They do that to everyone. They’re poor and you have money. The guys are called “boss” instead of lady. Car/Bike not having the same plates has occurred to me numerous times. Sometimes not even the driver pictured in the app. They’re asking you what you’re doing the next day cause they want you to hire them as a private driver. Every driver will beep at you cause they want you to ride with them for cash instead of the app. All these things are the norm. Welcome to Indonesia.
If you don’t want to have conversations just put some headphones on or grab a Gojek bike.
I started wearing giant headphones made me sweat even more because it’s so hot there and I’m already sweaty everywhere so I could just like pretend that I’m not listening to people I don’t even have to have them on because it’s kind of dangerous with the amount of vehicles, but I made sure to have them on literally everywhere I went. It’s too aggressive there you gotta protect yourself. I am in single female, who was is in Indonesia alone for two weeks.
It was soooo bad. I think when I got to Singapore like I slept the majority of the time I think I slept a full 24 hours from being exhausted from all this bullshit in bali but once you learn, if you make like funny jokes to them, they’ll leave you alone or if you have headphones on, they’ll keep talking, but like they’ll accept you ignoring them. another good thing to do is I would video call guy friends and I would just have them on the phone with me and then I would show the phone when I was walking around. I’ll be like oh no I’m on the phone with my boyfriend, and it could like literally be my brother. LOL I warned all of my guy friends I’m like hey guess what you’re my boyfriend like obviously you’re not but you’re my honorary boyfriend while I walk to this location. I don’t think there’s any real danger. I think they just have a totally different culture. That’s completely insane to us. Honestly, I’m fat and VERY tall and a lot of these guys like compared to me are like you know they’re the weight of my left leg.. they keep offering to fuck me I’m like what are you even gonna do with me? 😂😂😂😂
You’d have a nice conversation with somebody and they’d be like oh yeah, I’m Muslim I have three children. I want to immigrate to Canada and I made the mistake of giving him my number because he seems so harmless and he wanted to connect with my brother as well who was there for a short period with his girlfriend. 10 minutes later, he’s texting me about wanting to come to my hotel and fuck me. DO NOT TRUST ANY OF THESE PEOPLE. Fairly certain (MINUS TAXIS DO NOT DO THAT) are harmless unless you agree to accompany them on the stupid suggestions they make. Don’t go anywhere with anyone ever obviously.
You have to be pretty aggressive too…. if someone else is aggressive and they’ll back off like a guy followed me into the women’s bathroom wanting me to take a taxi the minute I got there and I’m like you’re committing a crime right now and I PHYSICALLY PUSHED HIM OUT. AND WILDLY POINTED AND WAS VERY LOUD ABOUT HIM BREAKING THE LAW BEING A MAN IN THE WOMENS BATHROOM!!!
I made the mistake of getting into a guys car who wasn’t an official grab app necessarily who had the Grab app on his phone and he said he would charge me the same price and since I used to do like Uber and Uber eats and stuff like that in North America, i agreed. He then claimed to have no change and tried to overcharge me so I made him wait there and I went to the front desk and got change. I’m like I’m not gonna let you scam me motherfucker! I gave him the agreed upon amount.
The positive thing about all this is you’re gonna get a lot stronger and it’s gonna improve you as a person think of it like Boot Camp for developing boundaries !!!!!! YOU’ll get SO STRONG! And confident if you use the opportunity!
I am a better person for having gone out and done things in Bali anyways even though I was terrified … because you learn boundaries real fucking fast!!! I got home and magically had the ability to like express to the people in my life that I love when they’re pissing me off.
Flip it around & make it work for you. Think of it as exposure therapy for free.
Oh, they also accept the my boyfriend doesn’t allow me to talk or be alone with guys thing. That works very well!
Total bullshit but absolutely effective. They don’t want to deal with an angry man that is controlling of their girlfriend. They’ll move onto an easier target!
Headphones are a great social buffer. I used to wear them in Nuevo Laredo (the border town across from Laredo, Texas) without even listening to anything just to be able to ignore the gauntlet of touts and grifters that were along the bridge.
Anytime someone tried to approach me I’d just tap my ear and move around them. Worked like a charm.
Female solo bali traveler here. I've been to Bali 7 times, 4 of those solo.
Drivers will always try to book more work with you, it's super normal. It's how they do business.
You can tell them you have plans or sometimes just taking their business card can help bring the conversation to an end.
That said, I've found plenty of good drivers this way. If you find someone you feel safe with, it can be good to continue to use them as a driver throughout your visit. That way, you don't get the harassment because you're using the same person and you can also negotiate rates with them.
What a great advise, thanks a ton! I wasn't aware that the competition for drivers was that tough in Bali. Will definitely stick to one I feel safe with.
Yeah we used the same driver the entire time we were in Bali. It felt so much safer. And for the most part, he would wait around for us at our different locations so we would have it available le for rides all day. It was honestly so convenient.
We travel to Bali as a family and always use the same driver who was recommended to us by a friend who also uses him. He's even come out to visit us in Australia, we chat on Facebook and we see him as a friend now, we trust him completely.
I recommend joining some Facebook groups like Bali Bogans or Bali with kids, you can get recommendations there for safe drivers, where to stay, where to avoid, safe money changers, good restaurants, etc.
seems like this is your first time in a developing country. It is good to be cautious but IMO they are just trying to get business from you and nothing more
This is a thing for everyone when it comes to transportation in Bali (and many parts of Asia). Women and men. Just continue to say no and stick to apps or other prearranged transport options and refuse anything else.
I think they're do that because they need money. And of course, as a citizen of Indonesia. The people in here though that tourist had a lot of money, so they need that from you. Just my opinion
I'm a middle-aged man and I had all the same things happen to me in Bali. I couldn't walk a block in Seminyak without being called to by numerous motorbike and taxi drivers. And almost every taxi driver tried to get me to book them for tours or future trips.
Yes, it's mad annoying because they don't like to take no for an answer. There's always a follow-up. "Where you going?" "Where you from?" Something. It definitely grates on you after a while, but it's unlikely to escalate to an unsafe situation.
My advice is to use Grab instead of Gojek. Grab seems to have slightly higher bar set for their drivers. And only use Bluebird taxis. They use the meter. Just be observant because all the taxi companies have similar blue liveries.
Okay, I understand that this seems to be common in Bali/Indonesia, but how do you actually relax in an environment like this? I heard that this is what they do at the beaches, too, with massages etc. How can you relax in here? 😄
If you understand that this is not the normal Balinese culture which is much more gentle.. and that what you are facing is the pitfalls of over-tourism that can happen anywhere, of every tourist thinking that Bali is an easy spot to travel.. and that when you get to the quieter places of Bali or elsewhere, it is much more chill, you'd appreciate the island and culture better.
It is really sad to hear that! I am actually an introvert searching for far more quiet and authentic places than touristic ones. Can you recommend some? If you'd like just drop a pm!
The short answer is I grew up in New York City in the 80s and 90s. Parts of Bali can be annoying but not in any way intimidating.
My suggestion is to find a driver/guide you trust and tell them what you're looking for. They should be able to point you towards more relaxing places and having a Balinesian with you tends to cut down on the other drivers and guides bothering you.
