Chapter 6: The Smart Traveler: Etiquette, Health, and Road Safety

Local Customs & Etiquette

Understanding and respecting local customs in Bali is crucial for a positive experience. Here are some detailed do’s and don’ts to guide your interactions and ensure you honor the local way of life.

General Customs & Public Behavior

• Respecting people: The Balinese are known for their hospitality and friendly demeanor. Always use your right hand when giving or receiving something, as the left hand is considered unclean. When addressing an older man, it is polite to use the term “Bapak” (or “Pak” for short), and for an older woman, use “Ibu” (or “Bu”). Avoid touching someone’s head, even a child’s, as it is considered the most sacred part of the body.
• Gestures: Do not point with your index finger; instead, use your right thumb to gesture. Public displays of affection like kissing or excessive hugging are generally frowned upon, especially in traditional or sacred settings.
• Nudity and Dress Code: While bikinis and swimsuits are acceptable at the beach or a private pool, it is considered highly disrespectful to wear them in public areas like on the street or in villages. Outside of beach areas, it is expected that tourists dress modestly, covering their shoulders and knees. Public nudity and sexual acts are strictly against local laws and can lead to severe consequences, including fines, imprisonment, and deportation.

At Temples and Sacred Sites

• Attire: When visiting a temple, both men and women must wear a sarong and a sash that covers their legs and shoulders. Many temples provide these at the entrance for a small fee. Women who are menstruating are considered “impure” and are asked not to enter temples.
• Behavior: Walk calmly and speak softly to maintain a peaceful environment. Do not interrupt ceremonies or stand in front of a person who is praying. Avoid standing or sitting higher than a priest. It is also considered disrespectful to point your feet towards the altar or any sacred objects. Do not climb on temple structures, statues, or walls for photos.

On the Road

• Driving Rules: Remember that traffic in Bali drives on the left-hand side of the road. Scooters are a common mode of transport, and it’s essential to be constantly aware of them. Use your horn not for road rage, but to indicate your presence, especially when approaching blind corners or overtaking.
• Roadside Etiquette: Be mindful of religious offerings, known as canang sari, which are often placed on the ground and can be found on roadsides and in front of homes. Do not step on them. Be cautious and respectful if you encounter a religious procession, as these can take up entire streets and are a vital part of local life.

Dress Codes for Temples

When visiting any Balinese temple, wearing a sarong and a sash is a non-negotiable sign of respect, and these rules are consistent across all temples.

• Why a Sarong and Sash? In Balinese culture, the human body is believed to represent the cosmos: the head is the most sacred part, the torso is the middle ground, and the feet are the lowest, most impure part. By wearing a sarong (a long piece of cloth wrapped around the waist) and a sash (a belt-like cloth), you cover the lower, “impure” parts of your body, creating a physical and symbolic barrier that shows reverence for the sacred space. It is a way of presenting yourself in a clean and humble manner to the gods.
• Wearing Your Own: Yes, you are welcome and encouraged to bring and wear your own sarong and sash. Many popular temples do offer them for rent or borrow, but having your own is often more convenient and ensures you are prepared for any temple you may encounter.
• What if I’m already covered? The requirement to wear a sarong and sash applies even if you are already wearing long pants, jeans, or a long skirt. While these clothes cover your legs, the sarong and sash are a traditional and specific part of temple attire that cannot be substituted. It is the act of wearing these specific garments, not just being covered, that shows proper respect. In addition to the sarong and sash, your shoulders and arms should also be covered, so avoid sleeveless tops or tank tops.

Road Safety in Bali

Navigating the roads in Bali can be challenging due to unpredictable traffic and driving customs. Here is a detailed guide to help you stay safe, whether you’re a pedestrian or a driver.

For Pedestrians

• Walk on the sidewalk: Always use the pedestrian sidewalks when they are available.
• Walk on the left: If there is no sidewalk, you should walk on the left side of the road, facing oncoming traffic. This allows you to see vehicles as they approach, giving you more time to react.
• Be aware of your surroundings: Sidewalks can be uneven, and motorbikes may sometimes use them to get around traffic. Be prepared to step out of the way. When walking near the road, keep your bag and valuables on the side away from traffic to prevent snatch-and-grab robberies.
• Robbery risks: Snatching incidents are a common crime, often carried out by thieves on motorbikes. They may target mobile phones and bags from unsuspecting pedestrians. It is best to avoid using your phone while walking along the road and to keep valuables secured and out of sight.

