Bali travel tips for German travellers

Travel insurance. An Auslandskrankenversicherung is essential rather than optional: statutory German health cover does not extend to Indonesia. Read the activity exclusions closely, especially for scooters and adventure activities, and make sure medical repatriation is included — evacuation from Bali is very expensive without cover.

Plugs and power. Indonesia uses Type C and F sockets at 230V, the same as Germany, so no adapter is required for standard German plugs.

Money. Carry small rupiah notes for drivers, parking, markets and warungs, and use a credit card rather than relying on Girocard. Decline the ATM or card terminal's offer to charge you in euros — paying in rupiah usually gives a better rate.

Water. Drink bottled or filtered water and use it for brushing teeth. Most hotels and villas now provide refill stations.

Food. Busy warungs with high turnover are generally a good sign. Ease into unfamiliar food over the first few days rather than all at once.

Sun. Bali sits close to the equator and UV levels are far higher than a German summer, even under cloud.

Connectivity. German mobile plans include EU roaming, but Indonesia is outside that — roaming charges can be steep. An eSIM activated before departure avoids both the bill and the airport queue.

Before you go. Read the Federal Foreign Office (Auswärtiges Amt) travel and safety advice for Indonesia, and note the contact details of the German Consulate in Denpasar.

Respect the rules. Indonesian law is strict, particularly on drugs, and penalties are severe. Dress and behave modestly at temples and religious sites.