Bali Issues Dos and Don’ts for Tourists

Do you know how travel bloggers will post articles like ‘’10 do’s and 10 don’ts when visiting X place’’? Well, looks like Wayan Koster, the Governor of Bali, got a hand of it, and created his own official dos and don’ts guidelines for tourists who are visiting Bali. Koster announced a ‘’dos and don’ts list’’ for tourists in Bali, with the intention of ensuring the preservation of the island’s cultural heritage and protecting the well-being of both locals and visitors. In this article, we will explain more about the ins and outs of this guideline, and why Koster decided to create it in the first place. 

Bali is a very religious island, and Hinduism plays a big role in people their everyday lives. Over the past couple of months, there have been several incidents where people did not respect the holy or sacred places or the Balinese culture in general. These incidents have actually led to Koster creating official ‘’dos and don’ts’’ when visiting Bali. In the ‘’dos list’’, you will find multiple ‘’dos’’ that relate back to respecting the culture, religion, and holy/sacred places. 

So, what are the ‘’Dos’’?

1. Respect the sanctity of temples, Pratimas (sacred statues), and religious symbols
2. Wholeheartedly respect the customs, traditions, arts, culture, and local wisdom of the Balinese people during ongoing ceremonial processions and rituals.
3. Dress modestly, appropriately, and respectfully when visiting sacred areas, tourist attractions, and public places, and engaging in activities in Bali.
4. Behave politely in sacred areas, tourist areas, restaurants, shopping areas, roads, and other public places.
5. Be accompanied by licensed tour guides (who understand the natural conditions, customs, traditions, and local wisdom of the Balinese people) when visiting tourist attractions
6. Exchange foreign currency at authorised money changers (both banks and non-banks) that are officially licensed and display the authorisation number and QR code logo from Bank Indonesia.
7. Make payments using the Indonesian Standard QR code (QRIS)
8. Conduct transactions using the Indonesian Rupiah
9. Comply with the applicable traffic laws in Indonesia, including possessing a valid international or national driving license, obeying traffic rules, dressing modestly, wearing a helmet, following traffic signs, not exceeding passenger capacity, and not driving under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs.
10. Use four-wheeled transportation that is roadworthy and officially registered or two-wheeled transportation that is operated by a legal business entity or association for two-wheeler rentals.
11. Stay in accommodations that possess the required permits according to applicable regulations.
12. Adhere to all specific provisions/rules that apply to each tourist attraction and tourist activity.

By encouraging tourists to respect local customs, dress codes, and religious practices, Koster aims to maintain the cultural integrity of Bali and create a harmonious environment for all. Also, the ‘’dos and don’ts’’ list helps raise awareness about the island’s fragile ecosystems and the need for responsible tourism. The governor wants to encourage sustainable practices and preserve Bali’s natural beauty for future generations by opposing actions that can damage the environment or exploit local resources.

In the ‘’don’ts’’ list, visitors are told to respect sacred territories and to not touch or climb them when prohibited. They are also told to behave, and not get involved in illegal activities. 

So then, what are the ‘’Don’ts’’ according to Koster?

1. Trespass sacred territories: Steer clear of the damaging mandala and maddening mandalas, holy and sanctified spots like temples and pelinggih unless you’re there for a Balinese traditional ceremony, during which you must wear the appropriate attire, and you’re not menstruating.
2. Touch sacred trees.
3. Engage in behaviour that defiles sacred places, temples, idols, and religious symbols, such as climbing sacred structures and taking indecent or nude photos.
4. Litter and pollute lakes, springs, rivers, seas, and public areas.
5. Use single-use plastics like plastic bags, polystyrene, and plastic straws.
6. Utter offensive words, behave disrespectfully, cause disturbances, and act aggressively towards government authorities, local communities, and fellow tourists, both directly and indirectly through social media, including spreading hate speech and hoaxes
7. Engage in work or business activities without proper documentation issued by the relevant authorities
8. Get involved in illegal activities, such as trading illegal goods, including endangered flora and fauna, cultural artefacts, and sacred objects, as well as illegal drugs. 

In conclusion, Indonesian Governor Wayan Koster’s announcement of the introduction of a thorough “do’s and don’ts” list for visitors to Bali is a proactive move towards safeguarding the island’s cultural heritage, safeguarding its natural environment, and promoting respect between tourists and the local population. The significance of cultural sensitivity, ethical travel, and environmental behaviours is emphasized by this effort. Tourists may aid in the preservation of Bali’s rich traditions and guarantee the longevity of its beautiful landscapes by following the recommendations made in the list. By following these guidelines, visitors can interact with the community, contribute to the local economy, make enduring memories, and have a good impact on this alluring Indonesian island. Through a collective commitment to these ‘’dos and don’ts’’, Bali can continue to enchant visitors while maintaining its authenticity and beauty for generations to come.