Bali is a great place to go for a vacation. This is one of the most wanted travel destinations. This place is famous as friendly for even international visitors and that’s why they like visiting this island for many times. However, there are also cultural differences that might shock you. You might as well be prepared for culture especially if you are from the other side of this earth.
Be a celebrity
In Bali, you will feel like a celebrities because people treat you so. The locals likes interacting with international tourists. Thus, you should not be surprised when people flocking you to pose and ask for pictures. This mostly happen when you visit some villages. Sometimes, they just stare at you from afar.it may sound creepy but if you like the attention, just enjoy it. However, it is also fine to refuse if you think you cannot handle anymore. They are friendly and understand if you say no politely.
Time has absolutely no meaning
Time also can be confusing culturally. In Bali, time has no absolute meaning. Time in Bali is leisurely stretched. Thus, you should not surprise if the people you are going to meet with turn up late for 60 minutes. It is just normal for them. If they come late, it doesn’t mean they are not interested to meet you.
Eating habits
In Bali, you cannot solely rely on spoons and forks to enjoy your meals. You need to rely on your bare hands as well. There are some restaurants that serve food without utensils. When you see people around you, they happily eating with their bare hands and they are totally okay. Just like most of Indonesia people in other regions, they are used to eating without utensils. However, you just have to try it. You will enjoy it in no time because it is fun too.
Too friendly people
In Bali, people are so friendly that sometime you think they are too clingy. However, they are just friendly and curious about foreigners. They often ask many things include something private. You should not be surprised when they treat you like an old friend even from the first meeting, they will be happily listening to your entire life story with full interest. Basically, they want to know more about you that sometimes they can go overboard. If you are uncomfortable answering more private questions then you can just answer as you can. Remember that it is conversation and not interrogation.
Balinese’s Hindu you should respect
The culture is rooted from spiritual balance in Bali. Thus, you may encounter some bizarre things related to their cultures. Balinese still believe in all ghostly things and black magic. You may also find offerings in the street sides. Thus, make sure not to step on them or take them. The offerings are for some spirits and not for tourists. It may look like not a big deal for you but if you do it, people will stare at you in horror.