When we talk about travel to Bali, one term often comes up among travelers: the Bali Belly. This unpleasant intestinal infection can come as a surprise to tourists new to the island. But don't worry: with a few simple precautions, it's perfectly possible to avoid it and enjoy your vacation to the full, whether you're discovering temples, rice paddies... or taking your first surfing lessons on the island. Legian Beach with Bali Ocean Surf. Let's find out how to avoid the bali belly!
What is the Bali Belly?
Visit Bali Belly corresponds to food poisoning or a mild gastrointestinal infection. Its main symptoms are :
- Frequent diarrhea,
- Abdominal pain,
- Nausea and vomiting,
- Loss of appetite,
- Feeling tired.
This condition is often linked to the ingestion of contaminated food or water, or simply to a change in diet to which the digestive system is not accustomed. The good news is that, in most cases, symptoms disappear within two to three days with rest and proper hydration.
How to avoid Bali Belly?
1. Don't drink tap water
In Bali, tap water is not drinkable. Always opt for sealed bottled water. And beware of ice cubes: only cylindrical ones with a small hole in the center (from industrial ice) are reliable.
2. Eat in trusted establishments
Local warungs are delicious, but it's best to choose those that are clean and busy. Avoid pre-cut fruit sold by the roadside or lukewarm dishes. Prefer well-cooked food served hot.
3. Wash your hands often
A simple but essential gesture if you want to avoid bali belly: wash your hands before every meal, or use a hydroalcoholic gel. This considerably reduces the risk of infection.
4. Accustom your stomach gradually
Balinese spices are tasty, but they can be a shock to a European stomach. Start slowly, then gradually increase the intensity of your dishes. Some travelers also choose to take probiotics before departure to strengthen their intestinal flora.
5. Stay alert during the rainy season
In Bali, the rainy season can bring more bacteria into the water and onto beaches through runoff. Be extra vigilant at this time of year, especially if you surf or spend a lot of time at sea.
What to do if you catch Bali Belly?
If, despite your precautions, you catch Bali Belly, keep calm:
Hydrate regularly with bottled water or electrolyte drinks like Pocari Sweat.
Rest and avoid strenuous physical activity, including surfing, for one or two days.
Eat light White rice, banana, light broths.
Consult a doctor if symptoms persist for more than three days or worsen.
Safety first at Bali Ocean Surf
À Bali Ocean Surfour surf school located in Legian BeachWe take safety very seriously, not just in the waves, but also when it comes to the health of our students.
During the rainy season, we carefully select the spots where we organize our courses, taking into account water quality and weather conditions. Where necessary, we prefer alternative beaches, which are often safer.
Our aim: to enable you to learn to surf in Bali in ideal conditions that are calm and respectful of your health.
👉 Book your surf lesson in Legian with Bali Ocean Surf and enjoy Bali at your leisure.
