Locals slam Russian tourist behaviour in Bali | A Current Affair

Summary

Bali has seen a rise in Russian tourists, some of whom are causing issues with disrespectful behavior. This includes taking inappropriate photos at sacred sites and violating local road rules. The Indonesian government is considering stricter measures like deportations, tourist taxes, and banning scooter rentals for foreigners. While many Russians flee to Bali to escape the war in Ukraine and start new businesses, local frustrations are growing due to illegal work and competition. Bali authorities emphasize the importance of respecting local customs and rules to maintain harmony on the island.

Takeaways

• 🚨 A new 'naughty tourist' patrol has been set up in Bali to deal with unruly tourists, particularly targeting Russians.
• 🇷🇺 Many young Russians are fleeing conscription in Russia and relocating to Bali, 10,000 kilometers away from the war in Ukraine.
• 🌴 Bali is a popular relocation spot for Russians seeking to escape war and start new businesses, as shared by Russian tourist Maria from Moscow.
• 🛑 Since the war began, 111,400 Russian tourists have arrived in Bali, but not all have behaved well.
• 📸 Russian tourist Yuri Chiliken was deported for taking a semi-nude photo on Mount Agung, and other Russians were deported for inappropriate behavior at a temple.
• 👮 Bali locals are frustrated with some Russian tourists working illegally and disrupting local businesses, according to the Bali Tourism Board.
• 🚫 A significant problem is Russian tourists not following local road rules, often riding scooters without helmets or licenses.
• ✈️ In the last four months, 101 foreigners from 31 countries have been deported, with Russians making up a third of these deportations (27 individuals).
• 🛵 There are talks of banning foreigners from renting scooters due to reckless behavior and considering a tourist tax to deter unwanted guests.
• 🙏 Locals emphasize that tourists are welcome in Bali as long as they respect the rules and the spiritual nature of the island.

Q & A

What is the 'Naughty Tourist Patrol' in Bali, and why was it formed?

The 'Naughty Tourist Patrol' is a task force in Bali created to address misbehavior from tourists, particularly those who are drunk, loud, and disruptive. It was formed in response to complaints from locals about unruly foreigners.

Which group of tourists is the task force currently focusing on, and why?

The task force is currently focusing on Russian tourists, not Australians, because of growing concerns over their behavior, including incidents of disrespect and illegal work activities.

Why are many young Russians relocating to Bali?

Many young Russians, particularly those of conscription age, are relocating to Bali to avoid being drafted into the war in Ukraine. Bali offers them a safe distance from the conflict and opportunities to work in international markets.

How many Russian tourists have arrived in Bali since the start of the Ukraine war?

Since the war in Ukraine began, 111,400 Russian tourists have arrived in Bali.

What kinds of behavior have led to the deportation of some Russian tourists?

Some Russian tourists have been deported for inappropriate behavior, such as taking semi-nude photos at sacred sites like Mount Agung and disrespectful behavior at temples, including dancing and posing in unsuitable clothing.

What concerns do local Balinese people have about Russian tourists working in Bali?

Local Balinese are concerned that some Russian tourists are working illegally, taking business away from local workers and disrupting the local economy.

What road safety issues have been linked to Russian tourists in Bali?

Many Russian tourists have been reported for not following road safety rules, such as riding scooters without helmets or licenses, and sometimes while intoxicated, leading to accidents and injuries.

How many foreigners have been deported from Bali in the past four months, and what proportion were Russian tourists?

In the past four months, 101 foreigners from 31 countries have been deported from Bali, with Russian tourists accounting for nearly a third of these deportations—27 in total.

What potential measures is the Indonesian government considering to address unruly tourist behavior?

The Indonesian government is considering measures such as banning foreigners from renting scooters and imposing a tourist tax to deter misbehaving tourists.

What is the general message to Russian tourists from Balinese locals and other tourists?

The general message to Russian tourists is to respect the rules and the culture of Bali, as the island holds a special spiritual and cultural significance for its people.