overview
Welcome to a Guide that will give you a deeper look beneath the surface of Balinese smiles and a sense of local authenticity. You can read about how hospitable and friendly the locals are elsewhere, but we offer a unique perspective gained from years of living in Bali. Infiltrate Bali's interesting communities. Explore the truth without a filter, revealing the complex pattern of beliefs, traditions, and values that shape Balinese society. From the intricacies of local customs to the challenges the island's residents face, we bring honest insight. Experience Bali as it is, authentically and without a mask. You'll gain a deep understanding of the people who call the island home. This is the Bali that few people see, an intimate journey revealing the depths beneath the surface.
📢 Disclaimer: This Guide is written based on our years of experience living in Bali and presents our observations and information, often confirmed by our local friends. In frequent discussions on this topic with other ex-pats and many locals, this information and experience is consistent. However, by no means can this Guide be taken as a general standard and truth for all locals; one can never generalize. Of course, it is very individual, and the experiences of others may be completely different, and that's okay. The opinions and observations below are purely subjective, not meant to denigrate anyone but to point out differences generally not discussed much in public.
This Guide is divided into the following sections:
Values
Local people have a variety of values that they hold, but these four are usually the most important to them. The order of values can be ranked as follows according to the experiences and statements of the Balinese people:
1. Religion
Balinese Hinduism, deeply rooted in Balinese's everyday lives, profoundly influences individuals, families, and communities, shaping their values, rituals, and social interactions.
Individually, Balinese Hinduism provides a framework for personal spirituality and moral guidance. It instills a sense of devotion, gratitude, and respect for deities and ancestors. Daily religious rituals, such as offering sacrifices at home shrines or visiting temples, are practiced with deep devotion, creating a spiritual connection and fostering a sense of inner peace and harmony.
Religious teachings and values are passed down from generation to generation in families, ensuring the continuity of Balinese Hindu traditions. Parents play an essential role in teaching their children about religious customs, mythology, and the importance of ceremonies. Religion is also taught in schools from the first grade. Children actively participate in religious ceremonies from an early age, learning the meaning of sacrifices, prayers, and purification rituals.
Balinese Hinduism heavily influences family life, with religious practices and celebrations strengthening family ties. Families gather for important rituals such as child blessings, puberty ceremonies, weddings, and cremation ceremonies. These religious events enhance family ties and reinforce the sense of belonging and shared identity among family members.
The Balinese concept of Sekala-Niskala recognizes that the spiritual and physical worlds are interconnected. Balinese Hinduism influences individuals' and families' daily activities and decisions and guides them toward virtuous living. Ethical values such as honesty, respect, and compassion are emphasized, and harmonious relationships within families and the wider community are encouraged.
Religious obligations extend beyond the temple's walls, and communities work together in various religious activities. Building and maintaining communal shrines, organizing processions, and participating in communal prayer ceremonies are integral to community life influenced by Balinese Hinduism. These activities foster a sense of collective responsibility and promote the well-being of the community as a whole.
Moreover, Balinese Hinduism influences the norms and practices of the community. Cultural values, traditions, and customs are deeply rooted in religious beliefs. Principles such as cooperation, respect for elders, and the importance of harmony are observed and applied in daily life. Spiritual principles guide social relations and stress the importance of honesty, forgiveness, and empathy.
The Flip Side
The flip side of Balinese beliefs and attitudes towards religion is reflected in several factors at an individual level, and you will rarely see it as a visitor. Some of these factors include:
Religious ceremonies are significant to the Balinese, and bringing offerings to temples is a social obligation. Failure to bring the expected offerings is a communally reprehensible offense. It is not uncommon for Balinese to borrow money to make offerings to make an "impression," to fulfill their religious obligations, and to avoid being condemned by the community. They resort to acts that make their personal lives even more complicated. It is no secret that many families allocate most of their budgets to religion and related expenses at the expense of their comfort.
Many Balinese are taught when to perform ceremonies and what to do during them. However, a small percentage of people already know why the ceremony is being held and often do not even know the name of the specific ceremony. This is also because the younger generation often perceives religion differently than the older generation and does not care about the reasons and does not ask why; they repeat what they have learned from their parents/relatives day after day.
The number of "purification" ceremonies during the year may tempt Balinese to behave in ways that would, for example, be beyond the normal socially acceptable range without religion. This creates an interesting paradox. On the one hand, the Balinese will tell you that they believe in karma and that "what you give to the world will come back to you." Still, on the other hand, they are capable of lying, cheating, and gossiping (especially to tourists) because they know that they will purify themselves in one of the many ceremonies and start again "clean."
