When you go to Bali, you might often be warned about “Bali Belly”. This is a stomach problem that a lot of people get when they travel to Bali. It usually happens to people from countries who are not used to the food in Indonesia which can be very spicy and flavorful.
This guide will break down the symptoms, cause, and ways to prevent it from adding a bump to your itinerary. We’ll also be highlighting several best places to eat in Seminyak that will (hopefully) steer you away from potential Bali Belly.
What Is Bali Belly?
Bali Belly is another term for traveler’s diarrhea that some people get when they visit Bali. This condition is often caused by food or drink contaminated with bacteria. This is actually quite common among first-time travelers in Southeast Asia, especially those who have not yet adapted their body to new spices and uncommon microorganisms that most natives are naturally immune to. Bali Belly is generally not serious, and it will go away in no time.
Common Symptoms of Bali Belly
Bali Belly symptoms usually appear within 6 to 24 hours after eating contaminated food or drinking water. You might feel unwell. Here are the common signs travelers experience:
- Stomach cramps: Sharp and uncomfortable pain in your stomach. This happens because the digestive system gets irritated.
- Diarrhea: Frequent loose bowel movements. Diarrhea is a common symptom of Bali Belly.
- Nausea: Constant feeling of needing to vomit and also losing your appetite.
- Vomiting: Some people vomit. Their body tries to get rid of the bacteria.
- Mild fever: Body temperature increases a bit. This is your system’s response to infection.
- Bloating: Stomach feels swollen and gassy.
- Fatigue: Feel weak and tired. This is because you are dehydrated and have stomach discomfort. Bali Belly makes you feel really down.
What Causes Bali Belly?
Bali Belly happens when bad bacteria get into the system from food or drinks that are not clean. People who travel may get sick easier because their bodies are not used to the place. Here’s what causes Bali belly:
- Contaminated water
Drinking water that’s not safe or having drinks made with bad water you can get harmful bacteria in your stomach.
- Unwashed vegetables
Eating vegetables or salads that are not washed properly might have bad bacteria or tiny parasites on them.
- Ice from water sources
Ice made from bad tap water can have tiny living things in it that can make your stomach sick.
- Undercooked meat or seafood
Eating meat or seafood that is not cooked all the way it can still have bacteria that can make you sick.
- Poor food hygiene
If food is not handled, stored or prepared in a way it can easily get contaminated and make you sick.
Bali Belly is not something that happens in Bali. You can get stomach problems when you travel to other warm places around the world. Bali Belly can happen to anyone who travels to these places.
How to Recover from Bali Belly
Getting better from Bali Belly usually takes 1-3 days if your symptoms are mild. The important things to do are to drink plenty of water, eat easy foods, and manage your symptoms carefully.
Drink Plenty of Water
Diarrhea and vomiting can make you dehydrated quickly. It is crucial to drink fluids often.
- Drink water to get back the fluids you lost.
- Oral rehydration salts help your body get back its electrolytes. You can easily find them at pharmacies.
- Coconut water can also help your body get back its minerals.
Eat Easy Foods
When your stomach starts to feel better, pick foods that’re easy to digest.
- Plain rice helps calm your stomach.
- Toast is simple and easy to digest.
- Bananas give you potassium and energy.
- Clear soup helps keep you hydrated and gives you nutrition.
Taking Medicine
Medicine can help to make your symptoms better when you need it.
- Activated charcoal is often used to absorb stuff in your stomach.
- Anti diarrhea medicine may help control your symptoms for a time.
- Go see a doctor if your symptoms get very bad.
Tip: Some commonly found brands include Diatabs, Entrostop, and New Diatabs. These medicines are easy to find in pharmacies and convenience stores.
When to Go See a Doctor
You should go see a doctor if you have:
- A high fever
- Blood in your stool
- Severe dehydration
- Symptoms that last, than three days
How to Avoid Bali Belly in Seminyak
To avoid getting Bali Belly, you need to be careful about what you eat and drink and keep yourself clean when you are in Seminyak. If you follow some rules you can really reduce the chance of getting a stomach bug while you are traveling.
- Drink bottled water
Always pick water that comes in a sealed bottle. This way you can stay away from bacteria that might be in the water that has not been treated.
- Do not drink tap water
In a lot of places the water that comes out of the tap is not safe to drink. So it is better to stick with water.
- Go to restaurants that’re well known
Restaurants that have been around for a while usually do a better job of keeping their kitchens clean and handling food safely.
