Home after 3 weeks in Seminyak. Not one problem. This was my 9th time in Bali. Know what you are doing and research everything, you will have a great experience.
Hi there, in April will be my first time in Bali. I understand you're almost a citizen there at this point 😅 Do you have any advice for newcomers? I will go with my girlfriend and my son (5). If you can give us any type of valuable advice ... Thank you so much! Happy new year!
@@crypticcomputing604 Research, research, research. Everyone wants a different experience in Bali. Understand the type of holiday you want and know what to expect re where you are staying and the type of location it's in.
Seriously? You think someone that has been to Bali on holidays actually knows about the place? It takes decades of living there to know that we know very little@@crypticcomputing604
@@jenniferrosebruce6385 Absolutely Thailand is safe,so is Indonesia Incidents like this can happen anywhere..First day in Holland many moons ago,was robbed in a packed decent bar by ..300 us was gone ,the lady sitting next me picked my pocket!
Exactly. This type of person is common in Bali and they're no different in Aus. Unfortunately you can tell a book by its cover here and these people attract trouble - late 50s tatted up singo wearing, non family man dude. I have tattoos all over too so no prude. Don't hang out at clubs late at night, don't get smashed out on the town, appreciate their traditions and you'll be fine. He's going on about he or his friends getting into trouble for walking back streets late at night or dodgy massages 😂 Same as in your home country, don't look for trouble and you won't get it.
Great video Muzza! I had a similar experience with some ladies coming up to us asking if we wanted some fun etc. It was in Kuta after leaving some nightclubs and after having maybe one too many drinks we didn't even notice they had grabbed our phones out of our pockets! luckily I felt my pockets as we were walking away and managed to confront them before they got on their scooter and left. We certainly didn't let it ruin our experience of Bali but it was definitely an eye-opener! Just remember when having a few drinks to always double-check your pockets every few minutes just in case!
These things have been happening for a long time. I lived in Bali in the 90’s and met a lot of people who had been scammed or pickpocketed or ripped off in one way or another. If you’re sensible and take precautions you will enjoy your holiday and feel more relaxed as you don’t have to be worrying about your belongings all the time. Hide your phone and money underneath your clothes in travel safe type bag’s that can’t be cut or ripped off you. Changing money at your hotel or a legit money changer as close to your hotel as possible so that you can quickly return your passport to your room safe. Bali is such a beautiful island with wonderful people who depend on tourism to survive and it’s unfortunate that petty crime ruins it for some people. Stay informed of current scam trends and be safe but don’t let it stop you from experiencing a beautiful culture and an island paradise! ❤️
I've never seen any crime where I live in Bali. Because I stay away from "the center" (ie. Kuta/Legian/Seminyak/Cangu/Ubud, etc.). Also, I've never gone to a money changer in Bali. It's best to use Wise, where you can keep multiple wallets in different currencies (80 currency choices if I remember correctly) and exchange back and forth at will with competetive exchange rates. Then you simply go to the ATM and withdraw cash from your digital wallet storing your local currency. It's easy, cheap, and safe. That's all I've done here for 2 years. Works perfectly. I've used it in Malaysia, Japan, and Indonesia.
Indonesia and Indonesians are beautiful and generally very courteous and good people. I’ve travelled there over a 100 times and encountered the odd con. But, way less than that I’ve experienced on the Gold Coast QLD or Alameda LA.
@@furball8967 Yes, from what I've seen on Java and Bali Islands, that is true. But, Lombok can be a bit dicey. It's best not to drive around at night in Lombok, as random gangs have been known to create traffic blockades whereby they will rob drivers and passengers under threat of kinife attack. This goes for not only tourists, but locals are afraid of this at night too. One female tourist lost her arm trying to fight back. The taxi driver bringing me to my hotel would only pick me up at the ferry port up until a certain time, because he didn't want to be driving back home after the sun went down because of the risk. Though, since the video is specifically about Bali, I will say that I've never heard of any of this type of danger in Bali.
@@furball8967 I love the people of Indonesia! I have family in Bali and Lombok! Even the people who have very little would give you the shirt off their back if you needed it! ❤️
We got scammed of over $500. We booked a Villa for 2 weeks, and after the first week, the owner kicked us out because he had someone else booked in. Never got reimbursed. Nobody even said "sorry about that!"
@@dragonemperor202 The police came. They didn't even speak to us. Apparently, the guy we booked with, wasn't the actual owner, he just subleased the villas. I'll be far less trusting if I ever go back to Bali.
@@crustydownunder actually under Indonesian law u still can proceed with it to the court as the law already promulgated that a building cannot be re rented again unless with the agreement of the owner, in which the owner should be the one responsible if such things happened
Indonesian police can't even undersand and speak english thats why they won't help coz they can't understand. It's absurd and very hassle if you visit on a country that cant speak and understand basic english.
I'm an Aussie from WA. Never been to Bali but always wanted to go. Would be traveling alone so safety was a concern that stopped me going. But videos like yours gives me a little more confidence to make the trip. New years resolution for 2024 is go to Bali. Thanks for the vids 👍
I’m a 59 year old Australian and have visited Bali on and off since 14. Bali has always been like this and it is never the Balinese. Always other Indonesians. The Balinese always use to say they are Javanese.
I was on a massage table and had my necklace stolen after I had taken it off for the massage. I always keep my money with me, so they didn’t get to it. I was disappointed that they stole my necklace I just bought from Maui, Hawaii. It wasn’t expensive but just the thing of getting ripped off pissed me off. I made sure everyone knew someone in that establishment stole an item from me.Let’s say, I didn’t leave quietly and all other customers were aware or to check their belongings.
@@spiro190agree 100% that has been my experience too in Bali, my first trip I stayed in Kuta and had three different incidents with Javanese people, my second trip was great, no problems but I stayed at Nusa Dua , there was a lot of security at the local shopping centre and around in general.
as you said, those problem not came from Balinese. i hope things like this wont tarnished Bali reputation overall. stay safe and have a good time, bud. always go with your trusted driver or guide, you gotta have one. when you have one guy that can make your live easier and safer, that worth all the money. they gonna give you all the information that you needed, place to go or not to go.
Would love to do a meet and greet when I’m over for three weeks in February. I’m a 67 yr old female travelling solo. Great advice, l always leave all my jewellery at home and buy a watch for a few dollars in Bali. I’m a new subscriber, so I’m going to start binge watching your videos.
Also had "happy pills" planted on me in a nightclub there. Lucky I discovered them in the bathroom and flushed them as cops had entered the club and singled me out for pat downs. They were confused when I came up empty. Be very careful in Bali
@@jimbart7859I'm not the 1st and certainly won't be the last. Also had a taxi driver try to make me get out in an alleyway so his friends could jump me. Apparently an old trick.
I went to Bali in 2012 for a mates wedding, was a good time. Now I'm returning to Bali Dec 2023 with my 8 year old son, we're only staying 3 days as an extended lay over before the Philippines, hopefully we don't have any trouble.
It was explained to me by a local in Thailand 18 years ago. People kept trying to scam money out of us (which we did not have). When I explained to them that I am considered 'poor' in Australia, they simply said, you are traveling to another Country, therefore you are way richer then we will ever be.
I live in Bali since 12 years and you are right you are a walking ATM that's it they not respect us I can prove that I don't have any friends and I don't need them I just locked the nature and the temperature the climate that's why I'm here stay healthy
that's so true. I'm a local but live in oz. average salary in indo is like $200-$400 a month if you converted to AUD. you can get that amount in a full day work in oz. even though living costs is cheaper overthere but it doesn't really weigh up. so they'll always consider if you're a foreigner or you're rich.
@@crypticcomputing604 no. like he said in the video it's very rare. it's just how locals view foreigners money wise. obviously not everyone is like that, most of us don't give a shit tbh we just wanna get on our lives. just be careful around Denpasar area like in most crowded cities there's always something happening.
You seem like such a sweetheart. I've never been to Bali, but if I ever do, I'd want to drop by your tattoo shop, just to say "hi" - especially since I'm a tattoo enthusiast as well. Thanks for the advice to travellers. ❤
Not the Bali I remember of the 70's, single lane road with more people walking down the road than cars with the odd bike. The buildings have changed, what I remember was more like outdoor market feeling with stalls and chooks running around and from what you are describing, the the people were more trust worthy and friendly, do anything for you back then. Oh well so much for progress.
