Over the years, I’ve had the absolute pleasure of traveling around Southeast Asia: from the gleaming skyline of Singapore to the bustling streets of Vietnam, and finally, to the island paradise that is Bali. Let me tell you, my month as a digital nomad in Bali was an absolute dream. Between the gorgeous beaches, the lush rice terraces, and the vibrant culture, I could wax poetic about Bali forever.
But here’s the catch: amidst all the beauty, you can see some tourists doing things that make the locals’ eyebrows shoot up faster than a cork out of a champagne bottle. We’re talking top-tier cringe-worthy moves. Hey, it happens—no one’s perfect, and I’ve definitely made my share of cultural slip-ups. But, if you’re heading to Bali, it’s worth being mindful of local norms, traditions, and basic respect. So, buckle up (or should I say, fasten your sarong?), because here are seven things tourists do in Bali that make the locals cringe every time.
1. Wearing Inappropriate Clothing at Temples
Alright, folks, let’s start with the big one. Balinese culture is deeply rooted in spirituality, and temples here aren’t just tourist attractions; they’re sacred spaces. So when you show up in a string bikini or those workout shorts that could easily double as underwear, you’re basically screaming, “I have no respect for this holy ground!”
Locals often provide sarongs to cover up because modesty is crucial in places of worship. It’s not just a suggestion; it’s a way of showing reverence. Believe me, I get it—Bali’s hot and you just came from a day at the beach. But trust me, throwing on a sarong isn’t just polite; it’s downright stylish. Plus, who doesn’t like a bold, tropical print? Step one to keeping the cringe away: cover up respectfully when visiting temples.
Tip: If you don’t have your own sarong, most temples will loan or rent you one. Just remember to wear it properly—around the waist—along with a sash, and you’ll be golden.
2. Treating Bali Like Your Personal Party Zone
Next up: the folks who come to Bali to “let loose” and end up turning the island into their own personal frat party. Don’t get me wrong—I love a good night out. I’m no stranger to sipping cocktails on the beach under a sky full of stars. But there’s a big difference between enjoying a few drinks in good company and drunkenly stumbling down the street at 3 a.m., shouting “Woohoo, Bali, baby!”
Bali has a vibrant nightlife, especially in areas like Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu, and the locals are friendly and welcoming. But acting rowdy and disruptive at all hours of the night? That’s a surefire way to get some side-eye from both locals and other tourists. So party on, by all means—just remember to respect local noise regulations, keep the volume down when you’re in residential areas, and never forget that you’re a guest in someone else’s home.
3. Bargaining Like Your Life Depends on It
Let’s talk money. In Bali, haggling is often part of the shopping experience at local markets. It can be fun, playful, and a great way to connect with vendors—within reason. However, some tourists treat it like an extreme sport, aggressively low-balling vendors who are just trying to make a living.
Here’s the thing: the cost of living might be lower than where you’re from, but remember that these local vendors work hard. Sure, you don’t want to get ripped off, but driving a price down from 50,000 rupiah (about $3.50) to 20,000 rupiah (about $1.40) might mean a lot to them. For you, it’s the cost of a cup of coffee. Keep it fair, keep it friendly, and don’t forget—you’re paying for both the product and the person’s livelihood.
Tip: If you want a better sense of what’s a fair price, look around before you commit to buying. Compare a few shops and see what they’re charging. That way, you’ll have a ballpark figure and avoid cringe-worthy haggling that just ends up embarrassing everyone.
4. Ignoring the Dress Code at Sacred Ceremonies
If you’re lucky enough to be invited to or stumble upon a local ceremony, consider yourself blessed! These ceremonies are beautiful, deeply spiritual gatherings where community bonds are forged and traditions are preserved. The ceremonies can be mesmerizing with their intricate offerings, hypnotic gamelan music, and the swirl of incense.
But—and this is a big but—showing up in casual beachwear or your I-just-hopped-off-the-surfboard outfit is a hard no. Locals take these ceremonies seriously. They often spend hours or days preparing offerings and dressing in traditional clothes. So if you rock up in a tank top and flip-flops, that’s instant cringe.
Pro Tip: If you’re invited, politely ask about the dress code. Usually, men and women are expected to wear a sarong with a sash and a modest top. It’s a small effort that goes a long way in showing respect.
