Bali is a fabulous holiday destination for most of us, but there are tips the travel agents don’t always tell you – which can make or break the experience.
We quizzed Marilyn Forse, an Australian who has been living in Bali for 30 years. She guides visitors around, making sure they have the best time.
Her top tip? Don’t touch the local water to ward off the famous ‘Bali belly’ (even the local road workers drink the bottled stuff). She also recommends avoid eating at the local warungs (small traditional restaurants) where they barely rinse the plates in the local water.
At the airport, you will see a bank of money changers outside Customs. These are reputable money changes, but just get $100 in cash to get you started.
Also catch a BlueBird Taxi or another registered operator, not a private driver, and ask the driver to put the meter on and watch it.
Advice from an expert
Marilyn also offers these useful tips:
- Local dogs and monkeys carry rabies. Don’t touch them and seek immediate medical treatment if you are bitten.
- If you visit the monkey forest in Ubud to take off everything – glasses and jewellery and keep your bag close to you at all times.
- Bring any prescription drugs with you. Many are not available in Bali and cannot be sent via post.
- Always carry a sarong for the temples.
- And finally? “Mozzie repellent – a really strong one – and use your hand sanitiser often (very important!)”
You can find out more about Marilyn’s services here.
Check out the podcast of our interview with Marilyn below:
