MileHacker Logo
Communication

Communication

Indonesia

Local SIM Cards & Providers

Telkomsel, XL Axiata, and Indosat Ooredoo operate as the main mobile network operators. Telkomsel generally has the broadest coverage.

Details for Travelers

  • Purchase: Available at Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) kiosks, mobile shops, or convenience stores.
  • Registration: SIM cards require passport registration, typically handled by the vendor.
  • Data Plans: Affordable packages, from 10GB to unlimited data, are widely available (from ~$6-13 USD for 30 days). Consider an ESIM from Airalo.

Internet Access & Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi access is extensive and usually reliable across Nusa Dua.

Availability

  • Wi-Fi: Generally available in hotels, resorts, restaurants, cafes, and many minimarts, often complimentary.
  • Hotspots: A Portable Wi-Fi device from Solis Wi-Fi works for constant internet across multiple devices.
  • Postal Services: Post offices are in major towns, not typically within the Nusa Dua resort complex.

Language Barriers

The official language is Bahasa Indonesia; Bahasa Bali is the local language. English is widely understood in Nusa Dua's tourist areas.

Translation Resources

  • Google Translate: Download the Indonesian language pack for offline use, useful for menus or signs.
  • Phrasebooks: A small phrasebook aids basic interactions and shows respect. Consider Rosetta Stone for deeper learning.
  • Important Phrases: "Terima kasih" (Thank you), "Sama-sama" (You're welcome), "Apa kabar?" (How are you?).

Common Greetings

Using a few local phrases makes a positive impression.

Phrases with Pronunciation

  • Selamat pagi (se-lah-maht pah-gee): Good morning (until 11 AM).
  • Selamat siang (se-lah-maht see-ahng): Good day (11 AM - 3 PM).
  • Selamat malam (se-lah-maht mah-lahm): Good evening/night (after 6 PM).

Other Essential Phrases

Basic Interactions

  • Terima kasih: (te-ree-mah kah-see) Thank you.
  • Sama-sama: (sah-mah sah-mah) You're welcome.
  • Berapa?: (be-rah-pah) How much?
  • Baik-baik saja: (baihk-baihk sah-jah) I'm fine.

Responses

  • Tidak: (tee-dahk) No.
  • Ya: (yah) Yes.
  • Apa kabar?: (ah-pah kah-bar) How are you?
  • A smile and attempt at basic phrases are always appreciated.

Communication Note

While English is common in tourist areas, attempting a few Indonesian phrases shows respect and can enrich interactions with locals.

Business Hours & Schedules

Typical Operating Hours

Shops generally open 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Restaurants operate from early morning until late evening.

Banking & ATMs

ATMs are available 24/7. Banks for in-person transactions operate Monday to Friday, generally 8:00 AM/9:00 AM to 3:00 PM/4:00 PM.

Holidays

Indonesia observes national public holidays. Balinese Hindu holidays, especially Nyepi, see reduced or altered services.

Nyepi Day of Silence

Nyepi usually falls in March or April. The entire island, including the airport, closes for 24 hours.

Nyepi Guidelines

  • No lights, no noise, no travel, and no outdoor activities are permitted.
  • Visitors remain within their accommodations.
  • Check official Balinese calendars for precise dates, as they change annually.

Seasonal Closures

Less common in Nusa Dua due to its year-round tourism focus. However, some smaller businesses might reduce hours in the absolute low season.

Galungan and Kuningan

  • Major 10-day Balinese Hindu festivals.
  • Many businesses may operate on reduced hours.
  • Local staff may be away for ceremonies.

Airport Services

Lounge Access

  • For frequent travelers, Priority Pass offers independent airport lounge access.
  • Access comfortable waiting areas and amenities.
  • This can enhance pre-flight experience.

Flight Compensation

  • Services like Compensair help with flight delay or cancellation claims.
  • Claim compensation for disruptions.
  • This service guides customers through the compensation process.

Planning Your Visit Around Holidays

Awareness of public and religious holidays supports effective planning for services and activities during your stay.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Observing local customs fosters respectful interactions.

Greeting & Attire

A simple "Hello" or "Selamat pagi" with a nod shows respect.

Guidelines

  • Handshakes are common, usually gentle.
  • Appropriate Attire: Cover shoulders and knees at temples. Casual wear is fine in most tourist areas.
  • Swimwear is for beaches and pools only, not public areas or restaurants.

Dining & Tipping

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory.

Practices

  • Eat with your right hand if using hands; the left hand is considered impure.
  • Service charges are sometimes included; check your bill.
  • Dining habits generally match Western styles in resorts.

Photography & Taboos

Seek permission before photographing individuals. Be discreet during religious ceremonies.

Cultural Respect

  • Photography: Always ask permission before taking photos, especially of children or during rituals.
  • Taboos: Do not touch a person's head (sacred). Do not point feet at people or sacred objects (impure).
  • Offerings: Step around "canang sari" (daily offerings), not on them.

Social Considerations

Bali is generally tolerant due to tourism. Discretion is often appropriate outside resort areas.

Gender & LGBTQ+

  • Public Displays of Affection: Keep them subtle and respectful.
  • Local Culture: Generally conservative. Discretion is advised outside immediate resort environment.

Taboo Reminders

General Conduct

  • Avoid discussing sensitive political or religious topics.
  • Bargain politely and with a smile, avoid anger or aggression.
  • Do not interrupt rituals.

Religious Sites

  • Remove shoes before entering temple grounds.
  • Avoid using flash during ceremonies.
  • Do not climb on or deface religious structures.

Religious Site Etiquette

General Conduct

  • Speak softly.
  • Remove shoes before entering.
  • Maintain a respectful distance during ceremonies.

Body Language

  • Do not point with your feet at people or sacred objects.
  • Avoid turning your back to altars or shrines.
  • Be mindful of your body language.

Cultural Sensitivity

Respect for local customs and traditions enriches the experience of Bali and fosters positive interactions with the community.

Accessibility Information

Nusa Dua has better accessibility compared to other parts of Bali due to its planned infrastructure.

Mobility Challenges Infrastructure

Nusa Dua's ITDC complex, a planned development, generally offers improved accessibility compared to older parts of Bali.

Features

  • Many high-end resorts feature ramps, elevators, and accessible rooms.
  • Outside resort compounds, sidewalks can be uneven, nonexistent, or obstructed.
  • Public transportation is largely not accessible.

Accessible Attractions & Transport

Within the ITDC, several areas are more accessible.

Locations & Options

  • Attractions: Bali Collection, Waterblow (with paved paths to viewing areas), and resort areas are generally more accessible.
  • Major temples and natural sites outside Nusa Dua are less accessible due to steps and uneven terrain.
  • Transportation: Pre-arranged private transfers are the most reliable option. Regular taxis may not be equipped.

Other Accessibility Resources

Impairment Services

  • Services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments are limited beyond individual resort offerings.
  • Guide dogs are not commonly recognized or accommodated in most public places.
  • Direct inquiry with specific resorts or tour operators is beneficial.

Information Organizations

  • Directly contact individual resorts and tour operators for current information.
  • Local disability support organizations in Bali can provide specific details.
  • Confirm accessibility features before your trip to effectively plan your itinerary.

Accessibility Recommendation

Proactive communication with accommodations and transport providers ensures a smoother experience for travelers with specific accessibility needs.

← Previous
Nearby Destinations
← Back to Nusa Dua
Next →
Environmental Considerations

Next Up: Environmental Considerations

Continue to Environmental Considerations