Bali is a province of Indonesia and the westernmost of the Lesser Sunda Islands. East of Java and west of Lombok. The provincial capital, Denpasar, is the most populous city in the Lesser Sunda Islands and the second-largest in Eastern Indonesia. Bali is Indonesia’s main tourist destination, with a significant rise in tourism since the 1980s. Tourism-related business makes up 80% of its economy.
Warnings & Dangers in Bali
OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM
Bali is generally a safe place to travel. As elsewhere, here you need to keep track of your belongings, do not walk around the city late at night, and do not sit in nightclubs for a long time.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM
Use only licensed taxi services. Make sure the driver turns on the taximeter or negotiate a fare in advance. If you are traveling by car or moped, be very careful as the island's movement is very chaotic.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : MEDIUM
Wallet and bag thefts often occur at intersections when thieves on mopeds snatch bags from their hands. Also, be careful on the beaches - do not leave personal items unattended when you go swimming.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : LOW
Bali is at risk of volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and tsunamis. These misfortunes happen on the island from time to time. Study the weather conditions before your visit here.
MUGGING RISK : LOW
The risk of serious robbery and armed attack on Bali is shallow. Avoid communicating with suspicious individuals and not walking late at night in remote areas from the city center.
TERRORISM RISK : MEDIUM
There is a risk of terrorist attacks in Bali because they happened in the past. Do not take part in rallies, avoid large crowds, and not sit in bars for long periods.
SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM
Island scams are related to rental housing, where you may be offered to rent a property that someone else has rented. Be careful and only rent your home through licensed resellers.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : LOW
Women traveling alone can feel safe in Bali. The main thing is to take precautions and not walk alone late at night, especially at bars and beaches.
How Safe Is Bali for Tourists?
Bali has an average crime rate.
The main problems here are petty theft, burglary of cars and homes, fraud, and corruption.
In the Changu-Seminyak area, there are frequent cases of thieves on mopeds breaking bags with tourists.
Be especially careful in this area near roads and intersections.
Terrorist attacks against tourists took place on the island.
And although a lot of time has passed since then, it is better not to lose vigilance.
It would help if you were especially careful in areas with nightlife and entertainment.
If you are traveling in your car, hire a local driver – the traffic on the island is hazardous and chaotic.
Do not mess with drugs – they are illegal here.
Don’t be tempted to try them in a nightclub or on the beach.
This can have serious consequences for you, up to and including imprisonment.
If you see a red flag planted in the sand, do not swim there, as they are a warning of dangerous rip currents.
These currents can pull you out to sea with alarming speed, and even the strongest swimmers cannot swim against them.
Book your accommodation through licensed intermediaries.
The island has seen a rise in fraudulent rental fraud that does not belong to the people who offer it.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Bali?
Most visitors to Indonesia may enter without a visa. However, some countries must first obtain a visa from one of the Indonesian diplomatic missions before entering Indonesia. A valid passport is a must.
Which Currency Is Used in Bali?
The rupiah (Rp) is the official currency of Indonesia. Sometimes, Indonesians also informally use the word “perak” (“silver” in Indonesian) in referring to rupiah in coins. The rupiah is divided into 100 sen, although high inflation has rendered all coins and banknotes denominated in sen obsolete.
How's the Weather like in Bali?
Bali has a tropical climate appropriate to its proximity to the equator. Year-round temperatures averaging 31 degrees Celsius. High humidity can be expected during the Wet Season between October – April.
What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Bali?
Bali Ngurah Rai International Airport, also known as Denpasar International Airport, is located in southern Bali, 13 km south of Denpasar.
Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?
A travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country or city. Make sure you got it before starting your journey; the customs officer may ask for it.
What Are Some Things to Do in Bali?
Bali is an Indonesian island known for its forested volcanic mountains, iconic rice paddies, beaches, and coral reefs. The island is home to religious sites such as the cliffside Uluwatu Temple. To the south, the beachside city of Kuta has lively bars, while Seminyak, Sanur, and Nusa Dua are popular resort towns. The island is also known for its yoga and meditation retreats.
Is the Water in Bali Safe to Drink?
Tap water is not drinkable on Bali. You should buy bottled water or boil tap water.
Is Uber Safe in Bali?
There is no Uber taxi on Bali. You can use any other local taxi services.
