Getting There: Most visitors from the U.S. fly nonstop to Singapore, Bangkok, Taipei or Japan, and then on to Bali. Carriers flying to Bali include Cathay Pacific; China Airlines; Eva Air; Garuda Indonesia; Korean Air; Malaysia Airlines; Singapore Airlines; and Thai Air. Ngurah Rai, Bali's airport, is eight miles southwest of the capital city of Denpasar. Ubud is about a one-hour drive from the airport.

Entry Requirements: A valid U.S. passport is required. On arrival, U.S. visitors must purchase a seven-day, non-extendable tourist visa for $10, or 30-day visa for $25. There’s also a departure tax of about $10.

Climate: Bali's climate is tropical. Temperatures average between 69º F and 91º F. In the mountains, however, it can go as low as 40º F at night. The rainy season is November to April; the dry season May to October.

Language: Balinese speak both Indonesian and Balinese. English is widely spoken throughout Bali, particularly in the major tourist areas.

Currency: Indonesian rupiah. At press time the exchange rate was 9,089 rupiah to $1.

Electricity: 110 volts (50 AC); or 220 to 240 volts (50 AC). Adapters and converters are usually available in major hotels.

Time: Greenwich Mean Time plus eight hours (13 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time).

Tipping: Tipping is not required or expected in Bali. Most restaurants will include a service charge.

Water: Drink bottled water.

Tour Operators: A partial list of tour operators with programs to Bali include Aberdeen Tours (info@aberdeentours.com, 877-956-8886); China Travel Service (info@chinatravelservice.com, 800-899-8618); Orient Flexi Pax Tours (info@orientflexipax.com, 800-545-5540); Pacific Delight Tours (pdt@pacificdelighttours.com, 800-221-7179); Pleasant Holidays (sales@pleasant.net, 800-448-3333); and SITA World Tours (sitatours@sitatours.com; 800-421-56430).

Bali Tourist Board: www.bali-tourism-board.com