With love, Bali
Tourism can be a force for good in Bali. Here are tips from the local community on how to be a responsible traveler in Bali, namely nurturing local communities, understanding and promoting Balinese culture, protecting nature and supporting the local businesses.
Golden travel tips from the local community
Bali offers a wide range of activities you can explore. We gathered some top tips from the local community to consider while you are traveling in Bali.
Stay
Slow down and spend more time in lesser-known areas to distribute the benefits of tourism to communities. Locals love to spend their personal time in Sidemen and Virgin Beach in Karangasem, Lovina beach and Lake Tambilangan in Buleleng, Amed and the Bangli region.
Eat
Enjoy authentic dishes such as *Babi guling, Balinese nasi campur, Ayam Betutu and Lawar, which are local favorites. Be friendly and polite and remember to thank the staff. You can also ask the server for the speciality menu of the restaurant and also how spicy it will be!
*Non-halal food
*Non-halal food
Shop
Support locally owned stores and businesses, and buy locally grown produce. Traditional clothes and fabrics such as Barong shirts, Kebaya and Kain Endek are beautifully and uniquely woven into Balinese culture. When you bargain, be polite and have a little humor - it’s a good idea to ask for the price first and then give your proposed price.
Experience
Eco-trekking, walking and cycling are all increasingly popular ways to gain a deeper understanding of the magic and spirit of Balinese life. Ubud, Sanur Beach, Kintamani, Karangasem, Banyu Wana, Amertha waterfall, Tulamben, Jimbaran, Suluban beach are the locals’ favorite places to enjoy nature.
The Balinese Way of Life
Bali is one of the most loved tourism destinations in the world. As visitor numbers rise, it is more important than ever that tourism is sustainable and considerate to the local communities. Here are some ways you can act on conscious tourism.
Respect local culture
Make sure you behave with care in Bali’s sacred sites, being mindful of dressing accordingly, such as sarong or long clothing. Watch out for the ceremonial offerings on the street while walking – they are very spiritual. Handing over something with your left hand or touching and pointing with your feet are considered inappropriate too.
Care for the community
Balinese people open their homes and hearts to visitors. Show them reciprocal respect by behaving politely and taking care to leave places as you found them.
Follow the rules
Be sure to use hire licensed tour guides, exchange your money in authorised establishments and behave in accordance with local rules.
Drive with care
On four wheels or two, you must comply with the applicable traffic laws in Indonesia, for the safety of yourself and others. This includes wearing a helmet when required, following traffic signs and not exceeding passenger limits.
Get to know the local language
Bahasa Indonesia (Indonesian language) is the official and national language and is used across the country. Most Indonesians also speak a local dialect (there are more than 700 in total), the most widely spoken being Javanese and Sundanese. In Bali specifically you’ll find that many locals also speak English.
Protect nature
Appreciate and protect Bali’s nature by going off the beaten path. Avoid single-use plastics and try and buy local wherever you can, supporting local businesses and contributing to the development of the local economy.
Discover local lingo
Here are examples of some of the common phrases in Bahasa Indonesia that can be useful in conversation.
Selamat Pagi
Good Morning
Apa Kabar
How Are You?
Baik-Baik
I’m Fine/Good/Great
Terima Kasih
Thank You
Ya
Yes
Tidak
No
Berapa
How much/many
Explore off the beaten path
Bali has many off-the-beaten-path destinations and hidden gems to discover. Visiting them is not only a great travel experience, but it also helps spread the benefits of tourism in more remote and rural communities.
Try local-led experiences in Bali
Discover less tourist-trodden places and authentic culture through the eyes of Balinese locals.
In partnership with Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy
Airbnb has been a co-branding partner of the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy since 2021. As one of the most loved tourism destinations in the world, Bali isn't just a destination, it’s an experience, a vibe, an emotion. As its stunning landscapes beckon visitors from around the world, the imperative for sustainable, respectful tourism is now more crucial than ever. Airbnb is committed to partner with MTCE, local hosts and global guests to travel with purpose, travel responsibly.