Excellent video. I loved the no-BS style. No long intros, no paid promotions, no drone footage or beautiful people with colourful food. Just damn useful information. Exactly what l was looking for after watching a tonne of time-wasting other Bali videos.
My suggestion as a local is you get a good local friend. They will help you in any kind of situation. Stay respectful. Dont do anything crazy and you will be safe
Yup. That's right. And to have more horizon try to explore other lands in Indonesia. Jakarta is a capital city and even many people says it's a hectic place but it's a great city for crazy shoppers and big spenders because you can find many things in there, from computers, cell phones, electronics, fashions, street foods to elegant restaurants, luxury hotels, everything...
Some additions based on my experience in Bali for 2 years. - Never left your phone charger accidentaly or forgotten your charger in any public places, especially if your cell phone is the expensive Android or iPhone. When suddenly you realize it and then turn back to the place where you left your charger, it's gone. You can ask anybody right there and they pretend that they've found or keep your charger safety, but it is not as safe as you think... They'll give you a bad charger or a used old charger. Better to write down your name on your charger using a marker or place a sticker on it to prevent switched by someone - Never change your country currency to Indonesian rupiahs in the street market. Please go to the official Banks, preferably in Denpasar, not in Kuta or Legian unless if there is an official you already knew. Some small Banks a.k.a. Koperasi in Bali may cut as an additional fee more pricey than the official Banks. The Banks operation are open from 9 AM to 3 PM from Monday to Friday so make sure you arrange the schedule appropriately and better to come in the morning so you won't wait in the line for too long.
those are obvious. Of course if you don't mind your things they will be gone and of course only use an official exchange place. This is common sense and this comment sounds naive, like you expect people to be honest with you
The following are my disagreement or slight modifications: 1. When you say "they will shut your phone off from the internet". What does that mean? I use internet with an unregistered phone. 2. Bluebird taxis are legit and use a meter. 3. Best ATM is one attached to a bank, preferably inside. 4. Temples you can go to with a sarong wrapped around your waist and covering your legs. Buy a sarong day 1, better than a towel. 5. Cash is by far the best. Limit how many times your card is scanned (scammed). Also, using a card to buy a few things at a market takes 5x longer is pisses off those in line behind you. Bring $500 from home. Exchange at money changer. You'll get decent rate and that rp7million will last 1-2 months for basic purchases.
5. Cash has its time and place, but when ordering food, rides, cell phone plans, paying rent, paying for visa services and so on, these are all things that can be done without ever having to take out cash or using a credit card by just using the right apps, so to optimize how many times I need to go to the ATM and how much u have on you / could lose, it’s best to avoid cash for those scenarios.
1. They shut off cel phone plans who haven’t been registered. If you brought your phone into Indonesia before the new rule came out then your device will be grandfathered in
Bluebirds are alright but it’s still just much easier to use grab or Gojek and avoid cash, get rides faster and easier and avoid any difficulties with translation when giving directions
ppl was honest and sincere 15 yrs ago there, took taxi area to area, driver said he could wait us, we back after 4 hrs and he still there waiting, didnt ask for extra fee. it's sad to heard not the same as old days.
This is the best video i see about what do not do in bali.. Most ppl just talking how nice bali and bla bla.. I get robbed and beaten.. And it was crazy shit really can't forget about it
Great video Maxwell !! I have lived in Bali for two years and all the 21 things not to do in Bali that you've mentioned, are very accurate. Good job :)
as you might figure out. the bluebird taxi was only honest taxi company and largest taxi company here. during my 2 week stay, I only take bluebird taxi, and make sure driver mwter the trip. not a problem. though, later of my stay, we hired a private driver to take us around, and it was worth it
I’ve just found it easier to use apps like grab and Gojek where I don’t have to worry about asking for meter or watching it to make sure it’s running properly. With Gojek or grab I don’t even need to use cash so I can never end up short on money. Blue bird isn’t bad I just enjoy the ease of use when everything is down online in an app.
Interestingly, when we arrived in the late afternoon, the airport taxi which you book at the counter was cheaper than Grab. There was a massive traffic jam out of the city & surge pricing was in effect. The taxis outside at the airport sidewalk also quoted a high price at the start & we were unable to bargain it to a price lower than what was offered at the airport taxi counter.
After living here for 5 years i would say most is good advice apart from: It is very rare for people to have phones or bags snatched, never even heard of it happening apart from in local media. It does happen, but its not common. Cash is the best thing to use, many places do not accept cards, get a card that gives you good exchange rate and no international transaction fees and draw out a few million from an ATM IN A bank. Otherwise you can be paying transaction fees and bad exchange rates every time you use it. Nice advice about bikinis and shirtless in the streets, if the tourists knew how much they were being laughed at and disliked by doing that i am sure most wouldnt do it 😂
I agree with your point abt cash. No clue where he gets the idea abt using cards. We have a very good virtual bank that allows us 5 free withdrawals a month, as simple as that. Never heard of or saw a phone snatched either. The video felt a bit like advice for Western countries, with a high crime rate. We found Bali so relaxed and stress free, except in Kura and Canggu indeed, but as the locals say: that part of the coast is not Bali 😁
I lived there for 8 years and had my phone stolen out of my hand whilst walking on the footpath - and bag snatching is common - stop with the misinformation
@@craigtroth4524 I have lived here for 5 years and never known anybody have it happen to them and nobody i know has said they know anybody it has happened to, maybe you were just unlucky or look like an easy victim. But it cetainly is rare - especially compared to other countries.
