In Reply to: Car rentals and driving posted by Matt on Wednesday, 28. February 2001 at 16:35 Bali Time:
Matt,
This is a classic "do as I say, not as I do" message.
I drive on Bali. I almost have to. It is psychotic and addictive.
The reason I feel I can "get away" with driving here and that you perhaps should not are as follows:
1. I rode for a good six months before I even tried driving here.
2. For better or worse, I know what to expect from my fellow motorists.
3. If something goes wrong, I speak the language (not that you don't)
4. If something goes REALLY wrong I have some well connected Balinese who can intercede on my behalf (again, not that you don't).
5. I am retired and have time to stay here and deal with the courts if there is a problem.
You really should ask yourself: Are you coming to Bali to relax or to drive ? These two are at cross purposes.
Besides serving as a driver you may find that your "driver" can serve as a guide, translator, security consultant, bodyguard, etc.
In short - If you do not know the roads, speak the language and have some friends to fall back on in a pinch, then do yourself a favor and hire a driver. Besides ! How can you enjoy the scenery when you are watching for dogs and motorcycles........
Cheers & Safe Travelling !
>;-)> White Devil