I can drive in Bali
Tuesday, November 1st, 2005Decided to rent a car/scooter to see the island. Even though the traffic seems crazy (driving on the wrong side of the street, steering wheel on the wrong side of the car, hundreds of scooters and cars combined going at high speeds, no apparent traffic laws) we thought we’d give it a shot.
First decision was whether or not to get a drivers license. FIRST TRAVEL TIP IF YOU ARE PLANNING ON DRIVING IN ANY FOREIGN COUNTRIES: GO TO YOUR LOCAL TRIPLE “A” (IN THE STATES) AND GET AN INTERNATIONAL DRIVING PERMIT.
I failed to do this so I would either have to risk getting pulled over ($200 USD fine for no license) or figure out a way to get the license. Surprise, surprise, I took the less risky route and went to get the license. First, let me say that this wouldn’t have been at all possible if it hadn’t been for Peter at Flashbacks. He took me into Denpasar on his scooter and sheparded me through the process AND IT WAS A PROCESS! I must admit that it wasn’t too different from the DMV in the states. Lots of people milling around waiting for something to happen. Not really sure where to go or what will be asked of you once you get there. “Officials” who don’t seem to intent on making things happen more quickly etc.
One big difference…the price is negotiable. there are no posted fees for anything and the amount you pay for your permit is based on how well you negotiate with your official. Again, thanks to Peter, I got off easily. Only cost me $22 USD. Not sure how much of that went into the pocket of the officer but I would guess it was $15 or so. It was not uncommon for me to see an official take money from a patron and put it squarely in his/her shirt or pants pocket. Such is life in Bali. It is not corruption, it is simply the way things work. And they do work. I was able to get through the process in a few hours and left with my permit in hand. It is rare that this happens. Usually you must submit your information one day and pick up the permit (motorcycle only) the next.
Needless to say, I was bushed after this process so I promptly retreated to the pool at Flashbacks and relaxed with beer in hand for the rest of the day. I’m getting tired thinking about it. Better go lie down.
Weiser Wander