Responsible Travel in Indonesia | Sustainable Holidays with The Seven Holiday

Responsible Travel in Bali & Indonesia: Your Guide to Eco-Friendly and Ethical Holidays

We’re lucky to live in a time when travel is easier than ever. A few clicks can take you across the world - to stunning landscapes, exciting cultures, and mouth-watering cuisine. But with that ease comes responsibility. That’s where we come in.

At The Seven Holiday, we believe that travel should give back. As a responsible Bali-based travel company, we’re here to help you enjoy incredible experiences across Bali and Indonesia while making a positive impact. This guide is packed with real, actionable tips to reduce your footprint, support local communities, and protect the natural beauty that makes this region so special.

What Does It Mean to Travel Responsibly?

Responsible travel means being aware of your impact - environmentally, socially, and economically. It’s about choosing eco-friendly options, respecting local cultures, and making decisions that benefit the places you visit.

Simple, Impactful Ways to Travel Responsibly

1. Say no to plastic. Bali still struggles with plastic pollution. We include a reusable water bottle in your welcome kit to help reduce single-use waste. Say no to straws, avoid plastic toiletries, and opt for eco-conscious alternatives. Many cafes and restaurants now support this shift.

2. Support local businesses. Shop for locally made crafts, fashion, and souvenirs. Supporting small-scale artisans and vendors helps sustain the community and makes your purchases more meaningful.

3. Avoid unethical animal experiences. While we work with a select number of ethical wildlife parks, we strongly advise against dolphin chasing tours in Lovina, paying street vendors to pose with monkeys or snakes, or purchasing Kopi Luwak coffee - which is often produced under inhumane conditions involving civet cats. Instead, support ethical wildlife sanctuaries and try Indonesia’s many exceptional, responsibly sourced local coffees.

4. Reduce waste. Don't litter - ever. Use reusable bags and containers, recycle where possible, and avoid unnecessary packaging by eating in instead of taking away. Keeping Bali clean starts with each of us.

5. Respect local customs. Take time to learn about Balinese culture, dress modestly at temples, and be mindful of local etiquette. We include a sarong in your welcome kit to use during temple visits on guided tours — a small gesture that shows great respect. Creating meaningful connections starts with understanding and honoring local traditions.

6. Bargain fairly. Bargaining is part of local culture, and it's perfectly acceptable when done with respect. If you're unsure about what's fair, don't hesitate to ask your tour guide - they can assist you in navigating prices while ensuring local artisans are treated fairly.

7. Don’t give to beggars. Although less common than in previous years, street begging still exists in some areas - and giving money can unintentionally fuel cycles of exploitation. Local regulations discourage this practice, and fines may apply. If you'd like to contribute meaningfully, we’re happy to assist with recommendations for legitimate local charities, just ask your Personal Assistant during your trip.

8. Eat locally. Indonesian food is incredible - and dining at locally owned restaurants supports small businesses and provides a more authentic taste of the culture. While there's no need to avoid international chains entirely, we’re happy to recommend the best local dining experiences during your stay.

9. Use simple local greetings. You don't need to speak the language, but using a few Bahasa Indonesia greetings shows respect and connection. Your tour guide will be happy to teach you some easy and useful phrases during your trip.

10. Be considerate. Being polite, patient, and respectful towards locals and fellow travellers contributes to a more harmonious travel experience. Responsible travel is rooted in empathy, cultural awareness, and mutual respect.

11. Ask before taking photos. Indonesians generally love photos and are happy to be included - but it's always polite to ask first, especially in local villages or during religious ceremonies. Your guide can help you navigate when and how to take respectful photos.

12. Choose responsible tour operators. Work with companies like The Seven Holiday that prioritise ethical practices, hire local staff, and avoid exploitative activities.

13. Stay in eco-conscious accommodation. While not every stay has to be fully eco-labeled, we do work with a selection of resorts in Bali that prioritise sustainability - from reducing plastic use to implementing composting and solar energy. These properties support local communities and offer a more mindful way to enjoy your holiday.

Responsible vs Sustainable Travel

Sustainable tourism focuses on big-picture change - policies, infrastructure, and large-scale impact. Responsible travel is what you can do as a traveller. It’s the daily decisions you make that help reduce harm and promote good.

Why Travel Responsibly With The Seven Holiday?

We’re not just a travel agency - we’re your local expert. Our team lives here, and we’re deeply connected to the people and places we promote. We:

Hire and train local guides
Partner with eco-conscious hotels and resorts
Promote local artisans, communities, and experiences
Build itineraries that highlight culture, nature, and conservation
Educate our guests about responsible travel choices

Final Thoughts: Responsibility Starts With You

Travel opens your eyes. But it should also open your heart. The more we give back, the more meaningful our journeys become.

Whether you’re honeymooning, exploring, or bringing your family along - we invite you to travel responsibly with The Seven Holiday. Let’s protect what makes Bali and Indonesia magical for generations to come.