Beautiful Bali is an incredible place to visit. "The Island of the Gods" is well known as a spiritual hub with many temples, gorgeous beaches, artistry, natural beauty, rich culture and delicious cuisine.
Facts:
Bali is a providence of Indonesia located in the western region of the Lesser Sunda Islands
The majority religion in Indonesia is Islam while the majority of locals in Bali practice Balinese Hinduism
Bali has one of the highest populations who practice Hinduism outside of India in the world
Bali is nicknamed "The Island of the Gods" due to its deep spiritual roots, culture and heritage
After the book and movie Eat, Pray, Love came out, tourism significantly increased in Bali
Traveling to Bali is a dream that will give you memories that will last an eternity. Here are ways to not stand out as a tourist while visiting Bali:
Dress Appropriately
Due to strong religious beliefs in Bali, dressing modestly will help you blend into local culture. Covering shoulders and knees is a sign of respect and to enter a temple, a sarong is required. Bali has a tropical climate so when packing for your upcoming holiday, ensure to pack clothes for warm, humid weather that don't reveal much skin and have knee and shoulder coverage.
*Bali Fashionista: White is a great color to wear as it's cool and is a symbol of purity in Bali, other good colors to wear include red, yellow, orange, green; dark colors such as black are best to be avoided as the color is typically worn during times of mourning and absorb more heat.
**Wait to Buy: A sarong as you will get a better value and receive an authentic sarong by purchasing when you arrive in Bali.
Learn Local Words & Phrases
The national language of Indonesia and Bali is Bahasa Indonesia. Before leaving for your trip, take time to learn a few words and phrases to help you immerse in local culture. Some good words and phrases to learn include:
Hello: Halo
Good Morning: Selamat pagi (suh-lah-mat pah-gee)
Good Evening: Selamat malam (suh-lah-mat mah-lahm)
Thank You: Terima kasih (te-ri-ma ka-sih)
Please: Tolong (to-long)
Where is...?: Di mana...? (di ma-na)
I Don't Understand: Saya tidak mengerti (sa-ya ti-dak me-nger-ti)
Conduct Yourself Respectfully
An important and great way to blend into Bali culture and not stand out as a tourist is conducting yourself in a respectful manner. When out in public, keep the volume of your voice down and be considerate of others and local traditions by not being too assertive or touching someone's head. Bali passed a law that prohibits sexual intercourse outside of marriage so avoiding public displays of affection is helpful.
*Tip: Use your right hand to pass items as its considered pure and clean for Balinese people.
**Want to take a ride on a moped or motorbike, make sure to wear a helmet to prevent legal issues with police.
Eat At A Warung
Get a feel for Balinese food by dining at a local warung (small, family-owned eateries). Warungs are the most common dining establishments in Bali and some incorporate international tastes as well. Really get to know Balinese culture and dine at some of these most highly rated warungs:
Puspa’s Warung: Serve fresh, local food including vegetarian and vegan options
Warung Krisna: Asian and Indonesian cuisine located in Ubud
Avocado Warung Ubud: Described by some as the best vegan warung on the island serving healthy avocado meals
Nessa Warung: Japanese, Asian and Indonesian food
Naughty Nuri's Warung and Grill: Famous for its BBQ
Converse With Balinese People
One of the best ways to get to know the culture in Bali and not stand out as a tourist is talking to locals. In general, Balinese people are known for their friendliness, calmness, patience and helpfulness. If you need help or have questions, speaking to Balinese people in a respectful manner will go a long way to enhance your holiday and make for a better experience for all.
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