I have to say, VERY informative and extremely helpful 😊. I’m looking to travel to Bali in November on my own (solo female), so this for me really helps. I’m not a party party person, so won’t be looking to go out late at night anyway. However, it’s still useful to know and also to be aware of your surroundings. I felt safe walking at 2100 at night in KL, and didn’t go out too late when I was in Patong, Phuket either. Felt safe. If you got any tips of where’s best to stay (been looking at Kuta/Legian and now Nusa Dua) as best places to stay. Look forward to visiting 👍🏾 Cheers from London, England 🏴
REALLY TIMELY REMINDER.... THIS GOES FOR ANY HOLIDAY DESTINATION. THE VERY FIRST THING I UNDERSTOOD ABOUT A HOLIDAY IN AN UNFAMILIAR COUNTRY/ LAGUAGE/ CULTURE, IS YOU ARE 100% RESPONSIBLE FOR YOURSELF. IT IS FAR EASIER TO BE AWARE THAN IT IS TO TRY TO SORT THINGS OUT AFTER THEY'VE HAPPENED..... LEARNT A LOT VERY QUICKLY.... YOUR RIGHT MUZZA, MOST IF NOT ALL OF THESE OPPORTUNISTIC CRIMES/ SCAM ARE NOT BY THE BALINESE.....IF ANYTHING THE LOCALS JUST TRY IT ON WHEN YOU ARE HAGGLING THE PRICE OF GOODS. LIKE ANY TOURISTIC DESTINATION, WE GO THERE TO COMPLETELY RELAX AND ARE SO BLISSED OUT ON HOW WELL WE ARE TREATED, THAT WE DROP OUR GUARD....THATS WHEN THE OPPORTUNIST STEPS IN. THANKS AGAIN MUZZA, ALWAYS GOOD CONTENT AND REMINDERS👍🙏
I can not hear. Could you shout louder? Maybe you don't know. If you use capitals it means you are 'SHOUTING". I must admit, I only found this out a few years ago!!!
What a great video Murray, such needed advice..also if your looking for a great seafood restaurant try Yogis Paradise & Grill you won't be disappointed😋 ❤
I'm always careful with what walk around with. Cheap waterproof digital watch, no other accessories. I keep my main wallet, credit cards, several days worth of IDR cash and passport securely at hotel. I walk round with a cheap wallet with just one day worth of cash and my phone in pants front pocket. Small tip to avoid being hassled for transport, I keep my scooter key on a carabiner attached to the front of my pants so I can just point to it. Even if you don't have transport over there, grab a spare vehicle key from home and use that - it save you a lot of time/hassle.
I laughed in the beginning as he talking about getting stabbed in New York and a women yells out. I LOVE YOU SIR. He smiles 😃 and carries on talking about crime.
You’re a legend mate. I’ve been over about 6 times since 1980. It was unreal back then and we never had to worry about anything really. It’s gotten a bit seedier since. I’m coming over in March but my partner and I are staying in Sanur . I guess it’s possible to get robbed over there too but do you reckon it’s probably a bit safer there ?
Been to Bali many times. I took the advice of a local early on. He reckons when you go out just take enough cash don't have a wallet bulging your pocket. No watch/jewelry and don't get too pissed if you are on your own. Served me well and I used to walk home from the Double Six club at 3am. Same for massage joints, just take enough cash. Those baskets on the floor are a treasure trove for poor Javanese/Balinese.
I can relate to what you are saying especially the massage parlour scams. It happened to me in Seminyak but I won’t go into any details here on this thread.
All I can see is Don chasing them blokes down the road. Lucky for them he didn't catch them. You forgot about your bucks night when Don stopped a phone being stolen. Great work Muzza as usual.
Doubt it, used to travel all over Indo. Lots of wealthy tourists attract lots of thieves. All westerners are wealthy comparitively. Bali is a bit of a crime hotspot.
Crime is way worse in other parts of Indonesia, I lived in West Java for 4 years in a quiet little traditional village, there is no way you could leave your scooter outside at night when you went to bed basically everyone brings their scooters right into their house at night, nearly every night someone in the village would have a scooter stolen from outside their house. A lot of the crime here in Bali is perpetrated by Javanese guys who come here for that purpose only, and it stands to reason the majority of Indonesians are barely surviving on a couple of million rp a month if they are lucky, and they see us fortunate expats who have the luxury of being able to come here to their country and live like relative kings with no money worries whatsoever, I'm no criminal and i don't support criminal activity but I have to say if I was a young Indo guy here poor as hell and unable to find decent work I think definitely I'd be tempted to rip off a rich expat visitor if the chance to do so was there in front of me.
It's still criminal. Currencies and economies are stronger and more valuable relative to their strength and worth. Indonesia simply does not have the value and influence that most Western countries do. If they want to be on the same level, they'll have to work on it to get there. This is a poor argument. You gotta play the hand you're dealt. I was a foreigner in Bali for quite a while and actually had a horrific hand back in my home country, which is why I tried out Bali. Then I get there and I am treated like a priveleged ATM and crime target. I was just basically finished almost dying in my home country complete with all the other agony and Bali was supposed to be "the great escape" where I could relax and unwind and start a new life but it turned out to be anything but. Yet more and more stress. I nearly ended up homeless in Bali and starved for 2 weeks after being robbed once. Many of my belongings were stolen or ruined. I was cautious too with what I did and who I met but still, with white skin you are a target. I hate Bali and to be honest I hate Indonesia for continuing to allow what happens. The Balinese talk about how they hate the Javanese so they should ban these guys from the island. There is no excuse for theft, extortion, or any other crime.
My son just got back from Bali first night out to dinner in a nice restaurant in Kuta, he got up to leave walked a few steps away, he just remembered he left his phone on the table went back to get it. Already had been stolen off the dining table from the staff who had just cleared the plates away. No they did'nt give it back.
Lived in Manhattan New York for 8 years from Australia, never even came close to being mugged or robbed, don’t even know anyone that’s happened to while I was there. I never saw anyone pull out a gun, but I did hear gun shots once when I was in Brooklyn. I can honestly say that I felt safer in NYC at 3am than I do now that I’m back in Melbourne 🥴 I guess it can happen anywhere really, maybe I was just lucky 🤷♀️
I travelled to New York as a single woman and was walking around central park and Harlem by myself. I didn’t feel unsafe but there’s parts of the UK where I wouldn’t walk around by myself. There’s dodgy people and criminals everywhere in the world really to some degree. You just have to be vigilant
@@aaa-hh5ebJambret2 yg tertangkap kebanyakan bernama I Wayan, I Made, I Nyoman, I Ketut, I Kadek, I Dewa dll dan banyak dari mereka tertangkap di kampungnya di Karangasem dan Buleleng tapi mereka bukan baliaga
I remember a David Attenborough interview when he was asked where was the most beautiful place in the world. He answered Bali but in 1959 before all the bloody tourists.
Jakarta is fairly sketch if you're white at night and not in a group or safe area (mall or hotel), it's sketch for locals to. Most Indonesians are very chill and welcoming especially if you are respectful and show an interest, but on the street it is different, you're a walking bag of money and for some a symbol of all that is wrong in their lives. There is no social security safety net. Not surprised Bali is going the same way. Have spent a lot of time working in Jakarta but only ever transited through Bali during Ramadan when flights are packed.
@@user-yj5os4uw2n I can walk around solo at night in my home city and have done so in many cities throughout the world, but not Johannesburg or Jakarta. You can walk around freely at night in Jakarta if you stick to the malls and the tunnels that link the malls and your hotel. Or hang with some locals, who also prefer the malls at night. The Shangri La doesn't have a connection to a mall, but the hotel staff advise against walking around at night. A team member from Singapore didn't heed the warning and was robbed at knife point. To enter a mall or quality hotel you pass through a metal detector and have your bag scanned like at an airport, though at the malls it seems to be more theater. Working for the local telco, you work in a compound with high security. Armed guards, security gates, security screening, metal detectors, bag searches, company shops, dedicated prayer floor and prayer rooms on all floors, with the call to prayer piped through ceiling speakers.
Great vid mate, i've visited Bali many times as a single lad before, i took my young family in June for a holiday to visit friends but it was the worst thing i ever did, the place seems completely lost after Covid and i actually felt pretty unsafe on a few occasions, sadly i wont be rushing back, Thailand or Vietnam are much safer options.
@@JonathanLifeisForLivingI had never been to Bali before Covid but only after. And I have visited Thailand and Vietnam countless times, my first time being in 2006. And so I might be biased and my reasoning is mostly based on what I heard from other expats that had already been living in Bali before covid. If I were to compare, Thailand is a lot safer and also worth visiting. Bali is beautiful in its own way but apart from safety, the rents have gone up like crazy especially after the Ukraine-Russian war and also the fakeness of Canggu and other popular areas... it is like a huge hollywood movie set, a bubble that is about to pop. There are so many fake and cluless young tourists there, rampaging through all over on scooters and polluting the beautiful island Bali once was. Many of them are Russians who recently fled from Russia. I personally have nothing against them in general but you know what I mean. Anyway, Thailand and Vietnam all the way.
I remember a female backpacker telling me how she and her friend had been attacked on the main street by a native doing kung fu on them. They'd been saved by other backpackers, totally random unprovoked attack.
Stonewall is just a bit of fun, but did you know the owner is quietly sponsoring our humanitarian work in the villages and providing free food on Wednesday evenings for my meet and greets. Good people and a fun venue with less "BOGANS" than the other place...
@@MurrayWilkinson1 I didn't know that and yes it is fun. I pay a visit to Stonewall every few months when I come to Bali. I live in lovely quiet Lombok.
Great video, I feel far safer in New York than I do walking in Perth. I have been to New York 6 times and never had any danger. Last visit was last month and used the subway everyday with no problems what so ever.
