A Life-Saving Tip for Bali Travelers
A frequent traveler to Bali has shared a potentially life-saving tip that could help keep visitors safe while enjoying the island’s popular attractions. Colin Ahearn, a passionate advocate for safe drinking practices, has been campaigning against methanol poisoning and the sale of counterfeit spirits in bars throughout the island. His latest advice is a simple but effective trick that could prevent dangerous situations.
Ahearn has long warned people about the risks of consuming spirits from an open bottle, as there have been ongoing reports of refilling with methanol. This substance is cheap, tasteless, and odorless, making it difficult for travelers to detect. The only exception he acknowledges is when purchasing duty-free spirits at the airport for consumption during the trip. However, even then, precautions must be taken.
In an interview with Yahoo News Australia, Ahearn advised travelers to trash the bottle once it’s finished. “Trash the label, wreck the lid and make it harder for people to sell your bottle,” he said. He demonstrated this himself after returning from Bali, sharing photos of two bottles with scratched-off labels. Many were surprised by the extreme measures, while others praised the practical solution.
“I have never thought of this. If it saves one life, then I will definitely discard our bottles with more thought in the future,” one person commented.
The Dangers of Methanol Poisoning
The issue of methanol poisoning is not limited to Bali; it extends across Southeast Asia. Last year, an Australian mother recounted her terrifying experience in Bali after suspected methanol poisoning. In 2024, two young Australian girls died after consuming tainted spirits in a hostel bar in Vang Vieng, Laos.
Ahearn confirmed that the practice of refilling bottles is accurate and urged Australians to take action as the threat to tourists remains high. He recently received a video showing a local using a “festy old funnel” to pour clear liquid into empty alcohol bottles. He suspects these may be refilled with cheaper local spirits, which are then passed off as duty-free drinks.
Safe Drinking Practices in Bali
The best solution to this recurring problem is to destroy the bottles after use. However, Ahearn advises against smashing them, as this could pose a safety risk. Instead, he recommends trashing the label and discarding the lid. “It just makes it that little bit harder and less attractive,” he said.
Ahearn has been advocating against methanol poisoning in Bali for nearly a decade. He emphasizes that ordering spirits at bars in Bali is almost always high risk. “But the fact that they refill bottles doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s dodgy spirits and there’s going to be methanol poisoning,” he explained. It could also mean they’re using local spirits, trying to pass them off as imported ones.
White spirits, like vodka, can easily be replaced with arrack, a traditional distilled drink, or even methanol, a clear liquid with no taste or smell. To eliminate risk, Ahearn suggests sticking to beer, wine, or premixed drinks sold in mini marts and supermarkets. “If you do that, just drink that, then there’s no chance of you getting hit with methanol,” he said.
Staying Safe While Traveling
For those planning a trip to Bali, it’s essential to remain vigilant and informed. Ahearn’s advice highlights the importance of taking proactive steps to protect oneself from potential dangers. By following his recommendations, travelers can enjoy their time on the island with greater peace of mind.
