I love Bali. I go every year and often share all the fabulous things to do in Bali, but this tiny island has a dirty secret you won’t find publicised in the glossy travel brochures. I’m talking about counterfeit alcohol. The import duty on genuine alcohol is prohibitive (up to 400%) and locals have been known to substitute unregulated locally made alcohol in an attempt to deliver those all important ‘cheap drinks’ that holiday makers crave. The consequences for those unknowingly consuming backyard bootleg can be deadly. Methanol poisoning in Bali has recently claimed a number of young lives and I want to make sure that you are not the next hashtag. Read on for all the details …
My Story
I first travelled to Bali in December 1988 for schoolies with 4 girlfriends, well before schoolies in Bali was actually ‘a thing’. It was our very first trip overseas sans parents and we were beyond excited. We were poised to tear it up as far away from the parental gaze as our meager budget would allow and Bali seemed like the perfect choice. The sun was warm, the drinks were flowing and the rooms were cheap. We signed on the dotted line with the unbridled enthusiasm reserved only for the young. Despite being only 17, we drank and partied in Bali’s bars and clubs like there was no tomorrow and loved every minute of it. Thankfully for us there was a tomorrow. Others have not been so lucky. First timers should check out this comprehensive Indonesia guide that will really help in your planning.
Cases of Methanol Poisoning In Bali and Indonesia
Liam Davies, a 19yo from Perth lost his life in 2013 after drinking ‘vodka’ at Rudy’s Pub & Restaurant on Gili Trawangan the day before NYE 2012. Having previously visited Lombok, Liam was aware of the dangers and asked if the bottle of Smirnoff behind the bar was genuine and was told it was. Not wanting to take any chances he insisted on watching the bar tender open a new bottle for himself and his two friends. Two days later he was in hospital after a friend found him convulsing on the floor. He was flown home to Perth where he died shortly afterwards. Liam’s parents Tim and Lhani have set up a charity in his name and campaign tirelessly to educate others of the dangers.
But Liam is not the only victim. Chezyne Emmons (UK) passed away in 2013 after drinking fake gin in Sumatra. Chezyne suffered blindness and convulsions before losing her battle five days later. Her parents Brenton and Pamela Emmons are working to raise awareness and prevent other deaths through their Facebook campaign. Swede Johan Lundin died in fiancee Michaela Pechac’s arms in 2011 after drinking mojitos in Gili Trawangan. His cause of death is officially recorded as methanol poisoning. Michaela is raising awareness through Facebook. Others like Jamie Johnston, Cathryn Williams and Colin Finch, and Jen Neilson survived their ordeals but their lives will never be the same again.
Why Now?
In November Schoolies kicks off again and thousands of young Aussies will descend on Bali to celebrate finishing year 12 in style. Schoolies these days is more controlled but I’m guessing alcohol will play a big part in the shenanigans. Hopefully all of them will come home safe. If you or someone you know is travelling to Indonesia knowing the risks can save lives.
Counterfeit Alcohol In Bali
Even way back in 1988 the local brew, known as Arak, was prevalent and wanting to immerse ourselves in the local ‘culture’ we made sure to try it, completely unaware of the dangers. You can bet it was also the main ingredient in the $1 rocket fuels we downed that were purported to contain vodka and gin. The International Federation of Spirits claim that just 8% of spirits sold in Indonesia are declared and genuine. Another 40% are genuine but illegally imported and the remainder are illegal and counterfeit. Arak is made by locals with whatever they can get their hands on and when distilled incorrectly methanol is the byproduct.
What is Methanol
Methanol is a simple alcoholic chemical used to produce paint and plastic and while closely related to Ethanol, it is unfit for consumption. When consumed the liver will convert methanol to formaldehyde. The body can handle minuscule amounts of methanol but when this is exceeded poisoning occurs. The effect on your body is similar to being embalmed from the inside out.
Symptoms Of Methanol Poisoning
Initially similar to drunkenness, the first symptoms of methanol poisoning include:-
- Headache;
- Nausea;
- Vomiting;
- Blurred vision; and
- Convulsions,
If you suspect that you have methanol poisoning, seek medical attention immediately.
