Bali, the “Island of the Gods,” is a paradise known for its lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and serene spirituality. To fully enjoy all that this enchanting island has to offer, it’s essential to prioritize your health and safety. By being mindful of local customs and taking a few key precautions, you can ensure your trip is filled with happy memories, not unwanted illnesses or accidents.
Here is a comprehensive guide to the healthy tourist’s do’s and don’ts in Bali.
Do’s for a Healthy and Safe Bali Trip
1. Do Your Health Homework Before You Go
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Vaccinations: Consult with a doctor or travel clinic 4-6 weeks before your trip to ensure all your routine vaccinations (such as MMR and Tdap) are up to date. They may also recommend additional vaccines for diseases common in Southeast Asia, like Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and typhoid.
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Medical Kit: Pack a small travel first-aid kit with essentials like pain relievers, anti-diarrheal medication, oral rehydration salts (ORS), and any personal prescription medications. A copy of your prescription is a wise idea.
2. Hydrate Wisely and Eat Smart
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Drink Bottled or Filtered Water: Never drink tap water in Bali. Stick to sealed bottled water or use a water bottle with a built-in filter. Use this safe water for brushing your teeth as well.
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Be Mindful of Food: While Bali’s culinary scene is a delight, it’s crucial to be cautious. Choose reputable restaurants and opt for freshly cooked, hot food. Be careful with street food, and look for stalls with high turnover.When it comes to fruits and vegetables, stick to those you can peel yourself or ensure they have been washed with purified water.
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Embrace Local, Healthy Cuisine: Balinese cuisine is often rich in fresh, local ingredients with anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties like ginger and turmeric. Explore healthy dining options and don’t be afraid to try nutritious dishes like gado-gado (a traditional vegetable salad) or freshly caught fish.
3. Protect Yourself from the Elements and Wildlife
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Sun Protection: The Balinese sun is intense year-round. Use a high-SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen (30+) and reapply it frequently, especially after swimming. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and seek shade during the peak sun hours of 10 am to 4 pm.
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Mosquito Protection: Dengue fever is present in Bali. Apply insect repellent with DEET or picaridin, especially at dawn and dusk. Wear light-colored, long-sleeved clothing in the evenings to minimize bites.
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Be Cautious Around Animals: Avoid petting stray dogs or feeding wild monkeys. Both can carry diseases like rabies. If you are bitten or scratched, wash the wound thoroughly and seek immediate medical attention.
4. Exercise Caution with Activities
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Driving: Bali’s roads can be hazardous. If you plan on renting a scooter, always wear a helmet and ensure you have an international driving permit. It’s often safer and more convenient to hire a local driver or use ride-hailing apps like Grab.
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Swimming: Be aware of strong rip currents and swim only in designated areas. Observe beach flags and avoid swimming when the water is rough.
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Reputable Operators: When booking tours or activities like diving or trekking, use licensed and reputable operators with proper safety equipment and trained guides.
Don’ts to Avoid Health and Safety Risks
1. Don’t Drink Tap Water (or Unsafe Ice)
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This is the number one rule to prevent “Bali Belly” (traveler’s diarrhea). Be cautious of ice in drinks, especially from street vendors, as it may not be made from purified water. Reputable hotels and restaurants generally use safe ice, but it’s always wise to ask.
2. Don’t Overlook Alcohol Safety
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Be cautious with cocktails and drinks made with local spirits, such as arak. There have been cases of methanol poisoning from contaminated alcohol. Stick to reputable licensed establishments and well-known brands. Never leave your drink unattended.
3. Don’t Disrespect the Culture
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Bali’s culture is a huge part of its appeal. Show respect by dressing modestly when visiting temples and sacred sites.Don’t enter temples if you are menstruating. Avoid touching a Balinese person’s head, as it is considered sacred.These aren’t just cultural guidelines, but a way to ensure a peaceful and respectful interaction with the local community.
4. Don’t Engage in Illegal Activities
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Drugs: Indonesia has extremely strict drug laws, including for cannabis and prescription medications that are illegal in the country. Penalties are severe, so do not buy, sell, or consume illegal substances.
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Scams: Be vigilant for scams, especially when exchanging money. Use authorized money changers that display a Bank of Indonesia logo and a QR code. Be wary of offers that seem too good to be true.
By following these simple do’s and don’ts, you can navigate Bali with confidence, stay healthy, and fully immerse yourself in the magic of this beautiful island.
