SOL BY MELIA - 7 nights at the Sol by Melia

An all-inclusive resort located on the sandy beaches of Tanjung Benoa with a captivating sunrise back drop. Sol by Melia Benoa is a Balinese-inspired resort featuring 128 newly designed rooms. From the pool and spa to the dining options and numerous activities, this resort offers something for everyone.WELCOME TO BALI

Bali is so picturesque that you
could be fooled into thinking it was an artistic masterpiece: rice paddies roll
down hillsides, volcanoes soar through the clouds, the forests are lush and
tropical, the beaches are lapped by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean and in
the villages you’ll notice the quietness and wisdom in old people’s faces. Over
20,000 temples and palaces, coupled together with colourful festivals, music
and dance is testimony to the island’s rich heritage.

Kuta Beach – first discovered in
the 60’s, and once a sleepy fishing village - has now transformed into the
centre of Bali’s nightlife and action. Legian is where the locals, tourists and
expats all mingle. Bargaining, beach activities, indulging in massages,
meditating or simply reading - you name it, it’s available! For a holiday where
the emphasis is on relaxation, visit Jimbaran or Sanur Beaches; whilst Nusa Dua
caters for the more upmarket taste and is ideal for families and water sport
enthusiasts. If beaches aren’t your ideal, then visit Ubud, where the culture
and lifestyle of the Balinese wait to be discovered.

GETTING AROUND

You will find a range of
chauffeur driven limousines, self-drive cars, taxis and hotel shuttles. Many
taxis are not metered so it’s wise to negotiate the fare beforehand. Bemos, or
communal buses, are available in smaller villages - simply hail the driver and
negotiate the fare that suits you both. Motorcycles can also be hired but road and
traffic conditions can be busy and somewhat hazardous in certain locations.

CLIMATE

Bali has a tropical climate with
temperatures averaging 30°C year round. October to April can bring heavy
showers and high humidity, but usually the days are sunny. From May to
September the humidity is low, and it can be quite cool in the evenings.

LANGUAGE

Indonesian is the official
language known as Bahasa Indonesian but all the Balinese people also speak
Bahasa Bali (Balinese). English is spoken in tourist areas and is the common
"third” language of Bali.

WHAT TO WEAR

Light, airy, casual clothes are
the most practical and you’ll find cottons or linens are the most comfortable
in Bali’s often humid conditions. Pashminas or shawls and waist sashes should
be worn when visiting temples. A warm sweater or light jacket can be a good
idea in the mountain interiors.

ELECTRICITY

Most hotels use 220 volts, 50 cycles and a round,
two-pronged slim plug.

COMMON COURTESIES

Shorts or revealing clothing are
not allowed in religious places. The head is considered sacred and should never
be touched. Hand shaking is common practice but avoid using your left hand for
handshakes or giving / receiving anything. Public displays of affections
between men and women are deemed inappropriate. Like anywhere in South East
Asia, calmness is admired so ‘keep your cool’ when bargaining or if things are
not running according to plan.

HEALTH

Visitors do not require vaccinations unless coming from or
passing through a designated contaminated area. Drink only bottled water and
avoid ice unless you know it is made from bottled or boiled water. Be cautious
when eating from the food vendors on the street and proper care must be taken
against sunburn.

CURRENCY

The currency is the Rupiah which
is better for bargaining and shopping in markets but US Dollars, Pounds and
Euros are accepted at hotels.

TIPPING

A service charge is already
included in all prices. Tips, in general, are not mandatory, and you should
only give them if you are really content with the service offered.

TIME DIFFERENCE

Bali is 6 hours ahead of South Africa.

WHAT TO DO IN BALI

Climbing a volcano, canyoning,
downhill cycling, or a hike through traditional villages will you get you
closer to nature and Balinese Culture. Ubud should be on your itinerary – it is
indeed special. Bali is a shopping paradise; art work, handicrafts, oils and
essence, clothes, shoes, furniture, accessories – you name it. There is surfing
for beginners at Kuta, Legian and Seminyak Beaches. Water sport activities can
be found at Benoa (jet skiing, paragliding and water skiing). Whatever your age
or interest, you will be sure to find plenty to keep you busy.

WHAT TO PACK

- As a guide, the maximum weight for checked
luggage is 20kg in economy class.
- Your hand-luggage should not weigh more than 6kg
and needs to be small and compact
- Take along your best beach and casual wear,
perfect for the day
- The dress-code for dinner is usually smart
casual and gents may be required to wear long trousers
- Take an umbrella or rain poncho if travelling
from October to January to March to June
- When in town, men & women should have their
shoulders and knees covered. Bermuda shorts and a polo shirt are perfectly fine
but halter-tops and miniskirts are insulting to locals
- Sunglasses and suntan lotion are a must
- Don’t forget any medication that you might need,
and be sure to pack it in your hand luggage
- Chargers for all your devices (it’s a good idea
to take along a few movies on a tablet or something similar as the English TV
channels in your hotel may be limited)
- Swimming shoes and goggles
- Mosquito repellent
- A sun hat or cap

TRAVEL TIPS

- Pack a change of clothing in your hand luggage
in case of baggage delays (and a spare cozzie so at least you can have a swim
when you get to your resort)
- Clothing creases less if rolled in a sausage
shape when packed – so roll, don’t fold
- No sharp objects are permitted in your hand
luggage (yes, tweezers are sharp!)
- Travel insurance is a must. If you can’t afford
it, you can’t afford to travel!
- Travelling with kids – please check that you
have all the relevant documents including unabridged Birth Certificates.
- Put electronics, medication, toothbrushes and
jewellery in your carry-on bag
- It’s often a good idea to let your bank or
credit card company know that you’re going overseas
- Be patient, be flexible, be spontaneous and have
the best time ever!