Travelling to a new location. Especially one that’s abroad can be a great way to experience a completely different culture and environment. Bali is a tropical paradise worth visiting at least once in any avid travellers life. The experience is definitely worth the trip and the culinary experience – even more so. So if you’re a first-timer in the Bali who wants to learn the basics for an ideal trip to Bali, this guide is for you.

5. Beware of Scams in Bali

Even though Bali natives are generally very friendly and helpful, there are always a few bad apples everywhere. Refrain from talking to strangers, especially if they seem suspicious to you. Although Bali is one of the safest places in the country to be. Women who are travelling alone need to be more careful. Do not accept any sort of ‘prizes’ or ‘offers’ that you may get tossed on the streets by individuals. 

4. NEVER order shellfish from a place where very few or no people are eating 

Bali is THE place to be if you love some good seafood. Especially shellfish, in fact, Bali is home to 20+ different kinds. But be warned that unlike most seafood, shellfish can be refrigerated for days on end with no way of visually telling whether it’s fit for consumption or not. Some restaurants try to cut costs and do just that. You can end up with severe food poisoning that could last you a day or two. 

A general rule of thumb is ‘If it tastes/smells funny – don’t eat it’.

3. The Lifeguard is your friend

Any trip to Bali is incomplete without a day or two at the beach. But if you’re the adventurous type then you ought to practice caution. The slow riding waves might look tempting. But they could also be the last thing you ever see. 

Your lifeguard knows what’s best – so always avoid swimming at isolated beaches. Also, be sure that you don’t swim near any rocks as the waves tend to be pretty unpredictable. 

2. Respect religious customs

The Balinese take their religious roots very seriously. Don’t get too salty when a street is blocked off for a ceremony or your driver pulls over mid-trip to make a blessing – this is all part of the magic of the island. 

Plan accordingly if your travel dates fall on Nyepi when everything in Bali (even the airport) shuts down for the day. Dress modestly and conduct yourself appropriately when visiting temples and holy sites.

1. Learn some local lingo

A few basic words of Bahasa Indonesia will take you a long way in Bali. Try selamat pagi (good morning), tolong (please) and terima kasih (thank you), for starters.