Just got back from Bali stayed in a villa at Ulu Segara Nusa Dua it was fantastic location on the clifftop very quiet, Balinese people are mainly Hindu so are very friendly to each other and to tourists . One of our drivers (you can hire a driver for the day for about $45AU a day) said to us about the chaotic road rules (If any)that there is no road rage! loved it love to go back soon ! Another tip it is very humid so you will drink a lot of fluids we included a soft drinks package which was great but if you feel like some Bintang Beers get your driver to take you to the store they are too pricey at the resorts.
@@sal_strazzulloobviously they are like every group theres good and the bad. But balinese people are more open minded and carefree compared to the people from java.
Great advice dude.Ive lived in Bali for over a year and the one time I didn't take my good Australian helmet with me it got stolen off the bike!! So upset.But my own fault.
One you missed out is to ensure to keep the fuel tank on your motorbike locked. If the fuel tank cap is under the seat, keep the seat locked. If not, when you return to your bike you might find your fuel tank is suddenly empty because a thief just syphoned the fuel out of your tank.
Bro this is so funny... Just before your video I watched another girl's video where she was telling to basically do everything you are advising against. Like, stay in Kuta for cheaper price, don't worry about cash cause there're ATMs everywhere, get a tour on such and such beach hahaha. Thank you though! Ive traveled a lot and I know that the stuff youre saying is real! So, thank you again. This priceless info!
I used to live in Bali for 20 years. Good done video. I know Bali in wonderful times and times, I do not like. I been there during the Bali bomb times, lost friends. I miss Bali a lot, lot, lot, but I do never want to go back. I used to spent my first 3 years in AMED. It was wonderful. I have a good friend who still lives there and I told him NOT to tell me and sent me pictures about the area now. It became hell as far as I can read inbetween lines. But I do have it in my mind as it was before 2001 and up to 2007. After that I never went back. I got heardbroken living in Bali seeing how it got mad, durty and criminal. In my times the roads in Ubud been soooo bad, we rather walked than driving. There was one internet cafe and we sat in Tutmark and we were a bunch of folks who knew each others. There was nobody else. To get western food, we had to bring stuff from Singapore. The only jam was an indonesien strawberry one, that was 99% sugar with red color. Well... I still remember that. I used to do lots of different things on the island. I supplied 5 star hotels, had a shop, did 3 clothing lines, did art, had an online webmagazine, was a healer and became a mother... I keep those times in my mind. I am horrified to hear the now a days Bali. Oh, lots of my time folks left. For same reasons I did or died while in Bali. Not lots of us left there.
It's really not that bad....well maybe the traffic. Amed is still quiet, Ubud is a bit stuffed now with Russian scums who think they own the place, but still a nice place once you get them away..... Kuta is kuta....as always. You should go back...I have been 4 times in the last 9 months (post covid travel makeup)....planning keep going every three months or so.
US grey haired folks call it evolution... First came to Bali 33 years ago....the magic is still here for those that create it ! ❤ Balinese flow is the way to go . Drop your ideals...and slip into the present moment. It's all any of us got !!!
FYI: Methanol is the bad "make you blind" alcohol, not ethenol. Thankfully the cure for methanol poisoning is ethanol.... So just chase each local drink with a vodka shot and you'll be good. ;-)
I guess I just got lucky as i had half glass arak filled with sprite 50%. I didn't knew there was a chance of methanol 😅. It was very strong though. Loved arak.
Bluebird taxis are awesome as long as it's genuine Bluebird and not one of the many fakes around. They are spotlessly clean and ridiculously cheap. They always put the meter on (in my experience) and won't try to charge you more at the other end. I always hail them in the street but I'm sure you can book Bluebird through Gojek. The remote areas are lovely but I do enjoy Kuta, Legian and Seminyak, so much to explore and lovely people to meet.
i stayed in kuta for a month just got back...everything was fine had no problems but i see this video is 3 years old im guessing things have changed alot
There are too many taxis in Bali and not enough passengers before you start the journey with a taxi always settle on the total price before you start and if you strike a difficult taxi driver just move on to the next driver In Kuta , I would recommend never book a hotel room down narrow secluded laneways because there are too many savage dogs in the area and they will give you hell trying to get to and from your hotel room , I got caught at night with lots of savage dogs trying to attack me and I could get pass them so I had to get taxi's to get to the hotel that I was at staying at. When you walk the streets of Bali , just about every minute someone wants to sell you something and it can become very tiring , my advice is to just keep walking because any communication with them only makes matters worse .
I think the reality is its the tourist who are taking advantage of the kind people of Bali. Respect the culture and enjoy Bali and respect the environment
On the phone tax, you need to explain it in more detail. You’re correct in saying “do not MOVE here without paying the phone tax.” This is true for those who are going to 1) stay in indonesia longer than 90 days using a local number. You will have to report to the Customs for this, 2) stay in indonesia under 90 days using a local number, you can simply report this to a local cellphone provider office. If you are staying in indonesia using your home number (international roaming), you do not have to report it to the customs/provider.