This happened to just before the world shut down I just got home in time from Bali I was in the local mini mart a group asked me for a bottle of water of course being a nice guy I em I did As I was at the back getting water for them at the back of the shop I noticed one came in and I seen he swapped the card machine thinking I paying by card lucky I always use cash in Bali god knows if I used my card they would of took all my money in my account
Good tips for everyone, sometimes u forget where you are . Another few tips , do not walk on the beach late at night , you will be mugged by the lady boys . Street between jayacarta hotel and double six Rd, bags ripped off ladies shoulders , this happens day and night . Mobile phones pick pocketed at night clubs , also beware that your drinks get spiked. If you have to go to toilet or dance , get your self another drink, as they spike it while u have been gone. Most important, if there is a crime committed to you , report it to the police. These crimes do not happen every second , be cautious, and u will have a great holiday .
While serving in the Navy, we went through Southeast Asia on many occasion and we were always aware of how and the potential dangers that Bali presents. we were warned prior to going ashore on leave to be careful.
Cheers Muzz , was in Bali last week and had 2 massage parlours with multiple ladies offer services…they were shooshed away very quickly. Also never put your belongings in one of their lockers up by the counter too. There has been foreign couple getting around in Sanur and Legian asking to see your currency too and sleight of hand that disappears as well. Been saying it for years…there is nothing good happening in Bali after midnight so don’t put yourself in that position.
I was attacked once in Kupang by a group of about 15. It was full on. Fortunately I had competed in the world Jujitsu championships the year before, so was still in good nick. I walked away with a cut on my nose only. After reporting it to the police, they stitched me up for free and insisted I accompanied them on a patrol to track down the perpetrators. This was in 1990. Good times.
Actually heading too rote I remember a taxi being stoned by about 5 different people, I had ordered the taxi the day before to go to the harbour from west Timor to Rote Island, that was around 2002, kupang has had its fair share of violence over the years. Never had to fight though, that normally happens between taxi drivers back then . Hard times back then. No blogs.
Been there in the last 2 christmas holidays. Nothing has really changed except there's much less tourist (which is great, cos sometimes i feel like bali was alr overcrowded)
I have always worn my gold jewellery I wouldn’t these days there. I have heard a lot about people getting scammed but robberies have increased ten fold these days.
I never got the gold chain thing - it's like waving cash in front of people who have SFA. Wandered around Thailand, Cambodia and Malaysia for years without incident only to have my wallet stolen in Guilin - the bastards must have followed me from the ATM and waiting till I took my wallet out in a pharmacy. Lesson learned and now I treat every country with the same caution.
Went to a massage place there where they put your things in a cupboard that had a false back wall where they stole exactly half of my cash from opening the false wall , the heights of thievery always keep your things in front of you
getting extraordinarily sick in Bali from Arak alcool and, regrettably, some passing away afterwards. Previous investigations indicate that it kills hundreds of Indonesians and tourists each year.
from my experience living in Bali for 2 years crime and especially violence is way lower than in the west. i could give numerous examples. does anyone have a study on that?
Hey Muzz, love your work, man. I had all good intentions catching up with your mob as I just arrived back to Perth on Tuesday night, 31 Oct. However, I had a pretty tight schedule for 2 weeks, which included a week in Nusa Lembongan scuba diving. Anyway, I want to share a new scam with you and your subscribers. But first I want to mention I have been going to Bali since 1988. I ordered a blue taxi on 2 separate occasions, travelling to and from Sanur to Nusa Dua. The common denominator being, as soon as I hopped into the taxi, the driver said, "You take toll shortcut, sir? I replied, yes. They then mentioned that they forgot to load money onto their toll card. I said no problems, and I would pay the 13000Rp cash at toll. No, sir can not pay cash, which I thought was unusual as I have done it that way previously. So, they then go on to say I need to stop at mini mart to load my toll card, is that OK, sir? Of course I say. Yet this is where it gets conspicuous. They rush in at a great rate of knots, showing urgency, then come back and say there was a problem there loading the card. Now, this went on three or for times. Hence, I became super suspicious. So, here we go, I notice. Despite all of these stops, the meter is still ticking over. When I arrived on both trips, I confronted these opportunist cabbies and disputed the cost. They, of course, argued the fact, yet I was relentless and know pretty well my prices. One of them, the price was elevated by double, i.e., from 150000Rp to 300000Rp. Well, I happen to have a few good loyal friends in Bali and discussed this ploy with them. They said, "Yes, it is a new ploy to extract more money from the passenger." So, be vigilant people, they will scam you however they can. But I will mention this, both drivers I asked where they were from, East Timor people, so do not blame the beautiful Balinese for this. Take care and stay safe. Muzz, could you feature this one in a future video? Cheers, cob. Might catch up with you and your mob in March 24, and Alan as I am an Army gold card veteran like him. Keep the Bintangs cold, bro.
Hey Muzz, love your work, man. I had all good intentions catching up with your mob as I just arrived back to Perth on Tuesday night, 31 Oct. However, I had a pretty tight schedule for 2 weeks, which included a week in Nusa Lembongan scuba diving. (Put paragraphs in to make it easier to read ;-) ) Anyway, I want to share a new scam with you and your subscribers. But first I want to mention I have been going to Bali since 1988. I ordered a blue taxi on 2 separate occasions, travelling to and from Sanur to Nusa Dua. The common denominator being, as soon as I hopped into the taxi, the driver said, "You take toll shortcut, sir? I replied, yes. They then mentioned that they forgot to load money onto their toll card. I said no problems, and I would pay the 13000Rp cash at toll. No, sir can not pay cash, which I thought was unusual as I have done it that way previously. So, they then go on to say I need to stop at mini mart to load my toll card, is that OK, sir? Of course I say. Yet this is where it gets conspicuous. They rush in at a great rate of knots, showing urgency, then come back and say there was a problem there loading the card. Now, this went on three or for times. Hence, I became super suspicious. So, here we go, I notice. Despite all of these stops, the meter is still ticking over. When I arrived on both trips, I confronted these opportunist cabbies and disputed the cost. They, of course, argued the fact, yet I was relentless and know pretty well my prices. One of them, the price was elevated by double, i.e., from 150000Rp to 300000Rp. Well, I happen to have a few good loyal friends in Bali and discussed this ploy with them. They said, "Yes, it is a new ploy to extract more money from the passenger." So, be vigilant people, they will scam you however they can. But I will mention this, both drivers I asked where they were from, East Timor people, so do not blame the beautiful Balinese for this. T T ake care and stay safe. Muzz, could you feature this one in a future video? Cheers, cob. Might catch up with you and your mob in March 24, and Alan as I am an Army gold card veteran like him. Keep the Bintangs cold, bro.
Cabs are a good topic as there are good AND BAD. You can NOT pay cash at the toll gates these days it has to be on a card and you can top them up at every mini mart circle K etc. Best to get GoJek or Grab, half the price and almost always a local
I dunno, I cant help but think if youre a tourist (different if youre living there I recon) should you really worry that much? Paying 3 aud instead of 1.50 isnt going to hurt you. Ive travelled with people who always think they're getting scammed and its horrible, they were awful to travel with and awful to the locals, Id rather pay a few bucks more and not worry and have a good time. Those few bucks probably mean far more to them then to me. Anyway thats it for my ted talk, have a good one.
Travelled all over Indonesia over the last ten years including Bali. Never had any trouble ever. People so polite and friendly. I leave all my equipment outside and no one touches a thing. If they need to borrow something local men will politely ask, return it and are genuinely grateful. Been invited to all sorts of local celebrations, been given local food for free. Found locals really respectful and just intrigued because I'm a foreigner, they want to know we're your from and craic a joke.
Hi there, thank you so much for sharing your experience! Is it Ok to ask you to list 5 or 10 of the best things to do, the worst not to do, and what best precautions to have? Thank you!
Best Precaution- Always have good medical insurance, normally Cash will get things moving until your insurance details are verified in the event of an emergency. The worst thing to do:- Illegally import drugs- the death penalty is the normal outcome regardless of who you are. In terms of the best things to do it depends on the kind of person you are. Some examples: 1.) Visit the highlands, UBUD is nice. 2.) Rent a scooter and explore the island at your leisure. 3.) Learn to surf on the beaches near Kuta, gentle swell for beginners. 4.) Buy silver from local artisans 5.) Go to local village markets or watch Hindu festivals. 6.) Visit neighboring Gili islands, Lombok or East Java (Mt Ijen or Bromo region is like a Jurassic setting) 7.) There are lots of Hindu temples to visit. 8.) As for the wider archipelago of Indonesia there are endless wonders to explore, it really depends on the level of adventure you want or your appetite for risk. For example while I wouldn't advise it we have climbed active volcanoes in raised states of alert, you can explore the jungles of Borneo and Sumatra. Visit endangered species, enjoy the food/culture. It's still very cheap if your coming from a Western style country. In Bali while you will meet locals and wider Indonesians, we predominantly met Aussies, Dutch and Japanese.
