Bali travel tips for US travelers

Travel insurance. Most US health plans, including Medicare, provide little or no coverage overseas. Take a travel policy that includes emergency medical treatment and medical evacuation, and read the exclusions for scooters and adventure activities before you rely on them.

Plugs and power. Indonesia uses Type C/F sockets at 230V. US plugs do not fit, and 120V-only devices need a converter rather than just an adapter.

Money. Carry small rupiah notes for drivers, parking, markets and warungs. Use a card with no foreign transaction fee, always choose to be billed in rupiah, and notify your bank of travel dates if your issuer still requires it.

Jet lag. The time difference from the US is substantial and most itineraries cross the date line, so plan a low-key first day rather than booking a sunrise trek on arrival morning.

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

Food. Busy warungs with high turnover are a good sign. Build up gradually rather than trying everything on day one.

Sun. Bali is close to the equator and UV is far more intense than most of the continental US, even under cloud.

Connectivity. US carrier international plans can be expensive for a long stay; an eSIM activated before departure is usually cheaper and avoids the arrival queue.

Before you go. Read the US Department of State travel advisory for Indonesia, consider enrolling in STEP, and note the US Consular Agency in Bali's contact details.

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