Health & Safety

How safe is Bali?

Bali is generally considered a safe travel destination, and it attracts millions of tourists from around the world every year. However, it’s important to be aware of potential safety concerns and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit. Here are some key safety considerations for travellers in Bali:

• Petty Crime: Bali is relatively safe from violent crime, but petty crimes such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, and theft can occur, particularly in crowded tourist areas. Keep your belongings secure, avoid displaying valuable items, and store your valuables in locked luggage if possible
• Road Traffic: The roads are very busy in Bali, and road safety standards may not be as strict  as in some other countries. Be cautious when walking, and crossing the streets and ensure to use reputable transportation services and Think Pacific organised transport. We strongly advise you to not use a scooter/moped whilst in Bali
• Natural Hazards: Bali is located in a seismically active region, and earthquakes and volcanic activity can occur. Familiarise yourself with emergency procedures and evacuation routes, and monitor local news and alerts
• Water Safety: While Bali’s beaches are beautiful, some areas may have strong currents or underwater hazards. Pay attention to local warnings and flag systems, and exercise caution when swimming or participating in water sports
• Health Precautions: Ensure you are up to date with vaccinations and take precautions to prevent common travel-related illnesses, such as food and water safety measures. Stay hydrated and use sunscreen to protect against sunburn
• Cultural Respect: Bali is known for its rich culture and traditions. Show respect for local customs, temples, and ceremonies. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and ask for permission before taking photographs, especially of people
• Drugs and Alcohol: Please note the legal drinking age is 21 years. The use and possession of illegal drugs in Bali carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences. 
• Scams and Touts: Be cautious of scams and touts, especially in tourist areas. Use reputable tour operators and transportation services, and negotiate prices in advance
• Travel Insurance: We require you to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen events. Check the coverage details and consider purchasing a policy that meets your needs
• Local Laws and Regulations: Familiarise yourself with local laws and regulations, and follow them. Ignorance of the law is not a valid excuse, and violations can result in legal consequences

While Bali is generally safe, it’s essential to exercise the same level of caution and awareness that you would in any other destination. Research your destination, stay informed about local conditions, and take steps to ensure your personal safety and well-being during your visit. 

What if I get ‘Bali Belly’?

Sicknesses for travellers are common in all parts of the world when you are not used to the food, water, and bacteria. This has led to the term ‘Bali Belly’ being used to describe a number of different illnesses, including stomach infections or generally diarrhoea and vomiting. However, Bali Belly can be seen as culturally insensitive or even racist as it implies that the illness is caused by sanitation facilities or hygiene in Bali. We ask if you feel unwell, you communicate your exact symptoms to the team rather than saying you have ‘bali belly’.

To prevent any sickness, we suggest consistently sanitising your hands, particularly before eating and you avoid sharing drinks with others. If you begin to feel unwell, make sure to hydrate and rest but most importantly communicate to your project leaders so they can support your recovery.

Can I drink the tap water?

No, it is not recommended to drink tap water in Bali. The tap water in Bali is not considered safe for drinking by most international health standards. It may contain harmful microorganisms and contaminants that can cause waterborne illnesses.

In each homestay, you will have access to free flow filtered drinking water. We recommend that you bring a reusable water bottle to ensure you stay hydrated during your project.

Are there mosquitoes?

Yes, there are mosquitoes in Bali, and they can be prevalent, especially in certain areas and during specific times of the day (dawn/dusk). Mosquitoes in Bali can be carriers of diseases such as dengue fever, Zika virus, and chikungunya. To protect yourself from mosquito-borne illnesses and discomfort from mosquito bites, ensure to apply mosquito repellent regularly, wear long protective clothing (especially in the evenings) and consider other preventative measures such as plug in devices and bracelets. In the briefing hotel and homestay accommodation, you will have an aircon device, which can provide some protection from mosquitoes while you sleep. 

Teambuilding camp – You may wish to consider bringing a mosquito net to use during your stay; hooks will be available to hang these on above your bed. 

How do I contact the emergency services in Bali?

If you wish to contact the emergency services, you should dial the following numbers for specific emergency services:

• Police: For reporting crimes or seeking assistance from the police, dial 110
• Medical Emergencies: For medical emergencies and requesting an ambulance, dial 118
• Fire Department: To report fires or request assistance from the fire department, dial 113

It’s essential to be aware of these emergency numbers when travelling in Bali and have them readily available in case you need to seek assistance in an emergency situation. Additionally, it can be helpful to know some basic local phrases or have a translation app to communicate your location and situation to emergency responders.