Man.. that was not Bali, that was Lalaland! I live here since 2002. What you described is extremely beautified. Reality is most people I know have been scammed, robbed or rapped. Usually by a family member or "friends". A few have been jailed from fake accusations as retaliation. But yes, it's actually safer to be a foreigner than a local.
That sucks, sorry to hear you had such a rough experience. Agree as a foreigner we get it easier. We're I am in Jakarta people have been very respectful. Yeah sure you always get chancers. I just find by being respectful people are always respectful in return. Wish you better luck for the future.
G’day mate thanks for the warning ⛔️ I’ve been to Bali nothing like this ever happened before my last trip was 3 years ago!? Take care much love from Sydney Australia 🇦🇺 👏♥️✌️🌍👋
Tuban, Kuta, Legian and Seminyak are absolute dives anyway haha. The shit side to Bali. The real Bali is away from all that westernised shit. I love it when people say things like "Bali is shit! We're never going back" and then you find out they only stayed in and around Kuta hahaha. I just got back from 17 days in Bali and felt perfectly safe the whole time. But I stayed well away from Kuts and surroundings. It's a very special place. I even got pissed outside a mini market with some dudes from Timor who looked dodgy and they watched my stuff while I took a leak and everything. I did shout them a couple of durries but haha.
Rubbish everywhere and ahhh the wonderful stench of human shit marvel at the dodgy wiring everywhere buzzing and zapping, try enjoying the crappy brown sand beach without being blunt to the desperate sellers selling crap, enjoy learning of the cruelty of the people pushing live cows into volcanoes to appease their make believe friend, they hate you with a passion and can you blame them it’s a haven not just for scammers and petty thieves but for western pedos fiddling with kids or 80 year old men being fooled into thinking a 18 year old girl wants them, and they do for a fee and the chance to escape, not a good recipe to impress the local men for sure, not to mention the poor western trash that mainly go there because it’s “cheap” that want to rub it in the locals face and their halfwitted friends back home while pretending they have money wearing the fake prada looking well off to the locals while nickel and diming the locals for everything. Be nice, be polite, be respectful however scratch the surface it’s easy to see the distain, in their eyes we are all millionaires living in mansions traveling the world not the majority that are overtaxed wage slaves not much better of than they are, but for few $$$ or the hope of some the locals will smile and pretend, such a special place go wherever you like there the real bali is hard to escape if your eyes are open to the suffering of others
Great info. But honestly like you said it’s waaay safer than most major cities in the US. I feel much safer walking around any part of Bali at night than anywhere in say Baltimore, Chicago, or Philly.
Of course its way safer. Literally anywhere on the planet apart from war zones is way safer than Baltimore Chicago or Philly. Its even debatable that some war zones are comparable to these places in the US.
First time watcher - Ive been going to Bali since 1984. I've seen the changes, even pre mobile phone days. The same scams are in place, and back in the day, Bali was an amazing place but these 'imports' are not new. I used to love Kuta when it wasn't a one way street. These tricks are old and played out daily. I agree, I wouldnt wear fancy jewels to Bali. I wouldn't travel alone, make friends and do stuff together, travel in packs, dont get too drunk. Interesting to hear new scams as scammers evolve. I miss my days of regular runs to Bali. Nice to see the old place. B
This is soo sad, I am a single mum to a 6 year old daughter. I love Bali and have been a few times. Once on my own just before covid, I felt completely safe..I stayed in Ubud and Seminyak. I am abit paranoid going on my own with my daughter already.
Just remember once my watch been stolen at my guest house while they clean up my room, it was a gift from one of my best friends who died in a motorbike crash
I’ve been to Bali over 20 times over a 34 year span. Got held up at knife point 34 years ago but talked my way out of it and offered the gent $5 and ended up having a laugh with him about it. Another time got mobbed by a group of men and noticed a set of hands in my bag so dropped that dude and they all bolted. Seen a couple of motor scooter snatch and grabs too but 99% safe. Seen worst shit in my home town of Bankstown
It is generally safe then? My main concern is that my boy is coming with me. He's 5. I can defend myself but I have never been with him out of Europe and in any dangerous situation. I don't know how I would react.
Great info here, I love it, says it as he sees it. There’s not that many guys that will do this for people, I’d love to meet up for a beer with this guy.
Great advice, thank you. I felt extremely threatened when l was stuck in Ubud for 3 months during Covid. Often l was followed by guys on bikes, it was scary.
Lived in Bali for a year now and as a young solo female I have not felt unsafe once thankfully.
it's just the same all around the world, just see the crime statistic in the youtube and a lot of 3rd worlds countries is a way safer than the west
So is just fear-mongering? Thank you
Scams are everywhere just because you havent experience bad yet you are safe on that coz everyday is a new day.
Home after 3 weeks in Seminyak. Not one problem. This was my 9th time in Bali. Know what you are doing and research everything, you will have a great experience.
Hi there, in April will be my first time in Bali. I understand you're almost a citizen there at this point 😅
Do you have any advice for newcomers? I will go with my girlfriend and my son (5). If you can give us any type of valuable advice ...
Thank you so much! Happy new year!
@@crypticcomputing604 Research, research, research. Everyone wants a different experience in Bali. Understand the type of holiday you want and know what to expect re where you are staying and the type of location it's in.
Seriously? You think someone that has been to Bali on holidays actually knows about the place? It takes decades of living there to know that we know very little@@crypticcomputing604
Go to Japan. Very safe. No criminal behaviour. Everyone is polite. Great things to do and see.
Thailand very safe too. Lived here 10 years. Only thing that will kill me is this blady heat haha
I agree with you about Japan. I find Taiwan, South Korea, Hong Kong and Singapore safe as well. I can wander around without any concerns about safety.
Generally Japanese are very honest. In the last few years there have been reports of restaurants charging tourists double what they charge locals.
@quarkcypher yes indeed, safe as 😊
@@jenniferrosebruce6385 Absolutely Thailand is safe,so is Indonesia
Incidents like this can happen anywhere..First day in Holland many moons ago,was robbed in a packed decent bar by ..300 us was gone ,the lady sitting next me picked my pocket!
Absolutely, there is nothing to be gained by rubbing people’s nose in your wealth. It makes you a target. Risk for no benefit. Well said video.✊
Ive been going to Bali and other parts of Indo for 25 years. Never had a problem really.
Good on you 👍😊
same here. I dont wander around home drunk and vulnerablle at night and I dont do it in Bali either.
The only problem I've ever had in Bali are drink idiot Australians
Exactly. This type of person is common in Bali and they're no different in Aus. Unfortunately you can tell a book by its cover here and these people attract trouble - late 50s tatted up singo wearing, non family man dude. I have tattoos all over too so no prude. Don't hang out at clubs late at night, don't get smashed out on the town, appreciate their traditions and you'll be fine. He's going on about he or his friends getting into trouble for walking back streets late at night or dodgy massages 😂 Same as in your home country, don't look for trouble and you won't get it.
Well i guess you didn’t go to the inner city or slums
Great video Muzza! I had a similar experience with some ladies coming up to us asking if we wanted some fun etc. It was in Kuta after leaving some nightclubs and after having maybe one too many drinks we didn't even notice they had grabbed our phones out of our pockets! luckily I felt my pockets as we were walking away and managed to confront them before they got on their scooter and left. We certainly didn't let it ruin our experience of Bali but it was definitely an eye-opener! Just remember when having a few drinks to always double-check your pockets every few minutes just in case!
I use chest bum bag never had problem best way get around in bali that's foreshore
Thanks Muzza , Just because your on holidays doesn’t mean you should drop your vigilance. 👍
These things have been happening for a long time. I lived in Bali in the 90’s and met a lot of people who had been scammed or pickpocketed or ripped off in one way or another. If you’re sensible and take precautions you will enjoy your holiday and feel more relaxed as you don’t have to be worrying about your belongings all the time. Hide your phone and money underneath your clothes in travel safe type bag’s that can’t be cut or ripped off you. Changing money at your hotel or a legit money changer as close to your hotel as possible so that you can quickly return your passport to your room safe. Bali is such a beautiful island with wonderful people who depend on tourism to survive and it’s unfortunate that petty crime ruins it for some people. Stay informed of current scam trends and be safe but don’t let it stop you from experiencing a beautiful culture and an island paradise! ❤️
I've never seen any crime where I live in Bali. Because I stay away from "the center" (ie. Kuta/Legian/Seminyak/Cangu/Ubud, etc.). Also, I've never gone to a money changer in Bali. It's best to use Wise, where you can keep multiple wallets in different currencies (80 currency choices if I remember correctly) and exchange back and forth at will with competetive exchange rates. Then you simply go to the ATM and withdraw cash from your digital wallet storing your local currency. It's easy, cheap, and safe. That's all I've done here for 2 years. Works perfectly. I've used it in Malaysia, Japan, and Indonesia.
Indonesia and Indonesians are beautiful and generally very courteous and good people. I’ve travelled there over a 100 times and encountered the odd con. But, way less than that I’ve experienced on the Gold Coast QLD or Alameda LA.
