What should do and not, in Bali
These are a few things that what you should remember to do or not do while you are in Bali, all of these is common and most are Balinese custom. Balinese mostly are shy and we smile a lot (as most of Asian people style), but that’s only the first sight, as the visitor gives a good sign to talk more, Balinese loves to ask more and more. The most common question is “Where you from?”, then other question will follow, if you enjoy the conversation you can go ahead, if not, use your own consideration to finish it.
Dress code
This is not for party, Balinese as in much of Asia, shorts are not considered polite attire for men or women. But things are different in Kuta Beach and all other beach resort, shorts and singlets have become part of daily life. In this case many women go topless in Kuta but do not try in other island, for example Lombok.
Everything totally different if you visit Temples or Government offices, you are expected to be dress properly use temple sarong for temple visit and think just like in your home if you go to Police office or in Government Offices.
Behaviour
Do not touch somebody’s head, especially when you just know each other or to older people, for Balinese and most of Asian, head is sacred, regarded to be abode of the soul.
Handing over or receiving things with right hands is also considered polite, but opposite for the left hand. However, using both hands is to show great respect to the elder’s person.
It is also not polite if you talk to someone with your hands on your hip, which is considered a sign of contempt, anger or aggressiveness.
Pedestrian tips
Walks in Bali is not very popular, people are most mobiling using their motorbike or bike, the logical reasons are may be because of the strong tense of the sun, most people are comfort with their Jacket (which look very strange for the westerner) to block the sun. Other reason may be because of the lack of public transportation route. Ok, here are the tips, walks on the left side (Indonesian default side of driving), and if you see any offering on the ground, walk around it.
Motor Bike Rider
Today I saw, a couple of tourist using an automatic motor bike rides and stop at the traffic light on the white stripe, which is forbidden (as it is for the pedestrians to cross), and they just go on before the green lights on. I though they were both crazy. They may be heard about the crazy way of Balinese people ride, but that’s what I mention is just too far. They were very lucky that the police was not on the place.
But let me tell you, if you new in Bali, see what and how we do, and not based on story.
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