@@maax no no, i'm just adding more details for people who might think they have to report even for a short stay. sorry, didn't mean to be such a critic!
@@timkempkes6552 yes but once they had taken my details they had to ask permission from the authorities. I had to wait several hours before my SIM card was vetted and became operational. That is definitely not what happens in Cambodia, France or anywhere I know.
About the taxis ... Blue Bird taxis are very reliable, do not rip you off and are extremely safe. I´m often in Bali on my own and have never lived a negative experience with the Blue Bird company taxis. The company itself has signs inside the car asking people to report any negative experience and the driver is identified by name and number and they always take the shortest route to your destiny.
They aren’t bad but grab and Gojek are just better. Same reason people use Uber instead of taxis in other countries, it’s just easier. Plus I’ve found the prices are always a bit cheaper and u pay what the app says without any hassle (even if that’s not common)
My Bali trip is coming. Thank you for this tips. Though I was trained in Metro Manila with scams, snatchers, the thief still this is a different place.
Planning on going to Bali on December, heard it’s a rainy season so I am reconsidering cause I want to hike, surf, scuba dive and do other things which might not be possible cause of the rain, what do you think about the rainy season in Bali, is it still worth going?
I am in Bali for 2 days now and somebody tried to steal my phone today while driving a scooter from Uluwatu to Nusa Dua. I was on a backseat trying to navigate from the phone meanwhile a driver on another scooter tried to take my phone. I was holding it really tight. So he didn’t success. Just take care. It can happen anytime.
I was in Bali from the 21st of May to the 30th of June 2024 non of what your are saying makes sense the locals themselves don’t wear helmets, I held my phone in my hand the whole time. Where did you stay ? You don’t need to pay tax on your phone. blue service taxis are wonderful and they show you the price as it rises. Where did you stay ? Kuta is fine, it’s friendly and kind I am Australian and we were bombed and hit in the Bali bombings and we stayed there comfortably and affordably. You need to be careful with what you are saying this is peoples livelihood and your ruining it. None of the locals say it is free they ask you what price you think. Mate you need to fact check yourself. Disappointing
In canguu my first day the police try to take money from me in my first day after he was insisting how much money 💰 I have i was lying and saying nothing let go to the court then because you are a corruption and he left me go for driving without helmet
Great advice. Methanol can be a problem with arak and even name brand liquors if they were refilled with arak or something similar. I don’t know if things have improved since before but be cautious and get to know which places have good reputations. And read about methanol poisoning before going overseas. Also I didn’t know about that type of krait, yikes. Also cobras, green pit vipers and sea snakes, all venomous.
If you need a visa visit the Immigration Offices in either Jimbaran or Denpasar directly. Don't worry if you don't speak Bahasa Indonesia, the immigration Office is helpful and won't rip you off. Their price list on display. If anyone tells you that a visa will cost thousands of dollars they are trying to rip you off. Go check out the Immigration Office for yourself. You can arrange your own visa there without much difficulty.
Really appreciate this one! Thanks for sharing and keeping it real! Everyone always focuses on the good and it’s nice to hear about the bad for a change to understand the reality before visiting! Keep up the great work with these videos man!
Bali is amazing place. I appreciate the detailed breakdown of all things and not to do, and very proud of your accomplishments to partake in different cultures around the world. I support this channel.
The number one should always be, do not drive a scooter or motorbike without having an actual MOTORCYCLE license ! No insurance is gonna pay anything, also not your hospital bills.
For paying phone tax....it is not this kind of mandatory tax....means, if you want to activate your gsm phone with local number, yes you should register your imei , then you need to pay the phone tax....because it has eligible as an imported phone handset. But if you only activate your foreign country phone and stay connected with mobile hot spot. You just set your phone aeroplane mode and activate your wifi signal.....then you no need to pay local phone tax. I suggest.. if you really need a local no for your activity, you can buy a cheap local phone.....do not use your foreign handset as a gsm network.....you will not get any gsm signal.....
5:33 Don't step on them, sure. But me and my friends (they're locals) used to take the candies and sometimes money from those offerings, and ran to the PS2 rental place to play for an hour or two. To this day I still don't know if it was allowed or not XD
I've been to Kuta so many times with my family and never had any issues (last time in `23). Only thing we recognized was how hard Covid hit the area and how many shops closed (especially the Matahari-Area). I try to avoid the influencer party people around Seminyak and Canggu 😅
Good video.. another thing to mention is if you go around in your own attire you get hassled a lot more. Best to buy a pair of cheap shorts,a top and flip flops these boys don't miss a trick about their potential targets... Nice people here bit like most places on the planet you have some bad in the mix.. stay vigilant and safe.. terrible when you have to be on your guard whilst trying to enjoy yourself... but in the words of ned kelly.... SUCH IS LIFE
To clarify about paying the imported phone within 30 days, if your phone is below certain amount, you won’t be charged. If your phone cant be use because you didn’t pay the tax after 30 days, Your phone still work by using wifi or connecting to hotspot.
I want to say..please behave yourself , be friendly, thankfull and be respectfull to the locals. Just like the locals are. They are so kindly, helpfull and reseptfull .
