Many tourists in Bali choose to rent motorbikes to explore on their own. They enjoy the freedom of moving at their own pace, discovering hidden beaches, scenic rice fields, and charming local villages that are harder to reach by car. It is also a cheap and convenient way to get around, especially since public transport is limited.
However, the local government is now considering banning tourists from renting motorbikes. This has sparked debate among both travellers and locals, with some believing that it will make Bali safer and others thinking it will make travelling harder for visitors. Here is why this ban might be applied soon.
To legally ride a motorbike in Bali, tourists need an international driving license. However, many visitors rent motorbikes without one. If they get into an accident, their travel insurance may not cover their medical bills, which leaves them with expensive hospital costs.
Not to mention that many tourists don’t wear helmets or proper safety gear. Some ride in shorts, flip-flops, and no protective clothing. This promotes the risks of accidents and can make injuries worse in case of an incident.
Many tourists don’t understand or follow local traffic laws. Some drive too fast, weave through traffic, or ignore stop signs. Others drive against the flow of traffic, putting themselves and others in danger. Some even ride motorbikes while drunk, which increases the risk of deadly accidents.
Reckless driving is not just a danger to tourists but can also put local drivers at risk. Many Balinese people rely on motorbikes to get to work or school, and when inexperienced tourists make mistakes on the road, locals are often the ones who get hurt in accidents.
Bali has become more crowded over the years, and traffic has gotten worse. In popular tourist areas, the roads are often packed with cars and motorbikes. Thousands of tourists rent motorbikes every day, adding to the congestion.
Some tourists don’t know the best routes to take and end up blocking narrow roads, while others stop suddenly in the middle of the street to check maps or take photos. These actions slow down traffic and make it harder for locals to move around.
If the government decides to ban tourist motorbike rentals, visitors will need to find other ways to get around. Luckily, there are multiple alternatives, including:
Taxis and ride-sharing apps - Services like Grab and Gojek are available in Bali and can take tourists anywhere on the island.
Private drivers - Many travellers already hire private drivers, which could become even more popular if the ban happens.
Bicycles and electric scooters - In some areas, tourists might start using bicycles or electric scooters as a more eco-friendly way to explore.
Public transport - Although limited, there are some buses and shuttle services that tourists could use more often.
The possible ban on tourist motorbike rentals in Bali is meant to improve safety, reduce traffic, and protect the environment. While it might make transportation more challenging for visitors, it could also make the island safer and cleaner. If you are planning a trip to Bali, stay updated on the latest rules and explore other ways to travel.
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