14 Things International Tourists Shouldn't Do in Bali

TheIndonesia.id - Widely known for its tourist attraction, Bali has become the favourite place for foreigners to visit in Indonesia. Known as the 'Island of the Gods', Bali offers many things for tourists to do.

If you love to surf, Bali is a paradise surrounded by azure seas edged with golden beaches. If you are looking for adventure, you can expect a fantastic array of water sports, diving, and hiking. You can learn the local legends and Balinese traditions in places like Ubud if you like history and culture.

In short, whatever you want to do, then you can probably find it in Bali. However, as foreign tourists, you have to be aware of things that you shouldn't do, so your vacation can go smoothly.

Gypsy in Sneakers, a foreign traveler staying in Bali, shares her tips about 14 things you shouldn't do in Bali. Let's check these out!

1. Don't do drugs!

Indonesian authorities take the use of drugs seriously. If you are caught in drug possession, you will face the full force of the law. If you were convicted of trafficking drugs, you might not just be looking at a prison sentence but also the death penalty.

2. Don't step on Balinese offerings

Balinese offerings or Canangsari are little offerings of Balinese to bring to their Gods. It consists of a small palm-leaf basket box with a combination of colorful flowers. You can see it everywhere. Stepping on Canangsari would be very offensive for the Balinese who witness your misstep. So, watch your steps!

3. Don't drive if you are not good at it

The traffic in Bali is super crowded. It is full of cars, bikes, and scooters. So, it would be best if you were careful. There are specific rules in Bali road that might be different for global visitors. So, take lessons if you want to step on a bike or at least you must be experienced.

4. Don't get mad when people honk at you

Honking in Bali simply means 'hey, I'm coming, 'be careful!', or 'I am coming on your left or right'. It is just a gesture they use whenever they pass someone. It doesn't mean they are angry at you or you did something wrong.

5. Don't piss off the monkeys

In a place like Ubud and Uluwatu, you can easily find monkeys everywhere. If you piss off the monkey, they can easily bite you, which is very dangerous. So please stay in your lane and don't provoke them. Make sure you have your plastic water bottle inside your bags because they love to grab it and bite it.

6. Don't contribute to the little problem

Put your trash into the trash bin and simply don't throw it on the street or into nature because that is the worst thing you can do in Bali.

7. Don't be disrespectful

The Balinese people are lovely and helpful. Unfortunately, this kindness is over mistaken as weakness, making tourists think they are better than the local people. So, make sure you don't do this because they are kind and sweet, so you have to be the same.

8. Don't bargain too much

It is very tempting to lower your price more and more when you shop, but you have to be aware that the person you are bargaining with needs the income to feed their families. Make sure that you bargain respectfully and not too low.

9. Don't use your left hand for giving or accepting things

Throughout Indonesian society, the left hand is used for "toilet duties". Therefore it is considered unclean. It is rude and offensive in Indonesia to hand someone something with your left hand, especially food or drink.

10. Don't just eat western food

I know it is super tempting to eat western food, especially if you live in Canggu or Ubud, where many Western foods exist. However, it is lovely to try local Indonesian dishes because you can also support the local people by buying their food.

11. Don't come for a short amount of time

Another thing that you can't do coming to Bali just for one week. That doesn't make sense because the island is so diverse. There is a lot of things to see. At least you need 10-14 days to explore all.

12. Don't ignore the Balinese culture

Some tourists ignore the Balinese culture because they only see beautiful nature such as waterfalls or eat in the most beautiful cafes. However, Bali has such a rich culture, and it is impressive.

13. Don't enter the temple with your shoes on

It is a custom not to wear shoes when inside the temple. So, remember to leave your shoes outside because it shows your respect.

14. Don't leave your bag out at night

Last but not least, don't leave your bag out when you are driving home with a motorcycle at night. It is dangerous because thieves can quickly grab your bag and drive past you. Please make sure you put your bag under your seat where no one can't get it.