Staying Safe
The only way to completely avoid methanol poisoning in Bali is not drink alcohol at all. If you are like me that is not appealing, but you can still enjoy alcohol responsibly. Here are my tips:-
- Bring your own – Buy duty-free spirits from home and have a few before you head out for the night.
- Stick to beer – Unaffected by the high import taxes this is a safer choice.
- Choose your venue wisely – A five-star resort is highly unlikely to serve counterfeit alcohol. It will cost more but it’s a few bucks extra I am willing to pay.
- Check Government Advice Regularly – Australia, New Zealand, the USA, and the UK all have current warnings about methanol poisoning in Bali.
I want you to visit Bali. I want you to love it as much as I do, but I want you to stay safe. Were you aware for the dangers of methanol poisoning in Bali? Will you make different choices when you visit next? Make sure you also check out my Bali Basics post for novice visitors before you book that bargain flight.
Until Next Time …
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Paul says
What’s your opinion – can duty free from Bali airport be trusted? Or is it as likely to be icounteefeit as in any other shop?
Allison Smith says
I have never purchased from Bali airport but so would imagine that it would be genuine.
Dada says
Thanks for writing an important post for everyone to know! I remember reading about this some years ago and it was a shock reading about it that some are playing with other peoples life over some money! Its scary to read that so much procent of alcohols in Indonesia are homemade! And I cant imagine how many procent of them are toxic! Is a risque I don’t want to take!
Sandy N Vyjay says
This is a very candid and honest post. I am sure it is an eyeopener for many and people will exercise caution when drinking in Bali. Bali is such a lovely place, that people fail to look beyond the gloss. But then to enjoy exotic Bali, it is always prudent to drink wisely.
Michelle says
How scary – my mom and I were enjoying plenty of cocktails at Hotel Ombak Sunset which we can at least say doesn’t serve methanol poisoned drinks as we survived without knowing of these risks at the time! Thank you for putting some light onto this unfortunate subject.
Allison Smith says
Michelle glad to hear you had a safe trip! Being aware makes all the difference.
neha says
This is a really useful article. Beach destinations and drinks often go hand in hand. Not just the youngsters but even the mature ones can fall victim to it. Thanks for writing about this experience to increase awareness
Allison Smith says
Thanks Neha! Yes anyone can get caught out but a little knowledge goes a long way to staying safe!
Kristina says
I’ve known too many people who have had their drinks spiked, especially abroad. These are really good tips to stay safe. I had no idea methanol poisoning was a thing, it’s so scary.
Allison Smith says
Drink spiking is also very concerning. Stay safe Kristine!
Nuraini says
Ah, is this why there were warning banners all over the airport when I visited Bali the second time? Was like, wth… quite taken aback then!
Penny says
This a great warning to everyone headed to Indonesia. I found myself in Gili T sans the above info. Luckily my husband and I were educated by a local in time. We don’t drink much and were looking to kickback and relax. I never realized how scary it could get!
Suzanne says
This is news to me. I had no idea they use methanol in “cheap drinks” in Bali. My interest also piqued because we have a huge methanol plant in Trinidad and Tobago. Makes me wonder…
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Being aware can make all the difference Suzanne. My eyes were opened as well!
James Smith says
I didn’t know about this, I’ve never been to Bali but used to go drinking a lot in Jakarta when I was younger. I’d imagine they have the same laws on the importation of alcohol? I’ll take more notice of where I drink on any future visits to Indonesia, especially Bali.
chanelle says
This is so scary! Thank you for raising awareness, it´s so important that us women regard our safety as our number one priority when traveling. Great article with some good tips.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Exactly. Once we are aware we can make informed decisions. ?
Karla at GlobalETA says
Wow that is horrifyingly scary! I’ve never heard of such a thing and it is awful. I don’t drink a lot but I do like my g&t’s at the end of a fun day. Just have to be super careful and diligent I guess!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
That’s definitely the key Karla.
