Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Sumbawa. They run frequently and regularly, day and night. It's a good idea to check the
safety record of unknown operators before purchasing a ticket, especially in rough weather.
Small, expensive fast boats connect the Balinese mainland with the islands of Nusa Lem-
bongan and Gili Trawangan; there are also smaller, slower boat services to Nusa Lembongan
from Bali and from mainland Lombok to all three Gili Islands. A regular ferry runs from Pa-
dang Bai on Bali to Nusa Penida.
Taxis
Inexpensive metered taxis - with a “Taxi” sign on the roof - cruise for business in Kuta,
Sanur, Nusa Dua, Jimbaran and Denpasar on Bali, and Ampen-
an-Mataram-Cakranegara-Sweta, Lembar and Senggigi on Lombok. If there are several of
you, clubbing together can prove good value; Kuta to Denpasar is around Rp80,000, and
Rp100,000 to Sanur. There are several companies, the most common being the light-blue
Blue Bird Bali/Lombok taxis (Bali
0361 701111, Lombok
0370 627000,
bluebird-
group.com ) . Always check that the meter is turned on when you get in.
As an alternative, you can simply flag down an empty bemo and charter it like a taxi, al-
though you'll have to bargain hard before you get in.
Dokar/cidomo
The traditional form of transport on Bali, Lombok and their offshore islands is horse and cart.
Called dokar on Bali and cidomo on Lombok, they usually ply the back routes, often trans-
porting heavy loads. They are the only form of public transport on the Gili Islands. Negotiate
a price before you get in.
Rental vehicles
There's a big selection of vehicles available for rental on the islands; think about your itiner-
ary before you decide what you need. In the mountains, you need power for the slopes and
on rougher terrain clearance is vital.
Renters must produce an international drivers' licence . On major public holidays (like
Galungan and Nyepi) vehicles are snapped up quickly by Balinese, so make arrangements
in advance. Rental vehicles need to have both Balinese and Lombok registration to travel on
both islands, so you must tell the rental agency if you intend to take the vehicle between the
islands, and check with them exactly what paperwork is required.
Avis ( avis.com ) has two Bali offices, although with their prices at Rp600,000 per day it's
far more economical to rent a car locally after you arrive; for outlets, see the Arrival and De-
parture and Getting Around sections for the major resorts in the Guide chapters, or enquire at
your hotel. Typical daily rates are around Rp180,000-200,000 for a Suzuki Jimny, a bit more
for a Kijang, Isuzu Panther or Feroza. Discounts are available for longer rentals.
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