Mind Your Manners: DOs and DON'Ts in Bali
Avoid making a social misstep when visiting the breathtaking Island of the Gods. The Balinese people are incredibly polite and unlikely to point out even the most glaring cultural mistakes a visitor might unintentionally commit. Here are some cultural tips and wisdom to keep in mind during your holiday in Bali.
DOS
1. Learn a few phrases in Bahasa Indonesia, such as "terima kasih," which means 'thank you,' or "selamat pagi," which means 'good morning.' As a thoughtful gesture, try speaking a few words in the local language. In Balinese, 'Hello' is "om swastiastu," 'thank you' is "suksma," and 'you're welcome' is "suksma mewali." The locals will appreciate your effort.
2. Dress appropriately when visiting temples. Bali is filled with stunning open-air temples, and visitors must wear a sarong and waist sash. Often-visited temples may provide these garments, but it's best to bring your own for smaller temples. Keep your attire respectful by not showing too much skin—T-shirt coverage is ideal.
3. Take the time to observe one of the many ceremonies you may encounter. It is not considered rude, so feel free to watch, but sit behind the priest, easily recognized by the ceremonial attire. Avoid sitting higher than the locals; if they are on the ground, join them there.
4. Ensure you buy travel insurance. Accidents can happen unexpectedly. Did you know falling coconuts injure more global travelers each year than sharks?
5. When visiting certain temples like Besakih, ask for a Tri Datu bracelet, considered holy and readily offered. The name Tri Datu comes from 'tri' meaning three and 'datu' meaning king, symbolizing the Tri Murti Gods: Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. The bracelet's colors—red, white, and black—represent birth, life, and death. It's respectful to leave a donation in the charity box, with IDR 50,000 being a fair amount.
6. Be understanding when money is counted precisely to the last rupiah in front of you. Indonesians are open about financial transactions to prevent accidental short-changing.
7. Haggle in the markets, as it is expected and enjoyable, but do so with a smile and good humor. Enjoy the playful exchange but avoid suggesting unreasonably low prices.
8. Maintain your composure. Beach hawkers and those in tourist areas can be bothersome, but keeping cool is important. It's a difficult way to earn a living, and showing anger or confrontation is disrespectful.
9. If choosing to ride a motorbike, get briefed on driving safely in Bali's seemingly disordered traffic. Villa staff can provide advice and instruction if needed. Always wear a helmet and carry an up-to-date International Driving License, as police may check for helmets and licenses.
10. Stop and chat with locals. The Balinese are curious about visitors and often ask where you're from and about your family. They'd love to see photos if you have any handy—it's not a ploy to draw you into a shop.
DON'TS
1. Avoid drinking tap water. Instead, carry a refillable water bottle, as most villa kitchens provide dispensers with high-quality chilled water. This reduces the environmental impact of purchasing multiple plastic bottles.
2. Refrain from using your left hand when giving money or touching someone. Indonesians reserve their left hand for personal hygiene, so it's best to use your right hand.
3. Be careful not to step on the ubiquitous and beautiful offering baskets found on the ground. Dogs may eat from them as part of the religious process, so avoid disturbing them.
4. To gain attention, such as from a waiter, raise your arm with the palm facing down and flick your wrist up and down, instead of raising your arm with fingers pointing to the sky.
5. Avoid temples if you are bleeding in any way, whether from a shaving cut, a recent wound, or menstruation. Blood is considered impure in temples.
6. Do not touch the head of a Balinese person, as it is considered the most sacred part of the body. This applies to children and babies too. Also, never point your feet at people or temple altars; keep your feet flat on the ground.
7. Refrain from touching monkeys or other wildlife. Macaques in popular areas like Ubud and the sea temple at Uluwatu are sneaky thieves, known to snatch sunglasses and mobile phones. Keep belongings in a bag, and give turtles space on the beach as they are endangered.
8. Avoid using your index finger to point at anything or anyone, as many Indonesians consider this gesture obscene.
9. Steer clear of uncomfortable situations. Street sellers may offer prescription medicine or other drugs; Indonesia enforces strict drug laws, so it’s best to just keep walking.
10. Don’t walk the streets undressed or ride a bike in swimwear. While acceptable for the beach, boat, or poolside, put on a shirt, shorts, or sarong when visiting streets, shops, cafes, or restaurants. The Balinese dress modestly, and failure to do so might result in a ticket from the police.
When visiting a foreign land, it's always best to follow local customs. Doing so ensures a hassle-free holiday.
