WHEN spending holidays in Bali, it’s important to embrace the local customs and show respect for the culture. Here’s your quick guide of etiquette and others to ensure you enjoy every activity and visiting sacred places while leaving a positive impression.
Dress Modestly at Religious Sites: When visiting temples or ceremonies, always wear a sarong and sash. Cover your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.
Respect Offerings: Avoid stepping over or disturbing the daily offerings (canang sari) placed on the ground. These small offerings are deeply significant in Balinese culture.
Stay Quiet During Ceremonies: Observe quietly during religious processions or events. Keep a respectful distance and avoid interrupting ongoing rituals.
Photography Permission: Before taking photos of people, especially during sacred events, ask for permission. Not all moments are meant to be captured.
Observe Seating Etiquette: If you’re seated during a performance or event, avoid sitting higher than priests or elders. This shows reverence for local hierarchies.
Mind Your Gestures: Avoid pointing with your index finger, and don’t touch people’s heads, as both are considered impolite.
Smile and Be Gracious: Balinese culture values friendliness and politeness. A warm smile and a courteous attitude go a long way in creating positive interactions.
By following these simple etiquette tips, you’ll not only enhance your Bali experience but also show genuine appreciation for the island’s rich traditions. Respect is the key to unlocking Bali’s heart!
To further help visitors enjoy their time in Bali while respecting local customs and ensuring a safe, positive experience, here’s a helpful list of dos and don’ts:
DOS:
- Do Respect Local Customs and Traditions
Bali has a rich cultural and religious heritage. When visiting temples or religious sites, dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees. Wear a sarong and sash, which are often provided at temple entrances.
- Do Use Both Hands to Give and Receive
When handing something to someone or receiving an item, it is polite to use both hands as a sign of respect.
- Do Follow Traffic Rules and Wear Helmets
If you rent a scooter or motorbike, always wear a helmet and adhere to traffic laws. Bali’s roads can be chaotic, and safety should be a priority.
- Do Bargain Politely in Markets
Bargaining is common in local markets, but always do so respectfully and with a smile. It’s part of the culture but should be done in good spirit.
- Do Be Mindful of Environmental Conservation
Bali faces environmental challenges, particularly with waste management. Carry reusable water bottles, refuse plastic straws, and be conscious of waste disposal. Respect natural habitats and avoid littering.
- Do Respect Temple Etiquette
Always enter temples quietly, and avoid disturbing ongoing ceremonies. Seek permission if you wish to take photos, and do not stand in front of locals during prayers or offerings.
- Do Learn Basic Indonesian or Balinese Phrases
Learning a few phrases in Indonesian or Balinese, such as “terima kasih” (thank you) or “Om Swastiastu” (greetings), can enhance your connection with locals and is greatly appreciated.
- Do Be Cautious with Money Exchange
Always exchange money at authorized money changers or reputable banks. Count your money carefully to avoid being shortchanged.
- Do Tip Courteously
While not mandatory, tipping for good service in restaurants or hotels is appreciated. A 5-10% tip is common in Bali.
- Do Show Respect for Ceremonies
Bali holds frequent religious ceremonies. If a ceremony or procession blocks your path, be patient and respectful. It’s best to wait or find another route.
DON’TS
- Don’t Touch or Step Over Offerings
You’ll often see small offerings (canang sari) placed on the ground outside homes, shops, or temples. Be careful not to step on or disturb them, as they are an important part of Balinese Hindu rituals.
- Don’t Point with Your Finger
It’s considered rude in Bali to point directly at people, places, or objects with your finger. Instead, use your whole hand or your thumb to gesture.
- Don’t Use Your Left Hand for Giving or Eating
In Balinese culture, the left hand is considered impure. Always use your right hand for giving or receiving items and for eating, unless you are left-handed, in which case it’s advisable to explain.
- Don’t Touch People’s Heads
The head is considered the most sacred part of the body in Balinese culture, so avoid touching anyone’s head, including children.
- Don’t Raise Your Voice or Argue Publicly
Balinese people value harmony and politeness. Avoid public displays of anger or loud arguments, as this is seen as disrespectful.
- Don’t Swim in Dangerous Areas
Be aware of Bali’s strong ocean currents. Pay attention to signs and lifeguard warnings at beaches, and avoid swimming in areas marked with red flags.
- Don’t Engage in Public Displays of Affection
While holding hands is acceptable, excessive public displays of affection (like kissing) can be seen as inappropriate, especially near temples or in more traditional areas.
- Don’t Enter Temples During Menstruation
It’s a Balinese custom for women to avoid entering temples during their menstrual cycle, as they are considered ritually impure during this time.
- Don’t Climb or Sit on Sacred Objects
Avoid sitting on or climbing temple structures, statues, or other sacred objects (including sanctified trees). It is considered highly disrespectful to the Balinese people and their religion.
- Don’t Overstay Your Visa
Ensure you follow Indonesia’s visa regulations and do not overstay your visa. Penalties for overstaying can include fines or legal action.
By following these dos and don’ts, tourists in Bali can have a more enjoyable and respectful experience, while also contributing to preserving the island’s unique culture and natural beauty.
