Sanur Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Communication

Mobile and internet services are widely available.

Connectivity

Local SIM cards from Telkomsel, XL Axiata, Indosat Ooredoo. Purchase at DPS airport or shops. Passport is required for registration. Data packages are affordable. Consider an eSIM from Airalo for immediate connectivity.
Wi-Fi is available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants. 4G/5G mobile data coverage is widespread. For consistent portable Wi-Fi, visit Solis Wi-Fi.
Postal services are available in major towns.

Language & Translation

Bahasa Indonesia is the national language. English is common in tourist areas.

Helpful Phrases

Google Translate app (download Bahasa Indonesia for offline use) is recommended. For language learning before your trip, Rosetta Stone is a resource.
"Halo" (Hello), "Terima kasih" (Thank you), "Sama-sama" (You're welcome).
"Om Swastiastu" (Balinese Hindu greeting, with hands pressed together).

Business Hours & Schedules

Operating hours vary by business type.

Operating Times

Shops: Generally 9 AM/10 AM to 9 PM/10 PM.
Restaurants: Often 8 AM/9 AM to 10 PM/11 PM.
Banks: Typically 9 AM to 3 PM, Monday-Friday. ATMs are 24/7.

Holidays & Closures

Public holidays and local observances influence service availability.

Important Dates

National public holidays (New Year's Day, Eid al-Fitr, Christmas, Independence Day) may cause closures.
Nyepi (Balinese Day of Silence), usually in March, means the entire island shuts down for 24 hours.
Galungan and Kuningan, major Balinese Hindu holidays, occur every 210 days.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

General Conduct

A gentle handshake is common. "Om Swastiastu" with a prayer-like gesture is a respectful Balinese Hindu greeting.
Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples (shoulders and knees covered, sarong/sash often required). Cover swimwear when in town.
Use your right hand for eating, passing food, or transactions.
Ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially during ceremonies.

Taboos & Sensitivities

Never touch someone's head.
Do not point with your feet or step over people.
Avoid using your left hand for transactions or eating.
Strictly avoid any involvement with drugs; Indonesia has severe drug laws.

Traveler Tips

For flight delays or cancellations, know your rights. Compensair assists with compensation claims. For airport lounge access, Priority Pass is available.

Accessibility Information

Bali's infrastructure is still developing for accessibility, but Sanur offers some favorable points.

General Infrastructure

Sidewalks are often uneven or obstructed. Dedicated ramps are few, mainly found in newer, upscale establishments.

Accommodation & Transport

Some newer resorts may offer accessible rooms. Private transport (hired car with driver) offers the most flexibility.

Sanur Promenade

The Sanur Beach Promenade is flat and paved, making it relatively accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.

Sensory Impairments

Specialized services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments are limited.

Recommendations

Travel with a companion.
Bring clear communication tools.
Plan communication strategies in advance.

Information Resources

For detailed and current accessibility information.

Where to Look

Consult specific travel forums for accessible travel to Bali.
Connect with organizations specializing in accessible travel.
Seek recommendations from other travelers with similar needs.

General Advice

Planning Ahead

Confirm specific accessible features directly with hotels.
Arrange private transport for flexible access.
Identify accessible entry points for attractions.

During Your Trip

Local hospitality is common, do not hesitate to seek assistance.
Many locals are willing to help, especially with mobility challenges.
Focus on areas known to be more accessible, like the Sanur Promenade.

Accessibility Note

While challenges exist, a planned approach and local support can make Bali accessible for various needs.

Health & Safety

Health Precautions

Tips

Drink only bottled water. Avoid tap water.
Be cautious with ice in drinks and raw salads.
Use insect repellent to avoid mosquito-borne illnesses.

Medical Services

Sanur has access to medical facilities for routine and emergency needs.

Facilities

Local clinics and medical practitioners are available.
Hospitals are located in nearby Denpasar (e.g., BIMC Hospital, Sanglah General Hospital).
Pharmacies are common for basic medications.

Safety Tips

General safety practices help keep you secure.

Stay Safe

Keep valuables secure; use hotel safes.
Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
Be cautious of bag snatching, especially from motorbikes.

Water Safety

Sanur's beaches are generally calm, but water safety is always important.

Beach & Pool Safety

Swim only in designated areas.
Heed warning flags regarding currents or marine life.
Supervise children closely near water.

Emergency Contacts

Local Services

Fire Department: 113
Ambulance: 118
Police: 110

Consular & Others

Your Embassy/Consulate (contact details usually online).
Bali Tourist Safety Center: +62 361 223 333.
Airport Information: +62 361 9351011.

Gender & LGBTQ+

Gender Considerations

Bali is generally conservative.
Women travelers are generally safe.

LGBTQ+ Information

Bali, especially tourist areas, is generally more tolerant than other parts of Indonesia.
Public displays of affection for same-sex couples may be met with less acceptance than for heterosexual couples.
Legal rights for LGBTQ+ individuals are limited in Indonesia.

Health Note

Travel insurance is strongly recommended for any medical emergencies or unforeseen circumstances.

Transportation & Getting Around

Local Transport

Options for getting around Sanur and nearby areas.

Sanur Specifics

Scooter/Motorbike rental is popular for experienced riders.
Local taxis are available; confirm fare before starting.
Ride-hailing apps like Gojek and Grab offer convenience for bikes and cars.

Inter-Town & Day Trips

For longer distances and excursions across Bali.

Beyond Sanur

Hiring a private car with a driver offers flexibility for day trips.
Perama tourist shuttles connect major tourist hubs.
Fast boats from Sanur Beach depart for the Nusa Islands.

Airport Transfers

From Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) to Sanur.

Arrival & Departure

Official airport taxis are available upon arrival.
Pre-arranged hotel transfers offer ease.
Gojek/Grab can be used from the airport (designated pick-up points).

Driving & Road Conditions

Understand local driving norms and road safety.

On the Road

Always wear a helmet if riding a scooter.
Traffic can be congested, especially in southern Bali.
An international driving permit is required for rental.

Sustainable Transport Options

Walking

Explore Sanur's promenade and beach path on foot for a zero-emission experience.

Cycling

Rent a bicycle to navigate Sanur town and its quiet streets.

Electric Vehicles

Some accommodations offer electric scooter or car rentals.

Transport Tip

For convenience and safety, use reputable taxi companies or ride-hailing apps, especially at night.

Sanur Travel Tips