Just dropping my experience bro, about phone, tax is free for any phone built prior to April 2020 (iPhone 11 pro max included). I did XL carrier, at official XL store in sunset blvd, they checked my imei in the databaseand said it’s tax free because was manufactured long enough ago. (Also I am happy of XL carrier 80k/month with lots of internet and great coverage.)
For Bali, you can use cash. I took a lot of rupiahs from the airport, which we used for a week or so. And then a few times mainly from M-mart next to the Tribe hotel, and from the bank in the shopping mall in Kuta. Generally, look for ATM with airconditioning, where locals go to, or preferably inside a supermarket or bank. We used Grab for getting around. Price is being set on forehand, and not expensive for western people. Never was there any discussion about it. Befriend a Grab driver. We might've lucked out but our 3rd or so driver was a young guy, we connected. He was well educated, spoke english, knew a lot about outside cultures. We struck a deal with him both sides were very happy with, plus we had a lot of fun together and treated him a lunch. We still had some whatsapp contact after we got home. He ate from street food just fine and said it was godly and cheap (like, 10k for nasi kuning+chicken I think), but while tempting as a visitor don't do it. Also, let your local guy buy beers at temple sites etc, as they might rip off tourists. They tried to charge me 70k for a beer, then we sent him, and he got like 3 beers for 70k. I understand and accept tourists pay more, but some prices are out of line (Bintang costs 25k-35k on average island wide).
Is there a way to exchange your currency (since we don't use much credit cards and atm) without getting scammed ? Also what's the best way to get around without renting a car ? Is there an app for taxi that wouldn't scam you ?
Many small business owners only accept cash. They don't have the money to invest in the credit card machines, and some have no clue abt transfers. Asia is still very much a cash society, especially the small street or beach vendors or small stores, and certainly once you leave the major cities. I wish you good luck to pay for your veggies or fruit on the local market with your credit card.
Excellent video. I loved the no-BS style. No long intros, no paid promotions, no drone footage or beautiful people with colourful food. Just damn useful information. Exactly what l was looking for after watching a tonne of time-wasting other Bali videos.
Thanks so much!!! Really glad you liked it!
PZaaxd
My thoughts exaclty
Yea some people love the sound of their own voice so much it can drive normal people in sain.
@@maax learn more about Indonesia rasis NKRI Nazism; ruclips.net/video/Acz8JxYMB8k/видео.html
My suggestion as a local is you get a good local friend. They will help you in any kind of situation. Stay respectful. Dont do anything crazy and you will be safe
Yup. That's right. And to have more horizon try to explore other lands in Indonesia. Jakarta is a capital city and even many people says it's a hectic place but it's a great city for crazy shoppers and big spenders because you can find many things in there, from computers, cell phones, electronics, fashions, street foods to elegant restaurants, luxury hotels, everything...
How often do you come across a snake? What other animals do you deal with there?
Thats hard to find a friend you can trust there meeting them on short order. I'm planning on coming there in November or Decenmber.
Can I get and smoke weed in Bali?
Local mean Balinese they are true becarefull with local people if they not Balinese
Some additions based on my experience in Bali for 2 years.
- Never left your phone charger accidentaly or forgotten your charger in any public places, especially if your cell phone is the expensive Android or iPhone. When suddenly you realize it and then turn back to the place where you left your charger, it's gone. You can ask anybody right there and they pretend that they've found or keep your charger safety, but it is not as safe as you think... They'll give you a bad charger or a used old charger. Better to write down your name on your charger using a marker or place a sticker on it to prevent switched by someone
- Never change your country currency to Indonesian rupiahs in the street market. Please go to the official Banks, preferably in Denpasar, not in Kuta or Legian unless if there is an official you already knew. Some small Banks a.k.a. Koperasi in Bali may cut as an additional fee more pricey than the official Banks. The Banks operation are open from 9 AM to 3 PM from Monday to Friday so make sure you arrange the schedule appropriately and better to come in the morning so you won't wait in the line for too long.
Useful! Thanks
Do you have any recommendations of the landmarks in Bali? I’m planning to visit Bali for my holi trip
Hello nice video. . My name Giannis from Cyprus🇨🇾but I live London. Next week I will come . What it's better atm no many fee with revolut cart? Thanks
@@tjatravelavocation9737 you mean the ATMs in Bali which has no withdrawal fee using foreign ATM card? Unfortunately there are none. Sorry.
those are obvious. Of course if you don't mind your things they will be gone and of course only use an official exchange place. This is common sense and this comment sounds naive, like you expect people to be honest with you
The following are my disagreement or slight modifications:
1. When you say "they will shut your phone off from the internet". What does that mean? I use internet with an unregistered phone.
2. Bluebird taxis are legit and use a meter.
3. Best ATM is one attached to a bank, preferably inside.
4. Temples you can go to with a sarong wrapped around your waist and covering your legs. Buy a sarong day 1, better than a towel.
5. Cash is by far the best. Limit how many times your card is scanned (scammed). Also, using a card to buy a few things at a market takes 5x longer is pisses off those in line behind you. Bring $500 from home. Exchange at money changer. You'll get decent rate and that rp7million will last 1-2 months for basic purchases.
Thank you for this!
5. Cash has its time and place, but when ordering food, rides, cell phone plans, paying rent, paying for visa services and so on, these are all things that can be done without ever having to take out cash or using a credit card by just using the right apps, so to optimize how many times I need to go to the ATM and how much u have on you / could lose, it’s best to avoid cash for those scenarios.
