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Safety tips and advice
Where there are tourists there will always be someone hoping to take advantage. Here’s what to know about scams, petty crime, and the threat of terrorism.
Scams to watch for
Unlicensed tour guides: These can be found predominantly at temples and other main tourist attractions. There’s nothing quite like receiving local knowledge when visiting a new area for the first time, however, the people offering it at these densely populated tourist areas are often not doing so for free, although their demeanour suggests otherwise. After taking unsuspecting tourists around an attraction, they will demand a fee for their ‘service’, much to the traveller’s surprise.
Ubud forest monkey thefts: Although they may appear cute and relatively harmless, the monkeys at Ubud’s forest are often trained by their owners to steal items from unsuspecting tourists. The trainers then offer the items back for a fee. Keep all valuables in secure places to make them as inaccessible as possible.
Already damaged rentals: When renting scooters, vehicles or jet skis, vendors have been known to claim that tourists have damaged the rental. However, the item in question is often found to bear these damages before the individual has even used it. The vendor will then demand further payment to cover costs. It’s important to assess the rental beforehand and notify the vendor of any present damages.
Crime in Indonesia
In general, crime in Indonesia seems to be centered around petty cases such as pickpocketing and opportunistic theft. Bali and Jakarta appear to be two of the main areas in which crime occurs.
In 2022, Jakarta had a moderate crime index score, according to Statista. A study from the University of Indonesia found that the majority of crimes reported in Jakarta were committed by people between the age of 15 and 34 and included blackmail, robbery, and fraud.
Thieves may target tourists in busy, populated areas, on public transport and even while driving past on motorcycles.
Terrorism in Indonesia
Due to attacks in previous years, the terrorism threat remains high in Indonesia. This is inclusive of popular travel areas such as Bali, Jakarta, and Lombok. All tourists should exercise a high degree of caution and monitor the news for updates on potential attacks. Keep alert in crowded areas such as malls, temples, and tourist attractions as these are prone to higher risk of attack.
Drink spiking
Be careful what you drink in Indonesia – travelers have become seriously ill or even died as a result of drink spiking or tainted alcohol, particularly in Bali and Lombok. Criminals may slip drugs into the drinks of unsuspecting tourists, and then attempt robbery or sexual assault.
Methanol poisoning is also a risk. Methanol, also known as wood alcohol, is sometimes illegally added to regular alcohol to produce more at a cheaper cost. This colorless liquid is toxic, and can cause blindness or death. To stay safe, avoid buying bottles that show signs of tampering or being counterfeit (such as poorly printed labels). Be wary of super cheap drinks or ones being poured in places that aren’t licensed to sell alcohol. Or avoid cocktails altogether and stick to beer or wine.
Always drink responsibly – you're more likely to fall victim to these or other dangers if you're already intoxicated. Bear in mind your travel insurance may not cover you if you're under the influence.
Laws to be aware of in Indonesia
Indonesia – and Bali in particular – is one of the most popular travel destinations for Australians. However, their culture and values are a lot different than those we’re used to in our country, and therefore, certain things that are legal in Australia are not legal there. Heading to Bali unaware of these laws has landed many Australians in trouble with Indonesian authorities.
These laws and regulations might seem somewhat unusual to you, but it’s important that you respect and follow them in order to have a trouble-free holiday abroad. Here’s what you need to know.
Carry identification on you at all times
Don’t go anywhere without your passport or ID (Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas or Residents Stay Permit) as you travel throughout Indonesia. Your passport must have six months validity on it – otherwise you won’t be allowed into the country.
Make sure you keep your passport in a safe place on your person, however, as pickpockets are common in Indonesia – they know you have to carry identification on you at all times. It's a good idea to purchase a money belt, and to keep a photocopy of your passport locked in your safe in your accommodation.
Avoid drugs – no exceptions!
There’s nothing too unusual about the fact that drugs are illegal, however, they are not something Indonesian authorities take lightly, so it’s an important one for us to highlight. It doesn’t matter who you are or where you come from, if you are caught with or using drugs you will receive a harsh punishment.
Having possession of weed, heroin, and cocaine (aka, Group 1 drugs) can get you a heavy fine or a couple years to life in prison depending on how much you’re caught with. However, if you’re convicted of trafficking drugs, you could receive the death penalty. If you’re thinking, “that would never happen to me,” think again. Australian citizens have both been imprisoned and sentenced to execution for these crimes.
It’s important to note that Kuta is a destination still popular for drug dealers or undercover narcotics officers trying to trick you into purchasing drugs. Often, their sales pitch will come in a whisper. If an officer sees you listening to a drug dealer, you could be in some trouble.
Refrain from gambling
Gambling, aka punting, is illegal in Indonesia. That’s because, for the most part, gambling is run by gangs. However, you’ll want to avoid gambling anyway, as a lot of the games are rigged so foreigners end up owing lots of money. If you lose and are unable to pay, the gangs won’t hold back from violence to settle the debt.
Worst of all, because gambling is illegal, you won’t be able to seek help from the authorities. Approaching them could get in further trouble as you’ve engaged in an illegal action in the first place. To help you stay safe, note that gangs typically target single males travelling alone.
Respecting Indonesian culture
Disrespecting the local culture could lead to criminal penalties or even deportation. Religion is highly valued in Indonesia, so make sure your actions reflect the local traditions, especially if you are planning on visiting a religious area.
For example, if you are going to a temple, it’s often customary to cover yourself with something like a sarong. Or, if you’re visiting destinations like Gili Trawangan, note that it’s disrespectful for women to show off too much skin, especially when walking around the village. Do not climb sacred trees, and be mindful when taking photographs, as photography may be considered offensive or even illegal at cultural or religous sites.
Travel insurance
We all know that the good times can take a slight detour when travelling. When the going gets tough, Travel Insurance Direct policies aim to do the heavy lifting and may assist with lost or stolen luggage or other mishaps to help keep your trip moving in the right direction, so you can refocus on the fun.