Navigating life in Bali as a Bulé is an adventure with its own set of unspoken rules, a journey I’ve only begun to truly appreciate. Beyond the surface-level challenges, like mastering the local cuisine or navigating the bustling streets, lies a deeper responsibility: portraying my homeland in a favourable light. You see, as the lone British family in our neighbourhood, we’re not just tourists; we’re informal ambassadors of tea, politeness, and understated humour.
This role might sound a touch grandiose, as if I’ve cast myself as the protagonist in a tropical comedy-drama, but there’s truth to it. In our cosy corner of Bali, deeply ingrained in local traditions, our daily interactions could very well shape our neighbours’ perceptions of all things British.
Flipping the perspective, imagine a Balinese family living in a quaint English town. Their habits and behaviours could inadvertently colour my views of Indonesian culture, especially if my primary exposure to Indonesian nightlife was their fondness for karaoke…which may well be a fair portrayal!
Our abode is in Sanur, a less bulé-populated haven compared to the bustling expat hubs like Canggu, where foreigners sometimes outnumber locals. Despite the difference in setting, the essence of cultural representation remains. For instance, if a few Dutch residents in Canggu were less than neighbourly, it might unfairly skew local opinions against the entire Dutch community, a scenario no one wants.
As the singular English presence in our little enclave, we find ourselves in a unique position. Our actions and demeanour carry weight, potentially serving as the primary lens through which our Balinese neighbours view the broader English culture. It’s a responsibility we don’t take lightly, striving to be good neighbours and friends rather than mere visitors.
The recent Nyepi misunderstanding involving some of the Russian community (and a lot of partying!) highlighted the importance of this role. The governor’s remarks about the challenges posed by a minority within the Russian expat community served as a stark reminder that the actions of a few can impact the reputation of many. It’s a common thread in the expat experience, underscoring the need for mindfulness and respect towards local customs and traditions.
In this role as unofficial emissaries, the spotlight is indeed on us. Every friendly nod, every attempt at speaking Bahasa Indonesia, and every participation in local festivities not only enriches our experience but also forges deeper connections with our community. It’s a reminder that, while we may hail from different corners of the globe, the impressions we leave behind can build bridges of understanding and friendship.
Tune in here for next week’s ‘An Englishman in Bali’ series.