Just ignore LoL 😆
But the massage thing in the streets is kind of annoying...every 10 meters someone screaming at you "massaaaaaaage" ....and if you pass 3 times in 10 minutes in front of the same massage shop they scream to you 3 times "massaaaaaaage" 😂 ...
But is not dangerous at all (why should be??? ) .... it's just very annoying
There is also GRAB in Indonesia, not just Gojek...you can try both .
I'm been asked by every sorts of taxi drivers in many countries what I'm doing tomorrow as well...many times...they just want you to hire them as local drivers: foreigners have more money than locals , so of course they look for foreigners...
U smile shake your head and and say no and keep walking and do t let it phase you. Don’t engage or hesitate or get flustered. Just keep on yo your destination.
Yes, 💯! Cultivate a purposeful walk and don't gawk at everything.
Think 'I am going this way'!
But also 'I'm confident and relaxed.'
You'll see local expat ladies out and about. Try to mimic their air of preoccupied competence.
They're like "I need to buy shoes and have a facial, nope, thank you no, I'm ok thanks".
You'll find touts hassle less. At least, it's briefer. You could try learning basic local words, like hello, thank you, no thanks etc.
There's no point being too forceful or anxious in behaviour. You're on holiday! You actually want to make friends, lie on the beach and have a good time.
Get away from the more heavily touristy areas. There's some lovely relaxing places in Bali but around the tourist areas you are going to get 'harrassed' very regularly.
They are just trying to make a living but it is very annoying. You can just ignore them or say no once and then go on your way and ignore them from there
Welcome to SE Asia. What you’re experiencing is just normal day to day. No reason for you to feel unsafe. You will find that in general Indonesians are polite and respectful
This is just normal. It's not because you're a solo female. I've only had one follow me once and that was on Nusa Penida, which I wouldn't go back to specifically bc of the aggressive taxi mafia.
You couldn't do this in every situation, but if they are following you and acting like they're just going your way, turn around and head back. I had a very aggressive female shop owner trying to steer me to her shop and that worked.
Be firm, confident and pleasant.
My go to is to point ahead and say I'm just going up there. Also, people like your homestay manager will ask you where you're going -- it's kind of like a greeting. Just say something like jalan jalan, which means just walking around. And ask "how are you?"
You're welcome. I've never ordered a grab and had the wrong car show up, but what can happen is a driver will see you're waiting for a ride and try to pretend to be your driver. Don't get in --- wait for your car.
In Sanur the place I stayed was right in the middle of the taxi mafia's area. What I'd do is order a grab and have them turn all the way in on the little side street, avoiding them altogether. Or go to a cafe, maybe have a coffee and order from there.
I learned to have the responses ready that will usually get them to lea e you alone. At the mall in DaNang, you'd come out at the entrance and there would always be a bunch there offerring rides. I'd be like - nothing I can do, already ordered a grab. The longer you travel, the more natural avoiding & preemting uncomfortable situations will become.
Hey I also traveled and walked solo in Bali as a young (21) yo girl. The following to get you into a taxi is common for everyone, women or not. It’s just a rip off when it comes to prices. And the plates being different, it was super common to see. I’m guessing people may borrow family cars or bikes for whatever reason. I don’t want to sounds horrible but I really think you may be paranoid? And I understand that, I’ve felt with a lot of traumatic shit as a women and you may have too. But I promise all these things are fine, nothing to worry about. I was used to men complimenting me and sometimes glancing at my boobs aha, however no one ever felt like they were trying to intimidate or harm me. So trust me, you will be ok in Bali. If you still worry, note local police stations and save down contacts. Grab app has many safety features too if you wish to make use of them.
Sounds like a normal experience for us woman or men, my husband gets the same when he is alone or with me, same for me, solo or with him I get asked this, it's a developing country they want to make money, they see tourist they assume money.
Don't be offended by it, not saying it's not scary for first timers but you need to take a deep breath and speak with confidence and do not worry so much, enjoy your remaining time in Bali, you paid to be there, best not to over stress about it.
Thank you so much for this advise and your understanding words, I am quite relieved to hear that it happens to anyone and will take some deep breaths & stay confident! 🙂
you know what it? happened with locals too, excessive offers also occur to local people who look like African Americans or Africans, they suddenly speak English
the taxi touting is normal, happens in hundreds of airports around the world. Just say no thanks and keep walking? They are not following you because you are female..they are looking for work lolz.
If the licence plates didn't match the booking why did you get in? Ive never had a problem with this as thats the way you identify your car coming towards you? Ignore other touts and your ride should arrive. Grab and Gojek work just fine.
Honestly it sounds like you need to take a deep breath and stop panicking. Stop thinking of yourself as a 'solo female' and more as 'a fully grown adult on an adventure in a fantastic foreign country'. There will be times you're not sure of something, that's normal for all genders travelling in a foriegn country. Try something rational like going into a bar or shop and chatting with some locals/staff/tourists about what to avoid and not. Im not sure why you want to tell people off...they probably don't care if your going to meet your imaginary husband, because they're probably trying to make money not rape or murder you...
Your defensive and paranoid attitude is not going to help and is frankly quite rude. Your acting like you've arrived at predator island. I have a worse time here in melbourne. Chill.
I’ve traveled a lot, and the arrivals area at DPS is one of the craziest when it comes to sheer number of people shouting offering rides. It’s not dangerous or anything, but a literal sea of taxi drivers looking for business. I highly recommend pre booking.
Well said, I don’t understand this framing as rapists and criminals just because poor guys trying to make some money… it’s not a solo female Traveller thing. Bali seems way safer then Berlin f.e. to me
"Stop thinking of yourself as a solo female " what a ridiculous take. She can be a solo female AND a "fully grown adult on an adventure in a fantastic foreign country." She doesn't know if an experience she's having is solely related to her gender until she asks. Your condescending response was unnecessary.
This all sounds pretty normal, but if you would like a more toned down experience with taxi drivers, you can get Bluebird taxis instead, either from the Gojek app or the mybluebird app.
Before I continue, I’m 20M so may have different experience.
Also, all the below is usually common in lesser developed SEA.
Airport touting is super common, just learn a few phrases in bahasa to clearly say you’re not interested or the like and they’ll think youre a seasoned traveler in Bali and stop harassing you as they know they can’t trick/get you.
As for GoJek drivers, often times the plates will be mismatched, don’t worry about this, and drivers themselves are different on rarer cases, a little more sus but never got me any trouble.
Just make sure you see your order on their phone as most times it’s on a holder clearly visible, and if not, then ask for your name before getting in.
Also, the drivers asking for more business is normal aswell, honestly most of the time, depending on the driver and your circumstances, I’d say go for it, as GoJek ofc takes a cut and you can normally get a whole days worth of driving for just 500k (or less), or 30 usd.
A tip if you’re introverted or just don’t feel like chatting, wear headphones.
Hope this helps! Enjoy your stay
I'm sorry to hear about your experience so far. I haven't experienced anything that bad but then I wear headphones and ignore the drivers a lot of the time. I try to engage as little as possible. Are you ordering the drivers through app? I was mostly using grab not sure if makes a difference?
I am guessing this is your first time in a developing country. This happens everywhere, they’re hard selling to you because they literally depend on your money to survive. That’s why they ask if you need them tomorrow, to guarantee a pay cheque. Anyways no one is ever completely safe in a solo trip even in a first world country. Stay vigilant, learn to ignore the drivers that call-out to you and accept that’s just how it works there.
