Bali's Most Notorious Tourists: What NOT to Do in Bali
Car crashed into the rice paddy next to infamous Canggu Shortcut. Source: twitter.com/adorkableracer.
After booking a holiday in Bali, most tourists can't wait to soak up some sun, relax on the endless beaches, mingle with the friendly locals and enjoy the magnificent views. While the majority of visitors do manage to enjoy simply kicking back, a few have been deported rather unceremoniously after making headlines for all the wrong reasons. Here's a quick roundup of Bali's most notorious tourists over the last few years.
1. The Truck Stealing Brit:
In a recent escapade, 50-year-old Damon Hills from the UK hijacked a truck in the Kerobokan area and crashed it into Bali airport. After kicking the owner of the truck out of his vehicle, he erratically drove to the airport and smashed through the airport entrance gate, where he was later apprehended by airport security. In perhaps one of the least effective exit strategies of leaving Bali airport, Hills is now facing up to 9 years of jail time followed by deportation. His sentence is still being determined, but his dangerous and aggressive behaviour towards the local truck driver and other drivers on the road has highlighted the need to ensure tourists are respecting local laws.
Damon Hills was arrested in Bali after hijacking the parked truck. Source: CNN Indonesia.
2. The Poser Without Pants:
Last year, a Russian tourist by the name of Yuri made a semi-nude Instagram post of himself at the top of sacred Mount Agung. After sharing his ill-advised photos on social media, he faced public backlash. Yuri claimed he was unaware of the significance of the mountain, which is considered to be a dwelling of the Gods to Balinese locals. He later deleted the post and apologized on social media groups profusely, blaming his actions on his ignorance. Before he was deported, Yuri attempted to make things right by joining a local ceremony where he made an offering to the Gods to seek forgiveness.
Ni Luh Djelantik, a politician and businesswoman from Bali, told CNN that she had mediated a reconciliation between Yuri and the local people around Mount Agung. Source: CNN Indonesia.
3. The Illegal Digital Nomad
American digital nomad Kristen Gray caused an uproar after writing an ebook encouraging people to move to Bali during the pandemic. At the time, many local people were struggling to make ends meet due to the lack of tourism. She sold her ebook online, boasting about the chance to have a luxury lifestyle on the cheap by evading Indonesian visa requirements. After she marketed the ebook online, locals demanded that she face deportation.
The controversial e-book gave tips on how to enter Bali despite Indonesia's borders being closed due to the pandemic, how to avoid coronavirus health and safety regulations, and how to avoid paying taxes. Source: CNN Indonesia.
4. The Naked Temple Protester
Last year, a video on Instagram caused a shock among locals. In the video, 28-year-old Darja Tuschinski was seen stripping naked during a sacred dance performance in a temple. According to the local authorities, she had been denied entrance to the temple and wanted to protest against the so-called injustice. She walked on stage whilst performers continued to dance, then got on her knees and prayed. She was quickly escorted out of the premises and arrested by local police.
Spectators were unpleasantly surprised during a sacred Balinese dance. Source: Viral\Press
Enjoying Bali the Right Way:
While these stories might seem humorous to some, they are examples which show the need for some visitors to better understand the local Balinese customs and the laws of Indonesia. For visitors that come to Bali with respect and understanding, Bali will greet you with open arms and probably teach you something in the process. Whilst we are sure you would never do anything similar to the above examples, here are a few tips to keep in mind whilst in Bali:
Respect Local Customs and Culture: Bali's culture is exceptionally deep and rich. Make sure you dress respectfully in temples and be polite and mindful of rules at sacred sites.
Follow Visa Regulations and Indonesian Law: Check that you have the right visa and remember that if you're visiting Indonesia on a tourist visa, working or earning money here is illegal. If you need any help or assistance with getting your visa or business consulting services, feel free to contact us here at Bali Solve.
Consume Responsibly: Avoid reckless behaviour, drink sensibly and keep others out of danger. Remember that illegal drugs carry hefty sentences.
Smile and Be Considerate: Balinese people tend to live calmly and peacefully, and a smile goes a long way here. Locals will appreciate your respect and consideration for their way of life.
By following these simple tips, you can enjoy a fun and relaxing stay in Bali. Let's all do our part to keep Bali beautiful and peaceful by respecting local culture.
Written by Team Bali Solve