@@furball8967 Yes, from what I've seen on Java and Bali Islands, that is true. But, Lombok can be a bit dicey. It's best not to drive around at night in Lombok, as random gangs have been known to create traffic blockades whereby they will rob drivers and passengers under threat of kinife attack. This goes for not only tourists, but locals are afraid of this at night too. One female tourist lost her arm trying to fight back. The taxi driver bringing me to my hotel would only pick me up at the ferry port up until a certain time, because he didn't want to be driving back home after the sun went down because of the risk.
Though, since the video is specifically about Bali, I will say that I've never heard of any of this type of danger in Bali.
@@furball8967 I love the people of Indonesia! I have family in Bali and Lombok! Even the people who have very little would give you the shirt off their back if you needed it! ❤️
@@JulesOnTheSouthCoast 100% with you on that!
We got scammed of over $500. We booked a Villa for 2 weeks, and after the first week, the owner kicked us out because he had someone else booked in. Never got reimbursed. Nobody even said "sorry about that!"
U should go to the police then, but best u need to ask someone who can speak bahasa first
@@dragonemperor202 The police came. They didn't even speak to us. Apparently, the guy we booked with, wasn't the actual owner, he just subleased the villas. I'll be far less trusting if I ever go back to Bali.
@@crustydownunder actually under Indonesian law u still can proceed with it to the court as the law already promulgated that a building cannot be re rented again unless with the agreement of the owner, in which the owner should be the one responsible if such things happened
What did you book on?
Indonesian police can't even undersand and speak english thats why they won't help coz they can't understand. It's absurd and very hassle if you visit on a country that cant speak and understand basic english.
I'm an Aussie from WA. Never been to Bali but always wanted to go. Would be traveling alone so safety was a concern that stopped me going. But videos like yours gives me a little more confidence to make the trip. New years resolution for 2024 is go to Bali.
Thanks for the vids 👍
You'll be right.
I've been alone, it was fine. But in saying that I didn't always feel safe in Bali. In thailand or cambodia I have never not felt safe.
Stick to sensible areas if you are concerned, like Sanur. Don't get drunk and walk home alone. Simple.measure will keep you safe
Love your videos. Keep being awesome. Might have to drop by Stonewall in a couple of weeks when we are there
I’m a 59 year old Australian and have visited Bali on and off since 14. Bali has always been like this and it is never the Balinese. Always other Indonesians. The Balinese always use to say they are Javanese.
Balinese and javanese is different tribe
I was on a massage table and had my necklace stolen after I had taken it off for the massage. I always keep my money with me, so they didn’t get to it. I was disappointed that they stole my necklace I just bought from Maui, Hawaii. It wasn’t expensive but just the thing of getting ripped off pissed me off. I made sure everyone knew someone in that establishment stole an item from me.Let’s say, I didn’t leave quietly and all other customers were aware or to check their belongings.
Your fault
Happy endings?
A big thank you for being so honest. The information will help tourists not fall into the traps. The Balinese are beautiful people
Yes the Balinese are beautiful people. The majority are the bad asses are Javanese, other Indi islands and some Brazilian and now Russians blokes.
YEAH......THEM RUSSIANS
No they are not.
@@spiro190agree 100% that has been my experience too in Bali, my first trip I stayed in Kuta and had three different incidents with Javanese people, my second trip was great, no problems but I stayed at Nusa Dua , there was a lot of security at the local shopping centre and around in general.
as you said, those problem not came from Balinese. i hope things like this wont tarnished Bali reputation overall. stay safe and have a good time, bud. always go with your trusted driver or guide, you gotta have one. when you have one guy that can make your live easier and safer, that worth all the money. they gonna give you all the information that you needed, place to go or not to go.
Would love to do a meet and greet when I’m over for three weeks in February. I’m a 67 yr old female travelling solo. Great advice, l always leave all my jewellery at home and buy a watch for a few dollars in Bali. I’m a new subscriber, so I’m going to start binge watching your videos.
You sound a lot smarter than old Baz
Take a junker phone too if you have one. Keep any top line Samsung or Iphone out of sight
@@markahyee6319yes I’m actually thinking of taking my old i phone.
Thanks Muzza! Great advice as always. See you in August next year!
Also had "happy pills" planted on me in a nightclub there. Lucky I discovered them in the bathroom and flushed them as cops had entered the club and singled me out for pat downs. They were confused when I came up empty. Be very careful in Bali
That's nuts, where was this which part and club?
Absolutely full of it, stop lying
@@jimbart7859I'm not the 1st and certainly won't be the last.
Also had a taxi driver try to make me get out in an alleyway so his friends could jump me. Apparently an old trick.
@jimbart7859 you must be one of them cops
cool story bro
cracked up so hard at "Don is the about the size of a small building"
Probably one of the most genuine informative videos on youtube for this year 😂
I went to Bali in 2012 for a mates wedding, was a good time. Now I'm returning to Bali Dec 2023 with my 8 year old son, we're only staying 3 days as an extended lay over before the Philippines, hopefully we don't have any trouble.
Don't go into the dodgy areas and you will be fine
Literally at the airport right now watching while waiting
It was explained to me by a local in Thailand 18 years ago. People kept trying to scam money out of us (which we did not have). When I explained to them that I am considered 'poor' in Australia, they simply said, you are traveling to another Country, therefore you are way richer then we will ever be.
I live in Bali since 12 years and you are right you are a walking ATM that's it they not respect us I can prove that I don't have any friends and I don't need them I just locked the nature and the temperature the climate that's why I'm here stay healthy
that's so true. I'm a local but live in oz. average salary in indo is like $200-$400 a month if you converted to AUD. you can get that amount in a full day work in oz. even though living costs is cheaper overthere but it doesn't really weigh up. so they'll always consider if you're a foreigner or you're rich.
@@hariepotter8992not all of us like that.
@hariepotter8992 so they just approach people and start trying to steal them? Almost feel like bringing weapons with me on my next trip to Bali...
@@crypticcomputing604 no. like he said in the video it's very rare. it's just how locals view foreigners money wise. obviously not everyone is like that, most of us don't give a shit tbh we just wanna get on our lives. just be careful around Denpasar area like in most crowded cities there's always something happening.
You seem like such a sweetheart. I've never been to Bali, but if I ever do, I'd want to drop by your tattoo shop, just to say "hi" - especially since I'm a tattoo enthusiast as well. Thanks for the advice to travellers. ❤
Not the Bali I remember of the 70's, single lane road with more people walking down the road than cars with the odd bike. The buildings have changed, what I remember was more like outdoor market feeling with stalls and chooks running around and from what you are describing, the the people were more trust worthy and friendly, do anything for you back then. Oh well so much for progress.
Wonderful place in 73-74 ! Shame these places are all changing due to the 'class' (?) of the visitors!
@@senianns9522 called progress , your grandparents rode horses too, to young ones u r grand pa as well
I have to say, VERY informative and extremely helpful 😊.
I’m looking to travel to Bali in November on my own (solo female), so this for me really helps.
I’m not a party party person, so won’t be looking to go out late at night anyway. However, it’s still useful to know and also to be aware of your surroundings.
I felt safe walking at 2100 at night in KL, and didn’t go out too late when I was in Patong, Phuket either. Felt safe.
If you got any tips of where’s best to stay (been looking at Kuta/Legian and now Nusa Dua) as best places to stay.
Look forward to visiting 👍🏾
Cheers from London, England 🏴
Good advice mate. You gotta be careful in these places.
I found Singapore a safe and friendly city for those obeying the laws. Everything you need is in Singapore. Class.
It's as expensive as Western countries so most aren't moving there for any significant period of time.
@@SuperNomad9 yes, ‘cheap’ is not always best though, ye get what you pay for.
@@lilliankeane5731 Well, yeah. Better to vacation in Singapore. Bali is a trashy corrupt dump.
@@SuperNomad9 😁agreed.
YES Singapore is clean,safe and if you shop around for food and drinks ,you can get a good deal with quality
Geez. It happens in Melbourne everyday. Gangs breaking into houses with machetes while your sleeping .
yeah, trying to steal your drugs. No respect.
@@zentriffid I'm sure there after panadol and caffeine.
George,if you're sleeping with a machete just be careful when you roll over
They wouldn't be from Africa by chance?
REALLY TIMELY REMINDER....
THIS GOES FOR ANY HOLIDAY DESTINATION.
THE VERY FIRST THING I UNDERSTOOD ABOUT A HOLIDAY IN AN UNFAMILIAR COUNTRY/ LAGUAGE/ CULTURE, IS YOU ARE 100% RESPONSIBLE FOR YOURSELF.
IT IS FAR EASIER TO BE AWARE THAN IT IS TO TRY TO SORT THINGS OUT AFTER THEY'VE HAPPENED.....
LEARNT A LOT VERY QUICKLY....
YOUR RIGHT MUZZA, MOST IF NOT ALL OF THESE OPPORTUNISTIC CRIMES/ SCAM ARE NOT BY THE BALINESE.....IF ANYTHING THE LOCALS JUST TRY IT ON WHEN YOU ARE HAGGLING THE PRICE OF GOODS.