1. They shut off cel phone plans who haven’t been registered. If you brought your phone into Indonesia before the new rule came out then your device will be grandfathered in
Bluebirds are alright but it’s still just much easier to use grab or Gojek and avoid cash, get rides faster and easier and avoid any difficulties with translation when giving directions
ppl was honest and sincere 15 yrs ago there, took taxi area to area, driver said he could wait us, we back after 4 hrs and he still there waiting, didnt ask for extra fee. it's sad to heard not the same as old days.
Bloody hell, should have paid him more though
@@jessicaeleanor6294 yes we did
Mass tourism is evil corrupting local people almost in every country where it exists.
This is the best video i see about what do not do in bali.. Most ppl just talking how nice bali and bla bla.. I get robbed and beaten.. And it was crazy shit really can't forget about it
How did it happen?
€
Straight to the point and everything was actually helpful/useful, unlike a lot of these style videos. Thanks for the info!
SO happy to hear you enjoyed it!! Thank you!
Great video Maxwell !! I have lived in Bali for two years and all the 21 things not to do in Bali that you've mentioned, are very accurate. Good job :)
Thanks so much! Glad to hear!!!
What’s the app called for rides ? You mentioned not to get taxis
@@zahranorouzi3182grab
@@zahranorouzi3182grab / gojek
@@zahranorouzi3182grab/gojek
as you might figure out. the bluebird taxi was only honest taxi company and largest taxi company here. during my 2 week stay, I only take bluebird taxi, and make sure driver mwter the trip. not a problem.
though, later of my stay, we hired a private driver to take us around, and it was worth it
I’ve just found it easier to use apps like grab and Gojek where I don’t have to worry about asking for meter or watching it to make sure it’s running properly. With Gojek or grab I don’t even need to use cash so I can never end up short on money. Blue bird isn’t bad I just enjoy the ease of use when everything is down online in an app.
Interestingly, when we arrived in the late afternoon, the airport taxi which you book at the counter was cheaper than Grab. There was a massive traffic jam out of the city & surge pricing was in effect. The taxis outside at the airport sidewalk also quoted a high price at the start & we were unable to bargain it to a price lower than what was offered at the airport taxi counter.
Among other mentioned, there is also the Maxim taxi app, which is often half the price of Grab.
@@maaxjfyi bluebird taxis have their own app. This allows you to hail them and pay using credit card
I also found Blue Bird to be pretty trustworthy, I used them in Lombok a lot with no problems.
After living here for 5 years i would say most is good advice apart from: It is very rare for people to have phones or bags snatched, never even heard of it happening apart from in local media. It does happen, but its not common.
Cash is the best thing to use, many places do not accept cards, get a card that gives you good exchange rate and no international transaction fees and draw out a few million from an ATM IN A bank. Otherwise you can be paying transaction fees and bad exchange rates every time you use it.
Nice advice about bikinis and shirtless in the streets, if the tourists knew how much they were being laughed at and disliked by doing that i am sure most wouldnt do it 😂
It happened to us in Sanur. A man on a motorcycle snatched my wife's shoulder bag which contained pretty much everything.
I agree with your point abt cash. No clue where he gets the idea abt using cards. We have a very good virtual bank that allows us 5 free withdrawals a month, as simple as that. Never heard of or saw a phone snatched either. The video felt a bit like advice for Western countries, with a high crime rate. We found Bali so relaxed and stress free, except in Kura and Canggu indeed, but as the locals say: that part of the coast is not Bali 😁
I lived there for 8 years and had my phone stolen out of my hand whilst walking on the footpath - and bag snatching is common - stop with the misinformation
@@craigtroth4524 I have lived here for 5 years and never known anybody have it happen to them and nobody i know has said they know anybody it has happened to, maybe you were just unlucky or look like an easy victim. But it cetainly is rare - especially compared to other countries.
Stop it, if it doesn't happen to u it doesn't mean it is uncommon, 100s of people got their phone snatched in a single day in kuta
Just got back from Bali stayed in a villa at Ulu Segara Nusa Dua it was fantastic location on
the clifftop very quiet, Balinese people are mainly Hindu so are very friendly to each other
and to tourists . One of our drivers (you can hire a driver for the day for about $45AU a day)
said to us about the chaotic road rules (If any)that there is no road rage! loved it love to go back soon ! Another tip it is very humid so you will drink a lot of fluids we included a soft drinks package which was great but if you feel like some Bintang Beers get your driver to take you to the store they are too pricey at the resorts.
Are you implying that Muslim Indonesian are not friendly and kind
@@sal_strazzulloobviously they are like every group theres good and the bad. But balinese people are more open minded and carefree compared to the people from java.
Great advice dude.Ive lived in Bali for over a year and the one time I didn't take my good Australian helmet with me it got stolen off the bike!! So upset.But my own fault.
One you missed out is to ensure to keep the fuel tank on your motorbike locked. If the fuel tank cap is under the seat, keep the seat locked. If not, when you return to your bike you might find your fuel tank is suddenly empty because a thief just syphoned the fuel out of your tank.