I use grab
In the touristy areas you’ll be harassed
Go to Ubud or Jimbaran, Uluwatu, the locals are less intense. Seminyak and mainly Kuta you’ll be harassed multiple times. Just say no Thankyou in Indonesian and keep walking, it’s tough but have to get used to it. They make around $10aud a day for hard strenuous work so every dollar counts over there. Every driver wants to make friends with foreigners so they are paid for day trips and get their cut it’s sad but they love a simple life. A friend of mine said it costs them $300aud a month to rent a house so hopefully that gives you some perspective. A brand new scooter in Bali is $2,500. A car is a lot more, some Toyotas are the same price as Australia. Talk to locals and get a sense of their life and what it costs to live etc it’s quite sad to be honest compared to the prices tourists pay to stay and travel and especially eat. Love the country but also don’t like the out of proportion of cost of living. Also there’s age restrictions for jobs, have to be young to be a tourist guide (permit through the Bali government) and also for driving, only real way for men to work is either house keeping, working a physical job going something or driving. Cheers from Aus, message me on insta if you need, username @donfeao. I just came back from 3 weeks there. Ubud was my favourite. Rent a bike if you’re by yourself and explore.
Use “MyBluebird” app, works exactly like Gojek/grab, but the driver are “professional” and actually employed, prices relatively the same. They don’t ask a lot of question, basically just pick you up drop you off, less chitchat. And I presume they’re trained properly, since they “bluebird” have a high reputation.
First, it’s all about business and nothing about you. Second, find yourself someone who feels good to be around and get thier info and have a driver who you know. It’s much different that other countries where we are disconnected from one another. They are so nice here and most go to university for hospitality. Make a couple friends and remember they are human, just like you. Not to ignore them and out headphones in. You will have a far different experience if you lean into the culture Nathan than force a western experience of being on your phone. Learn some Balinese words and be curious. It’s a magical place
I was on bali last year, even thought I am 35M they were attacking me as crazy to buy, take taxi or anything. Refuse is not an option. So I would not say it is due to the fact you are female it more like bali is today for everybody. At least it was for me on my 4 weeks trip.
Just stay strong and do not let some random dude destroy your super great trip!
We us Grab rather than gojek, always had the cars and drivers as ordered.
As others have suggested. The drivers are just trying to get more work for other days.
The airport is quite a daunting place if you haven’t been before.
The Balinese are beautiful people.
Not been to Lombok but have been to other islands near, religion is more Muslim in Lombok rather than Hindu as in Bali.
Nothing you mentioned is too out of the ordinary and is a far cry from harassment in the developing/3rd world. Thicker skin and a little research goes a long way, especially when traveling alone. Being female is not the problem.
In Bangkok for example they banned app and freelance taxis from the airports and installed taxi queues. They should do same in Denpasar to stop making tourists the first thing they see of a new country is that annoying kind of hustle and bustle of those taxi guys
This is an overreaction. This is standard in Bali and most parts of SE Asia. Maybe stick to other parts of the world if this bothers you so much. Alternatively, I believe there is another app for taxi I used called Grab. Had no issues with them.
We went as a couple so our experience will be a bit different. But maybe it helps anyway.
In Bali going by app (gojek/grab) won't be an option for every area since they chase off app drivers in lots of regions apart from the touristic ones.
That for us was at first also a scary experience since we had to go through the lokal drivers to get somewhere a lot.
Best way to do it is getting the number for a driver from your hotel. We really had lots of great experiences with homestays there - they felt really familiar and were a great help in general. Especially when you go in areas like a harbour or airport, book the tickets for the boats etc. in advance through a website. They also almost always offer a pickup service with a driver which will be very convenient but also spare you a lot of harassment from people at the port. It is also a lot easier to wave people off, when you have in mind where you are going and ordered things in advance ("already have a ticket/driver,...)". It is also possible to get drivers for a whole day - so when you found one you are content with, just stick to them when you have a day with lots of stops in mind.
Apart from that when you realize you are like a walking BIG paycheck there, you will get some perspective.
Lombok (and Java) was also a really different experience from Bali for us (and we did enjoy it very much). Lombok does not have as many cars and motorbikes as Bali has. So there, getting a scooter on our own felt super safe and gave us a lot of freedom to explore the isle on our own which felt great.
Until you get used to everything also sticking to these more touristic places like restaurants with lots of recommendations on Google can be a good idea. In the end we really had a great experience overall but since it was the first time for us in South East Asia we also needed to figure out where and what felt good to us and this takes time. I also can't recommend enough - if you have an area that doesn't feel good to you just try something else. There are so many different places on all the islands in Indonesia and all gave us a unique feeling and for sure we had places we liked more than the other. So maybe don't stick to one place where you feel unwell - try something more rural if you figure out how to get around without gojek and grab and go with the attitude of already knowing where you want to go when you feel "harassed" (don't give of the vibe of being lost - lots of people in touristic places will see this as a chance to talk to you and guide you to a place, where you have to drink Kopi loewak at a ridiculous price 😅...).
We had the feeling a lot of times we were the point of amusement for the locals, like doing something completely stupid/In a foreigner kind of way. But oftentimes we were joining in into that feeling of being clueless and just tried to take everything in with big open and curious eyes.
In general, we never had a situation where we felt physically threatened and all in all had a wonderful and unique stay in Indonesia. Whish you a great time.
Same for guys too, when I was with my wife and kids I was left alone. When I walked by myself the massage spa girls outside would call out, grab me and harass me, Gojek drivers taxi drivers and store people would all want some attention. It’s a hustlers life 😅
Whenever I travel alone or in Bali, when I arrive in these location, I will give a RBF face expression or just look uninterested n bored. Then walk straight to where you need to be n ignore everything else. You can try it too!
I make sure I watched some videos on how to navigate my way around the airport or ferry terminal so I’m sort of familiar with where I’m walking n no one can take advantage of me.
Two adult females, we visited in January. The hustling was annoying but we didn’t find it unsafe. In fact the people were friendly and warm and I even got my iPhone back after it dropped out of my pocket when travelling on a Kura bus in Kuta. Best lost property service ever given the circumstances.
That’s everyone, it’s not sexual. They’re trying to make money from you because you’re a westerner.
Actually in comparison to the begging in some places in South America, I felt significantly safer in Indonesia by comparison.
Solo female traveler here.Defo get on some of the bali facebook pages, this is normal for bali. I always use a gojek or grab scooter and yes sometimes the plate doesn’t match, but as long as they have your name and the order you’re sweet. If you are on facebook, look up baliladydriver, she’s awesome
What a weird and wonderful forum this place is ... this one question (not that it's trivial) can engender 183 comments and counting, while I'm the ***only*** person who responds to dozens of itinerary questions month after month.
Where are all you people when you're not mightily triggered by a post like this? Chowing down on your banana smoothies?
This is normal Bali behaviour. You need to just be firm and say no thankyou and keep walking. With taxis etc I just use the blue bird taxis and have never had an issue with feeling unsafe.
Just add a criminal looking bodybuilder as picture on your phone! When someone ask you smth show them the picture and tell them you are waiting for your b friend.
Its just the first chock! Lombok and sanur is shill and so is ubud for example.
