- Infants must sit on your lap
- Dress code
- Stroller / pram accessible
Basic Bali etiquettes to keep in mind
1. DO learn some useful Indonesian phrases
Locals always appreciate it when you make the effort to converse in their language! For example, Terima kasih
means “Thank you”, Selamat pagi
means “Good morning” and maaf
means “sorry”.
2. DO dress modestly when outside your resort
Most of the people who work in Bali resorts and hotels wouldn’t bat an eye when they see tourists in… somewhat revealing clothing. (Hey, it’s a holiday spot that’s popular among different kinds of travellers, after all). However, it’s not the same if you’re going to explore certain tourist attractions — especially temples and mosques!
3. DO obey the rules when entering a temple or any religious site
For instance, you must wear a sarong and a sash, and leave your footwear at the entrance when entering a Hindu temple. Also, always remove your footwear before entering a local’s house.
5. DO talk with someone at eye level
If the person is seated, you should either sit down or bend down so that you are at the same height.
6. DO use the local social titles
When talking or referring to someone older than you, make sure to use Pak
for men and Ibu
for women.
7. DO bargain a bit with the street vendors and beach merchants
It’s the way of shopping in Bali! Still, you must always be friendly and respectful. Bargaining is part of the culture in Bali, and tourists should see it as a fun experience rather than a war.
8. DO always wear a helmet while riding a motorbike
Yes, even if you see plenty of people riding without one. The police can stop you anytime and might make you pay a “fine” (the amount will probably depend on their mood).
9. DO eat at the w
arung
s
These are the restaurants that you see on the streets that offer you an authentic local experience! The food there is absolutely delicious and as cheap as it can get.
10. DO sign up for a Balinese cooking class
It’s a unique experience and a great way to learn more about Indonesian cuisine during your Bali vacation.
11. DO avoid getting the “Bali belly”
Or more commonly known as the “traveller’s diarrhoea,” which is mainly caused by unclean food and water — especially inadequately-cooked meat and seafood. Enjoy the w arungs
but only enter the ones that appear to be hygienic. And for goodness’ sake, get bottled water or bring your own tumbler with filtered water.
Basic Bali etiquettes to keep in min
1. DON’T walk in front of someone who is praying
Also, when taking pictures of someone praying, make sure to keep the camera flash off! If there is a religious ceremony going on, you’re free to stay and watch but do not interrupt.
2.DON’T touch the head of a Balinese local!
Even patting a cute child’s head is forbidden. For them, the head is the most sacred and purest part of the body.
3. DON’T use your left hand when giving money or handing over something
The left hand is considered unclean, so always use your right hand to give, and both hands to receive.
4. DON’T point with just one finger, and never touch or point at something with your feet
These acts are extremely offensive.
5. DON’T walk over the
Canang Sari
in the streets
These are daily Balinese offerings to the Hindu god, Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa, thanking him for the peace given to the world. They can be spotted on the ground, in front of houses, shops, and temples — so keep an eye out!
6. DON’T raise your voice or lose your temper in public
For most Bali locals, showing signs of being confrontational is considered vulgar, offensive, and borderline shameful. This is why some of them get turned off when they come across foreigners (Westerns, most especially) who tend to be loud — whether it’s intended or not.
7. DON’T mess with the monkeys!
Especially those that you’ll spot in tourist spots such as Uluwatu and Ubud. If you get too close, they might steal everything they can get their hands on — be it your sunglasses, hats, or even your bag! If this happens, try to give them a few Rupiahs, or ask a local for help.
Yes, you heard me right, a lot of the monkeys are trained to take your belongings and make you pay to get them back.