What laws in Bali should I know about?

When visiting Bali, it’s crucial to be aware of and respect the local laws and regulations. Here are some important laws and cultural considerations you should be aware of:

• Visa Regulations: Ensure that you have the appropriate visa for your stay in Bali. Overstaying a visa can result in fines and deportation. Familiarise yourself with visa requirements before your trip. 
• Drug Laws: Indonesia has strict drug laws, and the possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs can result in severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences or the death penalty
• Alcohol Laws: The legal drinking age in Indonesia is 21 years old. Alcohol is widely available in Bali, but public drunkenness and excessive drinking in public places can lead to fines or arrest
• Respect for Local Customs: Balinese culture is deeply rooted in tradition and religion. When visiting temples or participating in ceremonies, dress modestly, remove your shoes, and show respect. Ask for permission before taking photographs, especially of people
• Public Nudity and Swimwear: While swimwear is acceptable at the beach and pool areas, it is not appropriate to wear it in public places, such as temples or villages. Cover up when leaving the beach or pool areas and when eating in restaurants. 
• Environmental Laws: Bali is known for its natural beauty, and there are laws in place to protect the environment. Littering and illegal dumping can result in fines. Avoid purchasing products made from endangered or protected species. Where possible refrain from using single use plastic
• Traffic Laws: Traffic can be chaotic in Bali, maintain caution when crossing the roads and be alert for motorbikes
• Public Behaviour: Public displays of affection, such as kissing and hugging, are generally frowned upon in public. Showing respect for local customs and traditions is important during your stay
• Noise Regulations: Bali has specific noise regulations, particularly in residential areas. Keep noise levels down during quiet hours to avoid disturbing local residents
• Tipping: Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Check if a service charge is already included in your bill, and tip according to your satisfaction with the service
• Cultural Sensitivity: Balinese people are friendly and welcoming, but it’s essential to be respectful and considerate of local customs and traditions. Avoid any behaviour that could be perceived as disrespectful
• Drinking Water: Tap water is not safe to drink in Bali. Stick to bottled water or treated water from reputable sources
• LGBTQ+ Rights: While Bali is generally more tolerant than some other parts of Indonesia, LGBTQ+ rights are not fully recognized, and public displays of affection may attract attention or disapproval

Being aware of and following these laws and cultural considerations will help you have a more enjoyable and respectful experience while in Bali. Remember that cultural norms and regulations can vary, so it’s always a good idea to research and adapt to the local customs and expectations of the region you are visiting.

Is Bali safe for LGBTQ+ travellers?

Bali is generally safe for tourists, including LGBTQ+ travellers. However, it’s essential to take precautions, especially when exploring less touristy areas. Bali is often considered more LGBTQ+ friendly compared to some other parts of Indonesia, and it has a relatively open and tolerant attitude towards LGBTQ+ travellers. While public displays of affection are generally tolerated in tourist areas, it’s essential to be respectful and considerate of local customs. It’s advisable to avoid overly affectionate behaviour in public, as it may attract attention or disapproval. Bali is deeply rooted in tradition and religion, and local attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals may vary. In more rural or conservative areas, discretion may be advisable. Indonesia does not have legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals, and same-sex relationships are not recognized. 

How can my parents/guardian contact me if they need to reach me/TP Management?

On a Think Pacific project, we require all participants to have a local Indonesian SIM card with data. We can arrange this for you at a small cost. 

You will also have access to WiFi in the briefing accommodation, and homestay accommodation. We recommend you contact family members using social media platforms such as WhatApp, where you can call free of charge when connected to the internet. You parents/guardians can also contact our UK office at any time on + 44 113 335 9919 (10am – 6pm Monday – Friday) or email info@thinkpacific.com  

Are there locks on the bedrooms in the homestay?

Yes, in the briefing hotel and homestay accommodation, there are locks on the bedrooms. Here you will share rooms with 2-6 other participants, and each participant will have their own key to the room. 

During the Team-building camp, you will stay in shared dormitory accommodation. There is a lock on the outside of each building, and the rooms are lockable from the inside. However, you will be sharing with large groups of participants, so we advise you to take extra precautions of your belongings here, and leave valuables in your luggage with a lock. 

How are my belongings kept safe?

We advise you not to bring any high value items with you to your project. For items such as passports, cash and mobile phones/tablets/laptops, we recommend that you keep them on your person or store them in your luggage in the accommodation, with a lock. 

Where do I store my passport and personal items?