Thus, it is purely up to each individual's interpretation to what extent they worship religion as a tool for better personal morality and awareness or to excuse immoral acts that would otherwise be reprehensible.
For more information about the religions worshiped in Bali, see the Religions Guide.
2. Family
Balinese family life is deeply rooted in strong family ties and the traditional extended family system that plays a central role in the social fabric of Balinese society. The family is considered the cornerstone of Balinese life.
The Balinese follow a patriarchal system in which the eldest male has significant authority and is responsible for essential family decisions. The family unit extends beyond the immediate family and usually includes multiple generations living under one roof. This extended structure includes parents, children, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins, which fosters close relationships and a sense of interconnectedness.
In Balinese culture, respect for elders and filial piety are highly valued. Younger family members are expected to show respect and deference to elders and often look to them for advice and wisdom. Grandparents play a crucial role in passing on cultural traditions, values, and stories to younger generations, ensuring the preservation of Balinese heritage.
The extended family system provides a strong support network where members share responsibilities, resources, and emotional support. Shared decision-making is common and involves different family members. Financial assistance and resource sharing are also prevalent within the extended family as family members work together to meet the needs of all members.
Balinese families also place great emphasis on education and the pursuit of knowledge. Parents often prioritize their children's education and provide support to ensure their children's academic success. Education is seen as a means to provide for the family (especially financially) and a better future for the younger generation.
The Flip Side
Family is essential to the Balinese, and they maintain very close relationships. But these relationships are not always just emotional. For the most part, they are also possessive. Having a large family means having a better chance of having a better life and also that more family members contribute to the family budget. An Indonesian saying goes, "banyak anak, banyak rejeki," or "many children, great wealth." Many families still see children as "insurance for the parents in old age." Some people have more children only because they believe that at least one will become successful, take care of them in old age, and take over the family responsibilities.
3. Community
Community traditions and ceremonies are integral to Balinese culture and reflect the people's deep spiritual faith and devotion. These events bring the whole community together in celebration, creating a sense of unity and strengthening cultural identity.
Balinese communities and community life are essential in shaping Balinese people's daily lives and overall well-being. A sense of community and collective identity plays a key role in various aspects of society and influences social interactions, cultural practices, and individual development.
Community life in Bali revolves around the concept of Gotong-royong, which emphasizes cooperation, solidarity, and communal harmony. Gotong-royong promotes a spirit of togetherness, where community members come together to support each other, share resources and work together on joint projects; for example, cleaning the village together, building community roads, and more.
One of the critical influences of Balinese communities is the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage. Community involvement is essential for maintaining and transmitting traditional customs, rituals, and artistic expressions. Balinese communities actively organize and conduct cultural events such as traditional dances, musical performances, and religious ceremonies. These community-driven efforts protect cultural traditions, and their continuity is ensured for future generations.
Community life also plays a significant role in supporting individuals during major life events and milestones. Whether it is a wedding, the birth of a child, or a funeral, the community comes together to provide emotional support, practical help, and financial contributions. The community acts as a safety net, easing the burden on individuals and strengthening social bonds.
In addition, community life provides opportunities for social interaction and fosters a sense of belonging and connection. Community gatherings, which include temple festivals, village meetings, and joint work projects, bring community members together in a shared space. These events provide a platform for networking, sharing knowledge and experiences, and building strong social bonds. The exchange of ideas, stories, and skills during these community interactions enriches the lives of individuals and creates a sense of belonging.
Balinese communities show remarkable resilience and solidarity in times of adversity, such as natural disasters or economic hardship. Community members come together to provide aid, relief, and support to those affected. The community's collective strength helps individuals overcome challenges and rebuild their lives.
Balinese communities also contribute to the local economy. Sectors such as traditional handicrafts, agriculture, and tourism are thriving thanks to the active participation and support of the community. By engaging in these economic activities, communities generate income, preserve cultural crafts and contribute to the region's overall development.
The Flip Side
The flip side of community life is several aspects that are directly related to the facts above:
If a Balinese wants to be part of the community and not want to be excluded from society, he must submit to the community and its needs. If, for example, there is a plan to sweep the public roads in the village, everybody must come. It is socially unacceptable for someone not to go because they do not want to or cannot for other reasons. In such a case, he would have to pay a fine to the community coffers, or the community would devise another "punishment" for him to benefit the whole group. Thus you often see, for example, in the sweeping mentioned above of public spaces, women waving brooms without sweeping anything, just because they have to participate against their will.
