About Bali

• Bali`s Time Zone

Bali is in the Central Indonesian Time zone, which is GMT+8 hours.

• Currency and Banking

The local currency is the Indonesian rupiah ('Rp' or 'IDR'). There are Rp100, Rp500, and Rp1,000 coins and Rp1,000, Rp5,000, Rp10,000, Rp20,000, Rp50,000, and Rp100,000 paper notes. Compare the exchange rates on offer before changing money at money changers or banks. Although banks may offer an added measure of professionalism and security, it's not uncommon for money changers to offer better rates. There are usually different rates for cash and non-cash instruments such as travelers checks. Also, be aware that both banks and money changers can be very picky about the cash notes that they will accept; they often refuse notes that are in anything less than near-mint condition.

Major credit and charge cards are accepted in most major stores and hotels. Smaller merchants often add a small surcharge to card transactions.

Many -- but not all -- banks' ATMs in Bali are linked to major international networks such as Cirrus, Plus, Visa, and MasterCard. As a result, this can be a convenient and cost-effective way to obtain local currency; such ATMs are widely available throughout Bali (though not in rural areas).

• Driving

Driving is on the left side of the road. A variety of cars -- with and without drivers -- and motorcycles are widely available for hire in Bali. The majority of cars have manual 'stick-shift' transmissions. Traffic regulations are widely ignored, so driving yourself may prove stressful unless you're used to wild road conditions. Since a road accident -- common in Bali -- could spoil your trip and ensnare you in unpleasant proceedings, consider hiring a driver along with your car. Nevertheless, International Driving Permits are recognized in Bali.

If you intend to rent a motorcycle, helmets -- which are mandatory -- will be supplied by the hire company.

If you are driving yourself, remember that you must take the responsibility to avoid all other road users, as vehicles will pull out in front of you abruptly and expect you to avoid them. Drivers in Bali rely on audible warnings, so use the horn regularly to let them know of your presence and when overtaking. Likewise, other drivers will use their horns to let you know of their presence. Such horn use is not considered rude. At night, the use of the horn is replaced by flashing one's high beams. Remember to be extra vigilant as many bicycles and carts are not illuminated and street lighting can be minimal or absent. In cities, there can be complicated networks of one-way streets that can be confusing to navigate; take care not to turn the wrong way on a one-way street!

from: http://www.balitravelandtourism.com