The name Bali isn't a foreign word for everyone when it comes travel checklist. It's been known for decades for its nature and serenity. For some socialites, hell it's a party paradise. Either you are planning a trip to enjoy the beauty of this island, or simply to escape your current problem and get drunk, there are few things you may need to know before stepping foot into this mortal heaven.
1. Volcanoes Are Everywhere
Not just a volcano, an active one! And yes, there are a handful of them all around this island. Most of the times these volcanoes erupt in a small scale, and when they do, the airport will normally close down temporarily. That means your flight will not be able land there.
Hence, you need to be prepared for any delay or possible flight cancellation when this type of nature occurrence takes place. There is nothing that anyone can do. My best advice is - check the weather report and stay in touch with the news before booking your ticket.
2. The Entire Island Is A Holy Ground
With a volcano standing next to your yard, it is a best idea to keep yourself near to God, like all the time. Thus, you will find this island is dense with Hindu temples. The locals perform prayer as if it is their daily meals. Even most of tourism destinations and souvenirs here possess religious influence.
One thing to keep in mind when you walk on the street of Bali - you will notice there are baskets of small goodies or food or trinkets laying around the entrances. Be mindful and do not step on those things. The locals place them every morning as part of their religious ritual and stepping on them might get you into bad karma. And that brings me to my next point.
3. The Locals Strongly Believe In Karma
With Hinduism being the largest religion, 83% of entire population, the belief of karma has been around since the island obtained independence. In general, people who believes in karma will always behave in a good way, and that applies to the locals here. There is no need to have any fear when you stroll around Bali's streets at night. The people are pretty much worried about something else. (But if you were a young lady, I would definitely suggest you to go out by group.)
With that said, there is no need for you to act all snobby or superior around here. The only time they will listen to your order is when you offer them a bag full of cash.
4. The Locals Share Almost The Same Name
Thanks to the book "Eat, pray, love" by Elizabeth Gilbert, people all around the globe now know that the locals have an interesting naming system. Regardless of gender, the four famous names are Wayan, Made, Nyoman and Ketut, given to the newborns based on the order of first to fourth respectively. If a family has more than four children, the cycle repeats.
But it's not as simple as it may sound. Some newborns would be given with additional names based on their caste or clan. While some tend to make it easier by giving themselves nicknames. So if you ever encounter with a local whose name is incredibly long and hard to remember, just go ahead and ask what does he/she prefer to be called.
5. The Island Brings You The Feeling Of Peace, Sometimes Love
Unless you are in a spiritual journey to find your true self (which I totally respect), do me a favor and never ever go there by yourself. If you are married or dating, do bring your partner. If you aren't intending to have that anytime soon, please bring your friends or family.
Bali has so much to offer, and based on my experience, they were all memorable because I spent my time here with my wonderful friends. Everything you do, everything you see could possibly spark the feeling of romance or love. It can be a real shame if you don't have any special person to share that memory with.
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That's it for my post this time. In case if you are looking for a tour guide in Bali, do email me at ariqrakoli@gmail.com. I'd love to share this one tour guide, Mr. Eko, who provided great hospitality for me and my friends during our stay.