In general, Balinese are very dependent on what others and the community think of them. And on the other hand, people and entire communities constantly judge others for their actions and appearance.
For example, you will rarely see tattoos among the locals. It is practically not accepted by the community, and once an individual chooses to get a tattoo, they are often automatically ostracized. The same is true with deliberate non-participation in communal religious ceremonies, but unfortunately, also about sexual orientation. In the case of admitted homosexuality, the individual is almost always automatically disassociated from family and community.
Generally, Balinese are not free thinkers and not very free. They are bound by the demands and obligations of their close family ties, the community in which they live, and their religion.
4. Money
Money plays a significant role in the lives of individuals and communities in Bali, shaping their access to livelihoods, aspirations, and overall well-being. Although Balinese society emphasizes financial security and economic stability, different values and perceptions of money reflect a unique cultural context.
For many individuals in Bali, money serves as a means to provide for the family and meet basic needs. Balinese often prioritize the welfare of their loved ones over personal wishes and value their ability to support their families financially. Pursuing financial stability is seen as a way to ensure the security and prospects of loved ones.
But the Balinese approach to money goes beyond material accumulation. Balinese culture emphasizes the concept of Kekayaan Sejati, which translates as 'true wealth' or 'inner wealth.' This concept emphasizes the importance of spiritual, emotional, and social well-being alongside financial prosperity. Balinese believe true wealth comes from a balanced and meaningful life that includes strong relationships, good health, and a sense of community.
Although financial success is valued, ostentatious displays of wealth are not generally encouraged in Balinese culture. Modesty and humility are highly valued, and individuals who excessively flaunt their wealth may be considered disrespectful or lacking cultural sensitivity. Balinese emphasize modest living and focus on the quality of relationships, community ties, and spiritual fulfillment rather than material possessions.
In addition, the Balinese see money as a tool for social contribution and giving back to the community. Charitable acts and religious donations are standard practices in Balinese society. Many individuals donate a portion of their income to support temples, community projects, and people in need. Giving back to the community is a way to maintain balance and cultivate positive karma.
The Flip Side
Although the Balinese will tell you they are after "inner wealth," this is not always true. Most men want to be rich (but who wouldn't), and gold jewelry, for example, is taken as a status indicator.
It is no coincidence that gambling is quite widespread in Bali, although it has been prohibited by law for decades. For example, cockfighting is very common here because of the prospect of great wealth. The rooster that wins will earn the owner a significant reward and respect in the community. Some people even bet on cockfighting online. For more information on cockfighting, see the Cockfightis Guide.
Unfortunately, to make money, the locals also resort to lies despite their religious beliefs and constant talk of karma. For example, while looking for a house for rent, we asked the owner if any construction was planned nearby. His reply was negative, saying that he owned all the land in the area and he would know about it, and we could be at ease. So we rented the house, and on the day the owner received the money for a year's rent, he informed us that a new road was going to be built that would go right past our current house and that the entire brick fence would have to be torn down.
So he helped us to rent the house by an evident and deliberate lie, and then, to "clean" himself, he told us about the construction only when it was no longer possible to withdraw from the "deal" when he had the money in his account.
Unfortunately, we and our friends living in Bali often experience similar cases.
Other Characteristics
In addition to the values of the Balinese described above, we also list other interesting characteristics of the local population we encounter daily.
Planning
Balinese people live from day to day or from ceremony to ceremony. Long-term planning is practically nonexistent in their culture. This characteristic is, in our opinion, derived from the relatively stable weather in Bali. For comparison, in Europe and the US and elsewhere in temperate climates, there are four seasons, and people have historically had to plan. For example, what to plant when so that they would have sufficient supply for the winter period when crops are not growing. This naturally forced them to plan and think ahead for planting and food composition.
In Bali, conditions are virtually the same all year round. Residents don't have to worry that bananas, papayas, or rice won't grow for six months. Rice has a cycle of three months, and once it is harvested, more can be planted almost immediately. No one cares if it is April or November.
It is also unimaginable to most Balinese that people in developed countries save for a year or more for a holiday, for example. Even the Indonesian government shared an educational Instagram post explaining that if one saves IDR 1,000 (USD 0,067) every month, in 12 months, one will have saved IDR 12,000 (USD 0,81).
