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​​Do's and Don't in Bali as a Tourist!
To have the best experience possible in Bali, it’s essential to be aware of the do’s and don’t in Bali as a tourist.
Bali’s deep history and rich culture are often disrespected by tourist crowds, making an informed guide essential.
In this guide, we take a look at the common do’s and don’ts in Bali you need to be aware of to make the most of your visit to this enchanting paradise.
Check Out: Book This Unique Walking Tour in Bali!
Do's in Bali
Here are a few things you should do in Bali as a tourist:
1. Respect Local Customs and Traditions
One of the first things to do when you land in Bali is to embrace and respect the local customs.
For instance, always be mindful of ceremonies and processions that you might encounter. If you come across a ceremony on the street, step aside and let it pass.
It’s also important to never point your feet at people or religious artifacts, as this is considered highly disrespectful.
Remember: When visiting Bali, you are a guest in a place that holds its traditions close to its heart. Respect them, and you’ll earn the respect of the locals in return.
2. Wear proper clothing at temples
Bali’s temples are not just tourist attractions, they are also sacred sites where locals worship and conduct important ceremonies.
When visiting these temples, it’s essential to dress modestly. This means wearing clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
Most temples will provide a sarong and sash at the entrance if you’re not adequately dressed, but it’s always a good idea to bring your own. The sarong is wrapped around your waist, and the sash is tied around your waist on top of the sarong.
3. Support Local Businesses
One of the best ways to experience the true essence of Bali is by supporting local businesses.
Engage with local artisans and vendors as they often have fascinating stories about their crafts and traditions.
Plus, you’ll find unique items that you wouldn’t get anywhere else. Ubud, in particular, is famous for its art and crafts, so make sure to explore and take home a piece of Bali’s artistic heritage.
4. Bargain at markets
Bargaining is a common practice in Bali’s markets, and it can be a fun experience if done respectfully.
When shopping at places like the Ubud Art Market, start by asking the price and then make a counteroffer.
Make sure to keep it light-hearted and friendly. However, avoid haggling over tiny amounts, as a few extra cents might not mean much to you, but it could make a significant difference to the vendor.
5. Learn a few basic Indonesian phrases
Learning a few basic phrases in Indonesian can go a long way in enhancing your Bali experience.
Simple greetings like “Selamat pagi” (good morning), “Terima kasih” (thank you), and “Tolong” (please) are always appreciated.
Even if your pronunciation isn’t perfect, the gesture shows respect and can open doors to better connections with the people you meet.
Don’ts in Bali
1. Beware of tourist traps
Like any popular tourist destination, Bali has its share of tourist traps. Be cautious of overpriced tours, dubious souvenir shops, and restaurants that might charge you more than the locals.
Do some research before booking activities or dining out. Look for reviews and recommendations from trusted sources.
Often, the best experiences come from smaller, locally-owned businesses that might not have flashy advertisements but offer genuine, high-quality services.
2. Don’t litter
Bali is known for its natural beauty, and keeping it pristine is everyone’s responsibility.
Unfortunately, littering is a problem in some areas due to the influx of tourists. Make sure to dispose of your trash properly and recycle whenever possible.
Carry a small bag for your waste if you can’t find a bin immediately. By keeping the environment clean, you’re helping preserve the island’s beauty for future generations of travelers and locals alike.
3. Don't drink tap water
One of the essential things to remember in Bali as a tourist is to avoid drinking tap water. The water quality can vary, and it’s safer to stick to bottled or filtered water.
Most hotels and restaurants provide bottled water for guests, and you can easily find it in shops around the island.
Also, be mindful of ice in your drinks and raw foods that might have been washed in tap water. Stick to reputable places where the hygiene standards are known to be high.
4. Don't disrespect sacred places
Bali’s temples and sacred sites should always be respected when visiting. Avoid loud talking, taking inappropriate photos, or climbing on religious structures.
Additionally, some areas might be restricted to worshippers only. Pay attention to signs and guidelines, and if you’re unsure, ask a local or a guide.
Showing respect for these sacred places reflects well on you as a considerate visitor.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Bali Trip?
To truly get the most out of your trip to Bali, do this:
1. Slow Down and Immerse Yourself:
Avoid rushing from one tourist spot to another. Take the time to soak in the local atmosphere.