- Stay away from street food that has been sitting out
If food has been out for a time it might have bad germs on it. This can make you sick.
- Wash your hands a lot
Washing your hands before you eat can help keep bacteria out of your body.
- Use hand sanitizer
If you do not have access to water, hand sanitizer can be a big help.
Safe Places to Eat in Seminyak to Avoid Bali Belly
When traveling, eating at reputable restaurants can help prevent getting Bali Belly. Here are some popular restaurants in Seminyak that are known for serving food, following proper kitchen practices, and maintaining high hygiene standards.
1. Seminyak Village
Don’t know where to start? Seminyak Village offers plenty of options. From baked goods to hearty meals, the high-quality of these boutique eateries means cross-contamination is less likely to happen than at roadside stalls. Plus, you get to enjoy your meals away from the Bali sun inside the air-conditioned space.
- BAKED: For premium coffee and baked delights, BAKED sits right at the front of Seminyak Village. With signature brews, flaky croissants, and brunch classics, you can start your morning with ease knowing that your food is handled with care.
- Barbarossa: After spending your time exploring Seminyak, Barbarossa delivers heavier and heartier meals like your classic pizza and pasta.
- Bali Nata: Satisfy your sweet tooth by grabbing freshly baked Portuguese egg tarts from Bali Nata.
- Oakberry Acai: The viral acai smoothie bowl has landed in Seminyak Village. Organic, fresh, and safe from unwanted ingredients.
2. Bloom Neighbourhood Cafe Seminyak
Location: Jl. Raya Seminyak No.29, Seminyak, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361
Food type: brunch and coffee
Good for: People who love breakfast digital nomads and travelers looking for meals
3. Natys Restaurant Seminyak
Location: Jalan Kayu Aya No.53 Seminyak Kuta, Kerobokan Kelod, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361
Food type: International comfort food
Good for: Tourists who want to try food in a comfortable setting
4. Waroeng Bernadette Seminyak
Location: Jl. Kayu Aya No.17, Seminyak, Kec. Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361
Food type: Indonesian food
Good for: Travelers who want Indonesian food with good hygiene
5. Asparagus Seminyak
Location: Jl. Kayu Aya No.55, Seminyak, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80237
Food type: Mediterranean and European dishes
Good for: Couples, casual dinners and visitors looking for European meals
6. The Goat Seminyak
Location: Jl. Kayu Aya A Oberoi No.176, Kerobokan Kelod, Seminyak, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361
Food type: Mediterranean and Middle Eastern inspired dishes
Good for: Groups, dinner outings and travelers looking for international cuisine
7. Bread Yard Seminyak
Location: Jl. Kayu Aya No.12, Seminyak, Kec. Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361
Food type: bakery, brunch and café food
Good for: Breakfast and brunch lovers and casual dining, with friends or family
Dining Options at Seminyak Village
Is Seminyak Safe for Eating?
Yes, Seminyak is safe to eat at, especially if you go to known restaurants. Seminyak also has a food scene where there are many good cafes, restaurants, and dining places that follow proper hygiene.
- Seminyak has many reputable restaurants
These restaurants are popular among tourists and provide good food at all times.
- Reputable restaurants in Seminyak are hygiene standard
These restaurants have proper kitchens where food is stored well and the personnel are well trained in the proper handling of food.
- High-end restaurants in Seminyak follow global standards
These restaurants follow proper food safety and quality control.
Generally, many people dine in Seminyak without experiencing Bali Belly if they dine in reputable restaurants, so the food in Seminyak is safe to eat.
FAQ
How long does Bali Belly last?
Bali Belly usually lasts 1-3 days. Symptoms are starting to feel better with rest. Drinking lots of water and eating meals also helped me.
Is Bali Belly serious?
Most cases of Bali Belly are mild. People get better quickly. See a doctor if I was really dehydrated or had symptoms.
Can I prevent Bali Belly completely?
It’s hard to prevent Bali Belly. I can lower my risk by drinking bottled water. Eating at restaurants and washing my hands often also helps.
Is it safe to eat in Seminyak?
Yes, Seminyak is safe to eat at. I. Many restaurants in Seminyak including those in Seminyak Village follow good hygiene.
Should I avoid ice in Bali?
Ice from restaurants in Bali is usually safe to eat. I would ask my server if I was unsure.
What should I eat if I have Bali Belly?
When I had Bali Belly, foods like rice and toast made me feel better. Bananas were also easy to digest. Drinking plenty of fluids helped too.