Bali Travel Safety
In Bali there are amazing beaches, excellent food and an active sports tourism industry with top-notch locations for surfing and scuba diving. The vast majority of visitors to Bali have no problems with safety at all. However, threats to safety still exist and it is always a good idea to research any travel destination for safety threats before traveling. Learn some of the current travel safety advisories for Bali and be educated for your next trip overseas.
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Traffic
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A major concern, of not one that goes relatively unnoticed is the threat of traffic to visitors. Traffic rules are often virtually nonexistent in Bali, and many Westerners who visit are unaccustomed to this. The streets in Bali are overrun with a plethora of different types of vehicles such as large trucks, personal automobiles, taxicabs, motor scooters and bicycles. Be wary any time you are close to the street and assume that you need to be on the defensive at all times.
Crime and Violence
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Policing in Bali has a history of relying on locals to do their own version of policing. This has resulted in a high rate of crime, which can then create increased danger for tourists. However, the actual dangers of crimes being committed to or around tourists may be over exaggerated. Most crimes in Bali are connected with local issues and generally have nothing to do with the tourist population. Nevertheless, it helps to be aware of your surroundings at all times and be cautious to not become involved in any local disputes or partaking in any illegal activity.
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Terrorism Targeted Towards Tourists
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The U.S. State Department outlines several cases since 2005 where tourists have either been targeted or killed as a target of terrorism. Extremists may target both official and private interests, including hotels, clubs and shopping areas, according to the State Department. "While it may be difficult to modify one’s behavior to counter risks in a country where places in which U.S. citizens and other Westerners must congregate to live and work are well-known and few in number, it is also extremely necessary," the website quotes.
Drugs
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If for any reason you are tempted to purchase or use drugs in Bali, you are best advised to stay at home or face serious jail time. When traveling in Bali, you will likely be freely offered drugs on certain streets in urban areas. This practice may lead you to believe drugs are tolerated. This couldn't be more false. In 2005, Schapelle Corby, an Australian tourist, was sentenced to 20 years in prison for allegedly smuggling marijuana into the country. Also, in 2009 the Indonesian Parliament voted in stricter drug laws that gives the death penalty for certain drugs as well as criminalizes drug addiction.
Looking After Personal Possessions
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When traveling in Bali you must look after your luggage and belongings at all times. In the aforementioned case of Schapelle Corby, she claims the drugs were planted in her luggage by airport security. It is possible someone might try an plant illegal items in your bags or tamper with them. The airport is the place this has a high risk of happening. Make sure to always keep an eye on your bags.
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References
- Photo Credit Atardecer en Bali image by Mariló from Fotolia.com
