Planning holiday in Bali?
Okay, here are some comprehensive tips for visiting Bali, keeping in mind both practicalities and cultural nuances:
1. Respect the Culture & Local Customs (This is HUGE!):
- Dress Modestly: Especially when visiting temples, government offices, or traditional villages. Always carry a sarong and sash (often available for rent at temple entrances). Cover your shoulders and knees.
- Temple Etiquette: No menstruating women in inner temple areas, no touching offerings (canang sari) on the ground, walk around ceremonies, not through them.
- Use Your Right Hand: When giving or receiving things, especially money, always use your right hand as the left is considered unclean.
- Be Polite and Calm: Bali is generally a peaceful place. Avoid shouting, public displays of excessive anger, or overtly disrespectful behavior.
- Bargaining: It’s common in markets, but do so respectfully and with a smile. Don’t haggle aggressively over small amounts.
- Don’t Touch Heads: The head is considered sacred. Avoid touching anyone’s head, even children.
Money & Payments:
- Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR).
- Money Changers: Only use official money changers (KUPVA) that are authorized by Bank Indonesia and have clear signage and proper counting machines. Avoid shady street stalls offering too-good-to-be-true rates. Always count your money carefully before leaving.
- ATMs: Stick to ATMs attached to banks or inside malls for security. Inform your bank before you travel to avoid card blocks.
- QRIS: The Indonesian Standard QR Code (QRIS) is widely used for digital payments. Many places, from small shops to restaurants, accept it. Your local e-wallet apps might support it, or you can use international apps if compatible.
- Credit Cards: Widely accepted in larger hotels, restaurants, and shops.
Photo by David Gor
on Unsplash.
Health & Safety:
Okay, here are some comprehensive tips for visiting Bali, keeping in mind both practicalities and cultural nuances:
- Stay Hydrated: Bali is hot and humid. Drink plenty of bottled water (tap water is not safe to drink).
- Sun Protection: Use high SPF sunscreen, wear hats, and seek shade during peak sun hours (11 AM – 3 PM). Sunburn can ruin your trip.
- Mosquito Repellent: Especially important during dawn and dusk to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses like Dengue Fever.
- “Bali Belly” (Traveler’s Diarrhea): Be cautious with street food, unpeeled fruits, and ice in drinks (unless from a reputable place). Wash your hands frequently.
- Medical Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, including potential evacuation.
- Scooter Safety: If you rent a scooter, ensure you have an International Driving Permit (IDP) and wear a helmet. Drive cautiously; traffic can be chaotic. Only rent from reputable places.
- Swimming: Be aware of strong currents, especially on surf beaches. Swim only in designated areas or where locals are present.
