Culture
Hinduism is the soul of Bali with over 20,000 temples in Bali.
Incense burns through out the villages as the local balinese offer their prayers three times a day to please the Gods.
Explore the thousand year old ancient rice fields, still carefully harvested today in the old traditions. Ubud is best known for it's generations of artisans. Wood and stone carvers, silversmiths, painters, batik makers, weavers, these skills and talents are passed down and carefully preserved. Dancers move gracefully as their hands and eyes tell the stories of lifetimes ago. Bali is a feast for the senses with almost daily ceremonies celebrating the cycle of life.
FAQ General
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.
STAYING UNDER 30 DAYS: If you are staying under 30 days, you can enter at no cost.
STAYING OVER 30 DAYS: If you want to stay over 30 days you must buy a Visa on Arrival for $35USD, then extend your visa before it expires on Day 30. This can be arranged at Soulshine or a local immigration agent.
WHAT AIRPORT DO I FLY INTO?
Denpasar Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) is the international airpot you will be flying 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.
HOW DO I GET TO SOULSHINE FROM THE AIRPORT?
We can arrange private transportation for you. One of our trusted drivers will meet you with a Soulshine Bali sign and big welcome smile. Please contact us if you would like us to arrange this for you. If you are part of a retreat, check with your retreat leader if transportation to and from Soulshine Bali is included. If you have any questions regarding your arrival time and transportation availability, please send us an email at info@soulshinebali.com. It's a great idea to arrange transportation well in advance if you are arriving into Bali early in the morning (1-5am).
If you need assistance, a ride on a scooter or tour can be arranged.
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). We have adaptors for you to borrow and all our rooms have at least one American adaptor to plug directly into. You can also borrow adaptors from reception once you arrive.
We provide hairdryers in each room. Please do not bring your hairdyrer as it might blow.
DO I NEED VACCINES?
Traveling outside of you 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. It's always nice to check in with your family doctor or local travel clinic if you need any information on vaccines or medications to bring with you. We've got some great pharmacies ("Apotek" in Indonesian) and an awesome health clinic nearby Soulshine Bali in case you need anything.
To enter Indonesia you need to have proof of Covid-19 vaccines.
WHAT IS THE CURRENCY?
The currency here is called Rupiah. 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 restaurants and stores take credit cards. Don't forget to let your bank or credit card company know you are traveling.
WHAT WILL THE WEATHER BE LIKE AND WHAT SHOULD I PACK?
Because we are located near the equator, Bali tends to have fairly stable weather 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 80s and up. 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. We've got great natural bug spray and SPF 25 sunscreen, but don't forget to pack your own if you have your favorites.
ARE THERE MOSQUITOS?
Yes. We recommend bringing a mosquito repellent and applying it generously at dusk and dawn, when they this is the equivalent of their happy hour. There is organic repellent at reception for your use as well.