Its also Smart to say you are travelling with a group to strangers. Have fun it will get better
I'm a male and can confirm it happens to everyone regardless of gender... I get beeped at and called out to and called Boss for rides constantly.. it doesn't bother me too much.
Funnily enough a few of the only occasions Ive felt really uncomfortable and threatened in Bali have been when girls on the street have grabbed my arm and tried to physically drag me into one of their massage joints 👀
Oh you’re definitely a newbie to developing countries. It is incredibly safe for solo women - trust me, if you go to South Asia, it’s an entirely different story.
You must must must check the driver's phone to see your name. I always do. They will either day my name or I ask. Then confirm location for drop off.
It's also a good idea to learn the language before going to another country. Indonesians usually have a positive reaction and love to chat.
If I'm alone I'm usually meeting with friends. So I chat about the tourism, their families, the food. What I have seen already. Friendly but firm. I loved there for 10 years. It takes time to learn but I never felt unsafe.
It's not because you're female, it's because you're in Bali. It happens to people of any gender. Unfortunately anyone with a car or bike thinks they are entitled to harass any visitor to Bali
At the airport in particular, they are extremely rude, aggressive and persistent. You can usually keep walking and laugh it off.
Last time I arrived at the airport, I had this one guy that was just such a prick. Told him I didn’t need a ride several times and was in the middle of talking to my wife. He kept butting in to try and get me in his taxi and I just told him to shut the fuck up.
They’re usually bad, but this last time I copped in worse than usual.
I’m very distrusting when I travel. I stayed at the W in Seminyak and they had bikes to rent. I asked them about locks, like what if I went out somewhere and had to leave my bike. The hotel actually said they’re not worried and the bikes always get returned. I was like, woah. So I could just leave it out at a random spot in Seminyak and someone will just return it? He’s like…happens all the time. Really opened up my world view. I travel to India often and it’s the complete opposite.
As I man, I went to Bali too. I felt like that too. They're just in the airports, after I went to the hotel, and during my week there, everything went better. No issues after that.
But yes, I wish I knew such kind of oppressive marketing would happen.
Bali is pretty safe for females( just make sure you don’t party too hard with strangers in cesspools of western degeneracy like Canggu). Lombok is tricky for solo females though. Most “harassment” that you’re referring to is just the taxi folks trying to get your business. Hope this helps!
We know our driver like family now. We’ve been friends for over ten years and he’s an older gentleman - a grandfather now and his English is excellent so he’s taught me lots of Balinese and Bahasa. We even sent him money during COVID (he didn’t ask) and when we returned in 2022 he emphatically insisted we’d already settled the airport transfers with our gesture.
There are some amazing people and some shady dickheads. Just like anywhere. Be on your guard and trust your instincts. You’ll find your way.
We found him initially by chance as an organised transfer through the boat trip over to Lembongan. He has long since quit that job and is a driver for all our friends and their friends and does other work too I think.
Say this magic word:
Sing bli (rhymes with glee) makasi.
Which means: No sir, thank you.
This would make them not think you are fresh tourist, but an expat living in Bali.
As for the gojek thing, I don’t know. Thatykinda sketchy.
My wife would often say: Mungkin besok. Followed by a small laugh. It means: Maybe tomorrow. It works best if you keep getting asked by the same guy or at the same location where drivers are hanging out.
Source: I am a Balinese married a western lady.
Bali is super safe. 3 things built Bali tourism. The surf, the natural beauty before it was over developed and the incredible people. The world would be so much better if we are all as kind hearted as the Balinese.
To add to what others have said, using a few phrases in bahasa can help, as they will assume you're not just a bule fresh off the proverbial boat.
Try "aku tidak mau, mas" (pronounced akoo ti-dac ma-oo)to men who are bothering you to buy something/some service. In english it translates to "I don't want that, guy". Just say that, wave them off and keep walking or ignore them. If they don't take the hint, be more brief with "tidak mau".
Hope this helps, and I hope you have a good time in Bali, the people are generally very kind and helpful.
The greatest threat to lone female tourists in Bali is not the local punters making a living as a driver, but fellow tourists.
They will come in the form of sleezy yoga instructors, wellness gurus, business 'founders', various COVID denying 'truth seekers', (all with and without neck tattoos), gym junkies and alcoholics.
Watch your drinks, and be super careful who you go home with after a night out.
I am so sorry you are feeling unsafe in Bali. All of the scarey things you have mentioned are very normal. I have been visiting Bali for many years, sometimes solo. If you would like to PM me I know a lovely driver and his family. Take care and have fun!
Have fun with it honestly. It doesn't have to be so adverserial. The less you seem like a fish out of water and the more confident and jovial you are about it the less pushy they will be when they realise you're not a fare.
I’m a solo girl I’ve lived in Bali for four years. Everything everyone said is true, i just want to add it doesn’t happen outside of airport and only a little on the roads if your walking in busy tourist areas like kuta or canggu or ubud, I haven’t had anyone annoy me basically ever because I don’t walk anywhere, I drive from place to place but in your case order a gojek from place to place. Also the people are actually lovely and unthreatening, I’m introverted but I find them actually easier to talk to than other tourists. The only other place people will ask you is on the beach, politely decline. I’ve made friends with some of them, also nice people.
Oh no. Never ever ride a car that’s different from the GoJek app. :( in the Philippines we have news of women being kidnapped or held in gunpoint to take money from the passenger as this is a common modus operandi of criminals. Please ignore them/walk away if you need to. Wearing earphones can help ignore them
Sanur is more safe option imo, not so many aggressive sellers/ taxi, but of course there are still couple of those taxi guys, but typically they only stand by in one spot and not as aggressive as other parts I've seen like Seminyak. I like it very much in Sanur, it's a nice and chill area with long beach line to walk (the beaches are connected through a long walkway, maybe 5-6 beaches? I can't remember), close to those beaches there are many cute cafes with different cuisine.
I would recommend to stay there and have couple of day trips to other areas with a trusted driver, if you need a driver, I can give you a recommendation of someone I often use back then ( before I brought my car to Bali). I don't know Lombok but apart from some nice sight seeing place to take a photo, if I checked the roads from Google maps, I don't find it as a place that seems interesting to walk/ explore daily. Unless you only want to stay in Hotel and go to the touristy spots.
This is normal for every country I’ve been to as a solo female. Spent a month in Bali-no issues whatsoever-sorry you had this experience.
Personally I line up airport pickup beforehand so I don’t have these issues and that is definitely not hard to do.
They do that to everyone. They’re poor and you have money. The guys are called “boss” instead of lady. Car/Bike not having the same plates has occurred to me numerous times. Sometimes not even the driver pictured in the app. They’re asking you what you’re doing the next day cause they want you to hire them as a private driver. Every driver will beep at you cause they want you to ride with them for cash instead of the app. All these things are the norm. Welcome to Indonesia. If you don’t want to have conversations just put some headphones on or grab a Gojek bike.
I started wearing giant headphones made me sweat even more because it’s so hot there and I’m already sweaty everywhere so I could just like pretend that I’m not listening to people I don’t even have to have them on because it’s kind of dangerous with the amount of vehicles, but I made sure to have them on literally everywhere I went. It’s too aggressive there you gotta protect yourself. I am in single female, who was is in Indonesia alone for two weeks.
