An urban legend goes that a young prince and princess were deeply in love and engaged to be married. However, this story does not end with the age-old ‘happy ever after’. Sadly, after becoming intimate with the princess, the prince suddenly decided to call off the engagement. He abandoned the princess, left the island, and was never heard of again.
The princess was devastated, broken-hearted, and most importantly, vengeful. If she couldn’t be happy, then no one could. She threw a horrible curse upon the island, wishing that all unmarried couples who visited should depart and break up shortly after.
This myth, ridiculous as it may seem, is still at forefront of many couples planning their trips to Bali. There’s a reason the myth has spread so widely and is still talked about today – there may some element of truth to it. Countless couples have gone to Bali only to break up weeks or month later, cursing what should have been a romantic vacation but instead turned into a heartbreak holiday.
There are a few variations to this myth:
- Some believe that only unchaste couples will suffer this curse, whereas those who respect traditional values such as sleeping in separate rooms, with no pre-marital intimacy, will escape unscathed.
- Some believe that it is Tanah Lot Temple that is cursed and not the whole of Bali. Couples who watch the sunset together at Tanah Lot, reportedly also see the sun setting on their relationship within 6 months.
- Still, others say that it is only couples who go alone who are affected, and those who travel with a group of friends and family go undetected by the curse.
Countless people have come forward to tell the story of the demise of their relationship after a trip to Bali. Horror stories claim of strong relationships that have collapsed, even after years of surviving long distance relationships, and engagements that have fallen apart after a grand proposal in Bali.
Still, many others have claimed it is pure hogwash, giving more scientific or rational explanations for the cause of break-ups after a holiday. A trip together forces couples to be stuck to each other 24/7, and besides allowing couples to gaze at their significant other all the time, this also allows them to catch a glimpse of their sweetheart’s less savoury quirks and habits. Bali is also a land that emphasises meditation, reflection and inner soul-searching. Thinking deeply about what each person wants in the future may raise underlying issues that were always there but never brought up. Some couples may see that their future together is not for the best. This is sad, but if it is so, perhaps it is better to discover this earlier than later.
What do you believe? Some couples, even those who do not fully believe in it, prefer to save Bali as a holiday destination to visit only when they are married, whereas other dating couples are still happy to go. Regardless, there are plenty of romantic activities that you’d want to do with your special someone.
FAQs about Romance and Relationships in Bali
Can unmarried couples stay together in Bali? Can you visit Bali if unmarried?
Yes, unmarried couples can stay together in Bali. While there is a law against unmarried partners cohabitating, the local government does not enforce this for foreign visitors.
What is the ‘Bali breakup curse’?
Local folklore tells of a dishonest Javanese prince who spent an intimate evening with his princess near Tanah Lot temple, only to abandon her in the morning. Feeling betrayed, she cursed the area – and according to legend, this curse dooms unmarried couples visiting Bali to relationship woes.
Why is Tanah Lot temple considered ‘cursed’?
The area’s ominous reputation stems from the aforementioned myth. After the Javanese royal’s deception, the distraught princess was said to have placed a curse upon the lands around Tanah Lot temple. Even today, some believe the curse’s influence remains.
How can I book a romantic getaway in Bali?
If you don’t believe in all this mumbo-jumbo and you and your S.O. are looking for a romantic getaway, check out these gorgeous Bali villas set for romance. Plus, our local team of Bali experts can design an itinerary for you and your partner, avoiding any venues linked to curses in Balinese mythology.
Do you dare chance it yourself?
PS: for those who dare to put the myth to the test, have a look at Wedding-Bali.com!
See our villas in Bali. Inspected and selected by Villa-Finder.com.
