So You're Going to Bali 2025
https://www.sobrietysisterhood.com/bali-faqs
BALI
October 11th to 18th, 2025
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Information
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CURRENCY:
The rupiah is Indonesia's official currency. The currency code for the Indonesian rupiah is IDR and the symbol is Rp. We encourage you to only exchange a minimal amount (approx. $100 USD) at the airport in Bali, as the exchange rate will generally be much better outside of the airport. Once you're here, we can assist you in getting cash out with your standard ATM card or exchange your local currency into IDR, there are plenty of currency exchange shops on the main streets of Ubud, the bigger the better, smaller shops charge commission where the large shops don't. Alternatively, many restaurants also accept visa and Mastercard, but it's also important to have some cash for the places that don't. And don't forget to let your bank know that you are travelling overseas!
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PHONE:
To use your phone here in Bali, we advise you to get roaming on your phone. We will set a group chat on
WhatsApp for the duration of the trip so make sure it's downloaded on your device. Having roaming will allow you to use google maps to meet up at certain restaurants or any other meet up locations. If you would like to get a local sim card you can do that in many places in town or even at the airport on arrival, this will cost you approx $8 USD for around 10GB.
AT THE AIRPORT:
When you arrive at the airport, follow the instructions to immigration etc. Don't be alarmed if you have to wait awhile - things can move at a slower pace here in Bali. Make sure you have organised your visa before you arrive to save time and have all your documents (including the QR code) printed. Go through immigration and customs etc, pick up your bags and head out to the waiting driver, your driver will have a sign with your name on it. Please note: if for any reason you are having trouble at the airport or are unable to find your driver, do not worry, you will be able to connect to the airport Wi-Fi or use your roaming and contact us on WhatsApp. Please note all complimentary pick up/drop off's are from the airport only. If you would like to travel before/after the retreat, you will be expected to arrive at the airport to meet your driver. and this will be at your own expense.
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DON'T FORGET TO PACK:
Goodie Bags are provided and have some essentials like, Mosquito Spray, International Adaptor and Sarong to wear to the temple.
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Bali Retreat FAQs: Everything You Need to Know Before Joining Us in Paradise
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DO I HAVE TO IDENTIFY AS SOBER OR BE IN RECOVERY FOR THIS TRIP?
No, this holiday retreat is open to anyone who would like to spend time connecting with other like-minded women when alcohol doesn't feature. You will need to be alcohol-free before and during the retreat. This retreat is not equipped as a medical detox so if you are at all concerned about your ability to stay sober please check in with your doctor before booking this trip.
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WHEN SHOULD I ARRIVE AND LEAVE BALI?
Check in is at 2pm, we suggest you have a flight that has you arriving in Bali in the morning , this gives you time to get through customs and make your way to Amed ready for the dinner. For departure, we suggest an afternoon flight as you will check out at 12pm and need to get to the airport, so booking a departure flight anytime after 5pm is recommended. The airport is in Denpasar, Bali and the name is Ngurah Rai International Airport.
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HOW FAR AWAY IS AMED FROM THE AIRPORT?
Ubud is approximately 2.5hrs (depending on traffic) away from the international airport. You will be picked up by one of the drivers and taken to the hotel.
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CAN I ARRIVE AND LEAVE EARLIER?
Yes of course, please let us know. If you would like to take advance of the complimentary airport shuttle your must leave from and return to the Ngurah Rai International Airport. You can of course organise your own transport if you have other travel plans.
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IS THE WATER SAFE TO DRINK?
No, we recommend that you brush your teeth with bottled water, this is always provided. Ice however is safe and has been for many years now all the restaurant make ice from bottled water, so smoothies and juices are fine with ice, yummy.
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DO I NEED TO TIP IN BALI?
Tipping in Bali is appreciated but not necessary. Most of the time the more up market restaurants would have already added between 15% and 20% to the bill to cover the 10% government tax and the service charge for staff. You will see it on the bill, if you don't then by all means you can tip something small. 20,000 IDR is around $1.20 USD.
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CAN I HAGGLE ( BARGAIN) IN BALI?
Besides boutiques, restaurants and convenience stores, the first price you’re quoted is usually at least double what the seller will let the item go for, so don’t be afraid to haggle. Some stall owners will even encourage you to do so by telling you the price they think you should come back with.
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WHAT IS THE LANGUAGE SPOKEN IN BALI?
Balinese, but most people speak Bahasha Indonesian. Whilst the vast majority of people in the main tourist areas in Bali will speak enough English to communicate with you, knowing a few phrases in Balinese or Indonesian will go a long way. The locals really appreciate the effort. Start with some easy phrases like 'selamat pagi' – good morning, 'apa kabar?' – how are you? 'suksma' – thanks (Balinese) and 'terima kasih' – thank you (Bahasa). And remember, Balinese is not the same as Bahasa Indonesia, the official language of Indonesia.
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