We understand that you may have seen a flurry of travel advise from various governments around the world, not just Australia. This can be unsettling when you’re planning a trip to a place you’ve always dreamed of visiting. However, it’s crucial to look beyond the headlines and understand the full context of these advisories.
We know that official travel advisories can sound alarming. Governments are dedicated to keeping their citizens safe, and that’s a good thing. However, sometimes the language used in these warnings can be a bit more cautious than necessary, causing a lot of worry for travelers.
When the Smartraveller site issued a new travel warning for Indonesia in May 2025, it created a stir. But should you really be concerned? Let’s break down what the advisory says and what it truly means for your holiday in Bali.
Deciphering the Advisory
The official advice suggests a “high degree of caution” when traveling to Indonesia. It also includes several key points:
- Visas and Passports: A reminder to understand visa requirements and that damaged passports, even with minor tears or water damage, may result in denied entry.
- Cultural Respect: A warning to follow the Bali Provincial Government’s list of do’s and don’ts, noting that disrespecting local culture or religious sites could lead to criminal penalties or deportation.
- Safety Concerns: Mentions of drinks potentially being spiked or containing toxic substances like methanol, as well as the risk of drowning on unpatrolled beaches.
So, how do these points apply to your Bali getaway?
A “High Degree of Caution”?
The advisory specifically mentions provinces like Papua and Papua Highlands, which are experiencing political unrest. It’s important to remember that these areas are over 2,500 kilometers from Bali. The two islands have very different cultures, languages, and political situations. Bali remains a peaceful and stable tourist destination. While petty crime exists, just as it does in any major city around the world, it’s minimal and easily avoided with common-sense precautions.
The warning also mentions boat safety, but a boat trip is not necessary for a fantastic Bali holiday. The island itself is large and filled with countless attractions. We do agree with the advice to check for volcanic activity, as eruptions can sometimes delay flights, but they pose a very low direct threat to visitors on the island.
Passports and Do’s & Don’ts
We can’t emphasize this enough: always travel with a passport in perfect condition. Indonesia has strict standards, and it’s always wise to replace a damaged passport before you fly, regardless of your destination.
As for the do’s and don’ts, this is simply a call for respectful tourism. The Balinese people are known for their warmth and hospitality. However, a small number of incidents—often amplified on social media—have shown a lack of respect for local customs, particularly at sacred temples. Follow the common-sense guidelines, and you’ll find that the Balinese are welcoming hosts, not people looking for an excuse to deport visitors. The occasional deportation you hear about is typically for very serious offenses, not minor cultural missteps.
The Methanol Warning
The risk of methanol poisoning is a real concern, but it’s also one of the easiest to avoid. The issue stems from improperly brewed local spirits, known as arak, which can become contaminated with methanol. This usually happens when tourists buy cheap, unregulated alcohol from back-alley vendors.The solution is simple: buy your drinks from reputable establishments. At White Rock Beach Club, all our alcohol comes directly from trusted, commercial suppliers, ensuring every drink is safe to enjoy. If you purchase your beverages from well-known bars, restaurants, clubs, or supermarkets, you will not encounter this issue.
Swimming and Safety
The advisory notes the dangers of swimming at unpatrolled beaches. It’s true that some of Bali’s beaches, particularly along the southern coast, have strong rip currents. However, you don’t need to swim in the ocean to cool off.Almost every hotel and guesthouse has a swimming pool, and of course, you can join us at White Rock Beach Club for a swim in our spectacular oceanfront infinity pool. Here, you can enjoy a refreshing dip or sip a cocktail while taking in one of Bali’s famous sunsets without any worry.
Bali’s Government Take Action
The Governor’s Response: A Commitment to Public Safety
In response to the recent isolated protest, Bali’s government, under Governor Wayan Koster, took immediate and decisive action. The Governor has consistently demonstrated a commitment to ensuring the island remains a peaceful and safe haven for both locals and tourists. Following the singular event on September 2nd, the Governor’s office released a statement reassuring the public that Bali remains secure.
This proactive and measured response highlights the government’s dedication to maintaining a stable environment. The swift action and clear communication serve as a powerful testament to the fact that any potential issues are addressed quickly and efficiently, with the safety of residents and visitors as the top priority.
FAQ
Yes, Bali is very safe for tourists. As with any travel destination, there are minor, almost zero risks, but the vast majority of visitors have a completely problem-free experience.
There is no “bad” time to visit Bali. Some tourists choose to avoid Nyepi, the day of silence, when the entire island shuts down for a day of quiet contemplation. However, many visitors find this an enjoyable and unique cultural experience.
The most common issue is “Bali Belly,” a general term for stomach issues that are typically a short-lived bug. Other risks include minor traffic accidents, petty theft, and scams at unofficial money changers, which are all easily avoided by being cautious and using reputable services.
Yes, White Rock Beach Club is located in Ungasan, approximately 30 kilometers away from the city center of Denpasar, where the isolated protest took place. Our guests were completely unaffected and could continue to enjoy their day in paradise without any disruption.
