New Rules for Foreign Tourists in Bali: A Summary you don’t want to miss!

If you're planning a trip to Bali, it's important to stay up to date with the latest rules and regulations. Lately, some incidents have involved foreign tourists (we call them "wisman") misbehaving and breaking local norms and laws. 

As responsible travelers, it's important for us to respect the laws, customs, and culture of the destinations we visit. This includes refraining from disrupting religious ceremonies, avoiding any misbehavior, obeying traffic rules, and more, simply in order to keep the well-being and harmony of the places we explore. 

Get briefed with this list of the new guidelines set by Bali’s Governor - Mr. Wayan Koster - issued on Circular Number 4 of 2023, specifically designed for foreign tourists during their stay in Bali.

1. Preserving Sanctity and Respecting Traditions

There are five rules regarding the preservation of sacred places and religious symbols. Let's take a look at them:

• Show reverence for the sacredness of Pura (temples), Pratima (religious statues), and other holy symbols.

• Respect the customs, traditions, arts, and culture of the local Balinese community, particularly during ongoing ceremonial and religious processions.

• Dress modestly and appropriately when visiting sacred areas, tourist attractions, and public places, and throughout your activities in Bali.

• Behave politely in sacred areas, tourist spots, restaurants, shopping areas, roads, and other public places.

• When visiting tourist attractions, be accompanied by licensed tour guides who are knowledgeable of the local environment, customs, traditions, and culture.

2. Financial Transactions

Here are three rules regarding financial transactions for foreign tourists:

• Exchange your foreign currency at authorized money changers, whether they are banks or non-bank entities. Look for their official permit numbers and QR code logo they get from the Indonesian Central Bank (BI).

• Use the Indonesian Standard QR Code for payments.

• Conduct transactions using the Indonesian currency (Rupiah).

3. Traffic Regulations

When it comes to traffic rules, two specific regulations apply to driving in Bali: Observe the prevailing traffic laws in Indonesia and use roadworthy and officially registered four-wheeled or two-wheeled transportation modes provided by licensed rental services or associations.

4. Accommodation Choices

For foreign tourists visiting Bali, it is mandatory to stay at accommodation establishments that have the necessary permits as required by Indonesian laws. Additionally, you must comply with the regulations imposed on each tourist attraction and activity. Several prohibitions applicable to foreign tourists are:

• Entry to sacred sites is only permitted for prayer purposes and must be done wearing traditional Balinese attire.

• Climbing sacred trees or desecrating sacred places is strictly forbidden.

• Littering is prohibited, so is using disposable plastics. You are expected to help keep the environment clean.

• Refrain from using offensive language, behaving inappropriately, causing disturbances, or acting aggressively towards authorities, the government, local communities, or fellow tourists.

• Working or engaging in business activities without the necessary official documents issued by authorized institutions is prohibited, and so is any involvement in illegal activities such as drug trafficking.

These are the key rules outlined in Bali Circular Number 4 of 2023. Its goal is to make Bali an even better destination and attract quality tourists. So, dear wanderers, make sure you follow these guidelines and have an amazing time exploring the magical island of Bali. Remember, a little respect goes a long way!

Don't forget to discover more travel inspirations and information about Indonesia on Instagram @wonderfulindonesia. 

Happy travels!