Bali is a often referred to as a ‘resort island’. That conjures up images of luxury villas, drop-off pools, Ku De Ta and lobster on a tray. Unfortunately not all the people who live in Bali see it that way. The Balinese have had to adapt to the onslaught on tourism and learn how to make waht they do marketable. Their natural friendliness and interesting culture are a perfect combination and for the last 30 years mass tourism has moved into the neighborhood.
Up in the mountains its a different story. The Bali Aga, or original Balinese, have always been somewhat insular, unfriendly to outsiders. I often get dirty looks when riding into Batur or Kintamani. The Bali Aga live in the most remote parts of the island, where there is no industry and resources. Its not surprising they feel the effects of poverty the most.
In 1998 a charity called the East Bali Poverty Project was set up to address some of the issues leading to malnutrition and other problems in remote communities. Most Balinese take care of their community member, you don’t see many homeless people here. However in Kuta / Seminyak you will see beggars who are often from Java, or the highlands.
If you are interested in helping the East Bali Poverty Project feel free to email them.
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