THINGS TO OBSERVE IN BALI

Bali, Indonesia, has its own unique culture and customs with strong influence from Hinduism.

When you visit Bali (as a tourist or for business purpose) please observe the followings:

1. Disrespecting Temples:
Do not enter temple areas during ceremonies unless you are participating and have appropriate
attire. Always follow temple rules and guidelines.

2. Inappropriate Attire:
Avoid revealing clothing when visiting temples or rural areas. Cover your shoulders and knees
as a sign of respect. If any temple attendant requires you to put on some long cloth or long skirt
to cover your lower body, please follow their advice.

3. Public Displays of Affection:

Public displays of affection, especially in rural areas, should be kept modest. Save more
intimate moments for private settings. Hugging or kissing, while these seem common in Europe
or North America, may be seen as inappropriate by society in Bali.

4. Left-Hand Usage:
Similar to Java, the left hand is considered impolite. Use the right hand for giving, receiving, or
eating.

5. Pointing Feet:
Pointing your feet at people or religious objects is considered disrespectful. Sit cross-legged or
with your feet flat on the floor.

6. Disturbing Religious Offerings:

Do not disrupt or step on offerings (also known as "canang sari" or "bantenan") found on the
ground. These are placed for spiritual purposes.
7. Disrespecting Monkeys:
It is not unusual to see monkeys in some areas in Bali. Be cautious around the monkeys in the
Monkey Forest in Ubud. Do not feed them outside designated areas, and avoid direct eye
contact. Protect your belongings all the time - these monkeys can be mischievous (even
aggressive) unprecedentedly.

8. Swimming Fully Clothed:

In some areas, it's considered inappropriate to swim in public pools or beaches in revealing
swimwear. Check local customs and adhere to guidelines. Some public baths near temples may
be deemed sacred, and requirements for visiting religious sites may also apply there.

9. Disregarding Local Customs:

Be aware of local customs and ceremonies. Show respect and avoid interfering or disrupting
local traditions.

10. Negotiating Aggressively:

When shopping in markets, haggling is common, but do so respectfully. Smile occasionally to
display kindheartedness, but make sure you don’t seem like playing around by smiling too often.
Aggressive bargaining may be seen as disrespectful, and keep your tone low throughout the
process.

11. Ignoring Dress Codes at Traditional Events:

If attending traditional ceremonies or events (inside or outside temples), adhere to any dress
codes specified. This often includes wearing traditional sarongs or sashes. Some locals may be
more than happy to explain what to wear whenever you ask them.

12. Speaking Loudly in Temples:

Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor when in temple areas. Avoid loud conversations and
disruptive behavior.

13. Photographing Cremations:

Balinese funeral service seems colorful for foreigners, but it is considered disrespectful to take
photographs during cremation ceremonies. Always ask for permission before taking photos in
sensitive settings.

14. Not Respecting Silence on Nyepi Day:

On Nyepi (Day of Silence according to Hinduism belief), all outdoor activities, including talking
and using electricity, are prohibited for 24 hours. Respect the local customs and always stay
indoors during this time.

15. Entering Homes Without Permission:

Seek permission before entering someone's home (for instance, repeatedly say "Permisi!" until
someone shows up from inside). It's customary to remove shoes before entering a Balinese
house.

16. Stay Sober:

Local authorities tend to treat intoxicated persons with strictness, and moreover, it is illegal to
get drunk in any public places. Consume alcohol only in moderation, and stay away from
undesirable situations concerning beverages.

Observing these taboos helps to show respect for the local culture and traditions in Bali. It's
always a good idea to approach interactions with locals with humility, openness, and a
willingness to learn about and appreciate their customs.