DO I NEED A VISA TO VISIT BALI? Yes, depending on your nationality you may need to apply for a visa in advance or you may be eligible for a VISA on arrival. Please check this link to verify your status: http://www.balitourismboard.org/immigration.html.Make sure that you have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the arrival date or you will be turned away from your departing city. You must also have proof of a return ticket and two blank pages in your passport. If you are staying under 30 days, you can enter at no cost. If you want to stay over 30 days you must buy a Visa on arrival for $35 USD. Visa regulations have been changing in Bali for almost a decade, so it is recommended that you check with your consulate for the most up to date information.
WHAT AIRPORT DO I FLY INTO? Denpasar Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) is where you will need to fly into. Remember you can lose up to two days with the time change and flight time, so double check your arrival date and retreat start date.
WHAT IS THE ELECTRICAL CURRENT/OUTLET IN BALI? Bali electricity runs at 220V. Adapters will be necessary if you are bringing any electrical items. We use the European plug (two round pins, C/F type). We have adapters for you to borrow and all our rooms have at least one American adapter to plug directly into. You can also easily purchase adapters once you arrive.
DO I NEED VACCINES? Traveling outside of your home country can expose you to bugs your body might not be used to. The odd case of "bali belly" (diarrhea) is not uncommon. Packing an anti-diarrheal can put you at ease. We recommend you talk to your doctor or check with your local travel doctor to make sure you're up-to-date on recommended vaccinations or if they recommend certain medications. Access the CDC website for their guidelines here: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/indonesia. Bali has some great pharmacies ("Apotek" in Indonesian) and an awesome health clinic nearby Soulshine Bali in case you need anything.
WHAT WILL THE WEATHER BE LIKE AND WHAT SHOULD I PACK? Because Bali is located near the equator, weather tends to have fairly stable with the ‘wet’ season occurring between November and March and the ‘dry’ season between May and September. The sun still shines bright during the wet season. It is generally always hot with temperatures hovering in the mid to high 80's. We recommend light clothing that breathes but can also protect you from the sun. Being near the equator, our sun is hot and can burn much faster than what you might be used to. Sleeves or a light jacket is also helpful in the evenings if you decide to take a scooter ride. Soulshine provides great natural bug spray and SPF 25 sunscreen, but don't forget to pack your own if you have your favorites!
WHAT KIND OF FOOD IS SERVED AT SOULSHINE? The Soul Kitchen provides vegetarian, vegan, raw and non-vegetarian options which are served alongside an amazing array of colorful juices, smoothies, beer, wine and tropical cocktails. Fresh, organic food is a highlight for all guests at Soulshine. A delicious blend of Balinese and Western cuisine is served morning to night under our open aired, bamboo roof dining area, by our amazing local chefs who have created a menu that Soulshine has now become famous for. All produce is organic and comes from the garden at Soulshine, or the local morning market just up the road.
WHAT IS THE CURRENCY? The currency in Bali is called Rupiah (IDR). You can bring your own currency over and convert it, or use ATM machines to withdraw Indonesian currency. ATM withdrawal fees vary bank to bank, so make sure you check in with yours to get all the info. Many places throughout Bali take credit cards but we do recommend you carry some IDR for stores and restaurants that do not. Don't forget to let your bank or credit card company know you are traveling.