Lydia@LifeUntraveled says
I had no idea! I don’t drink hard liquor but I do enjoy a cocktail once in a while especially when traveling. It’s awful that we have to be careful for such things. Thanks for sharing – it could save a life!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Awareness is the key. When people are aware they can make safe choices unfortunately most people are not and can end up paying dearly.
Ivy says
Oh my lord… I had no idea about methanol in Bali. So sad those people lost their lives due to- I’m going to say greed. In Liam’s case, did they reseal the bottle that they’ve already tampered with? We were just there in April and I’m relieved we didn’t go partying or go hard on drinking. What are ‘schoolies’, by the way?
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Schoolies is a week long event when the kids go on a trip after finishing high school and let there hair down. So lots are only 17 or just 18 and of course many parent fear for their safety on usually their first trip away by themselves. Not sure about the reselling but it would be hard to tell what is happening behind a dark bar. Hopefully all those kids will be returning home safely this year!
Rashmi and Chalukya says
Glad that we came across this post even before we made it to Bali. This is something terrible and as stated we never got to hear about this. It’s sad that innocent young lives have to lose life because of the greediness of locals. Thanks for the post Allison we would be careful about this.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Any lives lost are too many. Glad to hear you will be taking care ?
Mimi says
No way – this never happened to me but I sure have heard nasty stories. That’s nuts how Liam was actually being careful and still got affected. Be careful guys if you go there!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
I think that’s the key Mimi. I’m not advocating abstinence just hoping people will take care and make informed choices.
Ticking the Bucketlist says
Thanks so much for this post. I had no clue about this. We did a week in Bali, and we go to South East Asia very often..never think twice before chugging a drink!
I guess drinking at good hotels is the best option….at least that we would like to go with.
Joanna says
I had no idea about this and I was shocked to read that bars are actually risking their customer’s health like this. It’s astonishing, knowing how many people are travelling to Bali each year. I don’t drink when I’m away and if I do I stick to a beer or a glass of wine, never spirits. I don’t take risks when I travel as I know that getting drunk can lead to a lot of bad things…
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
It’s better to be safe than sorry Joanna! I don’t drink wine in Bali much except the duty free I bring from home ?
Katie says
This is a fascinating post, I didn’t know there was such a problem in Bali! I will be taking your suggestion cautions on our visit and stick to beer or high-end bars! This is scary and this blog helps to raise awareness so thank you!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Glad to hear you will be making safe choices Katie and let’s face it there are worse places to be than a high end bar. Check out the rock bar in Jimbaran. I had an awesome Lychee Martini there ?
melbtravel says
I love cocktails, drinks and Bali too. As an Australian, as well we love to go there for holidays, like the English like to go to Spain. I am so sorry to hear about your friend that is terrible and makes you realise how careful you have to be anywhere.
Because it is coming into winter for me here in England I forget that it is coming into the Australia summer and it is the summer holidays.
Great posts and I hope that young adults going to schoolie week will see this before they go.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
One life lost is one to many. Making safe choices is so important but young people think they are bullet proof. The stories were not of my friends but I thought them important to share so people know that this actually happens.
Clare says
I had no idea that this was such a problem in Indonesia. I never gave it a thought when I was over there and no one even mentioned to me that I should be checking. I hope people read your article and are aware of the dangers before they go 🙂
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
It not something that is well publicised. I saw Liam’s parents in a talk show and it really hit my attention. Given I visit Bali often I started doing more research and found it was a lot more common than I would have ever dreamed. Hopefully raising awareness will ensure help people stay safe. I still enjoy a drink in Bali, I just make much more informed choices these days. Makes me realise how very lucky I have been in the past.
Carrie @ Two Small Potatoes says
In North Idaho where I grew up, folks still make moonshine in bathtubs, but I’ve never heard of it being sold to the general public. Nor have I heard of this happening in Bali. We’d like to visit someday, but we’ll certainly be more cautious and more aware. Great info!
