Bali - otherwise known as the Island of the Gods, is a warm temperate climate, the expected temperature during our stay is in the low 30's. The air is humid and it stays warm throughout the tropical evenings, even when it rains.
Some people may find the presence of hawkers a little overwhelming but it is nothing to be concerned about, street hawkers can be persistent but they are generally friendly and have fabulous sense of humours.
Have a look here for a great shopping guide, explaining the art of haggling and the do's and donts of shopping in Bali. Just remember, you may end up haggling over $1 or less.
Bali is far more relaxed than at home, you can smoke pretty much anywhere, sit and have a beer (bintang) on the beach and it is perfectly acceptable (and recommended) to try some of their crispy fried bacon for breakky.
If you are concerned about health care - don't be. We have been unfortunate enough to have required medical assistance while in Bali and fortunate enough to have had fabulous care, courtesy of BIMC (Bali International Medical Centre). State of the art hospital facilities with Aussie trained medical staff. Just be sure to purchase travel insurance, as you are not covered by Medicare while overseas.
If you are wondering how to get around in Bali there are a few options. The first is to use your feet and walk. If you are staying in Kuta, Legian or Seminyak you are within walking distance of so many things... Take a walk and explore. The Blue taxis are a great option, however, make sure they are using a metre, if they are not, either do not use them or if you are happy and confident enough to negotiate a fare then do so, but make sure you have settled on this BEFORE you go anywhere, thirdly you could hire a driver, there are many many drivers available with safe, clean, air conditioned vehicles, again make sure your negotiate the fare before you leave. Finally, wherever you go, you will be offered transport - this is up to you. I have quite enjoyed a trip on the back of a 'scooter' when my feet were too sore to take me any further, it was a great experience (except the burn I sustained on my leg from the exhaust pipe) and super cheap. So the bottom line with transport is to negotiate a fare before you go!
Most of all - relax, have fun and remember - the Balinese are known for their wide smiles, friendly nature and beautiful spirit.