Most Balinese don't think too far ahead. They live here and now. They can quit their jobs because their boss has raised his voice at them, without having a secure income elsewhere to support their own families. Then they can return to the same job two days later and beg for their job back because they have found that they need the job to have something to eat.
This is also why Balinese prefer to have less in the aggregate now rather than more over a longer time horizon. You, as tourists, can use this characteristic to your advantage, for example, when renting a scooter/property, etc. Offer to pay less but upfront for several months at a time. The Balinese will see the money NOW and will usually nod.
It also works against them in reverse. For example, you can find a house to rent for IDR 10 million/month. You offer 8 million a month. The Balinese rejects you because he currently wants/needs 10 million. He'd instead leave the house empty for two months when he could already have 16 million.
Smile
Everywhere you read how friendly and smiling Balinese people are. Yes, they are, and if you're here for a few weeks on holiday, it's an incredible difference to gloomy Europe. The positive mood recharges you and makes you feel very comfortable. And as we all know, this strategy works very well. Tourists feel good, there is a positive mood, and they have another reason to return and bring more money into the local economy. Of course, there is nothing wrong with that at all.
However, if you spend a long time in Bali, you will notice that the smile is just a mask. The locals are taught to smile, especially at tourists. But just like elsewhere in the world, behind those smiles is often hidden unhappiness, envy, and other feelings stemming from how people live in Bali and everything that affects their lives - again, just like everywhere else.
Therefore, the smile of the locals is an attractive positive value for visitors, but it is certainly not true that a smiling Balinese is automatically happy. It's just the way they've been brought up and taught. We would like other people to take a cue from the Balinese on this point. It costs nothing to smile and is more or less always perceived positively and makes the other party's day.
The Value of Time
In developed countries, people usually follow the saying "time is money." This is not true in Bali. Human labor (time) has almost no value here, and the locals treat your time similarly. With an average wage of about IDR 150,000 (USD 10)/day, i.e., about USD 0,9 to 1,3 per hour, it is unsurprising. Unfortunately, by this nature, the locals treat your time the same way. People have no problem keeping you waiting or arriving an hour late for an appointment. In Bali, don't expect punctuality and valid "deadlines." For example, boat delays of two hours are common.
Tourist Perception
Balinese see tourists (Bule) as rich and a source of money and will do a lot to get some money out of you. It has to be said that they usually do it in a very humble and "non-annoying" way unless it's the lady with the bracelets on the beach. A Balinese person will not pull you by the hand to visit his shop or take your suitcase as a hostage, for example. You're more likely to encounter that in Lombok.
Occasionally a Balinese will ask you directly how much you earn. And if you only tell him your monthly salary, which in many cases will be higher than his annual salary, then he is right to assume that you are living high on the hog. But he doesn't know the other side of the coin, where, for example, you are paying his three or four months' salary for rent. That doesn't often come from tourists anymore.
Another factor why we tourists are perceived as extremely rich is that Bali is more or less exclusively a holiday destination. Tourists come to Bali to enjoy a holiday they can afford, maybe once a year, and they want to venture out and not worry about whether a meal costs USD 2 to 3. Once they leave the island, they return to their work routines, save, and work. And more tourists will come to Bali instead.
Now try to think about the point of view of a local, for example, a restaurant/hotel attendant, etc. What do they see? Every tourist who comes is "rich," doesn't care much about how much he spends, stays (for him) in expensive hotels, and eats in Western restaurants where the locals can't even afford an appetizer. So to the locals, in his own eyes, the tourist is rich. Because he, as a Balinese, no longer knows or sees that tourists save for two years for this holiday, for example (see previous section), which is unimaginable to him. Once the tourist returns to his country, he works in a restaurant, for example, just like him.
Art and Handicraft
Conversely, Balinese are skilled in handicrafts, arts and crafts, etc. Very often, you will come across small shops with hand-carved wood or animal bone products, artistic sculptors, carpenters, and blacksmiths. They can create virtually anything from intricate batik designs to exquisite detail in carving. These artistic traditions, passed down from generation to generation, are deeply rooted in their culture. Balinese carpenters painstakingly transform raw materials into stunning masterpieces, while sculptors breathe life into stones and clay. Their blacksmiths forge intricate metalwork with precision and artistic flair. The Balinese people's passion for their craft, innate talent, and unwavering determination have made them renowned worldwide for their exceptional artistry and craftsmanship.
Hand-carved shells and skulls
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