By Mallika Bhagat
Bali’s infinity swings, rice terraces and lively beaches sure sound like a traveller’s dream but this popular tourist destination is also a hotbed for travel scams unlike anywhere else in the world! Bali’s tourist scams often target travellers who aren鈥檛 paying close attention. Rigged taxi meters or drivers quoting triple the actual fare are rampant near airports and popular spots like Kuta or Seminyak. You will also find dishonest money changers tempt you with unrealistically high rates before pulling sleight-of-hand tricks to shortchange you. Motorbike rental scams involve renters being charged for pre-existing scratches or 鈥渓ost鈥 helmets. Fake temple guides appear at famous sites like Uluwatu or Besakih, demanding hefty tips. Aggressive street vendors might tie bracelets on your wrist 鈥渇or free鈥 only to pressure you into paying. Being aware of these common cons and knowing how to spot them is the first step to a safe, stress-free Bali holiday. Choose Official Taxis Or Use Reputable Ride AppsBali taxi scams are among the most common. Some drivers rig meters or quote exorbitant fares. Stick to Blue Bird Taxis (they鈥檙e the most trustworthy) or use apps like Gojek and Grab, which give you upfront prices and avoid haggling. But for Blue Bird taxis also, do check for driver’s information or official logos inside the cab. Beware Of Money Changers With 鈥淭oo-Good-To-Be-True鈥 RatesAcross Bali, you鈥檒l come across tiny booths offering amazing exchange rates. They are most likely a setup. Dodgy money changers might distract you with quick hand movements or give fake bills. Always use authorised money changers (look for PT Kuta Central or BMC), count your cash before leaving the counter, and avoid sketchy-looking places with signs promising unbelievable rates. Double-Check Motorbike Rental AgreementsJust like in Goa, renting a scooter in Bali is super popular but a classic Bali motorbike scam involves renters being blamed for 鈥渄amage鈥 they didn鈥檛 cause. Before signing, take clear photos/videos of the bike from every angle, including close-ups of scratches, and ensure everything is documented in the contract. Don鈥檛 Fall For The 鈥淏racelet Scam鈥 Or Aggressive Street Vendors This has happened one too many times to travellers. In markets or near temples, someone might tie a bracelet around your wrist 鈥渇or free鈥 only to demand payment later. It鈥檚 best to decline politely and keep walking if you鈥檙e not interested. If you do shop in Bali鈥檚 markets, bargain respectfully but know when to walk away. Guides and Fake Entrance Fees Scam At many Balinese temples, hustlers wait near entrances demanding fake entrance fees or insisting you hire them as guides, later pressuring you for a 鈥渄onation.鈥 Always look for official ticket counters and don鈥檛 trust loiterers. This scam is common at temples near Mount Batur and Pura Besakih. Read Reviews Before Booking ActivitiesBali鈥檚 packed with water sports, temple tours, and cultural shows, but not every vendor is honest. Always check Google or TripAdvisor reviews, or ask your hotel for recommendations, to avoid paying for experiences that don鈥檛 match the glossy photos on brochures.