In Reply to: Even in paradise... posted by nannynofriends on Wednesday, 30. September 2009 at 04:40 Bali Time:
I love Bali as much, I think, as anyone but long ago came to the realization that, if you scratch the surface, it is not Paradise. Bad things do happen.
If you talk to the citizens of Bali (not the rich ones!) They think it's quite funny that we see it as such. Quite aside from social welfare and the ability to pay for health care etc; there is violence particularly domestic violence. Add to that endemic corruption and cover ups for those who can afford it and the picture of "the real Bali" has some depth and honesty.
I still have a deep and abiding affection for Indonesia, Indonesians and things Indonesian but I think I love it as it really is warts and all, the same as any other place.
Actually if the story is accurate it doesn't sound as if this poor Japanese woman really let her guard down or acted carelessly at all and many would have done the same thing if confronted by a gun toting police officer in uniform.
For the rest of us though, it's not a good idea to let our guard down. We should take the same precautions with our safety as at home.
I shall now step down from my soapbox