In Reply to: tips for not getting kidnapped or killed posted by smurchin on Sunday, 9. April 2006 at 10:53 Bali Time:
I am always cautious to never assure people one way or the other regarding safety in Bali.
It is every individuals personal choice.
I will say though that I felt comfortable in Bali last week and the previous week. The Balinese are showing a great police and anti terrorism presentence. Their aim is to keep us safe and protect tourism in Bali.
I did have a few occasions when I felt spooked/uncomfortable, but not by anything that I saw or heard. I felt really mad about it too, because this is what the terrorists have done to my head!
I will keep going to Bali, the MCG, large shopping complexes, areas where large crowds gather and other possible targets because I will not allow the terrorists to take these pleasures away from me.
At the end of the day, its your choice too.
Do you feel safe out driving in a car? High stats regarding road accidents.
Aeroplanes crash.
Drinks spiked in nightclubs.
How about in your own home, burglaries happen and homes get invaded?
I honestly dont think we are safe in this world ever again. Unfortuantely terrorism has become part of our lives, and will remain so.
(Interesting, I read in our Melbourne newspaper yesterday, on page 10 that a 24yo Victorian woman is being held in Mumbai, on drug charges. It happened a week ago. If she had have been caught in Bali, front page news then and each day since!)
Bali is such a unique tourist destination because of the beautiful Hindu people. Most people who travel to Bali, return. Many people who suggest you shouldnt travel to Bali, most likely wont have been there either.
Good luck with your decision making.
If you do go, I hope you enjoy your holiday and please let us know how you felt.