Ah yes, getting a tattoo in Southeast Asia, the parent of every backpackers' worst nightmare. Fret not, permanent souvenir seeker and parents, it really isn't as scary of a feat as it sounds, if you go about it in the right way. It is suuuper common, and maybe a little cliche, to want to get a tattoo during the trip that changed your life. Whether you're a devote yogi hoping to be branded with the "Om" symbol, or a surf enthusiast seeking the "hang ten" hand on your ankle to reinforce your coolness, Bali can be a great place to get ya permanent memories. Obviously, just as in Canada or any other highly developed country, there are risks, and you need to be careful about where you go.
Is it in an alleyway? Is the gun dirty? Is the tattooist drunk? Is it for free?
Perfect! Then you've found your perfect tattoo location!
Jk guys. Use common sense, ask questions, and be a perfectionist with the process. Make sure you're getting exactly what you want. We've all heard this before but I'll say it again: it will be on your body forever. There was a girl in one of my hostels in Bali who got the words "a tattoo" tattooed on her upper arm. I'm not kidding. But you know what? She LOVED it and thought it was the funniest thing in the world; so there's really no arguing that.
My Bali Tattoo
My tattoo is the word "Senyum" which translates to "Smile" in English. The story goes something like this, if you're at all interested:
Bali really taught me to smile. Cilche or not, the local people that I met in Bali are the happiest and kindest I've come across- anywhere. Most of the locals that I met live a very simple life, make a very modest income, and have few possessions. They are constantly smiling. This is the life that I desire so much and hope to transition towards.
I went to the tattoo shop with one of my now best friends in the world, an Indonesian local who was recommended the shop through his friends. They were extremely patient, clean, kind, and had attention to detail on a level I have never experienced with my previous two tattoos in Canada. They sat with me for half an hour mulling over fonts and positioning, and were completely happy to work with me until it was perfect. It is one of my smaller tattoos, but took the longest to finish because of their extreme dedication to making it look just right.
The same friend, on the same day, ended up getting a similar tattoo on his forearm, in the same font but the word "Smile" in English. I know. Most adorable friendship tattoos ever.
Tips for getting a tattoo when travelling
Be sure. Don't rush into getting a tattoo just because your time is running out in a destination; you can always get it when you get home.
Shop around. Have a look at a few studios to compare prices, cleanliness, and to meet and check out artist portfolios. You'll want to make sure you like your artist, as depending on the size, you'll be hanging out with them for a period of time. Also, make sure their personal style fits yours; as tattoo artists styles are not one size fits all.
Ask around. I was lucky to have a local friend to refer me to a reputable shop. There are multiple other ways to go about this, like asking locals in shops, restaurants or bars if they know of anywhere good. If you meet a local with tattoos that you like, ask where they go. Also, google can be helpful here to look up reviews on specific places!
Make sure it is a safe setting, and make sure you feel comfortable. If you ever have a bad feeling about a shop, trust your gut. You feel that way for a reason. Also, they should take a needle out of new packaging for you, and let you hold and see it. If they don't do this, run!
Happy travelling and tattooing! Make good choices and memories!
Xx
C
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