Integration Tips
-Bali-
“Menyama braya,” - (BUILDING KINSHIP)
Making Friends Locally
Building Meaningful Friendships: Balinese culture is welcoming, and locals are generally friendly and curious about foreigners. However, making lasting friendships requires effort and respect for local customs.
Learn Basic Bahasa Indonesia & Balinese Phrases: While many Balinese speak English, learning a few Bahasa Indonesia phrases or local Balinese greetings shows respect and can help break the ice. Phrases like “Apa kabar?” (How are you?) or “Suksma” (Thank you) in Balinese go a long way in building rapport.
Finding Common Interests: Engaging in shared hobbies and interests makes it easier to form bonds with locals.
Join Community Classes & Workshops: Bali has a variety of classes and clubs, from yoga and surfing to traditional Balinese dance and music classes. Participating in a “gamelan” (traditional music) workshop or joining an art class in Ubud can help you connect with locals who share similar interests.
Participate in Village Activities & Ceremonies: Balinese villages often have community events, such as religious ceremonies, festivals, and temple gatherings. Asking your neighbors about upcoming events or being open to attending local temple celebrations can open doors to making new friends.
Breaking Down Cultural Barriers: Understanding and respecting local customs is key to forming friendships in Bali.
Respect for Religion & Traditions: Religion is central to Balinese life, so showing respect for Hindu customs and ceremonies is important. Wear a sarong and sash when attending temple events, and follow the lead of locals to ensure you're respectful.
Eat & Socialize Together: Meals are social events in Bali. If you’re invited to someone’s home for a meal or to join locals at a “warung” (small food stall), it's a great way to build deeper connections. Bring a small gift as a token of appreciation, and be open to trying local dishes.
Cultural Activities
Participating in Local Hobbies and Traditions: Balinese culture is deeply rooted in art, spirituality, and communal life. Engaging in these activities is a great way to connect with the local community.
Yoga & Meditation: Bali is known as a wellness hub, particularly in Ubud, where you’ll find numerous yoga studios, meditation centers, and wellness retreats. These provide opportunities to meet both locals and expats who share similar interests in well-being and spirituality.
Learn Traditional Crafts & Cooking: Participating in a batik-making class (a traditional wax-resist dyeing technique), wood carving workshop, or Balinese cooking class is a way to learn local crafts. You'll also interact with artisans and chefs, gaining insight into Balinese daily life.
Immersing in Arts, Music, and Festivals: Arts, music, and cultural performances are central to life in Bali, and joining these activities can help you build a deeper connection with the culture.
Gamelan Music & Dance Classes: Traditional gamelan orchestras, made up of percussion instruments, are integral to ceremonies and festivals. Taking a music class to learn the gamelan or trying Balinese dance lessons, such as the Legong or Barong dance, can provide a hands-on cultural experience.
Participate in Local Festivals: Festivals are frequent in Bali. Odalan (temple anniversaries) are celebrated throughout the year, where you can observe and even participate in traditional ceremonies, enjoy Balinese dance performances, and interact with the local community. Remember to wear a sarong and sash as a sign of respect when attending temple festivals.
Connecting Through Sports & Outdoor Activities: Sports and outdoor activities are also a great way to socialize and enjoy the Balinese landscape.
Surfing & Watersports: Bali is a world-renowned destination for surfing, with beaches like Kuta, Uluwatu, and Canggu being popular spots. Joining a local surf school or beach club is a great way to make friends and enjoy the island’s stunning coastline. Other watersports, like snorkeling, scuba diving, and paddleboarding, are also popular.
Hiking & Exploring Nature: For outdoor enthusiasts, hiking up Mount Batur for a sunrise trek or exploring Tegallalang rice terraces in Ubud are great ways to experience Bali's natural beauty and bond with locals who often serve as guides.
Navigating Social Situations
Handling Different Types of Social Settings: Whether you’re at a laid-back gathering or a formal ceremony, understanding Balinese social etiquette will help you connect with locals in a respectful way.
Casual Get-Togethers: When invited to casual gatherings, such as a meal at a local warung (food stall) or at a friend’s home, it's polite to bring a small gift (like fruit or snacks). Conversation is friendly and relaxed, focusing on family, community, or daily life. Avoid discussing sensitive topics like politics or religion unless brought up by your host.
Formal Events & Ceremonies: If invited to a temple ceremony, wedding, or festival, modest attire is important. Wear a sarong and sash for religious events and follow the lead of your host. Take your shoes off before entering homes or temples, and never point your feet towards altars or sacred objects. A soft demeanor and patience are valued in these settings.
Approaching Conversations & Social Etiquette: Balinese people are generally warm and polite, so keeping conversations friendly and maintaining proper manners are key to building good relationships.
Start with a Smile & Gentle Handshake: A smile goes a long way in Balinese culture. If a handshake is offered, it should be gentle. Additionally, for more formal greetings, you can perform the “salam”, which is similar to a Thai wai: press your palms together and give a slight bow of the head.
Polite Conversation & Respect for Traditions: When conversing, ask about family, traditions, or local customs. Express interest in learning about Balinese culture, as this shows respect and openness. Be mindful not to interrupt elders or talk loudly in sacred places.
Understanding Non-Verbal Cues & Body Language: Non-verbal communication is significant in Balinese culture. Knowing how to read and use these cues will enhance your social interactions.
Respectful Gestures & Posture: When giving or receiving something, use both hands, or the right hand supported by the left at the wrist, to show respect. Don’t touch someone's head, as it is considered the most sacred part of the body. Avoid pointing at people or things with your finger—instead, use your entire hand to gesture.
Interpreting Body Language & Smiles: Smiling is a common way to show friendliness, politeness, or to ease potentially uncomfortable situations. If someone tilts their head slightly to the side while listening, it indicates that they are paying attention and are engaged in the conversation.