Your Budget 7-Day Bali Itinerary: Ubud, Temples & Volcano Hike

“Owing to overtourism and Bali's attractiveness as a cheap, mass-market tourist destination, some visitors end up doing stupid things in Bali. Now, more than ever, they are likely to be caught and punished. In February 2024, the Balinese government launched a new tourist police unit to deal with troublemaking foreigners. As of April 2024, this force comprises over 70 officers. In 2023, the Balinese government deported 340 foreigners for overstaying visas, working illegally, and behaving inappropriately at sacred places such as temples. This is an increase of 80% over the number of deportations for 2022. It goes without saying that foreign visitors should behave respectfully when visiting sacred sites, and, if you encounter police, follow their instructions and keep your cool.”

Wikivoyage: Bali · Wikivoyage

“An empty throne of Sanghyang Widi Wasa, with poleng cloth and tedung umbrella, Ubud The Balinese are master sculptors. Temples and courtyards are replete with statues of gods and goddesses like Dewi Sri, the goddess of rice and fertility, as well as guardians and protecting demons like toothy Rakasa, armed with a club. These days though, entire villages like Batubulan have twigged onto the tourist potential and churn out everything imaginable from Buddhas to couples entwined in acrobatic poses for the export and souvenir market. Balinese dance and music are also just as famous and a major attraction for visitors to the...”

Wikivoyage: Bali · Wikivoyage

“thumb|Behind the cuddly façade lies a cunning thief Bali is, in general, a safe destination, and few visitors encounter any real problems. Bali was the scene of lethal terrorist bombings in 2002 and 2005, with both waves of attacks targeting nightclubs and restaurants popular among foreign visitors. Security is consequently tight at obvious targets, but it is of course impossible to protect oneself fully against terrorism. If it is any reassurance, the Balinese themselves—who depend on tourism for their livelihood—deplored the bombings and the terrorists behind them for the terrible suffering they have caused on this peaceful island. As a visitor, it is important to put the risk in perspective: Bali's roads are statistically far more dangerous than even the deadliest bomb. It may still be prudent to avoid high-profile Western hangouts, especially those without security measures. The paranoid or just security-conscious may wish to head out of the tourist enclaves of South Bali to elsewhere on the island. Bali is increasingly enforcing Indonesia's harsh penalties against the import, export, trafficking and possession of illegal drugs, including marijuana, ecstasy, cocaine and heroin. Several high-profile arrests of foreigners have taken place in Bali since 2004, and a number have been sentenced to lengthy prison terms or (very rarely) execution. Even the possession of a small amount of drugs for personal use puts you at risk of a trial and prison sentence. Watch out for seemingly harmless street boys looking to sell you drugs (marijuana, ecstasy, cocaine, etc.). More often than not, they are working with undercover police and will try to sell you drugs so that they can then get uniformed officers onto you. The police officers will (if you are lucky) demand a bribe for your release, or, more likely, look for a far larger payday by taking you into custody. Just avoid Bali's drug scene at all costs. The unfortunate people who are caught...”

Wikivoyage: Bali · Wikivoyage

“There are reports of cases involving aggressive porters at the dock demanding excessive payments when you are waiting to board the ferry. To be safe, do not allow anyone else to carry your luggage. There have also been cases with local taxi drivers/touts becoming extremely aggressive and threatening violence if they learn you are going to use Uber/Grab taxi/go-jek. Reports of locals ganging together and opening doors, shouting and dragging bags out of the cars to prevent you using the taxi apps. Be careful as it is extremely intimidating.”

Wikivoyage: Padang Bai · Wikivoyage

“The safety advice given here applies more in Kuta than anywhere else in Bali. Take heed, have fun, but be sensible. * Swimming safety is extremely important in Kuta. It is prohibited to swim near the special flags, that are placed where currents are especially strong. Always swim between the red and yellow flags, where the lifeguards have deemed it safest. Do not swim out too far as the waves and currents here are stronger than you might expect and change very rapidly. The sea water in Kuta can be filthy and you should try not to swim in the obviously polluted areas. * * Watch your belongings at the beach, better yet do not bring your valuables to the beach if you intend to swim or surf. * Touts and scammers will constantly look for their chance. Be wary of deals. If its sounds too good to be true then it probably is. When walking alone (especially down Jl Pantai Kuta and Jl Legian) you will be hassled by touts offering transport on motorbikes. Generally this is harmless and can be used as a means of getting around, although the shear volume of touts offering transport can be an annoyance. Remember to stay calm and don't be pressured into buying anything you don't want. * Drunken Australians are mostly friendly, but occasionally you might find the odd dickhead looking to start a fight. * At night, drunk driving & big potholes in the streets are a problem, so be very aware of road safety after dark, and don't do foolish things with motorbikes. * Drugs should be avoided in Kuta (and all of Indonesia). Punishments for possession are harsh and there have been a number of arrests of tourists over the years. Beware of unsavoury touts offering drugs (often after initially offering transport). These "dealers" are often working with the police in order to get small payouts for arrests. Say "no" and walk away. * Pickpockets have been known to be a problem outside bars, specifically on Jalan Legian (Sky Garden, et al.) One...”

Wikivoyage: Kuta · Wikivoyage