Many areas of Indonesia are subject to unrest and violence, especially as a general election nears, but Bali remains relatively free of such tensions. The popular tourist island saw some ethnic violence in December and January in the isolated community of Bandjar, on the north coast west of Singaraja. The conflict occurred between two clans that have a history of tension, both political and personal. Areas frequented by tourists on Bali are reasonably safe, with the greatest crime risk from pickpockets and purse snatchers. The greatest danger for tourists comes from motorbike accidents. Renting motorbikes is popular here, and roads are narrow, traffic is congested and drivers are aggressive. Tourists with little experience on motorcycles often find themselves in accidents, some deadly.