Bro this is so funny... Just before your video I watched another girl's video where she was telling to basically do everything you are advising against. Like, stay in Kuta for cheaper price, don't worry about cash cause there're ATMs everywhere, get a tour on such and such beach hahaha. Thank you though! Ive traveled a lot and I know that the stuff youre saying is real! So, thank you again. This priceless info!
I’m solo traveling Bali next week and you def have the best vid:)
I used to live in Bali for 20 years. Good done video. I know Bali in wonderful times and times, I do not like. I been there during the Bali bomb times, lost friends. I miss Bali a lot, lot, lot, but I do never want to go back. I used to spent my first 3 years in AMED. It was wonderful. I have a good friend who still lives there and I told him NOT to tell me and sent me pictures about the area now. It became hell as far as I can read inbetween lines. But I do have it in my mind as it was before 2001 and up to 2007. After that I never went back. I got heardbroken living in Bali seeing how it got mad, durty and criminal. In my times the roads in Ubud been soooo bad, we rather walked than driving. There was one internet cafe and we sat in Tutmark and we were a bunch of folks who knew each others. There was nobody else. To get western food, we had to bring stuff from Singapore. The only jam was an indonesien strawberry one, that was 99% sugar with red color. Well... I still remember that. I used to do lots of different things on the island. I supplied 5 star hotels, had a shop, did 3 clothing lines, did art, had an online webmagazine, was a healer and became a mother... I keep those times in my mind. I am horrified to hear the now a days Bali. Oh, lots of my time folks left. For same reasons I did or died while in Bali. Not lots of us left there.
It's really not that bad....well maybe the traffic. Amed is still quiet, Ubud is a bit stuffed now with Russian scums who think they own the place, but still a nice place once you get them away..... Kuta is kuta....as always. You should go back...I have been 4 times in the last 9 months (post covid travel makeup)....planning keep going every three months or so.
yes has gone down hill since 2001 and extreme policies..
US grey haired folks call it evolution...
First came to Bali 33 years ago....the magic is still here for those that create it !
❤ Balinese flow is the way to go .
Drop your ideals...and slip into the present moment.
It's all any of us got !!!
FYI: Methanol is the bad "make you blind" alcohol, not ethenol. Thankfully the cure for methanol poisoning is ethanol.... So just chase each local drink with a vodka shot and you'll be good. ;-)
I guess I just got lucky as i had half glass arak filled with sprite 50%. I didn't knew there was a chance of methanol 😅. It was very strong though. Loved arak.
Bluebird taxis are awesome as long as it's genuine Bluebird and not one of the many fakes around. They are spotlessly clean and ridiculously cheap. They always put the meter on (in my experience) and won't try to charge you more at the other end. I always hail them in the street but I'm sure you can book Bluebird through Gojek. The remote areas are lovely but I do enjoy Kuta, Legian and Seminyak, so much to explore and lovely people to meet.
i stayed in kuta for a month just got back...everything was fine had no problems but i see this video is 3 years old im guessing things have changed alot
There are too many taxis in Bali and not enough passengers before you start the journey with a taxi always settle on the total price before you start and if you strike a difficult taxi driver just move on to the next driver
In Kuta , I would recommend never book a hotel room down narrow secluded laneways because there are too many savage dogs in the area and they will give you hell trying to get to and from your hotel room , I got caught at night with lots of savage dogs trying to attack me and I could get pass them so I had to get taxi's to get to the hotel that I was at staying at.
When you walk the streets of Bali , just about every minute someone wants to sell you something and it can become very tiring , my advice is to just keep walking because any communication with them only makes matters worse .
Great Video, thanks. Good word about staying in Kuta and ATM's. Also, Ethanol doesn't cause blindness, Methanol does.
I think the reality is its the tourist who are taking advantage of the kind people of Bali. Respect the culture and enjoy Bali and respect the environment
Not my experience. Kindness begets kindness. Nobody likes being scammed or used as a walking ATM continuously.
On the phone tax, you need to explain it in more detail. You’re correct in saying “do not MOVE here without paying the phone tax.” This is true for those who are going to 1) stay in indonesia longer than 90 days using a local number. You will have to report to the Customs for this, 2) stay in indonesia under 90 days using a local number, you can simply report this to a local cellphone provider office.
If you are staying in indonesia using your home number (international roaming), you do not have to report it to the customs/provider.
Hey 100% sorry if there was confusion there. You are correct this is only for people moving to Bali not tourists🙌🏼
@@maax no no, i'm just adding more details for people who might think they have to report even for a short stay. sorry, didn't mean to be such a critic!
Cell phone shop did ask for my passport details when I bought a SIM card for my two-week stay
@@vickocambodia8349 that is the law in any county
@@timkempkes6552 yes but once they had taken my details they had to ask permission from the authorities. I had to wait several hours before my SIM card was vetted and became operational. That is definitely not what happens in Cambodia, France or anywhere I know.
Thank you for all the useful tips and for not wasting time with small talk.
Of course! Glad you enjoyed!
About the taxis ... Blue Bird taxis are very reliable, do not rip you off and are extremely safe. I´m often in Bali on my own and have never lived a negative experience with the Blue Bird company taxis. The company itself has signs inside the car asking people to report any negative experience and the driver is identified by name and number and they always take the shortest route to your destiny.
