Indonesian Words You Need to Know to Help Your Trip in Bali!

Bali is a world-famous travel destination, and while many locals speak English, learning a few simple Indonesian words will make your trip even more enjoyable. It also shows respect for the local culture and can help you navigate various situations while in Bali. Additionally, Indonesian is useful not only in Bali but across the Indonesian archipelago. By learning some basic Indonesia words, you’ll feel more prepared and confident when interacting with people in different places you visit.

Greetings and Phrases Indonesian Words

• Selamat pagi – Good morning
• Selamat siang – Good afternoon
• Selamat sore – Good evening
• Selamat malam – Good night
• Apa kabar? – How are you?
• Terima kasih – Thank you
• Sama-sama – You’re welcome
• Permisi – Excuse me
• Maaf – Sorry

Tips:

Start conversations with greetings like “Selamat pagi” or “Selamat siang” to leave a polite impression. The word “Maaf” can be used to apologise or get someone’s attention, for example, when asking for directions.

Source: Pixabay

Transportation and Directions

• Ke mana? – Where to?
• Kiri – Left
• Kanan – Right
• Lurus – Straight
• Berhenti – Stop
• Berapa ongkosnya? – How much is the fare?

Tips:

When taking a taxi or ojek, ask for the fare first using the phrase “Berapa ongkosnya?”. Use a map app to ensure you’re heading to the right place, especially when using public transportation.

Source: Pexels

Food and Drinks Words in Indonesia

• Makan – Eat
• Minum – Drink
• Air – Water
• Tidak pedas – Not spicy
• Pedas sekali – Very spicy
• Saya alergi… – I am allergic to…
• Tolong – Please

Tips:

Food in Bali can be quite spicy. If you don’t like spicy food, be sure to say “Tidak pedas” when ordering. If you have food allergies, it’s very important to clearly state them using the phrase “Saya alergi…”

Indonesian Words You Needs in Everday

• Toilet di mana? – Where is the toilet?
• Berapa harganya? – How much does it cost?
• Saya tidak mengerti – I don’t understand
• Tolong bantu saya – Please help me

Tips:

If you get lost or need help, Balinese people are generally very friendly and happy to assist tourists. When buying something at a traditional market or places without listed prices, you can try bargaining by suggesting the price you want.

Example: 

• “Bisa kurang sedikit?” (Can you lower the price a bit?)
• “Saya mau beli ini, tapi bisakah harganya Rp50,000?” (I want to buy this, but can I get it for Rp50,000?)

Casual Expressions and Local Indonesian Words

• Asyik – Cool
• Mantap – Great
• Santai saja – Take it easy
• Tidak apa-apa – It’s okay
• Hati-hati – Be careful

Tips:

In Bali, casual language is often used in everyday conversations. Words like “asyik” or “mantap” can show you enjoy the experience.

Recommended if You on the Emergency Situation

• Tolong, saya butuh bantuan! – Help, I need assistance!
• Di mana rumah sakit? – Where is the hospital?
• Saya sakit – I am sick
• Hubungi polisi! – Call the police!

Tips:

Emergency phrases are important to memorize in case of unexpected situations while vacationing in Bali. Save local emergency numbers on your phone just in case.

Easy Ways to Overcome Language Barriers in Bali!

If you find it difficult to remember or learn Indonesian words, don’t worry. You can still enjoy your vacation smoothly by using these practical tips:

Use Hand Gestures

If you struggle to remember certain Indonesian words or phrases, rely on hand gestures or signals to communicate. Simple body movements like pointing in a direction, describing shapes, or indicating objects can be very helpful in daily situations. For example, when ordering food or asking for directions when you can’t recall specific Indonesian words.

Make use of Google Translate if You don’t Know the Words in Indonesia

One of the easiest ways to overcome language barriers is by using apps like Google Translate. This app allows you to translate Indonesian words or sentences directly, either through text or voice. It’s a helpful tool when you’re struggling to remember specific Indonesian words during your trip.

Use Travel Agents or Guides

If you’d rather relax and not worry about memorizing too many Indonesian words, hiring a travel agent or local tour guide can be a great solution. Guides typically speak both Indonesian and English, and they can help you communicate with locals, order food, or even shop without hassle. This allows you to enjoy your trip without focusing too much on mastering Indonesian words.

Source: Pexels

Plan Your Perfect Bali Vacation Now After Know the Indonesian Words!

Learning a few basic Indonesian words before your trip to Bali can make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. Besides helping you communicate with the locals, it also shows respect for the local culture. However, if you find it difficult to remember certain Indonesian words, don’t worry. With the help of hand gestures, translation apps, or using a tour guide, you can still enjoy a wonderful vacation without any language barriers.

Don’t forget, when visiting Bali, make sure to plan everything well, including choosing a comfortable place to stay. Book your stay at Ubud Villas Rental, the perfect choice to enjoy the peace and beauty of Bali’s nature. This way, your holiday in Bali will feel complete and memorable. Enjoy your vacation!