USA 11/12/2010 4:26:07 PM
News / Travel

Is Bali Safe For Tourists?

Few destinations on the planet can match the picturesque vistas, shopping, and nightlife of Bali. Bali is without a doubt, one of the world’s most popular travel destinations. But in recent times, lethal terrorist bombings targeting nightclubs and restaurants popular with foreign visitors have raised the question of personal security in people’s minds.

In general, Bali is a safe destination, and very few visitors encounter any real problems. Like many other places in the world, it has been made a target of terrorists, but visitors will find that security in Bali is now among the strictest in the world. As a visitor it is important to put the risk in perspective. The Balinese, whose livelihood depends on tourism, deplore the bombing and the terrorists who perpetrated them. Many long time Bali travellers say the only real difference is that now Bali is less crowded with the “obnoxious” traveller and is therefore a much more pleasant place to visit.

To have a safe and enjoyable Balinese holiday, here are some tips to keep in mind.

1.Just say no to drugs! Bali enforces Indonesias harsh penalties against the import, export, trafficking and possession of illegal drugs and high profile arrests of foreigners have taken place in Bali in recent times. Even the possession of a small amount of drugs for personal use puts you at risk of a trial and prison sentence.

2.Watch out for red flags. If you see a red flag planted in the sand, do not swim there, as they are a warning of dangerous rip currents. These currents can pull you out to sea with alarming speed and even the strongest swimmers cannot swim against them. The thing to do is to stay calm and swim sideways (along the shore) until out of the rip and only then head for the shore. The ocean is not to be trifled with in Bali, and dozens of people die by drowning every year.

3.The money changing rule is simple: use only authorised money changers with proper offices and always ask for a receipt. The largest is called PT Central Kuta and they have several outlets. Avoid changing money in smaller currency exchange offices located within shops.

4.For many, the largest irritant will be the hawkers and peddlers who linger around temples, malls, beaches, and anywhere tourists congregate. It may feel difficult or rude to ignore the constant come-ons to buy souvenirs, food, and assorted junk, but it can be necessary in order to enjoy your holiday in semi-peace.

5.Last but not least be wary around the monkeys that occupy many temples. They are experts at stealing possessions like glasses, cameras and even handbags, and have been known to attack people carrying food. Feeding them is just asking for trouble.

To make a stay in Bali truly magical, Villa Getaways experienced team can help with a handpicked Balinese holiday villa. Similar to having a private home in the middle of paradise, a Bali holiday villa offers seclusion to completely relax.

Bali villa rentals are located all over the island so visitors can choose whether they wish to be close to shopping, nightlife, or right on the beach.  On guests’ arrival, Villa Getaways’ local representative greets them and briefs them on everything you they possibly need to be aware of and will always be on hand to deal with any issues that may arise. All visitors need to do is relax and enjoy their Seminyak villa experience. Villa Getaways recommends a selection of tropical Indonesian villa vacation rentals in Seminyak, Bali http://www.BaliVillasSeminyak.com  For all enquiries please contact Villa Getaways at sales@villagetaways.com

Company name: Villa Getaways

Contact: George Ormond
Email: sales@villagetaways.com
Telephone: 64 7 865 6625
Fax: 64 9 353 1995
Address: P.O. Box 52
Whangamata, New Zealand