For items such as passports, cash and mobile phones/tablets, we recommend that you keep them on your person or store them in your luggage with a lock. 

Is the village accommodation safe?

Yes, the village is safe, and all homestays are long standing partners that we trust and have several years experience of hosting international guests and participants. All bedrooms in the homestays are lockable. Think Pacific Leaders will also stay in the village and be available to support you 24/7 for the duration of your project. 

What is the legal drinking age in Bali?

The legal drinking age in Bali, and throughout Indonesia, is 21 years old. This means that individuals must be at least 21 years of age to purchase and consume alcoholic beverages legally. It’s important to adhere to this age limit when visiting Bali, as there can be legal consequences for underage drinking.

Can I smoke cigarettes and vapes in Bali?

Yes, smoking cigarettes is allowed in many public places in Bali, including bars and restaurants. Whilst on your Think Pacific project, we ask you to use the designated smoking areas in the homestay and to refrain from smoking in the village or in project spaces. Smoking or selling cigarettes and tobacco in public places such as tourist attractions, hospitals, temples, and public transport is strictly prohibited. 

Vaping is generally allowed in Bali, but the regulations surrounding vaping can vary, and we advise you to check the regulations for the travelling and transiting on your journey to Bali as some countries prohibit you to carry vapes. Be respectful of the rules and preferences of the establishment you are in, and inquire with staff if you are unsure whether vaping is allowed. Please ensure you are not vaping in the streets when walking and only vape in designated areas. 

What happens if I lose my passport in Bali?

If you lose your passport in Bali, please inform a Think Pacific staff member as soon as possible. They will support you to gain a police report, and then to contact the embassy or consulate. Your embassy or consulate may issue you temporary travel documents, such as an Emergency Travel Document (ETD) or a temporary passport, which will allow you to return to your home country or continue your travel. The issuance of these documents depends on your country’s policies.

We will also support you to check with your embassy or consulate to understand how the loss of your passport may affect your visa status and whether you need to take any additional steps to resolve visa-related issues. If you have an upcoming flight, it is important that you also notify the airline of the situation. It’s a good practice to keep photocopies or digital copies of your passport, visa, and important travel documents separately from the originals.

What happens if I lose my phone in Bali?

If you lose your phone in Bali, and you have a tracking app (e.g Find My iPhone for Apple devices or Find My Device for Android), use it to locate your phone if it’s connected to the internet. If you can not locate your belongings, please inform a Think Pacific staff member as soon as possible. They will support you to gain a police report which can be helpful for insurance claims or for proving the loss to your service provider. We would then recommend that you contact your service provider: Inform your mobile service provider about the loss. They may be able to suspend your service temporarily.

What happens if I lose my wallet in Bali?

If you lose your wallet in Bali, please inform a Think Pacific staff member as soon as possible. They will support you to gain a police report which can be helpful for insurance claims. We can also support you to gain access to finances, for example, using Western Union for family members to send you money directly to Bali for you to withdraw as cash from their branch. 

Are all parts of the project risk assessed?

Yes, all elements and activities involved in the Think Pacific project are thoroughly risk assessed by the Management team in Indonesia, and these are reviewed by the Country Manager Indonesia. 

Are the volcanoes in Bali active?

Yes, Bali is home to several active volcanoes. The most well-known and prominent active volcano on the island is Mount Agung (Gunung Agung). Mount Agung is the highest peak on Bali and is an active volcano located in the eastern part of the island. It has a long history of eruptions, with the most recent significant eruption occurring in 1963. Mount Batur (Gunung Batur) is another active volcano on Bali, located in the central part of the island. While it is considered active, it has had more frequent and smaller eruptions compared to Mount Agung. Travellers to Bali should be aware of the volcanic activity and stay informed about any updates or advisories issued by local authorities. While volcanic eruptions are relatively rare, they can have significant impacts on travel and safety in the region.

What happens if there is a natural disaster whilst I am in Bali?

If you are in Bali and a natural disaster occurs, such as an earthquake, tsunami, volcanic eruption, or other natural events, it’s essential to prioritise your safety and take appropriate actions to respond to the situation.  We recommend that you stay informed and always maintain communication with Think Pacific Management for alerts, guidance and support, and follow local authorities’ instructions.