Valyn says
Thankyou for for this wonderfully written warning on the dangers of menthol poisoning.i had no idea how prevalent this is . My husband and I are visiting Bali for the first time in July 2017 . I have been following and reading previous posts and this had educated me. We are staying at the Grand Nikko Bali. Thankyou again for the warnings and what to do in Bali. Very much appreciated.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
You are very welcome Valyn. I hope you love Bali as much as I do. I just had a quick look at the Grand Nikko; it looks amazing! I haven’t stayed in Nusa Dua before. I wouldn’t imagine counterfeit alcohol would be a problem in such a fancy hotel but it pays to be cautious when you are out and about. Thanks so much for following along with my Bali posts. I’m almost finished with this series from my last trip but will be back in Bali in March 2017 and I’ll be doing a new series then. In the meantime I will be covering Hawaii, Melbourne and the Great Ocean Rd, New Zealand (North Island) and Tasmania. I hope you continue to follow along ?
Danielle says
I really had no idea this was such a problem in Bali. Being from the UK, I always think of Bali as such an expensive and luxurious destination, as it’s so far from home for me! Thanks so much for writing this! It’s great that you’re helping to spread awareness, and possibly save lives!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Danielle Bali is just good value for Aussies but from the UK not so much. I’m just hoping that young people make safer drinking choices.
Maja | Mexatia says
Thank you for sharing this! I, the same like others, had no idea this was happening. Thankfully, nothing happened to you! I am sharing this post hoping many travelers will see it and educate themselves. From now on, only beer in Bali.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
That is the safest way ?
Lisa says
Oh wow, this is scary. Considering the sheer number of young Aussies alone that hit up Bali, I feel like it should be more commonly shared information. Thank you for bringing this to light. Hopefully if enough people know about this and take proper precautions, this dangerous practice will stop.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Agree Lisa I’m sure many don’t know the dangers. A little bit of knowledge helps people make safer choices.
Arzo Travels says
I do not drink alcohol but reading this is really terrible. I know about some cases in Turkey where that happened and it causes casualties. So sad and such a shame.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Had no idea it was also happening in Turkey Arzo. The scary part is that choice is being taken away. Everyone makes choices wether to drink alcohol or not but if you order a Smirnoff vodka for example that’s what you should get and not some backyard brew. I’m not advocating not drinking because Ai would be a hypocrite if I did as I always enjoy alcohol in Bali. Just trying to help people make safer choices.
Caitlin says
This is such a serious issue and I’m glad you raised it. I don’t think many people talk about this, and it’s something people really need to know about. When it’s something that could take your life, it’s worth it to just make sure it’s safe, or just pay the extra dollars and get what should be safer. It’s terrible that people keep losing their lives to this.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Agree Caitlin. I’m sure if people were told this $2 cocktail contains home brew and could kill you but this $15 cocktail is genuine they would choose the latter. Knowing the risks allows people to make better choices.
Leslie says
Wow. I had no idea. And Bali is such a HUGE destination these days. Thanks for the story, people really need to know this. I’ll be sticking to beer for sure!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
I don’t mind the odd Bintang myself Leslie ?
Naomi says
this is a serious issue! I always ask for little alcohol in the cocktails because it taste so weirdly otherwise. Thanks for warning people by brining this important issue to light. I hope it helps and something can be done about it.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
I love my cocktails strong but I always use caution in Bali and drink only in reputable places and take my own as well.
Cliodhna says
Wow I had never even considered this! Well done for highlighting such an important issue. As you said its impossible to avoid for certain without avoiding alcohol but thanks for giving tips for those who do want to drink. What a tragic thing to happen someone on holidays 🙁
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
I definitely always indulge when I am in Bali but I am careful to chose what and where I drink.
Noemi of Pinay Flying High says
Oh wow! I never knew this! That’s absolutely awful. I hope it gets regulated soon. I’m not much of a drinker now (been there, done that) but if ever I do, I prefer beer. Lol. I guess that’s the safer choice in Bali then.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Definitely Noemi! I love a drink I’m just careful where I purchase in Bali. The high taxes are the Governments attempt to curb drinking which is completely ineffective. People are going to drink and if they can’t afford the real stuff they will turn to bootleg. Bringing down the taxes and making it genuine spirits more affordable would be a good start.
