Bali's Annual Silence: What Canadian Travelers Need to Know Before Spring Break
Are you planning a spring break trip to Bali, Canada? While the Indonesian island is a dream destination with its stunning shores and near-perfect weather, there are a few things you should know before you go.
The Bali Day of Silence
Bali's New Year, known as Nyepi or the 'Bali Day of Silence', falls on March 19th. During this 24-hour period, the island comes to a standstill. Lights, music, and noise are prohibited, and everyone must remain indoors. Transportation grinds to a halt, and Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali will suspend operations from March 19th at 6 a.m. to March 20th at 6 a.m. Transiting passengers will be required to stay inside the airport.
What does this mean for travelers?
Canada advises travelers in Bali to prepare for this shutdown. Ensure you have adequate food and water, as hotels and resorts may not offer food services during the New Year observation. During this period, you must observe 24 hours of silence, stay indoors, and avoid overland travel. Additionally, turn off all lights.
Safety Considerations
While Bali is generally considered a laid-back area, it's important to be aware of the threat of terrorism in Indonesia. Petty crime, such as bag and purse snatching, also occurs in popular tourist areas. Stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Alcohol-related deaths are not uncommon in Bali, so it's best to stick to bottled, branded drinks or skip booze altogether.
Visa Requirements
Canadian passport holders traveling for tourism may obtain a visa in advance or on arrival at select points of entry to Bali. A round-trip or onward airline ticket is required to obtain it. Indonesia strictly enforces its immigration and visa requirements. Foreign travelers have been detained in immigration detention centers for visa violations or overstays. Those in violation may be subject to substantial fines and deportation.
Love Bali Tourist Levy
All tourists are also subject to the Love Bali tourist levy. This fee is in addition to the visa fees paid to enter Indonesia. If you are traveling to Bali, you must pay directly through the levy website.
