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
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