It’s Australia’s preferred international getaway, but a new caution has been issued for those traveling to Indonesia to exercise vigilance at this beloved destination.

The website notes, “Australians have experienced drowning incidents in coastal regions, attributed to turbulent seas and powerful rip currents at favored beaches, including those in Bali.”

“Many beaches are unpatrolled.”

Travelers are also advised to ensure that their passports are in immaculate condition, as previous instances of water damage, small tears, or minor rips have been deemed to violate damage standards.

If travelling to the hotspot-within-a-hotspot that is Bali, people are urged to read up on the Bali Provincial Government’s list of “do’s and don’ts”.

“Offensive behaviour that fails to respect local culture, religion, places of worship, and traditional ceremonies can lead to criminal penalties and/or deportation,” Smartraveller said.

Cases of methanol poisoning and drink spiking have received a high public profile in south-east Asian countries in recent months, and Indonesia is no exception.

People are urged to be alert to the potential risks, and never to leave food or drinks unattended.

“Cases of methanol poisoning in drinks have previously been reported in Indonesia, including in Bali and Lombok,” Smartraveller said.