In serious situations, try to remain calm as panic can exacerbate the situation. Depending on the nature of the disaster, you may be advised to stay indoors, seek higher ground, or evacuate to designated safe areas. Follow these instructions carefully. If you are in a position to help others, do so while considering your own safety. After the immediate threat has passed, continue to follow local authorities’ instructions and be prepared for aftershocks or additional hazards. Assess your surroundings for safety. Contact Think Pacific and your embassy or consulate to inform them of your situation and whereabouts. They can provide assistance and guidance in case of a natural disaster. Keep your mobile phone charged and maintain communication with family members and friends. Share your location and status with loved ones, so they know you are safe. 

Is there a risk of terrorism in Bali?

Bali has experienced terrorist attacks in the past, most notably the bombings in Kuta and Jimbaran in 2002 and another series of bombings in 2005. These incidents led to increased security measures and vigilance in the region. While the Indonesian government and local authorities have taken steps to improve security and counterterrorism efforts, there remains a low but persistent risk of terrorism in Bali, as in many other parts of the world. Travellers should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings, but there is no need to be overly alarmed.

What happens if I need to report a crime in Bali?

If you need to report a crime in Bali, please speak with a Think Pacific staff member as soon as possible. They will support you in reporting a crime to the local police, and provide support of local staff to assist with translation if needed. It is important to report the crime to the local police station in which the crime took place. If you need support during your weekend free travel time, you can contact the Think Pacific base phone number, and the team will be able to assist you. 

Is there a coast guard in Bali?

Bali has a maritime security agency called the “Indonesian Coast Guard” or “Badan Keamanan Laut Republik Indonesia” (BAKAMLA). Bakamla is responsible for safeguarding Indonesia’s maritime interests and enforcing maritime laws and regulations. If you are in Bali and encounter a maritime emergency or require assistance at sea, you should contact Bakamla or the local authorities for assistance. They can coordinate search and rescue operations and respond to various maritime-related incidents.

Are there lifeguards in Bali?

Bali often has lifeguards stationed at beaches in well-developed tourist areas such as Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, and some other popular coastal areas. The presence and availability of lifeguards can vary from one beach to another and may be more common in areas where there are many resorts and hotels. If you plan to swim or engage in water activities in Bali, it’s advisable to visit beaches with lifeguard services, obey posted safety signs and flags, and follow lifeguards’ instructions. Be cautious of strong currents and changing weather conditions, and always prioritise safety when enjoying the ocean in Bali.

Who can I contact if I need help during my project?

We encourage you to speak with a Think Pacific staff member who will be able to support you, or direct you to the relevant person in the team. You also have access to the base phone number, supervised by Think Pacific management, which you can call 24/7 during your project if there is an emergency or you need urgent assistance.

Will there be staff in my home stay?

Staff will live in the homestay community alongside you, and will be available for support during the project hours and in the evenings. Although there may not be a staff member in every homestay, we allocate the homestays equally between our staff members to ensure support is provided to all participants equally. 

Will there always be staff with me on the projects?

Staff will guide and facilitate briefings and workshops, and be present to support you and your group during some projects/project visits. 

What will staff do to monitor my health and wellbeing?

Your health and wellbeing is our top priority, staff will be present to support your health and wellbeing throughout the entirety of your project. Staff will guide and facilitate briefings and workshops, and be present to support you and your group during some projects/project visits. Staff will live in the homestay community alongside you, and will be available for support during the project hours and in the evenings. We encourage you to reach out and speak to staff if you have any concerns or need support at any time. 

Will I get any feedback on my work and progress on the project?

Staff will provide informal support, guidance and feedback to you and your group throughout the duration of your project. This will be to help you develop your ideas and progress your personal development and reflective skills. But no formal progress meetings will be held with individual students. 

*GTI – You will receive feedback at the end of each week from the business staff representatives following your final presentation of your consultancy challenge.  

Who can I speak to if I have a complaint?

We encourage you to speak with a Think Pacific Manager as soon as possible about your complaint. We ask that you do not speak directly with the project/partner/village about your complaint. Think Pacific will listen to your complaint and try to resolve this, and/or take the relevant action if required, in line with our complaints policy.  

What if I have a safeguarding concern to report?

We encourage you to speak with a Think Pacific Manager as soon as possible about your concern. We ask that you do not speak directly with the project/partner/village about your concern, as this could put the individual/s at risk of harm. Think Pacific will listen to your concern and take the relevant action if required, in line with our safeguarding policy. 

What are the contact details for my next of kin?

Next of kin can contact our main number 0113 335 9919 or email Info@thinkpacific.com during office hours whilst you are away

We also operate an ‘out of hours’ phone number, which next of kin can use to contact Think Pacific in an emergency.

Think Pacific emergency 24/4 phone number: 0113 335 9922