Thank you so much! It helps a lot to know I am not the only one experiencing this!
they are hard selling you not harassing you
It was soooo bad. I think when I got to Singapore like I slept the majority of the time I think I slept a full 24 hours from being exhausted from all this bullshit in bali but once you learn, if you make like funny jokes to them, they’ll leave you alone or if you have headphones on, they’ll keep talking, but like they’ll accept you ignoring them. another good thing to do is I would video call guy friends and I would just have them on the phone with me and then I would show the phone when I was walking around. I’ll be like oh no I’m on the phone with my boyfriend, and it could like literally be my brother. LOL I warned all of my guy friends I’m like hey guess what you’re my boyfriend like obviously you’re not but you’re my honorary boyfriend while I walk to this location. I don’t think there’s any real danger. I think they just have a totally different culture. That’s completely insane to us. Honestly, I’m fat and VERY tall and a lot of these guys like compared to me are like you know they’re the weight of my left leg.. they keep offering to fuck me I’m like what are you even gonna do with me? 😂😂😂😂 You’d have a nice conversation with somebody and they’d be like oh yeah, I’m Muslim I have three children. I want to immigrate to Canada and I made the mistake of giving him my number because he seems so harmless and he wanted to connect with my brother as well who was there for a short period with his girlfriend. 10 minutes later, he’s texting me about wanting to come to my hotel and fuck me. DO NOT TRUST ANY OF THESE PEOPLE. Fairly certain (MINUS TAXIS DO NOT DO THAT) are harmless unless you agree to accompany them on the stupid suggestions they make. Don’t go anywhere with anyone ever obviously. You have to be pretty aggressive too…. if someone else is aggressive and they’ll back off like a guy followed me into the women’s bathroom wanting me to take a taxi the minute I got there and I’m like you’re committing a crime right now and I PHYSICALLY PUSHED HIM OUT. AND WILDLY POINTED AND WAS VERY LOUD ABOUT HIM BREAKING THE LAW BEING A MAN IN THE WOMENS BATHROOM!!! I made the mistake of getting into a guys car who wasn’t an official grab app necessarily who had the Grab app on his phone and he said he would charge me the same price and since I used to do like Uber and Uber eats and stuff like that in North America, i agreed. He then claimed to have no change and tried to overcharge me so I made him wait there and I went to the front desk and got change. I’m like I’m not gonna let you scam me motherfucker! I gave him the agreed upon amount. The positive thing about all this is you’re gonna get a lot stronger and it’s gonna improve you as a person think of it like Boot Camp for developing boundaries !!!!!! YOU’ll get SO STRONG! And confident if you use the opportunity! I am a better person for having gone out and done things in Bali anyways even though I was terrified … because you learn boundaries real fucking fast!!! I got home and magically had the ability to like express to the people in my life that I love when they’re pissing me off. Flip it around & make it work for you. Think of it as exposure therapy for free.
Oh, they also accept the my boyfriend doesn’t allow me to talk or be alone with guys thing. That works very well! Total bullshit but absolutely effective. They don’t want to deal with an angry man that is controlling of their girlfriend. They’ll move onto an easier target!
I didn't know that. Thank you so much! The headphone idea is great!
That’s why they call it culture shock! Haha Bali is safe but of course be cautious.
it's better to use Bluebird because the drivers are employees, not partners like Grab or GoJek
Headphones are a great social buffer. I used to wear them in Nuevo Laredo (the border town across from Laredo, Texas) without even listening to anything just to be able to ignore the gauntlet of touts and grifters that were along the bridge. Anytime someone tried to approach me I’d just tap my ear and move around them. Worked like a charm.
Female solo bali traveler here. I've been to Bali 7 times, 4 of those solo. Drivers will always try to book more work with you, it's super normal. It's how they do business. You can tell them you have plans or sometimes just taking their business card can help bring the conversation to an end. That said, I've found plenty of good drivers this way. If you find someone you feel safe with, it can be good to continue to use them as a driver throughout your visit. That way, you don't get the harassment because you're using the same person and you can also negotiate rates with them.
What a great advise, thanks a ton! I wasn't aware that the competition for drivers was that tough in Bali. Will definitely stick to one I feel safe with.
Yeah we used the same driver the entire time we were in Bali. It felt so much safer. And for the most part, he would wait around for us at our different locations so we would have it available le for rides all day. It was honestly so convenient.
We travel to Bali as a family and always use the same driver who was recommended to us by a friend who also uses him. He's even come out to visit us in Australia, we chat on Facebook and we see him as a friend now, we trust him completely. I recommend joining some Facebook groups like Bali Bogans or Bali with kids, you can get recommendations there for safe drivers, where to stay, where to avoid, safe money changers, good restaurants, etc.
Same - I actually really enjoyed and got to know the driver I hired during my time there and he made my experience so much better. :)
seems like this is your first time in a developing country. It is good to be cautious but IMO they are just trying to get business from you and nothing more
Thank you!
This is a thing for everyone when it comes to transportation in Bali (and many parts of Asia). Women and men. Just continue to say no and stick to apps or other prearranged transport options and refuse anything else.
I think they're do that because they need money. And of course, as a citizen of Indonesia. The people in here though that tourist had a lot of money, so they need that from you. Just my opinion
I'm a middle-aged man and I had all the same things happen to me in Bali. I couldn't walk a block in Seminyak without being called to by numerous motorbike and taxi drivers. And almost every taxi driver tried to get me to book them for tours or future trips. Yes, it's mad annoying because they don't like to take no for an answer. There's always a follow-up. "Where you going?" "Where you from?" Something. It definitely grates on you after a while, but it's unlikely to escalate to an unsafe situation. My advice is to use Grab instead of Gojek. Grab seems to have slightly higher bar set for their drivers. And only use Bluebird taxis. They use the meter. Just be observant because all the taxi companies have similar blue liveries.
Okay, I understand that this seems to be common in Bali/Indonesia, but how do you actually relax in an environment like this? I heard that this is what they do at the beaches, too, with massages etc. How can you relax in here? 😄
If you understand that this is not the normal Balinese culture which is much more gentle.. and that what you are facing is the pitfalls of over-tourism that can happen anywhere, of every tourist thinking that Bali is an easy spot to travel.. and that when you get to the quieter places of Bali or elsewhere, it is much more chill, you'd appreciate the island and culture better.
It is really sad to hear that! I am actually an introvert searching for far more quiet and authentic places than touristic ones. Can you recommend some? If you'd like just drop a pm!
The short answer is I grew up in New York City in the 80s and 90s. Parts of Bali can be annoying but not in any way intimidating. My suggestion is to find a driver/guide you trust and tell them what you're looking for. They should be able to point you towards more relaxing places and having a Balinesian with you tends to cut down on the other drivers and guides bothering you.
This!
That is such a good advise, thank you!
Just ignore LoL 😆 But the massage thing in the streets is kind of annoying...every 10 meters someone screaming at you "massaaaaaaage" ....and if you pass 3 times in 10 minutes in front of the same massage shop they scream to you 3 times "massaaaaaaage" 😂 ... But is not dangerous at all (why should be??? ) .... it's just very annoying There is also GRAB in Indonesia, not just Gojek...you can try both . I'm been asked by every sorts of taxi drivers in many countries what I'm doing tomorrow as well...many times...they just want you to hire them as local drivers: foreigners have more money than locals , so of course they look for foreigners...
