How to Photograph Ubud Bali’s Stunning Rice Terraces
Ubud, Bali, is renowned for its lush landscapes, rich culture, and serene atmosphere. Among its most iconic features are the stunning rice... Read More
5 Ways to Give Back While Visiting Bali
-
by admin
- 11 June 2025
- Top Travel Tips & Practical Guides
- 0
Bali has captivated travelers worldwide with its lush landscapes, rich culture, and warm-hearted people. Each year, millions of tourists flock to Bali to experience its pristine beaches, ancient temples, and vibrant arts scene. However, beyond the postcard-perfect views lies a community that can greatly benefit from thoughtful and responsible tourism.
If you’re planning a trip to Bali, why not make your visit more meaningful by giving back? Contributing to the local community and environment enriches your travel experience and helps preserve Bali’s magic for generations to come. Here are 5 impactful ways to give back while visiting Bali. Let’s dive in! 🌺
1. Support Local Artisan Communities 🎨🛍️
Bali is renowned for its traditional crafts, including intricate wood carvings, handwoven textiles, silver jewelry, and vibrant paintings. These art forms are often made by local artisans whose livelihoods depend on tourism.
Why Support Local Artisans?
By purchasing directly from artisans or cooperatives rather than large commercial shops, you ensure the money goes directly to the creators. This helps preserve Balinese culture and sustains traditional craftsmanship.
How to Get Involved:
- Visit local markets such as Ubud Art Market, Sukawati Market, or smaller village markets where you can interact with the artisans.
- Take a workshop to learn traditional crafts like batik making, silver jewelry crafting, or painting. Many studios offer classes that allow you to create your own souvenir while directly supporting the artist.
- Choose ethically-made souvenirs with fair-trade certifications or from social enterprises that reinvest in community projects.
Bonus Tip:
Ask about the story behind each piece to deepen your understanding and connection to Balinese culture.
2. Volunteer for Environmental Conservation 🌿🐢
Bali’s natural beauty is one of its biggest draws, but it also faces serious environmental challenges — from plastic pollution to coral reef degradation. Many local organizations welcome visitors willing to volunteer their time and effort to preserve Bali’s environment.
Popular Environmental Volunteer Activities:
- Beach Cleanups: Participate in regular cleanup events in popular areas like Kuta, Seminyak, and Jimbaran to remove trash and plastics.
- Coral Reef Restoration: Join projects that help replant coral and restore marine biodiversity in Bali’s surrounding waters.
- Tree Planting and Reforestation: Assist with planting native trees in deforested areas to combat erosion and support wildlife habitats.
Recommended Organizations:
- Bali Environmental Education Foundation (Yayasan Pendidikan Lingkungan Bali)
- Bali Reef Check
- Bye Bye Plastic Bags
Volunteering for a few hours or days can make a tangible difference and connect you with locals and fellow travelers who care deeply about Bali’s future.
3. Contribute to Education and Child Welfare 📚👧👦
Education is a powerful tool that can break the cycle of poverty and open doors for Bali’s younger generation. While Bali’s tourism brings wealth to the island, many children in rural or disadvantaged areas lack access to quality education and resources.
Ways to Help:
- Donate school supplies: Many communities welcome donations of books, stationery, uniforms, and learning materials.
- Sponsor a Child’s Education: Some local charities offer sponsorship programs to cover school fees and extracurricular activities.
- Volunteer as an English Teacher or Mentor: Use your skills to teach English or other subjects in local schools or community centers.
- Support NGOs focused on child welfare: These organizations often run programs for health, nutrition, and child protection.
Notable Groups:
- Yayasan Solemen Indonesia
- Smile Foundation Bali
- Bali Kids Foundation
Taking part in educational initiatives not only helps children but also fosters meaningful cultural exchange.
4. Choose Eco-Friendly Accommodations and Tours 🏡🌱
Your choice of where to stay and how to explore Bali can have a big impact on the environment and local communities.
How to Choose Responsibly:
- Book stays in eco-resorts or guesthouses that implement sustainable practices like solar power, water conservation, and waste recycling.
- Support businesses owned or operated by locals rather than international chains.
- Opt for small group tours that focus on responsible wildlife viewing, cultural respect, and minimizing environmental footprints.
- Avoid tours that exploit animals, such as elephant rides or dolphin shows.
Examples of Sustainable Tourism Practices:
- Using bicycles or electric scooters for short trips.
- Participating in community-based tourism, where visitors engage with local life through homestays or village tours.
- Prioritizing operators who employ local guides and staff.
By consciously selecting eco-friendly options, you contribute to preserving Bali’s natural and cultural heritage.
5. Support Social Enterprises and Fair Trade Initiatives 💼🌍
Social enterprises in Bali aim to create positive social and economic impact. These businesses reinvest profits into community development, education, and environmental protection.
Why Support Social Enterprises?
- You help build local capacity and provide fair wages.
- You encourage ethical business models that prioritize people and planet.
- You engage in tourism that respects Balinese culture and community well-being.
How to Identify Them:
- Look for certifications such as Fair Trade, B Corp, or local ethical labels.
- Research companies that promote upcycling, waste reduction, or empowering marginalized groups.
- Purchase from cafes, restaurants, or shops that donate proceeds to social causes.
Some Examples:
- Bali Silent Retreat, which offers wellness and supports local community projects.
- Kopi Kalyan — a coffee brand working with local farmers sustainably.
- Threads of Life — a social enterprise preserving traditional weaving techniques.
Supporting social enterprises is a powerful way to create a positive ripple effect beyond your trip.
Final Thoughts: Travel with Purpose 🌏❤️
Traveling to Bali is an incredible privilege. By consciously giving back, you not only enhance your own experience but also contribute to the island’s sustainable future. Whether it’s supporting artisans, protecting nature, empowering children, choosing eco-friendly options, or backing social enterprises, your efforts matter.
Next time you visit Bali, remember that the true beauty lies not just in its landscapes but in the hearts of its people. Your kindness and responsibility will help keep Bali magical—for travelers and locals alike.
Join The Discussion