10 Myths About Bali – Hello, This time, Hey Bali, would like to discuss some misconceptions that we often hear from foreign tourists about Bali. As a native Balinese and loving this island 100%, it’s sometimes funny, sometimes annoying to hear the stories circulating out there about Bali.
Okay, let’s talk about them one by one:
The only beach in Bali is Kuta
Hey guys, this is one of the biggest misconceptions we hear all the time. Many people think that Bali is only about Kuta, Legian and Seminyak Beach. Although Canggu has recently become a new favorite. Bali has so many other beautiful beaches that are quieter and more beautiful such as Amed Beach, Nyang Nyang, or Bias Tugel, Padang-Padang, Pandawa Beach and Melasti Beach. So, if you think Bali is just Kuta, you haven’t really seen the best of the island! Rent a car with driver at Hey Bali and let our driver take you to other cool beaches in Bali.
Everyone in Bali must be Hindu
Bro and Sis, this is also one of the misconceptions that Hey Bali hears a lot. It’s true, the majority of Bali’s population is Hindu, but that doesn’t mean everyone in Bali must be Hindu! Bali is home to various ethnicities and religions in Indonesia. There is a Muslim community in the Kampung Jawa area of Denpasar that dates back hundreds of years. In addition, there are also Balinese who follow Christianity, Buddhism, and others. Bali is like a miniature Indonesia, full of diversity and tolerance. So, don’t be surprised if you hear the azan in the middle of Bali’s Hindu atmosphere!
Bali is always hot and dry
Bro and Sis, most tourists or Caucasians think that Bali is always hot and dry. Indeed, Bali has tropical weather with temperatures that tend to be warm throughout the year. But, it’s not always scorching hot! In mountainous areas such as Ubud or Bedugul, Bro and Sis can feel the cool atmosphere, even cold at night. In addition, Bali also has a rainy season, usually between November to March, where it can rain quite heavily and make the air cooler. So, if you’re traveling to Bali, don’t forget to check the weather when you arrive.
Balinese are always friendly and smiling
Bro and Sis, many tourists think that Balinese people are always smiling and friendly. It’s true, you’re not wrong! Balinese hospitality has been famous from decades ago before Bali was as busy as it is now, but remember, they are also human beings who can get tired or in a bad mood. So, don’t be disappointed if one day Bro and Sis are not greeted with a big smile. Hey Bali is confident that if you smile first, they will smile back warmly too!
Bali is cheap, everything is affordable
Friends, this is a misconception that often makes tourists surprised once they arrive in Bali. Indeed, Bali offers many affordable accommodation and food options, but that doesn’t mean everything is cheap. In locations such as Seminyak, Ubud, Canggu or Nusa Dua, you can find luxury restaurants and hotels with high prices that sometimes don’t make sense to us. Even so, there are still a lot of visitors 🙂 so expensive and cheap are relative depending on each person. But there are also many budget-friendly options if you know where to look. Hey Bali suggests, try exploring areas that are less popular, but have many hidden gems at a more reasonable price. For example, Tabanan, Singaraja and Karangasem.
Bali is only for surfers and party goers
This is also one of the most common misconceptions we hear. Bali is indeed one of the main destinations for surfers in the Asian region, because of its challenging waves and also as a fun party place, especially in areas such as Kuta and Seminyak. But note that Bali is more than just beaches, surf and parties! Bali also has a strong spiritual side.
There are many locations and places that offer you tranquility and peace, such as Ubud which is known as a center for yoga and meditation. There are also many wellness retreats in Bali that attract people from all over the world to come and seek inner peace and these are provided by local Balinese who have a knack for healing. So if you’re not the party goer or surfer type, don’t worry, Bali still has plenty of other things for bro and sis to enjoy.
All Tourists in Bali must be Caucasians
Bule is a local term for white-skinned tourists and is usually aimed at Europeans, Americans, Australians, Russians and others with large tall fisk characteristics, white skin, blond hair. If you look at these physical characteristics it is true, many “Caucasians” come to Bali. But, make no mistake, Bali is also a favorite destination for Asian tourists, for example India has recorded as the largest number of tourists entering Bali, as well as China, Japan, Malaysia and various countries in Asia are visiting Bali. In fact, it should be noted, domestic or local guests from various regions are one of the largest number of tourists i
Balinese food is the same as other Indonesian food
If you’ve ever thought this, then you’re wrong! Even though Bali is part of Indonesia, the cuisine here is very different from other regions. For example, Babi Guling, a very famous Balinese dish, will not be found anywhere else with the same taste and presentation. Likewise, Ayam Betutu has a unique Balinese spice flavor. Lawar, a mixture of vegetables, meat and grated coconut, is also one of the must-try specialties. For you foodies, don’t miss these authentic Balinese foods!
All Beaches in Bali are Safe for Swimming
We love to find the behavior of tourists from various countries who take Bali’s beaches for granted, sometimes they don’t want to listen to the instructions or prohibitions of the lifeguards on duty. Indeed, Bali has many beautiful beaches, but not all beaches here are suitable for swimming! There are some beaches with strong currents and big waves, such as Uluwatu Beach or Padang Padang Beach, which are more suitable for surfing than swimming. Always pay attention to safety signs on the beach and don’t hesitate to ask locals or lifeguards about beach conditions before you dive into the sea. Remember, safety comes first! It’s worth noting that there are many cases of tourists going missing on Bali’s beaches.
Bali is only for vacation, not a place to learn culture
This is also one of the myths we often hear from foreign tourists. Many think Bali is just a place to relax and enjoy its natural beauty. In fact, Bali is very rich in culture and traditions that are still alive today. From dance arts like Kecak and Barong Dance, to traditional ceremonies like Ngaben and Galungan, Bali offers many opportunities to learn and understand the unique local culture. There are many museums, art galleries, and cultural performances that Sahabat Bali can visit to further explore the richness of Balinese culture. So, if you go to Bali, don’t just relax on the beach, take the time to explore this incredible side of Balinese culture!
Conclusion 10 Myths About Bali
So those are 10 Myths About Bali that we often hear about the island of Bali. Bali is so much more than just Kuta, parties, or surfing. Bali is a place where culture, natural beauty, and diversity coexist harmoniously. It’s important for all of us to stay open-minded and see Bali with a deeper perspective, away from the stereotypes that often circulate.
In accordance with Hey Bali’s tagline, “Sun On Our Skin,” let’s enjoy every moment in Bali with curiosity, appreciate every detail, and of course, with an open heart.
Oh yes, for those of you who are planning a vacation to Bali, don’t forget to make your trip easier by buying a local Bali SIM card or eSIM from Hey Bali! Stay connected smoothly while in Bali without any hassle. And if you plan to cross to Nusa Penida, we also offer cheap fast boat tickets that will take you quickly and comfortably to the beautiful island. You can get all this at Hey Bali, making your vacation more exciting and hassle-free. See you in Bali! Cheers!
Source article : https://internationalliving.com/myths-about-bali-that-you-shouldnt-believe/