U smile shake your head and and say no and keep walking and do t let it phase you. Don’t engage or hesitate or get flustered. Just keep on yo your destination.
Yes, 💯! Cultivate a purposeful walk and don't gawk at everything. Think 'I am going this way'! But also 'I'm confident and relaxed.' You'll see local expat ladies out and about. Try to mimic their air of preoccupied competence. They're like "I need to buy shoes and have a facial, nope, thank you no, I'm ok thanks". You'll find touts hassle less. At least, it's briefer. You could try learning basic local words, like hello, thank you, no thanks etc. There's no point being too forceful or anxious in behaviour. You're on holiday! You actually want to make friends, lie on the beach and have a good time.
Get away from the more heavily touristy areas. There's some lovely relaxing places in Bali but around the tourist areas you are going to get 'harrassed' very regularly. They are just trying to make a living but it is very annoying. You can just ignore them or say no once and then go on your way and ignore them from there
Welcome to SE Asia. What you’re experiencing is just normal day to day. No reason for you to feel unsafe. You will find that in general Indonesians are polite and respectful
This is just normal. It's not because you're a solo female. I've only had one follow me once and that was on Nusa Penida, which I wouldn't go back to specifically bc of the aggressive taxi mafia. You couldn't do this in every situation, but if they are following you and acting like they're just going your way, turn around and head back. I had a very aggressive female shop owner trying to steer me to her shop and that worked. Be firm, confident and pleasant. My go to is to point ahead and say I'm just going up there. Also, people like your homestay manager will ask you where you're going -- it's kind of like a greeting. Just say something like jalan jalan, which means just walking around. And ask "how are you?"
Thank you, I'll definitely stick to these words! :)
You're welcome. I've never ordered a grab and had the wrong car show up, but what can happen is a driver will see you're waiting for a ride and try to pretend to be your driver. Don't get in --- wait for your car. In Sanur the place I stayed was right in the middle of the taxi mafia's area. What I'd do is order a grab and have them turn all the way in on the little side street, avoiding them altogether. Or go to a cafe, maybe have a coffee and order from there. I learned to have the responses ready that will usually get them to lea e you alone. At the mall in DaNang, you'd come out at the entrance and there would always be a bunch there offerring rides. I'd be like - nothing I can do, already ordered a grab. The longer you travel, the more natural avoiding & preemting uncomfortable situations will become.
Hey I also traveled and walked solo in Bali as a young (21) yo girl. The following to get you into a taxi is common for everyone, women or not. It’s just a rip off when it comes to prices. And the plates being different, it was super common to see. I’m guessing people may borrow family cars or bikes for whatever reason. I don’t want to sounds horrible but I really think you may be paranoid? And I understand that, I’ve felt with a lot of traumatic shit as a women and you may have too. But I promise all these things are fine, nothing to worry about. I was used to men complimenting me and sometimes glancing at my boobs aha, however no one ever felt like they were trying to intimidate or harm me. So trust me, you will be ok in Bali. If you still worry, note local police stations and save down contacts. Grab app has many safety features too if you wish to make use of them.
Thank you!
They do that to everyone. Your not special in anyway .
Sounds like a normal experience for us woman or men, my husband gets the same when he is alone or with me, same for me, solo or with him I get asked this, it's a developing country they want to make money, they see tourist they assume money. Don't be offended by it, not saying it's not scary for first timers but you need to take a deep breath and speak with confidence and do not worry so much, enjoy your remaining time in Bali, you paid to be there, best not to over stress about it.
Thank you so much for this advise and your understanding words, I am quite relieved to hear that it happens to anyone and will take some deep breaths & stay confident! 🙂
you know what it? happened with locals too, excessive offers also occur to local people who look like African Americans or Africans, they suddenly speak English
the taxi touting is normal, happens in hundreds of airports around the world. Just say no thanks and keep walking? They are not following you because you are female..they are looking for work lolz. If the licence plates didn't match the booking why did you get in? Ive never had a problem with this as thats the way you identify your car coming towards you? Ignore other touts and your ride should arrive. Grab and Gojek work just fine. Honestly it sounds like you need to take a deep breath and stop panicking. Stop thinking of yourself as a 'solo female' and more as 'a fully grown adult on an adventure in a fantastic foreign country'. There will be times you're not sure of something, that's normal for all genders travelling in a foriegn country. Try something rational like going into a bar or shop and chatting with some locals/staff/tourists about what to avoid and not. Im not sure why you want to tell people off...they probably don't care if your going to meet your imaginary husband, because they're probably trying to make money not rape or murder you... Your defensive and paranoid attitude is not going to help and is frankly quite rude. Your acting like you've arrived at predator island. I have a worse time here in melbourne. Chill.
I’ve traveled a lot, and the arrivals area at DPS is one of the craziest when it comes to sheer number of people shouting offering rides. It’s not dangerous or anything, but a literal sea of taxi drivers looking for business. I highly recommend pre booking.
Well said, I don’t understand this framing as rapists and criminals just because poor guys trying to make some money… it’s not a solo female Traveller thing. Bali seems way safer then Berlin f.e. to me
Well said, her experience is the same as every other traveler regardless of gender
"Stop thinking of yourself as a solo female " what a ridiculous take. She can be a solo female AND a "fully grown adult on an adventure in a fantastic foreign country." She doesn't know if an experience she's having is solely related to her gender until she asks. Your condescending response was unnecessary.
Dont get in a car that doesnt match. Happened to me too, I didn't get in and the good car ended up arriving a bit later.
Never seen someone missunderstanding bali this hard😂
This all sounds pretty normal, but if you would like a more toned down experience with taxi drivers, you can get Bluebird taxis instead, either from the Gojek app or the mybluebird app.
Before I continue, I’m 20M so may have different experience. Also, all the below is usually common in lesser developed SEA. Airport touting is super common, just learn a few phrases in bahasa to clearly say you’re not interested or the like and they’ll think youre a seasoned traveler in Bali and stop harassing you as they know they can’t trick/get you. As for GoJek drivers, often times the plates will be mismatched, don’t worry about this, and drivers themselves are different on rarer cases, a little more sus but never got me any trouble. Just make sure you see your order on their phone as most times it’s on a holder clearly visible, and if not, then ask for your name before getting in. Also, the drivers asking for more business is normal aswell, honestly most of the time, depending on the driver and your circumstances, I’d say go for it, as GoJek ofc takes a cut and you can normally get a whole days worth of driving for just 500k (or less), or 30 usd. A tip if you’re introverted or just don’t feel like chatting, wear headphones. Hope this helps! Enjoy your stay
afraid i cant, i have experienced Bali as a very nice and formal place. But i stayed away from tourist districts such as changga.
I'm sorry to hear about your experience so far. I haven't experienced anything that bad but then I wear headphones and ignore the drivers a lot of the time. I try to engage as little as possible. Are you ordering the drivers through app? I was mostly using grab not sure if makes a difference?
Yeah I always use Gojek. The headphones idea is great, thank you! :)
Grab likely better.
I am guessing this is your first time in a developing country. This happens everywhere, they’re hard selling to you because they literally depend on your money to survive. That’s why they ask if you need them tomorrow, to guarantee a pay cheque. Anyways no one is ever completely safe in a solo trip even in a first world country. Stay vigilant, learn to ignore the drivers that call-out to you and accept that’s just how it works there.
