I got 3 travel books for Bali. One says women should wear things to cover knees and arms for the Muslins. (But Bali is Hindu!?) The other 2 books mention nothing about it. Should I pack conservatively? Please advise. Thanks.

Hi. Bali is very relaxed as far clothing is concerned. Wear whatever you like. No problemo. <BR><BR>Regards/Aarti

Yes Bali is Hindu and so you don't have to cover up. Take your swimwear and shorts with you - believe me you'll need them - its very hot! <BR><BR>Enjoy your holiday

Yes, Bali is Hindu but the people there are very modest as well. Even though you may see men and women bathing in the rivers they still exercise extreme modesty and no one is allowed to look...Some of the older women in villages do go around barechested but usually only at home.<BR><BR>In the highly touristed areas such as Kuta or Nusa Dua, you can wear shorts (medicum length) and sleeveless tops. In other areas, you don't really need to cover your arms, but realize the locals cover their arms because it protects them from the hot sun! (and also for modesty).<BR><BR>Please NEVER wear your swimsuit or midriff baring type clothes in places other than the hotel or pool area. Even though the Balinese will say it's ok to wear whatever you want, its because they are too polite to ever confront anyone. I almost lost my lunch one day in the Pizza Hut in Denpasar when a large older hirsute man wearing only swim trunks walked in and was seated right next to me. I'm sure he was oblivious to everyone elses discomfort. <BR><BR>Back to the women's dress issue...I would say you will be more comfortable in fairly modest light cotton loose clothing anyway, because of the heat and humidity. That kind of clothing is very inexpensive and plentiful in tourist boutiques (I usually buy a dress with small jacket for US10 - $30). T-shirts are usually $5 or less. <BR><BR>

You must cover arms and knees only when visit Hindu Temple or their sacred palace.

When visiting temples, you will need to wear a sarong and a waist sash. This is true for both men and women. You don't need one for cremation ceremonies, but it's generally more polite to at least wear a sarong, if not sarong, sash, girdle and kebaya. It's easy to buy inexpensive ones and carry them with you for use later. No need to cover your arms. <BR><BR>However, if you are bleeding in any way you cannot enter no matter what you are wearing.