For Drivers (Cars and Motorbikes)

• Helmets are mandatory: It is a legal requirement for both the driver and passenger of a motorbike to wear a helmet that meets the Indonesian National Standard (SNI). Police regularly conduct checkpoints and will fine you if you are not wearing a helmet.
• Driving on the left: In Indonesia, including Bali, you must drive on the left side of the road.
• Traffic conditions: Traffic can be chaotic and unpredictable. Expect heavy congestion, especially during peak hours, which are typically between 7:30 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. and again from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in popular tourist areas like Kuta, Seminyak, and Ubud.
• Not for beginners: Driving in Bali is not recommended for beginner drivers due to the chaotic traffic, different road customs, and general unpredictability. If you do not have significant experience driving a motorbike, it is much safer to use a ride-hailing service, hire a private driver, or take a taxi.
• Insurance and Accidents:
  • Helmet and license are key: Most travel insurance policies will not cover accidents if you were not wearing a helmet or if you were driving without a valid international driver’s license.
  • Motorbike rental insurance: Many rental companies offer optional insurance, but it often has limitations and a deductible, and it typically does not cover personal injury.
  • In case of an accident: If you are in an accident, remain calm and check yourself and others for injuries. Immediately contact the police and your rental company. Do not pay on-the-spot compensation unless it is a minor issue and you feel comfortable negotiating with the other party. Document everything with photos and get a police report, as this is crucial for any insurance claim.

Health and Medical Tips

To ensure a healthy trip, it’s crucial to take precautions against common illnesses and to be prepared for any medical issues that may arise.

“Bali Belly” and Food/Water Safety

“Bali Belly” is a common term for traveler’s diarrhea, usually caused by bacteria or parasites in contaminated food or water. To avoid it:

• Drink bottled or filtered water only: The local tap water in Bali is not safe for consumption. Use bottled water for drinking, and even for brushing your teeth.
• Be cautious with ice cubes: While ice is generally safe in reputable restaurants and hotels that use commercially produced, quality-controlled ice, it’s best to be wary of it at smaller street vendors. Look for clear, solid ice cubes, as cloudy or irregular ice may indicate it was made from untreated tap water.
• Eat hot, freshly cooked food: Hot food is generally safer than cold food because the heat kills bacteria. Foods that have been sitting out at room temperature, such as buffets or cold soups, are more likely to have bacteria. Seafood is safe to eat if it’s fresh and thoroughly cooked. When eating at a local eatery, look for a busy place with a high turnover of customers, as this indicates the food is fresh.
• Maintain hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizer, especially before eating.

Medical Facilities in Bali

Bali has a range of medical facilities, but the quality can vary. In the main tourist areas like Kuta, Seminyak, Nusa Dua, and Ubud, you can find international-standard medical centers and hospitals that are well-equipped to handle emergencies and a variety of health issues. These facilities, such as BIMC Hospitals, cater specifically to tourists and expats. However, in more remote or rural parts of the island, medical facilities may be more basic. It’s always a good idea to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and potential medical evacuation.

Mosquito-Borne Illnesses (Dengue and Malaria)

Mosquitoes are present year-round, and it’s essential to protect yourself.

• Dengue Fever:
  • Mosquito Type: Dengue is spread by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which has distinctive black-and-white stripes on its body and legs.
  • Active Time: This mosquito is most active during the daytime, particularly for two hours after sunrise and before sunset.
  • How to Avoid: Wear long sleeves and pants, use insect repellent with DEET or picaridin, especially during peak biting hours, and stay in accommodations with screened windows or air conditioning. Eliminate any stagnant water around your accommodation, as it’s a breeding ground for these mosquitoes.
• Malaria:
  • Mosquito Type: Malaria is transmitted by the female Anopheles
  • Active Time: Unlike the dengue mosquito, the malaria-carrying mosquito is most active from dusk until dawn.
  • Risk in Bali: The main tourist hubs are not considered high-risk for malaria. However, cases can occur in rural and forested regions, particularly in West Bali National Park and other remote areas. If you are planning to travel to these areas, it is advisable to consult a doctor about taking anti-malarial medication.
  • How to Avoid: In addition to wearing protective clothing and using repellent, sleeping under a mosquito net is highly recommended if you are staying in a rural or open-air setting.