LIKE ANY TOURISTIC DESTINATION, WE GO THERE TO COMPLETELY RELAX AND ARE SO BLISSED OUT ON HOW WELL WE ARE TREATED, THAT WE DROP OUR GUARD....THATS WHEN THE OPPORTUNIST STEPS IN.
THANKS AGAIN MUZZA, ALWAYS GOOD CONTENT AND REMINDERS👍🙏
Capitals?
Why are you shouting?
I can not hear. Could you shout louder?
Maybe you don't know. If you use capitals it means you are 'SHOUTING". I must admit, I only found this out a few years ago!!!
I got fed up with people offering drugs and women. I started visiting Vietnam and in the 8 or 9 times there I was asked once in Ho Chi Minh City.
What a great video Murray, such needed advice..also if your looking for a great seafood restaurant try Yogis Paradise & Grill you won't be disappointed😋 ❤
Amazing steak too and the waiter and waitresses go above and beyond
I'm always careful with what walk around with. Cheap waterproof digital watch, no other accessories. I keep my main wallet, credit cards, several days worth of IDR cash and passport securely at hotel. I walk round with a cheap wallet with just one day worth of cash and my phone in pants front pocket. Small tip to avoid being hassled for transport, I keep my scooter key on a carabiner attached to the front of my pants so I can just point to it. Even if you don't have transport over there, grab a spare vehicle key from home and use that - it save you a lot of time/hassle.
Great advice
I laughed in the beginning as he talking about getting stabbed in New York and a women yells out. I LOVE YOU SIR. He smiles 😃 and carries on talking about crime.
Hallo mr ?
Subscribed.
Been to Bali a handful of times pre pandemic. heck, sprained an ankle surfing in Kuta in fact. Looking forward to a future visit. :)
You’re a legend mate. I’ve been over about 6 times since 1980. It was unreal back then and we never had to worry about anything really. It’s gotten a bit seedier since. I’m coming over in March but my partner and I are staying in Sanur . I guess it’s possible to get robbed over there too but do you reckon it’s probably a bit safer there ?
Sanur is much less problematic. It's a much safer option
Been to Bali many times. I took the advice of a local early on. He reckons when you go out just take enough cash don't have a wallet bulging your pocket. No watch/jewelry and don't get too pissed if you are on your own. Served me well and I used to walk home from the Double Six club at 3am. Same for massage joints, just take enough cash. Those baskets on the floor are a treasure trove for poor Javanese/Balinese.
I can relate to what you are saying especially the massage parlour scams. It happened to me in Seminyak but I won’t go into any details here on this thread.
Love the “Pikorua” pounamu pendant that you have there mate looking good 👍🍻
All I can see is Don chasing them blokes down the road. Lucky for them he didn't catch them. You forgot about your bucks night when Don stopped a phone being stolen. Great work Muzza as usual.
Hi doc 😍
@@Vjoy168 Hi Vie, have you received a small parcel from me yet.
Not just Bali it would also be the rest of Indonesia that is also getting more dangerous
Doubt it, used to travel all over Indo. Lots of wealthy tourists attract lots of thieves. All westerners are wealthy comparitively. Bali is a bit of a crime hotspot.
Compared to where?
Crime is way worse in other parts of Indonesia, I lived in West Java for 4 years in a quiet little traditional village, there is no way you could leave your scooter outside at night when you went to bed basically everyone brings their scooters right into their house at night, nearly every night someone in the village would have a scooter stolen from outside their house.
A lot of the crime here in Bali is perpetrated by Javanese guys who come here for that purpose only, and it stands to reason the majority of Indonesians are barely surviving on a couple of million rp a month if they are lucky, and they see us fortunate expats who have the luxury of being able to come here to their country and live like relative kings with no money worries whatsoever, I'm no criminal and i don't support criminal activity but I have to say if I was a young Indo guy here poor as hell and unable to find decent work I think definitely I'd be tempted to rip off a rich expat visitor if the chance to do so was there in front of me.
It's still criminal. Currencies and economies are stronger and more valuable relative to their strength and worth. Indonesia simply does not have the value and influence that most Western countries do. If they want to be on the same level, they'll have to work on it to get there.
This is a poor argument. You gotta play the hand you're dealt. I was a foreigner in Bali for quite a while and actually had a horrific hand back in my home country, which is why I tried out Bali. Then I get there and I am treated like a priveleged ATM and crime target. I was just basically finished almost dying in my home country complete with all the other agony and Bali was supposed to be "the great escape" where I could relax and unwind and start a new life but it turned out to be anything but. Yet more and more stress. I nearly ended up homeless in Bali and starved for 2 weeks after being robbed once. Many of my belongings were stolen or ruined. I was cautious too with what I did and who I met but still, with white skin you are a target.
I hate Bali and to be honest I hate Indonesia for continuing to allow what happens. The Balinese talk about how they hate the Javanese so they should ban these guys from the island. There is no excuse for theft, extortion, or any other crime.
Thanks for the advice! I'll be there end of February/beginning of March!
My son just got back from Bali first night out to dinner in a nice restaurant in Kuta, he got up to leave walked a few steps away, he just remembered he left his phone on the table went back to get it. Already had been stolen off the dining table from the staff who had just cleared the plates away. No they did'nt give it back.
Lived in Manhattan New York for 8 years from Australia, never even came close to being mugged or robbed, don’t even know anyone that’s happened to while I was there. I never saw anyone pull out a gun, but I did hear gun shots once when I was in Brooklyn. I can honestly say that I felt safer in NYC at 3am than I do now that I’m back in Melbourne 🥴 I guess it can happen anywhere really, maybe I was just lucky 🤷♀️
Well, you need to check the statistics
All situational. Depends where u are in the city.
yeah me too,. i think nyc crime is predictable, but melbourne crime, could be so random, some bored teenagers can just bash or stab you for no reason
I travelled to New York as a single woman and was walking around central park and Harlem by myself. I didn’t feel unsafe but there’s parts of the UK where I wouldn’t walk around by myself. There’s dodgy people and criminals everywhere in the world really to some degree. You just have to be vigilant
Sangat menyedihkan keamanan di bali saat ini, bnyk2nya oknum2 diluar bali bahkan local pun ada yg melakukannya, so..tetap berhati2 brother, GBU
biasanya beragama islam, maka harus dibatasi umat islam di sana
@@aaa-hh5ebbuset rasis amat lu
@@aaa-hh5ebJambret2 yg tertangkap kebanyakan bernama I Wayan, I Made, I Nyoman, I Ketut, I Kadek, I Dewa dll dan banyak dari mereka tertangkap di kampungnya di Karangasem dan Buleleng tapi mereka bukan baliaga
New subscriber.......thanks for the heads up and reminder! 😜👍
I remember a David Attenborough interview when he was asked where was the most beautiful place in the world. He answered Bali but in 1959 before all the bloody tourists.
Jakarta is fairly sketch if you're white at night and not in a group or safe area (mall or hotel), it's sketch for locals to. Most Indonesians are very chill and welcoming especially if you are respectful and show an interest, but on the street it is different, you're a walking bag of money and for some a symbol of all that is wrong in their lives. There is no social security safety net. Not surprised Bali is going the same way. Have spent a lot of time working in Jakarta but only ever transited through Bali during Ramadan when flights are packed.
Don't go walking around at night in any city....don't attack Jakarta....its very safe compared to western cities
@@user-yj5os4uw2n I can walk around solo at night in my home city and have done so in many cities throughout the world, but not Johannesburg or Jakarta.
You can walk around freely at night in Jakarta if you stick to the malls and the tunnels that link the malls and your hotel. Or hang with some locals, who also prefer the malls at night. The Shangri La doesn't have a connection to a mall, but the hotel staff advise against walking around at night. A team member from Singapore didn't heed the warning and was robbed at knife point.
To enter a mall or quality hotel you pass through a metal detector and have your bag scanned like at an airport, though at the malls it seems to be more theater.
Working for the local telco, you work in a compound with high security. Armed guards, security gates, security screening, metal detectors, bag searches, company shops, dedicated prayer floor and prayer rooms on all floors, with the call to prayer piped through ceiling speakers.
@@user-yj5os4uw2nYou got that right.😁
@CoryDouglas-jx2rh Can you pass as a local? If not, you're in the bucket as myself.
Great vid mate, i've visited Bali many times as a single lad before, i took my young family in June for a holiday to visit friends but it was the worst thing i ever did, the place seems completely lost after Covid and i actually felt pretty unsafe on a few occasions, sadly i wont be rushing back, Thailand or Vietnam are much safer options.
Hi Tony, what as wit about Bali that's changed since covid. Has it got worst and do you think Thailand is safer?
