Journal

Bali Rule of Thumb

While Bali may be a tourist destination, most of what we see and experience is sacred to the Balinese Hindus. Be mindful of this as you travel around the island. Respect others.

Meeting People

1. Do not touch anyone’s head.
2. Avoid giving or receiving anything with your left hand.
3. In a local market, realize that a small amount might make a significant difference for vendors. Be kind.
4. Do not forget to grin. It goes a long way.

Visiting Temple

1. Wear a sarong with a sash.
2. Avoid wearing a singlet.
3. Menstruating women may not enter temples.
4. Only prayers can enter the temple’s inner sanctum (jeroan).
5. Do not disrupt religious processions or be obtrusive during prayers.
6. Do not climb any shrines or altars, or the stairs leading to them.
7. Do not walk on or move any offerings.
8. If you enjoyed your visit, please leave a donation.

The Golden Guidelines

1. If you wouldn’t do it at home. Don’t do it here.
2. When in doubt, don’t be afraid to ask.

The Local Language

The easiest way to connect with any native, whether in Bali or any destination, is to speak their language! Here is a list of simple Balinese phrases to use while exploring the island. This language are taken based from basabali.org.

How To Speak Like A Local

1. Rahajeng semeng / siang / wengi – Good morning / afternoon / evening
2. Om Swastyastu – May all be well with you
3. Kenken kabare? – How are you?
4. Becik – I’m fine
5. Nyen adanne? – What is your name?
6. Adan tiange (name) – My name is (name)
7. Saking dijia? – Where are you from?
8. Tiang saking Australia – I am from Australia
9. Luas kija? – Where are you going?
10. Tiang lakar melali ka peken – I am going to the market
11. Enu joh? – Is it still far away?
12. Tiang lakar matumbasan – I would like to buy
13. Aji kuda niki? – How much does this cost?
14. Basang tiang seduk – I am hungry
15. Ngiring ngajeng – ‘Bon appetite’
16. Tiang wareg – I am full!
17. Tiang lakar mayah – I’d like to pay
18. Matur suksma – Thank you
19. Suksma mewali – You’re welcome
20. Cenik gae to – No problem, easily done
21. Pamit dumun – See you (I will leave now)