Is Bali worth visiting? Bali is a beautiful island with a rich culture, but it’s also a popular tourist destination, and with popularity comes some downsides. From high costs in Bali travel to health risks and overcrowding, there are several factors that might make you reconsider. Here are some reasons why people might find Bali overrated and choose to explore other destinations instead.
10 Reasons to Avoid Bali
1. Overcrowded Tourist Spots
Popular areas like Kuta and Seminyak are often overcrowded, diminishing the charm and making it hard to enjoy. The sheer number of visitors can make these places feel more like tourist traps than serene getaways. Finding a quiet spot to relax can be challenging amidst the hustle and bustle of the crowds. Headed to popular temples or activities? Be prepared to wait up to 2 hours.
2. Traffic Congestion
The island’s infrastructure struggles to handle the massive influx of visitors, resulting in severe traffic jams and long travel times between attractions. Navigating Bali can become a frustrating experience, especially during peak tourist season. What should be a short journey can turn into hours spent stuck in gridlock, wasting precious vacation time. Kuta to Ubud can take up to 2 hours to drive 38 km.
3. Environmental Degradation
The high volume of tourists has led to significant environmental damage, including beach pollution, deforestation, and coral reef destruction. This environmental impact not only harms the natural beauty of Bali but also threatens its biodiversity. Plastic waste litters the beaches, and unchecked development encroaches upon the island’s fragile ecosystems. Seminyak beach had the most trash in the sand. Kuta and Canggu had some but not as bad.
4. Bad WiFi
Many areas in Bali (Kuta and Seminyak) suffer from unreliable and slow internet connections, which can be a major inconvenience for digital nomads and travelers. Staying connected can be particularly challenging, making it difficult for those who need to work remotely. Even in accommodations that advertise WiFi, the connection may be spotty at best, causing frustration for those trying to stay in touch with loved ones or conduct business online. Canggu and Ubud had decent speeds.
5. Beaches Not Suitable for Swimming
Despite their beauty, many of Bali’s beaches are not ideal for swimming due to strong currents, waves, and lack of lifeguards. This can be disappointing for travelers looking to enjoy a quintessential beach vacation. Instead of crystal-clear waters and pristine sands, visitors may encounter murky seas and litter-strewn shores, detracting from the idyllic image of a tropical paradise. However, if your into or trying to learn surfing, then Bali would be ideal for beginners.
6. Health and Comfort Concerns
Issues like Bali belly (foodborne illness) and mold problems in accommodations can be major concerns for travelers. Sampling street food or dining at local eateries carries the risk of contracting Bali belly, while the humid climate often leads to mold issues in older hotels. Mold can exacerbate respiratory issues and cause allergic reactions, making it important for travelers to carefully research accommodations before booking. I’ve searched through hundreds of online hotel reviews and mold was the number one complaint. Is this worth putting your health at risk?
7. Lack of Authentic Experience
The overwhelming number of tourists can make it difficult to experience the true local lifestyle and traditions. Commercialization of culture has led to a proliferation of tourist-centric performances and activities that cater more to Instagram aesthetics than genuine cultural immersion. Westernized influences have further diluted the authenticity of the Balinese way of life, leaving travelers craving a more genuine experience disappointed.
8. Food is Mediocre
Some visitors find that the food options, particularly in heavily touristy areas, are mediocre and overpriced compared to other Southeast Asian destinations. Despite Bali’s reputation as a culinary hotspot, many restaurants prioritize catering to tourists’ palates over delivering authentic Balinese flavors. Travelers seeking a gastronomic adventure may find themselves underwhelmed by the dining options available. We’ve visited many highly rated restaurants because of their Google reviews and were disappointed. The noodles are packaged noodles spiced up. We did have some enjoyable meals in Canggu area, they have many newer restaurants with modern decor.
9. Poor Walking Conditions ~ Lack of Sidewalks
Many areas lack proper sidewalks, making it difficult and unsafe to walk around, especially in busy parts of the island. Crossing the road can be a daunting task, as the majority of cars do not stop even when signaled by police. Pedestrians are often forced to navigate narrow roads shared with motorbikes and cars, posing a significant safety risk, particularly after dark. Motorbikes constantly drive on sidewalks and block people from being able to walk. Cars will alway pull up on the curb. Be especially careful at night.
10. Rising Costs
As Bali’s popularity has grown, so have the prices. Accommodation, food, and activities can be quite expensive compared to other Southeast Asian destinations. What was once a budget-friendly destination has now become increasingly costly, particularly in tourist hotspots like Seminyak and Ubud. Travelers on a tight budget may find their funds stretched thin in Bali, limiting their ability to fully enjoy all the island has to offer.
Klook.comAvoid Bali Tourist Scams:
Common tourist scams can dampen the travel experience, especially for unsuspecting visitors. When landing at Bali airport, avoid touts claiming to be Grab drivers for rides, as they often request more money than the standard fare. Instead, head to the designated Grab/Gojek pickup location and use the app to arrange transportation at the correct price. Other scams to watch out for include:
- Overpriced Tours: Some tour operators may inflate prices or promise experiences they don’t deliver. It’s essential to research reputable companies and read reviews before booking.
- Fake Money Exchanges: Be cautious when exchanging currency at small, unauthorized currency exchange booths, as they may offer unfavorable rates or counterfeit bills. Stick to reputable banks or currency exchange offices.
- Rental Scams: Renting motorbikes or cars without proper documentation can lead to scams, such as false damage claims upon return or excessive charges for minor issues. Always thoroughly inspect the vehicle and document any pre-existing damage before renting.
- Fake Goods: Beware of counterfeit goods being sold at markets or street stalls, especially in touristy areas. Items such as clothing, electronics, and souvenirs may appear authentic but are often of poor quality or outright fakes.
- Pickpocketing and Theft: Petty theft, including pickpocketing, phone, or bag snatching, can occur in crowded tourist areas or while walking down busy road. Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded markets or on public transportation.
Conclusion of Is Bali Worth Visiting
While Bali offers stunning landscapes and rich cultural experiences, drawbacks such as high costs, health risks, overcrowding, and tourist scams may make some travelers reconsider. From traffic jams to mediocre food and poor walking conditions, Our Bali Travel Guide presents challenges that can detract from the overall enjoyment. However, by being aware and taking precautions, travelers can still have a memorable experience. Additionally, many other beautiful and less crowded destinations in Indonesia and Southeast Asia offer similar or better experiences. Whether exploring the pristine beaches of the Gili Islands or immersing in the cultural heritage of Yogyakarta, travelers have plenty of alternatives to consider.