If you are excited about your upcoming holiday to Bali, especially if you are going to be staying in one of the many fantastic Bali villas which are available, we are going to do nothing to temper your excitement. However, if you have never travelled to Bali before, and as is the case for any overseas holiday, the more you know about the country or location you are travelling to, the better.
That includes knowing all the great stuff as well as some of the not-so-great. The not-so-great will be the case for every holiday destination around the world. Although some like to consider themselves as paradise, none can claim that they have zero downsides, even if they are rare. As for Bali, it too has lots of great aspects to it, but one which does require some attention is health risks.
Before we go any further, we must stress that we are not suggesting that Bali is a holiday destination where your health and safety are at extreme risk. That is not so, and the vast majority of people who visit Bali do so and return home without any issues whatsoever. However, there are some, especially those who ignore all the precautions and advice, who succumb to illness and injury. All we wish to do is make you aware of five of those health and safety risks so you can avoid them.
Drinking Water
Our #1 tip for staying healthy and well whilst holidaying in Bali is to not drink water from the tap in your Bali villa or any other tap for that matter. Bali’s water is far from the healthiest, so ensure that you and your party only ever drink bottled water. Also, it is advisable not to have ice in your drinks as often this is just frozen water from the tap.
Bali Belly
Bali has some of the most amazing and delicious cuisines, which you can enjoy in the many restaurants Bali has to offer. However, to avoid an upset stomach, sickness, and diarrhoea, collectively known as Bali’s belly, you should only eat in restaurants that have good reviews, avoid raw foods, and wash fruits and salads, if possible, before eating them.
Petty Crime
Bali is like any other location in the world in that it has its share of petty criminals who prey on tourists. As such, do not carry lots of cash or draw attention to the fact you are wearing expensive jewellery. Whilst thefts, which also include assault, are rare, they can happen, so be sensible and vigilant.
Animal Bites
These are rare but can happen, and given that rabies is still prevalent in Bali, it pays to be careful. Do not approach any stray animals, such as dogs, no matter how cute they appear. Also, on trips to temples and forests where monkeys are abundant, you should follow all the safety guidelines provided by your guide or host.
Insect Bites
Flying insects such as mosquitos, flies, and bees are especially bothersome in Bali, as are crawling creatures such as spiders and cockroaches. Keeping your Bali villa clean will help, but our advice is, firstly, do not try to pick up any insect, and if anyone is bitten by an insect, seek medical advice immediately.
