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The entire interpersonal sphere in Bali is characterised by consideration for the feelings of others. In doing so, it is important to avoid the innumerable blunders into which you can easily stumble as a foreigner.
In Western clichés, Bali is popular as a glamorous image of a romantic tropical paradise where smiling and happy people always live. Indeed, the Balinese have smiles written all over their faces, but they use them as a kind of protective wall against conflict and conceal emotions.
Harmony above all
If a Balinese smiles when asked for directions but does not answer at first, he probably does not understand English. In order not to lose face, he will call someone over who might be able to answer the question. If necessary, he will give some direction just to save face. Allowing the other person to save face, but not losing one's own, is the most important guiding principle in all rules of conduct.
More faux pas
Further stumbling blocks lurk: The left hand is considered "unclean", which is why it should never be used when eating or presenting gifts. Aggressiveness is shown, for example, by those who bury their hands in their trouser pockets. Also, one does not point at a person with an outstretched finger. And throwing something at another person is simply insulting.
Putting your feet on the table is frowned upon; neither do you cross them or sit with your legs stretched out on the floor. The head, on the other hand, is sacred to the Balinese as the seat of the spirit and the soul. Touching it is an insult, even to children.
Especially in the countryside, it is considered absolutely indecent to wear short or skimpy clothing or the like. Dirty and torn clothes are also considered a sign of disrespect.
Before entering a house, the shoes must be removed, and the right hand is then held out in greeting with a light touch, which is then placed against the chest. And if, last but not least, you leave a remnant of decency behind when you eat, you can hardly do anything wrong.
Temple etiquette
It is the rule rather than the exception that tourists, especially at temple festivals, often behave like the "axe in the woods" in order to get the best motifs in front of the lens. They push their way in, climb walls, walk between worshippers, bring their cameras much too close to faces, use flash - all behaviour that shows disrespect and is inexcusable. And there are a few other rules to follow as well: Beachwear or too skimpy or dirty clothing are taboo, the selendang, the temple scarf tied around the hips, is compulsory. And at all temple festivals, a sarong is mandatory for women and men alike. It is also forbidden to visit a temple with open wounds or during menstruation, as blood stands for defilement.
