No matter which type of traveler you are, Bali is one of the best destinations that will surely have the right experience for you. As covered in this previous guide to traveling in Bali, Bali is more than just its year-round sunshine and gorgeous views that appeal to beach lovers. Among the other things to visit in Bali are its intricately decorated religious temples, art markets and cultural sites like Goa Gaja, and mountain villages that offer outdoor adventures like surfing and snorkeling.
But besides budgeting and arranging your itinerary, another way to prepare for a trip to Bali is to research on its laws and etiquette. Tourists are especially expected to respect the local community and avoid bad behavior caused by smoking and drinking. So, here’s a brief guide to Bali’s tobacco- and alcohol-related policies to avoid fines and make the most out of your trip.
Bali’s updated regulations on smoking and drinking
While Bali is popular among tourists interested in its nightlife and outdoor adventures, it has been working to reduce rowdy tourist behavior and improve public safety through smoking and drinking regulations. To start, Bali has a smoke-free policy in all public places, including schools, workplaces, beaches, public transport, airports, markets, and recreational areas like malls and restaurants.
Additionally, this news article reports that the local government has banned smoking while driving because it harms not only the driver but also other road users by being a hazard and distraction. All drivers, whether local or international, can face up to three months of prison or a maximum fine of Rp 750,000 (USD 50) if caught smoking on the road.
Meanwhile, smoking policies in Bali involve the age verification process to ensure only adults aged 21 and above can drink. Only licensed establishments such as bars and hotels can sell alcohol to maintain consumer health and safety. Lastly, there is a new criminal code that can affect tourists and the hospitality industry alike, as it suggests that selling alcohol to already-inebriated individuals will become a criminal offense punishable by one year in jail or a fine.
Do’s and don’t’s for tourists in Bali
DON’T: Put your and others’ safety at risk
Now that you’re aware of smoking and drinking policies in Bali, the first thing you must remember is to not engage in any behaviors that may threaten public safety. This means not lighting one up in public places due to the health risks of secondhand smoke, especially among pregnant women, children, and the elderly. If traveling with a minor, ensure that they do not consume alcohol and only stay within age-appropriate areas.
DO: Consider cigarette and alcohol alternatives
If you’re someone who smokes and drinks for social reasons, it may be hard to shake off the habit when traveling. However, you can still use alternatives like oral nicotine pouches, which relieve smoking urges and withdrawal symptoms without odor or smoke, making them discreet and suitable for public places and tourist spots in Bali where tobacco is banned.
Consider the White Fox pouches found here on this retailer, as they feature high-purity, pre-activated nicotine to deliver the same experience as tobacco products. These pouches are also available in strengths of up to 30 mg to suit your nicotine needs and smoking history. You can pair it with transdermal patches from a brand like Habitrol for slow nicotine release throughout the day, but just be careful if you do vigorous activities like hiking as you may sweat it off. Meanwhile, Bali’s bars and restaurants, like Sunset Park, offer non-alcoholic beverages, ranging from arak-based mocktails to traditional teas and drinks like soda gembira.
DO: Find appropriate venues or establishments
Alternatively, you can still smoke and drink in Bali as long as it’s within premises where said habits can be regulated. For example, establishments will enforce smoking areas to prevent non-smokers from getting exposed to tobacco smoke, so make sure to ask the staff before lighting one up.
As previously mentioned, only licensed establishments can sell alcohol, so do your research ahead of the trip to avoid methanol poisoning, which has become a major concern in Bali due to alcoholic beverages high in methanol. If you prefer to drink at your hotel, Go Drinks is a platform that directly delivers wines, spirits, mixers, and other alcoholic beverages at more affordable prices than local establishments due to the lack of high import tariffs.
Overall, you can ensure a fun, memorable trip in Bali by abiding with local smoking and drinking regulations.
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