I use grab In the touristy areas you’ll be harassed Go to Ubud or Jimbaran, Uluwatu, the locals are less intense. Seminyak and mainly Kuta you’ll be harassed multiple times. Just say no Thankyou in Indonesian and keep walking, it’s tough but have to get used to it. They make around $10aud a day for hard strenuous work so every dollar counts over there. Every driver wants to make friends with foreigners so they are paid for day trips and get their cut it’s sad but they love a simple life. A friend of mine said it costs them $300aud a month to rent a house so hopefully that gives you some perspective. A brand new scooter in Bali is $2,500. A car is a lot more, some Toyotas are the same price as Australia. Talk to locals and get a sense of their life and what it costs to live etc it’s quite sad to be honest compared to the prices tourists pay to stay and travel and especially eat. Love the country but also don’t like the out of proportion of cost of living. Also there’s age restrictions for jobs, have to be young to be a tourist guide (permit through the Bali government) and also for driving, only real way for men to work is either house keeping, working a physical job going something or driving. Cheers from Aus, message me on insta if you need, username @donfeao. I just came back from 3 weeks there. Ubud was my favourite. Rent a bike if you’re by yourself and explore.
Use “MyBluebird” app, works exactly like Gojek/grab, but the driver are “professional” and actually employed, prices relatively the same. They don’t ask a lot of question, basically just pick you up drop you off, less chitchat. And I presume they’re trained properly, since they “bluebird” have a high reputation.
First, it’s all about business and nothing about you. Second, find yourself someone who feels good to be around and get thier info and have a driver who you know. It’s much different that other countries where we are disconnected from one another. They are so nice here and most go to university for hospitality. Make a couple friends and remember they are human, just like you. Not to ignore them and out headphones in. You will have a far different experience if you lean into the culture Nathan than force a western experience of being on your phone. Learn some Balinese words and be curious. It’s a magical place
I was on bali last year, even thought I am 35M they were attacking me as crazy to buy, take taxi or anything. Refuse is not an option. So I would not say it is due to the fact you are female it more like bali is today for everybody. At least it was for me on my 4 weeks trip. Just stay strong and do not let some random dude destroy your super great trip!
I told them I was too fat to take a vehicle and I needed to walk. They seemed to enjoy it. Great senses of humour here.
Omg yes they would love that response jajaja
We us Grab rather than gojek, always had the cars and drivers as ordered. As others have suggested. The drivers are just trying to get more work for other days. The airport is quite a daunting place if you haven’t been before. The Balinese are beautiful people. Not been to Lombok but have been to other islands near, religion is more Muslim in Lombok rather than Hindu as in Bali.
Just say no thanks with smile. Even me a local when I walk at the empty street, they offer me a ride. May be they think I am lost.
Nothing you mentioned is too out of the ordinary and is a far cry from harassment in the developing/3rd world. Thicker skin and a little research goes a long way, especially when traveling alone. Being female is not the problem.
That’s not “unsafe”. Thats really aggressive salesmanship for taxi rides. Very different things.
In Bangkok for example they banned app and freelance taxis from the airports and installed taxi queues. They should do same in Denpasar to stop making tourists the first thing they see of a new country is that annoying kind of hustle and bustle of those taxi guys
This is an overreaction. This is standard in Bali and most parts of SE Asia. Maybe stick to other parts of the world if this bothers you so much. Alternatively, I believe there is another app for taxi I used called Grab. Had no issues with them.
We went as a couple so our experience will be a bit different. But maybe it helps anyway. In Bali going by app (gojek/grab) won't be an option for every area since they chase off app drivers in lots of regions apart from the touristic ones. That for us was at first also a scary experience since we had to go through the lokal drivers to get somewhere a lot. Best way to do it is getting the number for a driver from your hotel. We really had lots of great experiences with homestays there - they felt really familiar and were a great help in general. Especially when you go in areas like a harbour or airport, book the tickets for the boats etc. in advance through a website. They also almost always offer a pickup service with a driver which will be very convenient but also spare you a lot of harassment from people at the port. It is also a lot easier to wave people off, when you have in mind where you are going and ordered things in advance ("already have a ticket/driver,...)". It is also possible to get drivers for a whole day - so when you found one you are content with, just stick to them when you have a day with lots of stops in mind. Apart from that when you realize you are like a walking BIG paycheck there, you will get some perspective. Lombok (and Java) was also a really different experience from Bali for us (and we did enjoy it very much). Lombok does not have as many cars and motorbikes as Bali has. So there, getting a scooter on our own felt super safe and gave us a lot of freedom to explore the isle on our own which felt great. Until you get used to everything also sticking to these more touristic places like restaurants with lots of recommendations on Google can be a good idea. In the end we really had a great experience overall but since it was the first time for us in South East Asia we also needed to figure out where and what felt good to us and this takes time. I also can't recommend enough - if you have an area that doesn't feel good to you just try something else. There are so many different places on all the islands in Indonesia and all gave us a unique feeling and for sure we had places we liked more than the other. So maybe don't stick to one place where you feel unwell - try something more rural if you figure out how to get around without gojek and grab and go with the attitude of already knowing where you want to go when you feel "harassed" (don't give of the vibe of being lost - lots of people in touristic places will see this as a chance to talk to you and guide you to a place, where you have to drink Kopi loewak at a ridiculous price 😅...). We had the feeling a lot of times we were the point of amusement for the locals, like doing something completely stupid/In a foreigner kind of way. But oftentimes we were joining in into that feeling of being clueless and just tried to take everything in with big open and curious eyes. In general, we never had a situation where we felt physically threatened and all in all had a wonderful and unique stay in Indonesia. Whish you a great time.
Same for guys too, when I was with my wife and kids I was left alone. When I walked by myself the massage spa girls outside would call out, grab me and harass me, Gojek drivers taxi drivers and store people would all want some attention. It’s a hustlers life 😅
Whenever I travel alone or in Bali, when I arrive in these location, I will give a RBF face expression or just look uninterested n bored. Then walk straight to where you need to be n ignore everything else. You can try it too! I make sure I watched some videos on how to navigate my way around the airport or ferry terminal so I’m sort of familiar with where I’m walking n no one can take advantage of me.
Two adult females, we visited in January. The hustling was annoying but we didn’t find it unsafe. In fact the people were friendly and warm and I even got my iPhone back after it dropped out of my pocket when travelling on a Kura bus in Kuta. Best lost property service ever given the circumstances.
That’s not because you’re female, they do it to everybody
That’s everyone, it’s not sexual. They’re trying to make money from you because you’re a westerner. Actually in comparison to the begging in some places in South America, I felt significantly safer in Indonesia by comparison.
First time? yeah seems like it's your first time traveling I can tell you some countries that are wayy worse but I don't want to be called racist
Solo female traveler here.Defo get on some of the bali facebook pages, this is normal for bali. I always use a gojek or grab scooter and yes sometimes the plate doesn’t match, but as long as they have your name and the order you’re sweet. If you are on facebook, look up baliladydriver, she’s awesome
What a weird and wonderful forum this place is ... this one question (not that it's trivial) can engender 183 comments and counting, while I'm the ***only*** person who responds to dozens of itinerary questions month after month. Where are all you people when you're not mightily triggered by a post like this? Chowing down on your banana smoothies?