Sounds like a holiday for the ignorant
@@JonathanLifeisForLivingI had never been to Bali before Covid but only after. And I have visited Thailand and Vietnam countless times, my first time being in 2006. And so I might be biased and my reasoning is mostly based on what I heard from other expats that had already been living in Bali before covid. If I were to compare, Thailand is a lot safer and also worth visiting. Bali is beautiful in its own way but apart from safety, the rents have gone up like crazy especially after the Ukraine-Russian war and also the fakeness of Canggu and other popular areas... it is like a huge hollywood movie set, a bubble that is about to pop. There are so many fake and cluless young tourists there, rampaging through all over on scooters and polluting the beautiful island Bali once was. Many of them are Russians who recently fled from Russia. I personally have nothing against them in general but you know what I mean. Anyway, Thailand and Vietnam all the way.
Kuta/Seminyak areas have become tacky and gross. The rest of Bali still has it though.
My friend got rob in Thailand for her gold necklace too. Thailand, Philippine, india, Malaysia and Indonesia are the same
Thanks Murray its people like you make traveling much better cheers i will let you know when I come to bali
Thanks for the good advise!
Good advice for travel just about everywhere. Greetings from Cambodia, very little crime here.
You have to be vigilant anywhere. Im one of the hardest blokes in London, even I have to be vigilant .
Ronnie Pickering?
Thanks Murray for the heads-up
I really like the Pounamu your wearing, but thanks for the heads up as I'm wanting to visit Bali. Kia kaha
Terimakasih buat informasinya Muzza. Sangat berguna. I appreciate. Good channel.
I remember a female backpacker telling me how she and her friend had been attacked on the main street by a native doing kung fu on them. They'd been saved by other backpackers, totally random unprovoked attack.
kung fucking fu wtf lol
My god - this is crazy.
@@gemox3225 I had a female backpacker once tell me she was the Queen of Sheba, so it must be true . . . sheesh!!!
Hey Muzza. Never imagined Stonewall Bar was your thing. Great video. Thanks.
Stonewall is just a bit of fun, but did you know the owner is quietly sponsoring our humanitarian work in the villages and providing free food on Wednesday evenings for my meet and greets. Good people and a fun venue with less "BOGANS" than the other place...
@@MurrayWilkinson1 I didn't know that and yes it is fun. I pay a visit to Stonewall every few months when I come to Bali. I live in lovely quiet Lombok.
Great video, I feel far safer in New York than I do walking in Perth. I have been to New York 6 times and never had any danger. Last visit was last month and used the subway everyday with no problems what so ever.
This happened to just before the world shut down I just got home in time from Bali
I was in the local mini mart a group asked me for a bottle of water of course being a nice guy I em I did
As I was at the back getting water for them at the back of the shop I noticed one came in and I seen he swapped the card machine thinking I paying by card lucky I always use cash in Bali god knows if I used my card they would of took all my money in my account
Good tips for everyone, sometimes u forget where you are .
Another few tips , do not walk on the beach late at night , you will be mugged by the lady boys .
Street between jayacarta hotel and double six Rd, bags ripped off ladies shoulders , this happens day and night .
Mobile phones pick pocketed at night clubs , also beware that your drinks get spiked.
If you have to go to toilet or dance , get your self another drink, as they spike it while u have been gone.
Most important, if there is a crime committed to you , report it to the police.
These crimes do not happen every second , be cautious, and u will have a great holiday .
I've never seen lady boys in bali
Thanks Mate...That's a good reminder to be on me toes...
I put my small handbag under the massage mattress. Be careful peeps and good work Muzz
While serving in the Navy, we went through Southeast Asia on many occasion and we were always aware of how and the potential dangers that Bali presents. we were warned prior to going ashore on leave to be careful.
Cheers Muzz , was in Bali last week and had 2 massage parlours with multiple ladies offer services…they were shooshed away very quickly.
Also never put your belongings in one of their lockers up by the counter too.
There has been foreign couple getting around in Sanur and Legian asking to see your currency too and sleight of hand that disappears as well.
Been saying it for years…there is nothing good happening in Bali after midnight so don’t put yourself in that position.
I was attacked once in Kupang by a group of about 15. It was full on. Fortunately I had competed in the world Jujitsu championships the year before, so was still in good nick. I walked away with a cut on my nose only. After reporting it to the police, they stitched me up for free and insisted I accompanied them on a patrol to track down the perpetrators. This was in 1990. Good times.
ok ali
Commando
Did you lie down and take them 1 by 1? Were they fully grown actual people ?
Yeah, sure you did . . .
Actually heading too rote I remember a taxi being stoned by about 5 different people, I had ordered the taxi the day before to go to the harbour from west Timor to Rote Island, that was around 2002, kupang has had its fair share of violence over the years. Never had to fight though, that normally happens between taxi drivers back then . Hard times back then. No blogs.
Been there in the last 2 christmas holidays. Nothing has really changed except there's much less tourist (which is great, cos sometimes i feel like bali was alr overcrowded)
I have always worn my gold jewellery I wouldn’t these days there. I have heard a lot about people getting scammed but robberies have increased ten fold these days.
I never got the gold chain thing - it's like waving cash in front of people who have SFA. Wandered around Thailand, Cambodia and Malaysia for years without incident only to have my wallet stolen in Guilin - the bastards must have followed me from the ATM and waiting till I took my wallet out in a pharmacy. Lesson learned and now I treat every country with the same caution.
How'd they take your wallet?
@@nicksmith3746 sleight of hand combined with the fact that I had a couple of beers beforehand, Not drunk, but not 100% sober.
Walk through western Sydney with a big gold chain on see how ya go
@@michaelstark5663 no thanks. Grew up in the Parramatta area a very long time ago and I have no desire to revisit.
@@nicksmith3746 15:15
Been going to Bali 40 yrs.. More dangerous back then... So all Calm down.. Wear a Money Belt.. And dont give eye contact.. 🌹
Went to a massage place there where they put your things in a cupboard that had a false back wall where they stole exactly half of my cash from opening the false wall , the heights of thievery always keep your things in front of you
You get that in most places we had same tricks done in Spain
getting extraordinarily sick in Bali from Arak alcool and, regrettably, some passing away afterwards. Previous investigations indicate that it kills hundreds of Indonesians and tourists each year.
Good information muzza xx
Loved this mate! Kiwi lad here but moving to Bali pretty shortly. See ya around 🤝
from my experience living in Bali for 2 years crime and especially violence is way lower than in the west. i could give numerous examples. does anyone have a study on that?
On my over with my family can’t wait to catch up muzza❤
Leave your Cards at the Hotel Use a Wise Card .Never take a Passport anywhere
Hey Muzz, love your work, man. I had all good intentions catching up with your mob as I just arrived back to Perth on Tuesday night, 31 Oct. However, I had a pretty tight schedule for 2 weeks, which included a week in Nusa Lembongan scuba diving. Anyway, I want to share a new scam with you and your subscribers. But first I want to mention I have been going to Bali since 1988. I ordered a blue taxi on 2 separate occasions, travelling to and from Sanur to Nusa Dua. The common denominator being, as soon as I hopped into the taxi, the driver said, "You take toll shortcut, sir? I replied, yes. They then mentioned that they forgot to load money onto their toll card. I said no problems, and I would pay the 13000Rp cash at toll. No, sir can not pay cash, which I thought was unusual as I have done it that way previously. So, they then go on to say I need to stop at mini mart to load my toll card, is that OK, sir? Of course I say. Yet this is where it gets conspicuous. They rush in at a great rate of knots, showing urgency, then come back and say there was a problem there loading the card. Now, this went on three or for times. Hence, I became super suspicious. So, here we go, I notice. Despite all of these stops, the meter is still ticking over. When I arrived on both trips, I confronted these opportunist cabbies and disputed the cost. They, of course, argued the fact, yet I was relentless and know pretty well my prices. One of them, the price was elevated by double, i.e., from 150000Rp to 300000Rp. Well, I happen to have a few good loyal friends in Bali and discussed this ploy with them. They said, "Yes, it is a new ploy to extract more money from the passenger." So, be vigilant people, they will scam you however they can. But I will mention this, both drivers I asked where they were from, East Timor people, so do not blame the beautiful Balinese for this. Take care and stay safe. Muzz, could you feature this one in a future video? Cheers, cob. Might catch up with you and your mob in March 24, and Alan as I am an Army gold card veteran like him. Keep the Bintangs cold, bro.
Hey Muzz, love your work, man. I had all good intentions catching up with your mob as I just arrived back to Perth on Tuesday night, 31 Oct. However, I had a pretty tight schedule for 2 weeks, which included a week in Nusa Lembongan scuba diving. (Put paragraphs in to make it easier to read ;-) )
Anyway, I want to share a new scam with you and your subscribers. But first I want to mention I have been going to Bali since 1988. I ordered a blue taxi on 2 separate occasions, travelling to and from Sanur to Nusa Dua.
The common denominator being, as soon as I hopped into the taxi, the driver said, "You take toll shortcut, sir? I replied, yes. They then mentioned that they forgot to load money onto their toll card. I said no problems, and I would pay the 13000Rp cash at toll. No, sir can not pay cash, which I thought was unusual as I have done it that way previously.
So, they then go on to say I need to stop at mini mart to load my toll card, is that OK, sir? Of course I say. Yet this is where it gets conspicuous. They rush in at a great rate of knots, showing urgency, then come back and say there was a problem there loading the card.