They aren’t bad but grab and Gojek are just better. Same reason people use Uber instead of taxis in other countries, it’s just easier. Plus I’ve found the prices are always a bit cheaper and u pay what the app says without any hassle (even if that’s not common)
A lot of it is common sense but we all need to be given a dose of common sense from time to time. Thanks for the reminder
My Bali trip is coming. Thank you for this tips. Though I was trained in Metro Manila with scams, snatchers, the thief still this is a different place.
Planning on going to Bali on December, heard it’s a rainy season so I am reconsidering cause I want to hike, surf, scuba dive and do other things which might not be possible cause of the rain, what do you think about the rainy season in Bali, is it still worth going?
@@kunalgoel888 Hi I was in Bali last month (October for 9 days) and I experienced rainy days. It's still okay for me but I did not hike.
I am in Bali for 2 days now and somebody tried to steal my phone today while driving a scooter from Uluwatu to Nusa Dua. I was on a backseat trying to navigate from the phone meanwhile a driver on another scooter tried to take my phone. I was holding it really tight. So he didn’t success. Just take care. It can happen anytime.
Stay safe! Glad to hear you didn't lose it! This is unfortunately a. common thing in Bali now. Very sad
I watched 100 videos and this is the most valuable video. Thx Maxwell
Thats awesome! thank you!!
I was in Bali from the 21st of May to the 30th of June 2024 non of what your are saying makes sense the locals themselves don’t wear helmets, I held my phone in my hand the whole time. Where did you stay ? You don’t need to pay tax on your phone. blue service taxis are wonderful and they show you the price as it rises. Where did you stay ? Kuta is fine, it’s friendly and kind I am Australian and we were bombed and hit in the Bali bombings and we stayed there comfortably and affordably. You need to be careful with what you are saying this is peoples livelihood and your ruining it. None of the locals say it is free they ask you what price you think. Mate you need to fact check yourself. Disappointing
So this guy just decided to make some stupid dumb RUclips video
Sure did! It’s not like that at all the water, yes correct not to be drunk but otherwise all incorrect
The locals are not the issue. It’s the tourists & foreigners 😂😂
What he says is 100% correct. Shut up Sarah
In canguu my first day the police try to take money from me in my first day after he was insisting how much money 💰 I have i was lying and saying nothing let go to the court then because you are a corruption and he left me go for driving without helmet
Hello,
Great video !
Which area do you recommend to stay in Bali near convenience stores, bars and food street markets ?
Thank you so much.
So informative!! Stoked I’ll be there for 7 weeks for a retreat im hosting. all this information will really help our crew! Subscribed and Saved !
Planning to do Bali end of this year and thankful that I came across this.
Do Lombok instead❤
Eyyyy I know this camera guy/editor. Look who has come out of their shell. Will definitely follow your videos Max.
hahaha thank you!!
Great vlogs! Yes, a video about the pros/cons and general vibes of different areas around Bali would be great!
Very helpful. Simple. Short. Honest. No BS. Great video.
Hey! Thanks so much!
This is the kind of videos people need to see before they travel to Bali... or to any other place, really
Thank you!!
Thanks for sharing because I almost book to Kuta .What about Nina penida?
Great advice. Methanol can be a problem with arak and even name brand liquors if they were refilled with arak or something similar. I don’t know if things have improved since before but be cautious and get to know which places have good reputations. And read about methanol poisoning before going overseas.
Also I didn’t know about that type of krait, yikes. Also cobras, green pit vipers and sea snakes, all venomous.
Good advice 🎉
We are in here now and your videos helping us so much
If you need a visa visit the Immigration Offices in either Jimbaran or Denpasar directly. Don't worry if you don't speak Bahasa Indonesia, the immigration Office is helpful and won't rip you off. Their price list on display. If anyone tells you that a visa will cost thousands of dollars they are trying to rip you off. Go check out the Immigration Office for yourself. You can arrange your own visa there without much difficulty.
Really appreciate this one! Thanks for sharing and keeping it real! Everyone always focuses on the good and it’s nice to hear about the bad for a change to understand the reality before visiting! Keep up the great work with these videos man!
The video is full of “tips” that are not true! It’s awful
Beautiful way of sharing information. So simple and to the point.. loved it.
Wow! So much to be weary of. It puts an extra strain on what should be a care free vacation. I might be safer staying home 😮
pretty good video, and actual direct tips on what not todo, 100% subscribed
Bali is amazing place. I appreciate the detailed breakdown of all things and not to do, and very proud of your accomplishments to partake in different cultures around the world. I support this channel.
Thank you for your video pal, it is so informative, even for the locals. GBU
Nice to see you doing the vids super helpful for me planning to come as soon as offshore visas are opened up keep it up the info is 🔥
Best video on tips in Bali I've seen so far. Thanks for making something that's so helpful.
Thanks so much!! So happy you enjoyed!
The phone and laptop tax, when do you pay it when you renew the visa? How much is it per each item? What if you only using WiFi?
Great video! After watching your 21 things not to do I have come up with a 22. Do not go to Bali.
thank you for all the useful information, much apprecaited.. :)
As an electronic engineer, think of black/white stripped snakes as live wires, stay away
Awesome information, thank you!
My best recommendation is go to another island or Stay at home, make up some room for Bali.
The number one should always be, do not drive a scooter or motorbike without having an actual MOTORCYCLE license !
No insurance is gonna pay anything, also not your hospital bills.
