New Bali Rules: Embracing Responsible Tourism

Cultural Immersion

Beyond the enchanting beaches, Bali boasts a rich tapestry of cultural traditions and customs that offers exciting opportunities for visitors. The new Bali rules aim to promote cultural immersion and understanding by requiring tourists to attend a brief orientation on Balinese traditions upon arrival. Engaging in local customs and respecting sacred sites is not only a show of courtesy but also a gateway to an authentic experience that transcends the surface allure of Bali’s tourist hotspots, including the likes of Uluwatu Temple. The new rules remind visitors to dress modestly and appropriately when visiting sacred sites including temples, and engaging in activities in Bali. It is also recommended to utilise local tour guides to many of Bali’s main attractions, in order to best garner the cultural significance, local wisdom and beauty of each site.

Move Around Safely

Taking to Bali’s network of winding roads and scenic routes is one aspect of Bali few can resist. From the North Coast Road that stretches from Denpasar to Singaraja that showcases small villages, beautiful beaches and rice paddies to waterfall routes that pass by mesmerising temples and rice terrace landscapes, no visit to Bali is complete without witnessing this undulating environment. The new Bali rules reinforce the importance of compliance with traffic laws in Indonesia. This includes possessing a valid international or national driving licence, wearing a helmet, following traffic signs, and ensuring you use a roadworthy vehicle from a legal business. Your accommodation will be the safest option to direct you to legitimate and legal businesses to hire your desired vehicle.

The team at The Ungasan can arrange a luxury vehicle for you to visit Bali’s hidden gems.

Volunteer in Bali

Whilst not a new rule as such, the notion of wholeheartedly respecting the customs and culture of the Balinese people lends itself to volunteering in Bali, enabling travellers to give back to the community while enjoying their stay. Whether it’s participating in beach clean-ups, supporting local conservation projects, or contributing to educational programs, these opportunities foster a deeper connection with Bali and its people.

Mindful Accommodation Choices

As part of Bali’s new rules, visitors are advised to stay in accommodations that hold the required permits and formal business licence according to applicable regulations. The best way to know you’re supporting legitimate businesses is to book accommodation with recognised hotels, villas and guesthouses that display their credentials clearly on their website and across social media.

Digital Detox and Mindfulness

Above all, the new rules encourage travellers to increase their efforts to reconnect with the essence of Bali and immerse themselves in the authenticity of the island. A great way to embrace this is to seek out Bali’s digital detox zones. Use this opportunity to unwind, disconnect from screens, and immerse yourself in the serenity of nature. Moreover, mindfulness workshops and meditation sessions have become more accessible, allowing you to leave the island not just rested, but with a deeper understanding of self.