Backpacking Kuta and Seminyak, Bali - One Bintang At A Time

As two of Bali's most visited 'tourist towns', Kuta and Seminyak are, unsurprisingly, the hub of crime on the island.

However, this shouldn't be a cause to avoid them. Whilst there are numerous stories about safety in Kuta, it's still safer than the majority of Western cities. And realistically, there are other reasons to bypass them both, as mentioned throughout the blog.

Why? Well, both lay claim to some of the biggest nights out in Bali, and that's when the majority of crime occurs.

I don't want this section to scare you, but what we discuss can and has happened. Just know it is rare, and the chances are you'll have a carefree, safe time in Kuta and Seminyak.

There is a lot to dive into, so let's get stuck into your safety when backpacking Kuta and Seminyak.

Markets

Markets the world over are a hotspot for crime, be it Barcelona, London or here in Kuta.

The only difference with Kuta is you hear about every scary incident. Furthermore, you don't know the language or the rules of engagement (if such a thing exists in a robbery). Similarly, you probably don't trust that the police aren't involved.

I've heard numerous stories of people being dragged out the back of market stalls, threatened and had items taken. I've never seen it, nor have I ever felt in any danger in the markets.

However, I have seen groups of young, local men communicating with eye contact and head-nods if an easy pick-pocket target walks past. That is the most common crime for those of us backpacking Kuta and Seminyak to be aware of.

This can be overcome with a bit of awareness and sense. Know who is around you, know where your money is, and don't show off the bling in the markets. Ideally, explore the markets in pairs, and with the above knowledge, you will dramatically reduce your chance of being a victim of crime. If you're worried, grab yourself a money belt before you arrive.

Clubs and Bars

As mentioned, both Kuta and Seminyak are home to some of the most lively nights in Bali. Alas, a lot of drunken behaviour and a lack of inhibitions.

I get it, drinks are super cheap, and it's all too easy to get completely shit-faced. I did.

But, inevitably, this is where most of the drunken fights, domestics and playground arguments start. It's no different to back home. There is always someone looking to start a fight, and they will. You don't know the area, the people, or how things are done in Bali, so avoid these situations whenever possible, and don't...

Walk Home Alone Drunk

Again, you're putting yourself at risk by doing this. Those groups of young local men are still hanging around the narrow lanes, only now, they're looking for easy drunk targets with money.

When you're drunk, the narrow lanes all look the same, and it's easy to get disorientated, especially in Kuta and whilst unlikely, this can be a recipe for becoming a victim of a robbery.

Thieving Hookers and Masseuse's

A final thought on being drunk in Kuta is this... Not everyone is at the clubs for a good night or to get laid.

I had a couple of mates who, shall we say, went home early from a night out 'for a massage' with a couple of local girls.

When I rocked up a few hours later, these girls were leaving, stuffing a good amount of cash down their bra's. Drunkenly, I thought it was payment for a massage. Only to find out in the morning that they both couldn't remember what had happened, and all their money had gone.

Be aware, if you're going to have a massage anywhere in Bali, especially when backpacking Kuta, drunk at night, make sure it's a legit establishment. Save the embarrassment and your spending money.

Drugs

Bali, being part of Indonesia, has some of the strictest drug laws in the world.

If you get caught, it's either a massive bribe, or you'll be whisked away to Bali's only prison just up the road in Seminyak, where you'll be greeted by the worst Bali has to offer.

Oh, and you won't be getting out anytime soon, so get comfy. And, did I mention that Bali still has the death penalty for possession? Your call!

Beach and Surf Safety

To some degree, part of backpacking Kuta or Seminyak means endless days of soaking up the sun and sprawling yourself along the golden sands, and rightly so. It's great!

However, the sea can be deadly. If you can't surf or swim, this is not the place to try, that is unless you're taking part in an organised lesson. There are unpredictable swells and rips along the coast. I've been dragged under a couple of times myself, and I've surfed a fair bit.

Back on the beach, you're fairly safe, but keep an eye out for those pesky traders combing the beach for tourists. Especially the crazy dudes selling FULL ON proper crossbows. That shit kills!

Terrorism

Thankfully, this is not something we've had to mention in other Bali blogs, but sadly, it is still something we need to mention here.

In 2002, a terror group linked to Osama Bin Laden set off three bombs. One suicide bomber detonated inside Paddy's Bar and another remote car bomb was set off outside Kuta's main nightclubs, as hundreds of people were enjoying a big night out. A further bomb struck in the capital of Denpasar, causing damage to the American consulate.

Two hundred and two people were killed and hundreds more injured in the attack.

Whilst often overlooked, a forgotten consequence of this attack was that it stopped tourism in Bali for nearly three years. If you stop and consider that Bali has two main industries, tourism and farming, you will start to understand the devastation this had on the people. The Balinese people were handing back cars and houses, and it paralysed Bali overnight.

Fortunately, this is extremely rare, so don't let this put you off a trip to Bali. It can happen anywhere, anytime. If you didn't go somewhere due to terrorists, they win. They will not win.

Roads

As with almost everywhere in Bali, the roads in and around Kuta and Seminyak are bloody appalling.

You'll find gridlocked traffic throughout the town, which in turn, pushes bikes up onto the pavements and narrow walkways.

Walking around on the pavements is a constant thrill of not knowing what will be aiming at you next. And then there are the roads. Crossing them is done so at your own risk, with the only saviour being that the traffic is normally stopped.

That doesn't mean nothing will be coming for you. A bike weaves through the mesh of cars, and before you know it, you're on your ass. Keep your eyes peeled at all times.

Wearing a helmet is the law, and honestly, if it's safety advice from the Balinese Government, you know it must be worth taking. These guys don't do health and safety that often.

Traffic lights are more guidelines than rules, and just because you have a green light doesn't mean it's any safer to go. It just means you have more chance of not hitting anything.

And now for the usual advice, as with all of our Bali blogs, don't drink and drive.

Numerous westerners pick up a bike for the first time, give it the once over, hand over the cash, and put their foot to the floor. It's bad enough watching this happen to randomers, let alone yourself or a mate. In fact, it's scary as fuck.

Learn at home before you even attempt it here.

Whilst that is bad enough, these idiots, yes fucking idiots, think it's then acceptable to drive through the streets after a heavy session in the bars and clubs.

I've picked up many body parts off the road, and sometimes the people have been lucky enough to be breathing and conscious to accept them back. Sometimes not. I don't like picking up corpses, and I've been trained. Don't be a dick, don't drink drive.

Bali Belly

Bali belly is one of those things that happens when you're backpacking, and Kuta and Seminyak are no different. You cannot let the horror stories stop you from enjoying food in Bali.

Food is a massive part of travelling, and not trying it through fear of getting Bali belly would mean missing out on so much. Just know that it happens, and you get over it as quickly as it comes.

Earthquakes and Tsunamis

Whilst Indonesia has been hit servilely by both earthquakes and tsunamis over the years, I know, I've been in them. They aren't a reason not to enjoy your time backpacking Kuta and Seminyak.

Despite both being coastal market towns, they are tucked away safely, hidden from major waves on Bail's south coast.

Here on Bali's south coast, you may experience more aftershocks and shakes than direct hits. If, however, the worst does happen, and the area takes a direct hit from an earthquake, simply get outside and stay away from tall buildings. If a tsunami is likely, head inland and to high ground.

The locals will guide you, but generally, follow them.

Ok, so there was a lot to cover there, but just to reiterate, none of the above should affect your decision as to 'Should you explore Bali's south coast, namely Kuta and Seminyak. Backpacking Kuta is safe, as is Seminyak. Just be aware of your surroundings.