Very true!
Amazing continue can't wait to see more vidio 🎉
Thanks for the tips!
Very helpful great share and channel
All the best see you again be safe cheers
Wow thanks so much!!!
For paying phone tax....it is not this kind of mandatory tax....means, if you want to activate your gsm phone with local number, yes you should register your imei , then you need to pay the phone tax....because it has eligible as an imported phone handset.
But if you only activate your foreign country phone and stay connected with mobile hot spot. You just set your phone aeroplane mode and activate your wifi signal.....then you no need to pay local phone tax.
I suggest.. if you really need a local no for your activity, you can buy a cheap local phone.....do not use your foreign handset as a gsm network.....you will not get any gsm signal.....
thanks for the help mate
Thanks so much for your information.
5:33 Don't step on them, sure. But me and my friends (they're locals) used to take the candies and sometimes money from those offerings, and ran to the PS2 rental place to play for an hour or two. To this day I still don't know if it was allowed or not XD
I've been to Kuta so many times with my family and never had any issues (last time in `23). Only thing we recognized was how hard Covid hit the area and how many shops closed (especially the Matahari-Area). I try to avoid the influencer party people around Seminyak and Canggu 😅
great stuff thanks (If not Kuta, then....Seminyak or Ubud ?)
Omg thank you brother this really helped a lot ❤
Thank you for all the tips 👍🏻🇮🇩
3:08 😍😍😍😍 that sounds like the best place for adventure
With a small group of friends of course 😏😏
Good video.. another thing to mention is if you go around in your own attire you get hassled a lot more. Best to buy a pair of cheap shorts,a top and flip flops these boys don't miss a trick about their potential targets... Nice people here bit like most places on the planet you have some bad in the mix.. stay vigilant and safe.. terrible when you have to be on your guard whilst trying to enjoy yourself... but in the words of ned kelly....
SUCH IS LIFE
Thank you for your valuable video bro.❤
To clarify about paying the imported phone within 30 days, if your phone is below certain amount, you won’t be charged.
If your phone cant be use because you didn’t pay the tax after 30 days, Your phone still work by using wifi or connecting to hotspot.
Thanks for the helpful tip :)
I want to say..please behave yourself , be friendly, thankfull and be respectfull to the locals. Just like the locals are. They are so kindly, helpfull and reseptfull .
The tile must be :"21 thing not do in everywhere"
Great advice 😊
I'm a local and I got one of my sandals swapped in a local vape shop LMAO. Imagine going out with one sandal different from the other
Very informative
Just dropping my experience bro, about phone, tax is free for any phone built prior to April 2020 (iPhone 11 pro max included). I did XL carrier, at official XL store in sunset blvd, they checked my imei in the databaseand said it’s tax free because was manufactured long enough ago. (Also I am happy of XL carrier 80k/month with lots of internet and great coverage.)
Terrific video. Best information. Lots of things I would not have known.
Thank you so much!
Kuta sounds like my kinda place, thanks for the heads up.
good info thanks
Thanks for information ❤
Great video! Love that you highlight cultural appropriation
Thank you!!
For Bali, you can use cash. I took a lot of rupiahs from the airport, which we used for a week or so. And then a few times mainly from M-mart next to the Tribe hotel, and from the bank in the shopping mall in Kuta. Generally, look for ATM with airconditioning, where locals go to, or preferably inside a supermarket or bank.
We used Grab for getting around. Price is being set on forehand, and not expensive for western people. Never was there any discussion about it. Befriend a Grab driver. We might've lucked out but our 3rd or so driver was a young guy, we connected. He was well educated, spoke english, knew a lot about outside cultures. We struck a deal with him both sides were very happy with, plus we had a lot of fun together and treated him a lunch. We still had some whatsapp contact after we got home. He ate from street food just fine and said it was godly and cheap (like, 10k for nasi kuning+chicken I think), but while tempting as a visitor don't do it.
Also, let your local guy buy beers at temple sites etc, as they might rip off tourists. They tried to charge me 70k for a beer, then we sent him, and he got like 3 beers for 70k. I understand and accept tourists pay more, but some prices are out of line (Bintang costs 25k-35k on average island wide).
most of you said is valid for anywhere in the world.
Thanx my man!!
I heard Kuta wasn't very nice but booked a night because I had a late flight. It's definitely the worst tourist place I've ever been to.
Thanks for youre advise..
Is there a way to exchange your currency (since we don't use much credit cards and atm) without getting scammed ?
Also what's the best way to get around without renting a car ? Is there an app for taxi that wouldn't scam you ?
9:30 I think you forgot the Transferwise link :)
I did haha but its there now thanks!!!
Thank you for the so useful informations, love you boy & wish you the best on your trips!
Very helpful
Awesome!! So glad I could help!!
Thanks! really helpful and practical tips👍
Glad it was helpful!
thanks for the infomations
Excellent advice thank you.
This was very helpful! Thanks 👍
Many small business owners only accept cash. They don't have the money to invest in the credit card machines, and some have no clue abt transfers. Asia is still very much a cash society, especially the small street or beach vendors or small stores, and certainly once you leave the major cities. I wish you good luck to pay for your veggies or fruit on the local market with your credit card.
GREAT VID, BRAH
helpful asf! nice one
Awesome!! Thank you!!