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| The main religion practiced on the island is Balinese-Hinduism. Although there are small minorities of Muslim, Buddhist and Christian followers, about 90% of the population is Hindu.
Most Balinese adhere to the traditions of their ancestors but they are also highly liberal in their practice. As tourism began to take off in the 70's the locals made adjustments to accommodate the increasing presence of a western structured lifestyle. For instance, the Balinese have an annual holiday when they wash and pray to every automobile on the island. All life is sacred in their eyes, even cars and trucks.
Walking the most urbanized tourist section of Bali, Kuta, you will constantly step over religious offerings that are placed along the sidewalk with burning incense. This is done every morning, despite the careless feet of unwitting tourists.
Respect for life is more than a trait of Balinese-Hinduism, it is law. You will quickly notice the high number of stray dogs that roam the streets and beaches freely. Its obvious they have their own social networks, you will see them traveling in packs and howling in spotty conversation. The Balinese eye sees these dogs as an integral part of the island, to be respected,so they are usually well fed and very cocky! This contrasts with Jakarta where dogs are seldom seen, because in Islam anjing are considered dirty creatures.
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Bahasa Indonesia and Balinese are the most commonly spoken languages on this island of 3 million people. As it is throughout the country, the Balinese are bilingual and most speak 4 or 5 indigenous languages. Western visitors will probably be surprised at how many of the locals actually speak English. This is another effect tourism has had on the culture, afterall it is the largest industry on Bali. That being said Australian's are the main source of income, so don't be taken aback when you find yourself being called "mate" everywhere you go.
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Bali is world-renowned for its Art. Intricate and highly skilled works of sculpture, woodcarving, and painting are treasured all around the world. Tourists will be amazed by the ludicrously cheap prices, considering the same pieces can be sold abroad for ten times the amount originally paid.
Balinese traditional dances are very popular with tourists and are still performed religiously at local ceremony. The dances usually portray stories from the great Hindu epics such as the Ramayana. Others are done to evoke spirits. Dancers will walk on searing coals and stab themselves with sharp blades to prove the strength developed once under possession. It sounds cliche, but being a spectator to this is like being transported to another realm. The costumes, chanting, and overall zeal with which they perform is surreal. I advise anyone seeking an authentic experience to muster a little extra effort and get yourself directed to a real dance. Many of the popular shows are performed several times a day and have been toned down for the sake of western sensibilities.
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