Now, this went on three or for times. Hence, I became super suspicious. So, here we go, I notice. Despite all of these stops, the meter is still ticking over. When I arrived on both trips, I confronted these opportunist cabbies and disputed the cost.
They, of course, argued the fact, yet I was relentless and know pretty well my prices. One of them, the price was elevated by double, i.e., from 150000Rp to 300000Rp. Well, I happen to have a few good loyal friends in Bali and discussed this ploy with them.
They said, "Yes, it is a new ploy to extract more money from the passenger." So, be vigilant people, they will scam you however they can. But I will mention this, both drivers I asked where they were from, East Timor people, so do not blame the beautiful Balinese for this. T
T
ake care and stay safe. Muzz, could you feature this one in a future video? Cheers, cob. Might catch up with you and your mob in March 24, and Alan as I am an Army gold card veteran like him. Keep the Bintangs cold, bro.
Cabs are a good topic as there are good AND BAD. You can NOT pay cash at the toll gates these days it has to be on a card and you can top them up at every mini mart circle K etc.
Best to get GoJek or Grab, half the price and almost always a local
So they lied to you about everything else but you believe them when they told you they’re from East Timor
@@breambeau3354correct
I dunno, I cant help but think if youre a tourist (different if youre living there I recon) should you really worry that much? Paying 3 aud instead of 1.50 isnt going to hurt you. Ive travelled with people who always think they're getting scammed and its horrible, they were awful to travel with and awful to the locals, Id rather pay a few bucks more and not worry and have a good time. Those few bucks probably mean far more to them then to me. Anyway thats it for my ted talk, have a good one.
thank for the sharing, really appreciate it
Travelled all over Indonesia over the last ten years including Bali. Never had any trouble ever. People so polite and friendly. I leave all my equipment outside and no one touches a thing. If they need to borrow something local men will politely ask, return it and are genuinely grateful. Been invited to all sorts of local celebrations, been given local food for free. Found locals really respectful and just intrigued because I'm a foreigner, they want to know we're your from and craic a joke.
Hi there, thank you so much for sharing your experience!
Is it Ok to ask you to list 5 or 10 of the best things to do, the worst not to do, and what best precautions to have?
Thank you!
Best Precaution- Always have good medical insurance, normally Cash will get things moving until your insurance details are verified in the event of an emergency.
The worst thing to do:- Illegally import drugs- the death penalty is the normal outcome regardless of who you are.
In terms of the best things to do it depends on the kind of person you are.
Some examples:
1.) Visit the highlands, UBUD is nice.
2.) Rent a scooter and explore the island at your leisure.
3.) Learn to surf on the beaches near Kuta, gentle swell for beginners.
4.) Buy silver from local artisans
5.) Go to local village markets or watch Hindu festivals.
6.) Visit neighboring Gili islands, Lombok or East Java (Mt Ijen or Bromo region is like a Jurassic setting)
7.) There are lots of Hindu temples to visit.
8.) As for the wider archipelago of Indonesia there are endless wonders to explore, it really depends on the level of adventure you want or your appetite for risk.
For example while I wouldn't advise it we have climbed active volcanoes in raised states of alert, you can explore the jungles of Borneo and Sumatra. Visit endangered species, enjoy the food/culture.
It's still very cheap if your coming from a Western style country.
In Bali while you will meet locals and wider Indonesians, we predominantly met Aussies, Dutch and Japanese.
Man.. that was not Bali, that was Lalaland!
I live here since 2002. What you described is extremely beautified. Reality is most people I know have been scammed, robbed or rapped. Usually by a family member or "friends". A few have been jailed from fake accusations as retaliation. But yes, it's actually safer to be a foreigner than a local.
That sucks, sorry to hear you had such a rough experience. Agree as a foreigner we get it easier. We're I am in Jakarta people have been very respectful. Yeah sure you always get chancers. I just find by being respectful people are always respectful in return. Wish you better luck for the future.
@@Kiev-en-3-jours so you're claiming Bali is actually dangerous?
I’ve lived here 26years … no dramas safe as…
Where is the best place permanently long term?
Thank you for the honest review
G’day mate thanks for the warning ⛔️ I’ve been to Bali nothing like this ever happened before my last trip was 3 years ago!?
Take care much love from Sydney Australia 🇦🇺
👏♥️✌️🌍👋
Tuban, Kuta, Legian and Seminyak are absolute dives anyway haha. The shit side to Bali. The real Bali is away from all that westernised shit. I love it when people say things like "Bali is shit! We're never going back" and then you find out they only stayed in and around Kuta hahaha.
I just got back from 17 days in Bali and felt perfectly safe the whole time. But I stayed well away from Kuts and surroundings. It's a very special place. I even got pissed outside a mini market with some dudes from Timor who looked dodgy and they watched my stuff while I took a leak and everything. I did shout them a couple of durries but haha.
Rubbish everywhere and ahhh the wonderful stench of human shit marvel at the dodgy wiring everywhere buzzing and zapping, try enjoying the crappy brown sand beach without being blunt to the desperate sellers selling crap, enjoy learning of the cruelty of the people pushing live cows into volcanoes to appease their make believe friend, they hate you with a passion and can you blame them it’s a haven not just for scammers and petty thieves but for western pedos fiddling with kids or 80 year old men being fooled into thinking a 18 year old girl wants them, and they do for a fee and the chance to escape, not a good recipe to impress the local men for sure, not to mention the poor western trash that mainly go there because it’s “cheap” that want to rub it in the locals face and their halfwitted friends back home while pretending they have money wearing the fake prada looking well off to the locals while nickel and diming the locals for everything. Be nice, be polite, be respectful however scratch the surface it’s easy to see the distain, in their eyes we are all millionaires living in mansions traveling the world not the majority that are overtaxed wage slaves not much better of than they are, but for few $$$ or the hope of some the locals will smile and pretend, such a special place go wherever you like there the real bali is hard to escape if your eyes are open to the suffering of others
Where do you recommend?
Uluwatu, Jimbaran, Balangan, Ungasan, Nusa Dua, Ubud, Sanur...@@lakyluciano4219
Good advice….
Welcome to bali, where the most unexpected things happen
awesome brother glad I come across your channel
Don’t flash your cash guys/gals ..simple.
Great info. But honestly like you said it’s waaay safer than most major cities in the US. I feel much safer walking around any part of Bali at night than anywhere in say Baltimore, Chicago, or Philly.
Bali is very safe compared to 90% of other places....common sense must come into play anywhere you travel.
Spot on great comment
Of course its way safer. Literally anywhere on the planet apart from war zones is way safer than Baltimore Chicago or Philly. Its even debatable that some war zones are comparable to these places in the US.
I saw a drive by in North Philly. Heard gun shots almost every night. Philly real AF.
First time watcher - Ive been going to Bali since 1984. I've seen the changes, even pre mobile phone days. The same scams are in place, and back in the day, Bali was an amazing place but these 'imports' are not new. I used to love Kuta when it wasn't a one way street. These tricks are old and played out daily. I agree, I wouldnt wear fancy jewels to Bali. I wouldn't travel alone, make friends and do stuff together, travel in packs, dont get too drunk. Interesting to hear new scams as scammers evolve. I miss my days of regular runs to Bali. Nice to see the old place. B
Mate this shit has been going on in Kuta for years...since 88' when I first went there
Research the amount of visitors who fly home in the cargo hold ,and how expensive flying coffin class is ,the results will shock you
✅✅✅✅
But the info, stats are suppressed, cant find truth online.
Woww thanks for the information sir, maybe I'll check other option like Thailand or Vietnam maybe more cost-friendly especially for a backpacker.
This is soo sad, I am a single mum to a 6 year old daughter. I love Bali and have been a few times. Once on my own just before covid, I felt completely safe..I stayed in Ubud and Seminyak. I am abit paranoid going on my own with my daughter already.
Just remember once my watch been stolen at my guest house while they clean up my room, it was a gift from one of my best friends who died in a motorbike crash
I’ve been to Bali over 20 times over a 34 year span. Got held up at knife point 34 years ago but talked my way out of it and offered the gent $5 and ended up having a laugh with him about it. Another time got mobbed by a group of men and noticed a set of hands in my bag so dropped that dude and they all bolted. Seen a couple of motor scooter snatch and grabs too but 99% safe. Seen worst shit in my home town of Bankstown
Great comment mate
Sydney is so over rated its laughable
It is generally safe then? My main concern is that my boy is coming with me. He's 5. I can defend myself but I have never been with him out of Europe and in any dangerous situation. I don't know how I would react.
Great info!!!!! Thank you!!
Great info here, I love it, says it as he sees it. There’s not that many guys that will do this for people, I’d love to meet up for a beer with this guy.
Great advice, thank you. I felt extremely threatened when l was stuck in Ubud for 3 months during Covid. Often l was followed by guys on bikes, it was scary.
Maybe they just want to say hi 😂
Over thingking😅
@@dragonemperor202 🙄 ya right, just as well lm not dumb.
@@dragonemperor202This is just the funniest thing I read on the internet this week! 😂😂😂