Jakarta

At most mid-level or better hotels, a tax (5% to 11%) and service charge (5% to 10%) are added to the room fee. Often, travelers are charged a service fee that is added onto fees incurred at upscale restaurants and beauty treatment salons.
In 2010, a value-added tax (VAT) refund system was put into place in Jakarta and Bali. Individuals carrying foreign passports are eligible (if the period of stay is within 2 months). The refund is subject to terms, such as spending a total of more than 5 million rupiah (tax excluded) during a single instance of shopping at specified shops.

Basically, tipping is not required when a service charge is included in restaurant and hotel fees. However, it is advisable to tip when receiving good service. The amount differs depending on the individual’s level of satisfaction, but the following values serve as references.

Blu-rays are region code A, the same as Japan.

The majority of national holidays follow various religious calendars. Aside from New Year’s, May Day, Pancasila Day, Independence Day, and Christmas, be aware of holidays that fall on different dates each year. In addition, the Galungan holiday is only celebrated in Bali, but note that many shops are closed around then (February 28 and September 25, 2024).

Below are guidelines for general business hours, which differ by shop, restaurant, and area.

Mon. to Fri. 9:00 to 16:00, Sat. 9:00 to 12:00, closed on Sun., holidays.

Normally, shops in cities and tourist areas are open every day from around 10:00 to 21:00. Many convenience stores are open 24 hours.

Normally, restaurants in cities and tourist areas are open every day from around 10:00 to 22:00. Orders are no longer taken from 30min. to one hour before closing. In tourist areas, some restaurants stay open until very late at night or for 24 hours.

In some instances, there is a child’s entrance fee for children 12 years old or younger at tourist locations, etc. Age restrictions on alcohol consumption and smoking are not regulated by law. Usually, many individuals who drink or smoke start around 17 years old.

During the Nyepi New Year, going out and lighting fires is prohibited in Bali. Even travelers will be arrested by police if they venture outside the hotel, unless it is an emergency. In addition, do not use the left hand, which is considered the unclean hand, to hold food or shake hands. Also, the head is considered a sacred place where the spirit resides, so people should not touch another person’s head, even the head of a child. Many citizens are Muslims and do not consume alcohol or pork.