View from the rim of Lake Bratan Bali

Hi Nick
I’m planning to take my family to Bali later this year in December (early). I’ve been there many times before & although I have a few concerns about going there, my daughter is the one who most fears the unknown about travelling there. For a thirteen year old that perceives Bali as it is portrayed by the media, it is a normal response but my question to you today is whether or not you feel that Bali is just as safe as it was 3 years ago. I know it’s a while back, but many events between the time until now hold potential to change Bali for tourists. I wonder if you could tell me if it’s still safe to walk down the street & if the Balinese people are just as accepting of the Australian people. Has the Shappelle Corby case affected the way in which Australians are treated over there & will my children be safe to go out on their own?

Regards, Anabel.D

As far as Balinese locals are concerened you have no worries. They are just as cool as when I arrived in 2003 and was here in 1993.

As far as media events affecting how they act towards westerners, I rarely hear anyonme mention the news. I think thery are more concerned with their local economy, and right now things are looking good as tourism is coming back. They like having Australians coming.

Anabel,

I can tell you that the whole Schapelle case is not really importnat in Bali, my inlaws don’t know anything about it & they are in Tuban.

It is not a hot issue like the media in Australia make it out to be, other than Indonesian/Balinese Journalists, noone really cares about it…
So you will not have any issues with this, especially as a tourist walking down the street.

I am returning (& cannot wait) with our 7 yr old & our 8-10wk old baby (depending on when it’s born) I have no doubt in my mind about taking my family with me at all.

I believe your daughter will havew a long lasting love of the Island once she has arrived & had the chance to decide for herself…

Best wishes…