Bali travel warning: Smarttraveller updates its advice for Australians going to Indonesian island following string of deaths

7NEWS

5 days ago

Travellers have been warned to 'exercise a high degree of caution' in Indonesia following the deaths of multiple Australians in Bali.
Government website Smartraveller has updated its advice for tourists wishing to visit the country, flagging a number of issues including drowning, dangerous boats or ferries, strict entry conditions and alcohol poisoning.
'Australians have drowned in coastal areas, due to rough seas and strong rip currents at popular tourist beaches including in Bali. Many beaches are unpatrolled,' it said.
'Before entering Indonesia, ensure you understand your visa conditions and entry and exit requirements. Indonesian authorities have strict standards for damaged passports, and travellers have been refused entry into Indonesia with a damaged passport. Water damage, minor tears or rips to the pages can be considered damaged.
'Drinks may be spiked or mixed with toxic substances. Be alert to the potential risks around drink spiking and methanol poisoning through consuming alcoholic drinks. Don't leave food or drinks unattended. Cases of methanol poisoning in drinks have previously been reported in Indonesia, including in Bali and Lombok.'
The updated advice follows a string of Australian deaths in Bali in the past six months.
In December last year Adelaide newlywed Jacob Vennix, 32, died on his honeymoon in Bali after he was swept out to sea
A month later three-year-old Janaa Al Easawi was found unconscious in a swimming pool at her parent's Seminyak villa.
Smartravller also issued a warning about the safety of boats and ferries in Indonesia, saying they may not comply with international standards.
'Australians have been seriously injured or have died in marine transport incidents,' it said.
In March Anna Maree Blight, 39, was killed when a large wave capsized the snorkelling tour boat she was on near the Island of Nusa Penida.
Two other Australians, a couple, were also on the boat and suffered severe burn injuries.
That same month surfer Samsul 'Sam' Kepompong, 33, was killed when he was hit by a wave while surfing at Ekas Beach, on the southeastern border of Lombok island.
Just last week, 23-year-old Sunshine Coast FIFO worker Byron Haddow died in Bali, with his cause of death unclear.
The government's alcohol poisoning warning follows the deaths of Melbourne teenagers, Holly Bowles and Bianca Jones, who died in November last year after drinking methanol-laced drinks served to them in Laos.
Smartraveller as urged those travelling to Bali to the government's Do's and Don'ts advice for tourists.
'Offensive behaviour that fails to respect local culture, religion, places of worship, and traditional ceremonies can lead to criminal penalties and/or deportation,' it said.