In our fast-paced Western lives, we are ruled by the clock. We rush from meeting to meeting, and even on holiday, we rush from attraction to attraction. But in Indonesia, there is a different concept of time: Jam Karet, or “Rubber Time.”

1. What is Rubber Time?

Rubber Time means that time is flexible. If a meeting is set for 10:00 AM, it might happen at 10:15 or 10:30, and nobody gets stressed about it. While this can be frustrating for type-A personalities at first, it is actually a secret ingredient to a relaxing holiday.

Embracing Jam Karet means letting go of strict itineraries. It means lingering over breakfast because the conversation is good, or watching the sunset until the very last light fades, without worrying about your dinner reservation.

2. Where to Practice “Slow Travel”

Bali is designed for this slower pace. The best way to experience it is to find a quiet warung (local cafe) overlooking a rice field in Canggu or Ubud. Order a fresh coconut, put your phone away, and just watch the farmers work or the wind blow through the palms.

By adopting this mindset, you stop ticking boxes and start making memories. You realize that the best moments often happen in the unplanned gaps between events.

3. The Health Benefits of Slowing Down

Disconnecting from the “rush culture” has proven health benefits, lowering cortisol levels and improving sleep. Use your Bali trip as a detox not just for your body, but for your mind. Allow yourself the luxury of boredom—it is often where creativity and true relaxation are found.