Visit to Besakih Temple

On Sept. 3, I tried to visit Besakih Temple in Bali. Having paid Rp 15,000 to enter with a car, I was stopped at the gate and told that a local guide is mandatory. I don't believe it is, but I was willing to pay. They said it was a donation and I offered Rp 50,000, which I believe was generous.

They refused me entry for under US$50. There was a tourist police officer standing next to us, having a good laugh. I was very upset at being hassled and being cheated, I did not end up going there.

How can you expect tourists to return to Bali when there is blatant lying, cheating and corruption -- even at a tourist location/temple? It really confounds me and I will never recommend to my friends to visit the temple.

ALLISON LOW, Perth, Australia