5. Acting Like Scooters Are Toys
Oh, scooters in Bali. They’re basically the lifeblood of the island, weaving around cars and through narrow streets like tiny, buzzing bees. Renting a scooter can be a blast, and it’s a super convenient way to get around—until tourists forget that these are real vehicles and that real traffic rules apply.
When I was in Bali, I saw countless fresh-faced tourists hop on scooters with zero experience, no helmets, and a Bluetooth speaker blasting “Hotel California” for the entire road to hear. Not only is this dangerous for you, but it’s stressful for locals (and other drivers) who are trying to navigate traffic. If you’re going to ride a scooter, for the love of Indonesian satay, wear a helmet and learn the basics of how to handle the thing. Nobody wants to see you end up in a hospital bed, and locals definitely cringe when they see you treat their roads like a race track.
6. Disrespecting the Environment (Yes, That Includes Plastic!)
Bali is drop-dead gorgeous, but it’s also fragile. One of the biggest problems the island faces is plastic pollution. Many tourists come to enjoy Bali’s pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, yet some are still shockingly lax about properly disposing of trash.
It’s no secret that a lot of single-use plastic ends up clogging local waterways and ocean reefs. If you’re traveling to Bali (or anywhere, really), pack reusable water bottles, say no to plastic straws, and be mindful of where you toss your rubbish. Did you just finish that coconut you were sipping? Don’t leave the straw and cup on the beach for the ocean to “take care of.”
Trust me, locals notice. And it’s not just them—other travelers notice, too, and they’re definitely cringing. If you want to enjoy the island’s natural beauty, help keep it that way for future generations of tourists and locals alike.
7. Forgetting to Learn Basic Cultural Courtesies
Look, I’m not saying you need to become an expert in Balinese culture overnight. You don’t have to memorize the entire history of the island (though it’s fascinating, and I highly recommend at least a crash course!). But a few basic courtesies can go a long way in preventing cringe moments.
For instance, take your shoes off before entering someone’s home or certain shops—this is a common custom in many Asian countries, including Indonesia. Use your right hand to pass things—eating, giving money—because the left hand is considered unclean. And for the love of Balinese dance, try to learn at least a couple of local phrases! “Terima kasih” (thank you) is always appreciated, and a warm smile can break down so many barriers.
Bonus: Don’t forget how revered the head is in many Asian cultures. Touching someone’s head—especially a stranger or a child—can be seen as disrespectful. Keep your hands to yourself, folks, unless you’re invited for a friendly handshake or high-five.
Why These Cringe-Inducing Moments Matter
By now, you might be wondering, “Tina, why should I care if I’m giving the locals secondhand embarrassment?” The answer is simple: Bali is a paradise not just because of its beaches and sunsets, but because of its people. Their warmth, hospitality, and timeless traditions are what make the island so enchanting. When tourists come here and behave like they’re in some kind of tropical wonderland that exists solely for their entertainment, it diminishes the unique cultural tapestry that makes Bali so special.
Sure, everyone makes mistakes. Maybe you had no idea about temple etiquette. Maybe you forgot your helmet at home (though, please, rent one!). The important thing is to listen and learn. Locals are generally gracious and won’t hold your faux pas against you if you show genuine respect and a willingness to adapt.
As someone who’s been blessed enough to explore Bali for an entire month, living the digital nomad life with coconut water in one hand and my laptop in the other, I’ve seen firsthand how welcoming the Balinese people can be. They’ll share their stories, invite you into their ceremonies, and give you the best food recommendations if you just treat them kindly and respect their space.
Final Thoughts
Bali might look like a postcard, but it’s not just a destination for your Instagram feed—it’s a living, breathing community with a rich history and vibrant culture. If you’re going to visit (and I hope you do, because it really is magical), try your best to avoid these seven cringe-worthy tourist behaviors. Dress modestly at temples and ceremonies, keep the partying respectful, haggle with heart, ride scooters responsibly, take care of the environment, and learn a few cultural basics.
Remember, you don’t have to be perfect, but a little mindfulness goes a long way. Trust me, the reward is an unforgettable experience filled with genuine connections, breathtaking sights, and stories you’ll tell for years to come. So pack that sarong, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to fall in love with Bali—just be sure to leave any cringe-worthy habits at home.
See you on the island, and don’t forget: when in doubt, ask a local. They know all the hidden waterfalls, the best nasi goreng spots, and, of course, the best ways to avoid making them cringe! Safe travels, friends!