Rirhandzu Marivate says
I have read so many articles of methanol poisoning in Bali, it is so scary!! I would love to travel to Indonesia, but I think I will not touch any alcohol. This is too scary. Thank you for sharing your story.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
As long as you are careful you should be fine Rirhandzu. I think I would have to give Bali a miss if I couldn’t have any alcohol at all lol
Ashley says
Wow! I never knew this was even a thing! How terrible. Thanks for the write up, I know of several people traveling to Bali this year, I’ll be sure to pass this along!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Thanks Ashley! I hope they love Bali as much as I do. Knowledge is key here so that everyone can make safer choices.
Christina from Happy to Wander says
Wow I am beyond thankful for this article. I had no idea this was such a big issue in Bali! Reading the victims’ stories made me rather sad because it could honestly happen to anyone, but I guess raising awareness is a good first step. Great job on this, Allison!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Thanks Christina. A little bit of knowledge goes a long way to helping people stay safe.
Erica says
I am so glad you decided to spread awareness about this. You are right, it isn’t highly publicized. I have come across rumors from doing research for my own travels, but this is not known by most travelers. Everyone visiting Bali should be aware of this and take caution. Like everywhere else. people need to be aware of what is going on around them. I hope to visit this beautiful place one day!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
I hope you get there too. From the millions of visitors to Bali the deaths are small but even 1 is too many. A little bit of knowledge is all you need to stay safe.
Diana says
Oh my gosh Allison I didn’t know about any of this. This is probably the most helpful article out there because it has the potential to save lives. Those stats are terrifying – less than half of liquor there is genuine. So you have more than 50% chance of being poisoned by ordering a drink. Wow. Good thing I like beer but now I know not to order liquor at all when I do visit Bali. Thanks so much for sharing this.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
I do order cocktails there occasionally Diana but it’s always at a fancy resort when I do and of course they are not $2 they are exactly what I would pay at home ($15 – $20) as they say … You get what you pay for. I think young people are most at risk because they are always chasing ‘cheap drinks’. I hope this helps people make safer choices.
Cassie says
Wow this is so scary and I had no idea it happened! This is such a useful post, and will definitely keep in mind for when we finally make it to Bali and Indonesia!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
It really all comes down to making safe choices. When you have knowledge and are aware that is easier to do.
Stephanie says
Wow! That is pretty scary. You never really hear about this. Thank you for sharing the info!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
You are very welcome Stephanie. If one more person can make safer choices I will be happy!
Kathy says
This is so so sad. Young people trying to have a good time and then this happening. Thank you for bringing this to my attention. I didn’t know this was a problem there and I will be in Bali next year. Lets hope this post saves lives.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
It’s just a matter of being a little bit more cautious than you normally would. My heart breaks for the families left behind ?
blondemoments says
First of all, I love to read your posts about Bali. They make me so happy!!! I totally understand that you love that place!
And second, what a crazy story! I didn’t know about that before at all. The thing that I caught my eye well or more my lungs was the quality of the cigarettes over there!! Yes they are cheap but so toxic! It is sad how easy they play with the life of a human being…
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Definitely scary! You really do need to take care you know exactly what you are putting in your body.
Maggie says
My friend was a victim of this! Until her incident, I didn’t even know about this. But now I’m seeing post after post about the dangers of drinking in Bali. Such an informative post!
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Oh no! I so hope your friend is OK. I have been many times and never had an issue but it pays to be safe!
Punita Malhotra says
Terrible tragedy to strike…that too while on vacation! A useful post like this , containing so many precautionary steps is much needed. Stay safe, everyone…and stay in control.
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
I know! I have two boys (24 & 21) and worry about them all the time when they go out for the night (yes still!!! lol) I can’t imagine the heartbreak for these parents when their babies didn’t come home ?
Ruxandra says
I had no idea but this type of risk! this is so dangerous 🙁 I will be sure to keep this in mind if I ever pass by Indonesia – I am surely picturing myself sipping cocktails there. How about other East Asian countries?
Sydney Fashion Hunter says
Yes it does happen in other parts of SE Asia as well. Where ever the cost of living is low and imported alcohol is expensive there will be people trying to exploit the system unfortunately. It’s always best to be cautious about anything you are putting in your body. Better safe than sorry I say