Bali really is magical—lush rice terraces, beach sunsets, and daily ceremonies that make the island feel alive in a way that’s hard to describe until you’re there. And like any place that welcomes millions of visitors, Bali also comes with a few surprises (some delightful… some best avoided).

This guide covers seven very real, very practical things to know before you land—so you can enjoy the Island of the Gods with confidence, respect, and a lot less “wait… what?” along the way.

The 7 Bali Details Tourists Should Know Before They Arrive

1) Balinese Hinduism Is Everywhere (In the Best Way)

Indonesia is majority Muslim, but Bali is famously different—the island’s Hindu tradition shapes daily life, architecture, holidays, and even the sidewalks.

What that means for you as a visitor:

• Offerings are everywhere. You’ll see small palm-leaf trays with flowers, incense, and snacks on sidewalks and doorsteps. They’re beautiful—and also sacred. Try not to step on them.
• Ceremonies aren’t “tourist shows.” Parades, temple processions, and prayer days happen constantly. You may stumble into one on a random Tuesday. That’s normal—and it’s part of what makes Bali feel so special.
• Nyepi (Balinese New Year) is a true shutdown. It’s a Day of Silence: people stay indoors, lights stay low, and even the airport closes for the day. If your dates overlap, plan for a quiet, meaningful “reset” day.

Warm tip: If you see a ceremony, watch respectfully from the side, keep voices low, and don’t block pathways. A little courtesy goes a long way here.

2) Temple Rules Are Real—And One Rule Can Surprise Visitors

Most travelers want to visit at least one temple in Bali (and you should—it’s unforgettable). But temples are active places of worship, not just attractions, and etiquette matters.

Temple basics (the easy wins):

• Dress modestly: cover shoulders and knees. Many temples provide sarongs/sashes, but it’s smart to carry your own lightweight sarong.
• Don’t climb shrines, pose disrespectfully, or treat sacred spaces like a photo set. Bali has formal visitor guidelines emphasizing respectful behavior at temples and sacred sites.

The rule that surprises some Western visitors:
Bali’s official tourist guidance states that menstruating women are prohibited from entering certain sacred temple areas, tied to local religious beliefs about purity. Love Bali

If this applies to you, the simplest approach is:

• Choose a different activity that day (Bali has infinite options), or
• Visit temple outer grounds where permitted, and save the inner sanctum for another time.

This isn’t about awkward interrogation—it’s about respecting local practice in sacred places. (And yes, it can feel culturally jarring; you can still handle it with calm, privacy, and grace.)

3) ATM Skimmers & Payment Scams: Protect Your Cards

Bali is generally easy for money—ATMs, card terminals, and cash are everywhere in tourist zones. But skimming and “oops” charges can happen, especially around standalone street ATMs or questionable payment terminals.

Safer Bali money habits:

• Use ATMs inside a bank branch, inside a mall, or in well-monitored places (cameras/security).
• Cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
• Avoid “helpful strangers” hovering near the machine.
• Turn on bank alerts and set a lower daily withdrawal limit while traveling.
• Keep one backup card stored separately from your main wallet.

Quick reality check: You don’t need to be paranoid—just intentional. Bali is amazing, and most travelers have zero issues. This is simply one of those “travel smart everywhere” categories.

4) Motorbike/Scooter Driving: It’s Convenient… and It’s the #1 Tourist Injury Generator

Scooters are cheap and everywhere—and they can also go sideways fast if you’re not already comfortable riding.

Before you rent:

• Only ride if you already know how. Bali is not the place to learn by trial and error.
• Wear a helmet every time (a real one, properly strapped).
• Don’t ride if you’ve been drinking. Ever.
• Assume other drivers don’t see you and won’t yield.

Also: Bali has ongoing concerns about scooter accidents and traffic discipline, and foreign visitors can run into legal/insurance headaches after crashes. Some travel advisories explicitly warn about the rise in moped accidents (including fatal ones).

Best ROI safety move: If you’re unsure, hire a driver for day trips or use reputable ride services in busy areas. You’ll still have a fantastic time—without risking a vacation-ending accident.

