who will also act as your guide.
Taxis
operated from all major hotels and the airport with rates vary
according to destinations. The taxi companies, in Bali are Praja
Taxi, Bali Taxi and Koperasi Taxi Ngurah Rai instead of those
belong to travel-agencies, have metered taxis.
Public
minibuses or big buses are available to every corner of the island
with quite inexpensive price but their stopping here and there
a lot to take and drop local passengers. It may give you the exprience
of travelling with the locals.
For
those who prefer to travel more privately, self-drive. Rented
car or motorbike may be the choice. Types of cars available are
usually Jimny or Toyota Kijang (larger car with room for 6 people).
The price, however, do not always include insurance and they vary
depending upon the type of vehicle and the duration of hiring.
An
important virtue to have while on the road in Bali is patience!
Although the road system in the heavily populated areas is quite
reasonable (condition wise) in comparison to other developing
countries, it can be heavily congested at peak periods. Ceremonial
processions often overtake the whole road so if you're caught
behind a procession, enjoy the colorful experience. Roads can
be quite narrow with heavily pedestrian traffic on each side.
Petrol-pumps
and service-stations are available at every larger towns, however
in emergency there are always roadside kiosks selling fuel-out
of drum at a bit dearer price.
While
driving yourself, please take utmost cara since the traffic rules
may be somewhat different from those conducted in your own country.
International Driving License is required but one can apply for
a temporary permit in Denpasar and go for a test at Traffic Police
Department, Jalan Seruni-Denpasar, Phone 227711.
It
is a compulsory to wear a crash helmet while you are on the road
and it is always available at motorbike hire outlets.
Bicycles
are available but bear in mind heavy traffic in Kuta, Legian and
Denpasar. Bicycles are ideal in Ubud and the countryside if you're
fit. A few companies offer mountain biking excursions.
Small
horsedrawn carts called "dokar" serve as convenient transportation
off-hours and off the beaten tracks.
