Cultural conflict: tourists versus tourists in Bali, Indonesia

Abstract

Purpose – This paper has two main aims: to provide evidence of an often overlooked dimension of cultural conflict: tourist versus tourist conflict; to raise awareness of the dual benefits gained by educating tourists, reducing conflict with hosts as well as with fellow tourists.Design/methodology/approach – This paper presents data from a series of self‐administered questionnaires, conducted with tourists in the popular resort island of Bali, over a three‐year period (1999‐2001). Two additional questions asked if the tourists were offended by the behavior of other tourists and if they found behavior of Balinese to be offensive. Content analysis of these questions provides the base data for this study.Findings – Tourists expressed the most concern for loud behavior, drunkenness, and lack of respect for the local Balinese. Many were aware of the modest nature of the Balinese and recognized the importance of appropriate dress, as well as the offensive nature of topless or nude bathing. Australians were targe...