Aussie Traveller’s Warning After Disturbing Find in Bali Restaurant

By Abel Kalpi Nand Prasad

An Australian traveller has issued a stark warning to tourists visiting Bali after discovering a shocking practice at a beachside restaurant.

The influencer, known as Jetsetting Jacki on social media, recently shared her unsettling experience while dining on the island of Nusa Lembongan. She noticed something unusual about the plastic straw she was given—and what she discovered was enough to make anyone think twice before sipping their drink.

A ‘Recycled’ Straw?

In a TikTok video that quickly went viral, Jacki revealed that her straw appeared to have been reused. She explained, “Do you know what a lot of restaurants do in these countries to save money? They cut the end off the straw that someone has already used and give you a ‘new’ one.”

To prove her point, Jacki held up two straws she had saved from the restaurant, showing how their drinking ends had been unevenly cut. “If you don’t want to be sharing a straw with a random stranger, I’d recommend inspecting any straw you’re given from now on. It’s really, really disgusting.”

A Growing Concern for Tourists

Jacki, who is currently based in Bali, isn’t the first traveller to warn about this issue. Last year, an Irish tourist, Aoife McElwee, shared a similar experience. She urged people to avoid plastic straws, claiming, “Look how much this was cut—it was obviously used by someone else and they just trimmed the top off.”

Other travellers have also reported disturbing incidents, with one recounting, “My friend ordered coconut water, and when she sucked on the straw, someone’s old smoothie came through.” Another wrote, “I was once given a straw that was fully chewed up.”

How to Stay Safe While Dining in Bali

While many Bali restaurants provide sealed, single-use straws, this discovery serves as a reminder for tourists to be cautious. If you’re visiting, here are some simple ways to avoid potential hygiene issues:

• Inspect your straw before using it—check for uneven cuts or signs of reuse.

• Opt for sealed, individually wrapped straws when possible.

• Carry a reusable straw to avoid any concerns about hygiene.

• Be cautious with open plastic straws—if in doubt, ask for a replacement.

Many travellers in Bali have reported positive experiences, with sealed straws being widely available in reputable restaurants and hotels. However, for peace of mind, a little extra vigilance can go a long way.

Jacki’s warning highlights the importance of being mindful of food and drink hygiene while travelling, ensuring tourists can enjoy their time in Bali without any unwelcome surprises.