Planning to visit the Island of Gods? Behavior, gestures, politeness, beliefs and rituals… To avoid cultural missteps and blend in respectfully, we've compiled a list of the 8 things you absolutely should not do during a trip to Bali.

1. Disrespecting Sacred Sites

We touched on this in an article some months ago: Bali expects its visitors to show respect for its sacred temples in order to preserve its local traditions. It is forbidden to enter a main temple without permission or an invitation from a local. Dress appropriately by covering your shoulders with a selendang and your knees with a sarong (tourist temples usually lend these at the entrance). Don't touch anything and do not climb on religious structures. During a ceremony, be discreet, do not disturb the faithful, and never position yourself higher than a priest (on stairs, a wall, etc.). Finally, pregnant women, menstruating women, or those who have recently given birth are not permitted to enter a temple as they are considered "impure" in the eyes of the Hindu religion.

2. Touching a Balinese Person's Head

For reasons of belief, it is highly disrespectful to touch a Balinese person's head (even children's!). In Hinduism, the head is considered the most sacred part of the body because it houses the soul.

3. Crossing Your Arms and Putting Your Hands on Your Hips

Another gesture to avoid so as not to disturb Balinese customs: crossing your arms or placing your hands on your hips when speaking or waiting for something. These are impolite behaviors in Bali that convey contempt or anger toward the people around you.

4. Pointing Your Finger and Extending Your Left Hand

Similarly, it is forbidden in Balinese culture to point at something with your finger. Also, when a local gives you something, extend your right hand to receive it. Rest assured, locals won't hold it against you if you happen to forget to practice this new habit!

   

5. Not Removing Your Shoes

As in many Asian countries, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering a building (whether it's a religious structure, a private home, certain bars and restaurants, etc.). And the Island of Gods is no exception to this rule since, like in Buddhism, Hinduism considers feet to be the most impure part of the body. So never forget to leave your shoes outside!

6. Displaying Yourself in Public

While visiting a Balinese temple requires appropriate attire, the same applies to the rest of the island. The Balinese are very modest, and it is highly frowned upon to walk around in light clothing such as wearing a bikini in the street. For the same reasons, it is strongly advised against going topless on the beach.

7. Losing Your Temper in Public

A lack of self-control is not well perceived by the Balinese. Thus, never lose your temper in public, don't get irritated, don't raise your voice and keep smiling! Even if you think you have good reason to! Remember that from one culture to another, perceptions are never the same. For example, the Balinese tend to laugh when they are uncomfortable or prefer to say yes to a question they don't know the answer to.

   

8. Taking Photos of Locals Without Permission

If you wish to photograph Balinese people in their daily lives, ask for their permission before pulling out your camera! It's common sense, but many tourists continue to do it... Also know that in certain tourist spots (such as the Tegalalang rice terraces near Ubud), some farmers offer to have their photo taken by tourists in exchange for a few coins. It would be considered disrespectful to photograph them without their knowledge…

Florine Dergelet