Hi Folks!
Bali is a beautiful island in Indonesia known for its beaches, rice paddies, and culture. If you’re planning to travel to Bali, it’s essential to be aware of the local customs and etiquette to ensure a pleasant and respectful experience.
The Balinese people are generally known for their hospitality and friendliness towards tourists. They have a strong sense of community and culture, and they often welcome tourists with warmth and kindness. And this can greatly enhance your travel experience in Bali.
When you want to visit Bali, remember these DOs and DON’Ts to have the best experience in Bali:
DOs:
- Dress appropriately: Bali is a predominantly Hindu Island, and locals value modesty. When visiting temples or sacred places, make sure to wear appropriate clothing (everyone who visits must wear a sarong and waist sash). Frequently visited temples may have these garments available for visitors. But for smaller temples, you can bring your own.
- Learn a few phrases in Bahasa: The Balinese people appreciate visitors (tourists) who make an effort to learn their language. Learn several simple phrases in Bahasa Indonesia or Bahasa Bali, the local people will appreciate the effort that you made and it will ease your travel experience.
- Obey the traffic laws: Always obey the traffic laws when you drive a car or motorcycle. Indonesia is very strict about its traffic laws. If you violate the traffic laws, you will get an offense based on the Indonesian law.
- Have travel insurance: Accidents happen, in the most unexpected of places. There are many accidents in the surf, on scooters, from dog bites, etc.
- Bargain politely: Bargaining is common in Bali’s markets and street vendors. However, it’s essential to bargain politely with respect. Remember that the locals rely on their sales to make a living, so be fair in your negotiations.
- Be careful when swimming at the beach: Bali is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, but it is still important to be cautious when swimming in any natural bodies of water. To ensure your safety while swimming in Bali, it is a good idea to follow any posted signs or warnings, and not to swim if the water looks discolored or murky.
- Respect the local customs: Bali is steeped in tradition and customs, and it’s crucial to respect them. Example: during the Nyepi Day (a Balinese New Year celebration) the entire island shuts down for a day of silence and self-reflection. Visitors are expected to observe the silence, turn off all lights, sounds, stop all traffic and activities.
- Accompanied by licensed tour guides who understand the natural conditions, traditions, and local wisdom of the Balinese people when visiting tourist attractions
- Exchange foreign currencies at authorized money changers, both banks and non-bank institutions, that are officially recognized by the Money Changer Business Activity Provider (KUPVA) and marked with a permit number and QR code logo from Bank Indonesia
- Make payments using the Indonesian Standard QR Code
- Conduct transactions using the Indonesian Rupiah currency
- Drive while adhering to the applicable laws and regulations in Indonesia, including having a valid International or National Driving License, following traffic rules, dressing modestly, wearing a helmet, obeying traffic signs, not exceeding passenger capacity, and not under the influence of alcohol or illicit drugs
- Use a four-wheeled vehicle that meets safety standards or a two-wheeled vehicle that is operated under a registered business entity or association for two-wheeler rental transportation
- Stay/accommodate in lodging establishments that are licensed according to the provisions of the applicable laws and regulations
- Comply with all specific regulations and rules that apply at each tourist attraction and during tourist activities
DON’Ts:
- Do not enter a temple if you are menstruating: The main reason, menstruation is considered ‘dirty’, so that it can make the temple become impure. This also shows respect to Bali local customs.
- Do not touch people’s heads: In Balinese culture, the head is considered the most sacred part of the body, while the feet are considered the dirtiest. Avoid touching someone’s head or pointing your feet towards people or statues.
- Do not use your left hand when giving/receiving: In Bali, using your left hand when passing something to somebody is considered disrespectful. It is preferred that you use both hands or right hand.
- Do not drink tap water: Tap water in Bali is not drinkable. Better buy bottled water or refill water at a water fountain nearby to avoid any sickness.
- Do not show affection in public: Balinese people are generally reserved and don’t display affection in public. Avoid kissing, hugging, or holding hands in public places, especially in sacred places or temples.
- Do not litter: Bali is known for its pristine beaches and natural beauty, and it’s essential to keep it that way. Always dispose of your waste properly and avoid littering.
- Not using single-use plastics such as plastic bags, polystyrene (styrofoam), and plastic straws
- Not working and/or engaging in business activities without official documents issued by the relevant authorities
- Not being involved in illegal activities such as trading illegal items including flora and fauna, cultural artifacts, sacred objects, and illicit drugs.
Traveling in Bali can be a memorable experience if you follow the local customs and etiquette. Show your respect for the Balinese culture, by following these DOs and DON’Ts. Let’s come to Bali!
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