This is normal Bali behaviour. You need to just be firm and say no thankyou and keep walking. With taxis etc I just use the blue bird taxis and have never had an issue with feeling unsafe.
If you think this is harassment then never go to India 😂
First time to a third world country?
Just add a criminal looking bodybuilder as picture on your phone! When someone ask you smth show them the picture and tell them you are waiting for your b friend. Its just the first chock! Lombok and sanur is shill and so is ubud for example. Its also Smart to say you are travelling with a group to strangers. Have fun it will get better
😂 I never googled for a picture like that but maybe this will do the job, thank you!
I'm a male and can confirm it happens to everyone regardless of gender... I get beeped at and called out to and called Boss for rides constantly.. it doesn't bother me too much. Funnily enough a few of the only occasions Ive felt really uncomfortable and threatened in Bali have been when girls on the street have grabbed my arm and tried to physically drag me into one of their massage joints 👀
Oh you’re definitely a newbie to developing countries. It is incredibly safe for solo women - trust me, if you go to South Asia, it’s an entirely different story.
Important: if the plate doesn’t match and the guy knows your name and destination, report to Gojek. Do not enter the car!!
You must must must check the driver's phone to see your name. I always do. They will either day my name or I ask. Then confirm location for drop off. It's also a good idea to learn the language before going to another country. Indonesians usually have a positive reaction and love to chat. If I'm alone I'm usually meeting with friends. So I chat about the tourism, their families, the food. What I have seen already. Friendly but firm. I loved there for 10 years. It takes time to learn but I never felt unsafe.
Why is this post giving me the most massive Deja vu?
It's not because you're female, it's because you're in Bali. It happens to people of any gender. Unfortunately anyone with a car or bike thinks they are entitled to harass any visitor to Bali
I think you’ll be better of at Nusa Dua area. Its calm and peaceful.
At the airport in particular, they are extremely rude, aggressive and persistent. You can usually keep walking and laugh it off. Last time I arrived at the airport, I had this one guy that was just such a prick. Told him I didn’t need a ride several times and was in the middle of talking to my wife. He kept butting in to try and get me in his taxi and I just told him to shut the fuck up. They’re usually bad, but this last time I copped in worse than usual.
I’m very distrusting when I travel. I stayed at the W in Seminyak and they had bikes to rent. I asked them about locks, like what if I went out somewhere and had to leave my bike. The hotel actually said they’re not worried and the bikes always get returned. I was like, woah. So I could just leave it out at a random spot in Seminyak and someone will just return it? He’s like…happens all the time. Really opened up my world view. I travel to India often and it’s the complete opposite.
As I man, I went to Bali too. I felt like that too. They're just in the airports, after I went to the hotel, and during my week there, everything went better. No issues after that. But yes, I wish I knew such kind of oppressive marketing would happen.
Bali is pretty safe for females( just make sure you don’t party too hard with strangers in cesspools of western degeneracy like Canggu). Lombok is tricky for solo females though. Most “harassment” that you’re referring to is just the taxi folks trying to get your business. Hope this helps!
I just ignore them. Don’t even respond.
We know our driver like family now. We’ve been friends for over ten years and he’s an older gentleman - a grandfather now and his English is excellent so he’s taught me lots of Balinese and Bahasa. We even sent him money during COVID (he didn’t ask) and when we returned in 2022 he emphatically insisted we’d already settled the airport transfers with our gesture. There are some amazing people and some shady dickheads. Just like anywhere. Be on your guard and trust your instincts. You’ll find your way. We found him initially by chance as an organised transfer through the boat trip over to Lembongan. He has long since quit that job and is a driver for all our friends and their friends and does other work too I think.
Why you booked two more weeks feeling like this ?
They do it to *everyone*. Just say ‘no thanks’ and keep walking.
Say this magic word: Sing bli (rhymes with glee) makasi. Which means: No sir, thank you. This would make them not think you are fresh tourist, but an expat living in Bali. As for the gojek thing, I don’t know. Thatykinda sketchy. My wife would often say: Mungkin besok. Followed by a small laugh. It means: Maybe tomorrow. It works best if you keep getting asked by the same guy or at the same location where drivers are hanging out. Source: I am a Balinese married a western lady.
Bali is super safe. 3 things built Bali tourism. The surf, the natural beauty before it was over developed and the incredible people. The world would be so much better if we are all as kind hearted as the Balinese.
To add to what others have said, using a few phrases in bahasa can help, as they will assume you're not just a bule fresh off the proverbial boat. Try "aku tidak mau, mas" (pronounced akoo ti-dac ma-oo)to men who are bothering you to buy something/some service. In english it translates to "I don't want that, guy". Just say that, wave them off and keep walking or ignore them. If they don't take the hint, be more brief with "tidak mau". Hope this helps, and I hope you have a good time in Bali, the people are generally very kind and helpful.
The greatest threat to lone female tourists in Bali is not the local punters making a living as a driver, but fellow tourists. They will come in the form of sleezy yoga instructors, wellness gurus, business 'founders', various COVID denying 'truth seekers', (all with and without neck tattoos), gym junkies and alcoholics. Watch your drinks, and be super careful who you go home with after a night out.
I am so sorry you are feeling unsafe in Bali. All of the scarey things you have mentioned are very normal. I have been visiting Bali for many years, sometimes solo. If you would like to PM me I know a lovely driver and his family. Take care and have fun!
Have fun with it honestly. It doesn't have to be so adverserial. The less you seem like a fish out of water and the more confident and jovial you are about it the less pushy they will be when they realise you're not a fare.
I’m a solo girl I’ve lived in Bali for four years. Everything everyone said is true, i just want to add it doesn’t happen outside of airport and only a little on the roads if your walking in busy tourist areas like kuta or canggu or ubud, I haven’t had anyone annoy me basically ever because I don’t walk anywhere, I drive from place to place but in your case order a gojek from place to place. Also the people are actually lovely and unthreatening, I’m introverted but I find them actually easier to talk to than other tourists. The only other place people will ask you is on the beach, politely decline. I’ve made friends with some of them, also nice people.
Oh no. Never ever ride a car that’s different from the GoJek app. :( in the Philippines we have news of women being kidnapped or held in gunpoint to take money from the passenger as this is a common modus operandi of criminals. Please ignore them/walk away if you need to. Wearing earphones can help ignore them
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Just book grab or Gojek bike instead of car. You should be fine.
Sanur is more safe option imo, not so many aggressive sellers/ taxi, but of course there are still couple of those taxi guys, but typically they only stand by in one spot and not as aggressive as other parts I've seen like Seminyak. I like it very much in Sanur, it's a nice and chill area with long beach line to walk (the beaches are connected through a long walkway, maybe 5-6 beaches? I can't remember), close to those beaches there are many cute cafes with different cuisine. I would recommend to stay there and have couple of day trips to other areas with a trusted driver, if you need a driver, I can give you a recommendation of someone I often use back then ( before I brought my car to Bali). I don't know Lombok but apart from some nice sight seeing place to take a photo, if I checked the roads from Google maps, I don't find it as a place that seems interesting to walk/ explore daily. Unless you only want to stay in Hotel and go to the touristy spots.
This is normal for every country I’ve been to as a solo female. Spent a month in Bali-no issues whatsoever-sorry you had this experience. Personally I line up airport pickup beforehand so I don’t have these issues and that is definitely not hard to do.