2. Engage with the Local Community:
Participate in traditional ceremonies, if you’re invited. Balinese people are known for their hospitality, and engaging with them can provide a deeper understanding of their culture.
3. Join a Guided Tour:
A guided tour with providers such as Ubud Story Walks can truly enhance your experience by providing historical and cultural insights you might miss on your own.
Check Out: Ubud Past to Present Walking Tour!Â
Wrapping Up
By following these dos and don’t, you can ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience in Bali.
Remember, the key to a great trip to Bali is not just in seeing the sights but in connecting with the people and understanding their way of life.
Interested in making the most out of your trip to Bali? Get in touch with Ubud Story Walks for bespoke walking tours crafted for curious travelers in Ubud!Â
FAQ's
The best time to visit Bali is during the dry season, from April to October. The weather is pleasant, and it’s ideal for outdoor activities.
Yes, Bali is generally safe for solo travelers. However, like any travel destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and take standard precautions.
There are various ways to get around in Bali, including taxis, scooters, and private drivers. Renting a scooter is a popular option, but make sure you have an international driving permit and wear a helmet.
Pack light, breathable clothing, swimwear, a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Don’t forget modest clothing for temple visits and comfortable shoes for walking.
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Many countries are eligible for a visa-free entry for short stays. Check the latest visa regulations before you travel.
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Read what people say about Ubud Story Walks...
Ubud Story Walks is something different. It’s a fun, entertaining and refreshing way to delve into Ubud’s past. The knowledgeable guides place as much emphasis on how they tell a story as they do on what they’re sharing, which means all sorts of magical and mystifying details are revealed. I believe the best way to get to know a place is to walk its streets, which makes Ubud Story Walks one of the best ways to get to know Ubud.
Julia Winterflood
We had a fantastic time walking around the historical centre of Ubud! Even though we've been based in Bali for a few years, we'd never had an actual tour of some of Bali's most iconic landmarks and learning about the history was fascinating. Our guide was hilarious and full of information and it was a lovely and relaxing way to learn so much. The tour was early in the morning which was perfect timing as the temperature was still cool and we were able to witness the morning bustle of Ubud's famous markets. 10/10 would recommend!
Rahima Saikal
Anthony Besnault2024-05-04I highly recommend this tour for anyone eager to delve into the rich culture, tradition, art, philosophy and history of Bali. My experience with Khana was truly delightful; her warmth and knowledge made for a smooth and captivating discussion. It's undoubtedly a 5-star tour!
Elia Argentiero2024-05-02Wonderful tour! Khana is a passionate and knowledgeable guide which made the whole experience amazing!
Caroline o'Hara2024-04-28What a gem of a morning this was! We just loved it and we learnt so much. Perfectly paced and beautifully explained, Balinese and specifically Ubud history and culture came alive for us. Thank you Khana and Joe for such a great start to our few days in Ubud. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a more bespoke and small group learning experience.
Amanda Frisby2024-04-07The past to present tour was excellent! Our guides were passionate about the history they were telling us and explained things very well. The story walk was a high light for me in my visit to Bali!
Clara GĂłmez Donoso2024-03-27Amazing tour to learn about Balinese culture! Really made me appreciate their way of living. Highly recommended, the guides are very generous sharing their knowledge and experience. Thanks so much Khana and Ira!
Olivia Pilla2024-03-15Khana was my guide and she was so friendly and knowledgeable about the history of Bali. I had an extremely enjoyable tour and would highly recommend it! The morning tea stop was delicious also. Thank you again Khana!
Marry Jay2024-03-14It was a beautiful little tour through ubud and a truly authentic experience. Though a bit more expensive than other tours I would highly recommend to book this tour to experience an authentic tour with a local. Thank you again Windari.
Judy Astridge2024-03-11Our guide Win shared interesting insights into Balinese culture. We highly recommend the walk Ubud past and present. Very enjoyable and a nice size of group.
Kate Gilkison2024-03-06I can 100% recommend this tour. I was looking for a short tour that would give me a taste of Bali’s history, culture, art and way of life, and this definitely delivered. Khana was an excellent guide, who answered all our questions and more!