Importance Score: 65 / 100 🔴
Bali Issues Stern Warning to Tourists with New Conduct Guidelines
Bali, a sought-after holiday island for many, has implemented a stringent set of guidelines for tourists, accompanied by a firm warning of potential legal action for violations. The popular Indonesian destination, renowned for its vibrant nightlife and cultural heritage, is proactively addressing concerns about visitor behaviour to preserve its unique identity and respect local traditions. With hundreds of thousands of British travellers and even more Australians annually flocking to its shores, Bali’s authorities aim to ensure tourism remains both sustainable and culturally sensitive.
Crackdown on Inappropriate Behaviour
The move comes in response to increasing unease regarding tourist behaviour at sacred Hindu sites and temples across the island. Governor Wayan Koster introduced these updated regulations on March 24th, building upon previous measures. He emphasized the need for adaptation, stating, “This ensures that Bali’s tourism remains respectful, sustainable, and in harmony with our local values.” The core objective is to foster responsible tourism and protect the island’s cultural sanctity.
New Rules Enforced by Special Task Force
These new rules were announced prior to Nyepi, a significant Balinese holiday requiring island-wide indoor confinement. Governor Koster stressed the immediate implementation of these measures and the establishment of a dedicated task force to oversee and enforce them rigorously. He cautioned that “Foreign tourists who are naughty will be immediately dealt with firmly,” indicating a zero-tolerance approach to misbehaviour.
Recent Deportations Highlight Seriousness
Bali has recently increased its efforts to curb unruly tourist antics, resulting in several high-profile deportations. Notable cases include the deportation of a Russian tourist in 2023 for indecent exposure at a sacred tree and a Canadian actor in 2022 who faced similar consequences after performing a naked Haka dance atop the holy Mount Batur.
Despite issuing a public apology, the Canadian actor’s deportation reinforced Bali’s warning of “legal consequences” for disrespecting local customs and sacred sites. These incidents serve as stark reminders to visitors about expected standards of conduct.
Key Guidelines for Visitors
Dress Code and Conduct
Tourists in Bali must now strictly adhere to revised guidelines encompassing various aspects of conduct:
- Modest and respectful attire in public spaces is mandatory.
- Use of offensive language or impoliteness is prohibited.
- Dissemination of “hate speech or misinformation on social media” is forbidden.
Environmental Protections
Bali’s regulations also extend to environmental protection:
- Single-use plastics are banned.
- Beverages in plastic packaging are prohibited.
Cultural and Religious Respect
Respect for Balinese culture and traditions is paramount, particularly during ceremonies. Visitors must:
- Observe Balinese customs and traditions with reverence.
- Refrain from climbing sacred trees and monuments.
Tourist Levy Introduced for Cultural Preservation
To further safeguard its cultural and natural heritage, Bali has introduced a mandatory tourist levy. This fee, detailed on the official tourism website, is specifically earmarked for “protecting the culture and natural environment of Bali.”
The one-time payment of 150,000 Indonesian rupiah, approximately £7, is compulsory for all visitors. Non-compliance will result in restrictions on accessing Bali’s tourist attractions.
Police to Monitor Tourist Compliance
Governor Wayan Koster affirmed that the Balinese police will actively monitor tourists to ensure adherence to the island’s updated rules.
“Bali is a beautiful, sacred island, and we expect our guests to show the same respect that we extend to them,” he stated, underscoring the importance of mutual respect between hosts and visitors.
Bali’s Dos for Tourists
- Respect sacred sites and symbols.
- Dress appropriately and modestly.
- Behave respectfully in all public and religious places.
- Pay the tourist levy via the official Love Bali website.
- Utilize licensed tour guides for visits to cultural and natural sites.
- Exchange currency only at authorized money exchangers.
- Comply with traffic laws, including mandatory helmet use on motorbikes.
- Use legal transportation options, such as licensed car rentals.
- Stay in officially licensed accommodations.
Bali’s Don’ts for Tourists
- Do not enter sacred temple areas (Utamaning Mandala & Madyaning Mandala) unless for worship and wearing traditional Balinese attire. Menstruating women are also prohibited from these areas.
- Do not climb sacred trees or monuments.
- Do not litter or pollute the island’s environment.
- Do not use single-use plastics.
- Do not exhibit aggressive or disrespectful behaviour.
- Do not work or operate a business without the correct visa.
- Do not engage in any illegal activities.