5) Nighttime in Tourist Areas: Keep It Fun, Keep It Smart

Bali nightlife is a blast—beach bars, live music, night markets, late-night food runs. But after dark, basic street smarts matter more, especially in crowded areas.

A few habits that prevent most problems:

• Keep your phone away from the road (snatch-and-grab theft can happen from passing motorbikes).
• Use a crossbody bag worn to the front in dense crowds.
• Avoid walking alone late at night on quiet roads—especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.
• If you’re on a scooter at night, don’t keep valuables loose in pockets or an open bag.

If you do feel uneasy, remember: Balinese locals are often extremely helpful—ask a staff member, security guard, or a nearby family-run shop for assistance getting a safe ride.

About Old Man’s (Canggu)

The original post mentioned Old Man’s in Canggu. It is currently operating and actively publishing events (weekly nights, schedules, and market listings). Old Man’s
(Always check the venue’s own channels before you go, since schedules can change seasonally.)

6) Drug Laws: Bali Is Not the Place to “Test the Waters”

This one is simple, and it’s serious: do not use illegal drugs in Bali.

Indonesia has harsh penalties for possession and trafficking, including long prison sentences, heavy fines, and—depending on circumstances and quantities—possible life imprisonment or the death penalty under Indonesian law. Indonesia Travel

Travel advisories also warn that:

• Police may raid venues associated with drug activity, including in Bali.
• People can be required to take drug tests if authorities suspect use.

If someone offers you something in a tourist area, the best response is always the same: no, and keep walking.

7) Arak (Balinese Moonshine) & Methanol: Drink Smart

Arak can be delicious—and in the right hands, it’s part of Bali’s local tradition. The risk isn’t “arak” itself; the risk is unregulated or adulterated alcohol, which can contain methanol (dangerous and potentially fatal).

Multiple government travel advisories warn about drink spiking and methanol poisoning risks in Indonesia, including Bali.

How to lower your risk dramatically:

• Choose licensed venues (hotels, established restaurants, reputable bars).
• Be cautious with unusually cheap cocktails, mystery “happy shots,” or unlabelled bottles.
• Prefer sealed beer/cider cans or bottles when you’re unsure.
• Don’t leave drinks unattended, and watch them being poured/mixed when possible.

If you or a friend suddenly feels very unwell (confusion, vomiting, vision changes), seek medical help immediately—don’t “sleep it off.”

Bonus 2026 Travel Update (Worth Knowing)

Because you asked for an updated post: a few Bali/Indonesia rules have been getting more attention lately.

• Bali Tourist Levy: Bali’s official site states foreign tourists pay IDR 150,000 per person, and it’s encouraged to pay online before arrival (cashless options listed).
• Tourist behavior guidelines: Bali has reinforced “do’s and don’ts” for visitors, including temple etiquette and respectful conduct.
• Indonesia criminal code update: Some travel advisories note Indonesia’s revised criminal code took effect January 2, 2026, including provisions related to cohabitation/sex outside marriage that are complaint-based. If you’re concerned, read the advisory relevant to your nationality and travel situation. Smartraveller

Related Questions

Is it safe to drive a scooter in Bali?

Many people do and leave fine—but it’s one of the most common ways tourists get injured. If you ride, wear a helmet, don’t drink, drive defensively, and be honest about your skill level. Travel advisories specifically warn about serious (sometimes fatal) moped accidents in Bali.

What is the main religion in Indonesia and Bali?

Indonesia is majority Muslim, while Bali is predominantly Hindu, and that shapes daily life—from offerings to ceremonies to temple etiquette. Love Bali

Is arak safe to drink?

Arak from reputable, regulated sources can be fine. The bigger concern is unregulated alcohol and the documented risk of methanol poisoning in Indonesia, including Bali. Stick to licensed venues and be wary of suspiciously cheap spirits.

Final Thought

Bali doesn’t require fear—just a little cultural awareness and practical travel sense. Respect the island, ride only if you’re truly comfortable, be smart with money and nightlife, and Bali will reward you with the kind of trip people talk about for years.