In Reply to: Is it best to search the posts posted by BDN on Monday, 29. November 2004 at 13:50 Bali Time:
I like to secure our driver as soon as I know when I want to go somewhere. Visiting the sponsored children in the schools can only be done on Saturdays so I always know in advance.
Lots of good drivers have email addresses.
I always expect to pay 300,000rp for a full day and 100,000rp for half day, depending on distance, how many hours etc. Those rates seem fair enough to me as its very cheap compared to rates at home and it gives them a fair rate to cover their petrol, running the vehicle and some Rp for their days work.
We do sometimes use drivers from the front of the Hotel, after we have ascertained that they speak good English and can understand our requests.
It is a really big pain to go with a driver who doesnt understand your questions.
We take taxis sometimes too. We often start on a smaller trip and if the driver seems good then ask if they are interested in waiting whilst we visit or shop.