Tattooed in Paradise: Advice for Getting Inked Abroad

Getting tattooed on vacation can be one way to literally capture your adventure in the flesh. Some areas of the world, like Indonesia for example, are renowned for their skill and contribution to the history of tattoos, which is why so many are drawn to the idea of getting tattooed in an exotic locale. In an effort to keep your tattoo souvenir from becoming the mistake of a lifetime, whether it’s a western-style tattoo by gun or a traditional tatau style using bamboo instruments that you’re seeking, Here's some of the basic dos and don’ts of getting tattooed abroad.

First and foremost, you will want to be sure that you are dealing with a reputable artist who takes all precautions to ensure your safety. There is some fear of blood borne disease spread by tattooing in the so-called “third world”. However, even if the country that you’re visiting doesn’t have strict regulations enforced, most artists know their sterilization, after all, they want their clients to build a relationship of trust and return to them again in the future.

If a tattoo shop looks unsanitary, walk the other way. Like I said before, trust your gut instincts. Next, be prepared with the right questions. How do they sterilize their equipment? Do they use new needles for every customer? Look around to be sure that everyone is using gloves. If your artist acts offended by your inquiries, move on. There are plenty of reputable artists who won’t mind taking you through their hygiene routines without giving you an attitude about it. Most will allow you to watch them open the sterile packaging that they will use on you right before your eyes and walk you thought the entire process.

When you can, do your homework in advance by researching before you even depart for your destination via the internet. If this isn’t possible, ask around for referrals from locals in the know and be prepared shop around. Be sure to see an artist’s actual portfolio with photographic evidence before you commence with paid work. Don’t be surprised if your tattoo artist works freehand either, which is standard in many parts of the world. Strike up a good rapport with your artist too. I never recommend getting text tattooed in languages you don't actually speak, unless you really wanted "gullible tourist" tattooed across your back in Japanese.

Some special considerations: if you are allergic to latex, be prepared with your own box of sterile non-latex gloves. You may be hard pressed to find non-latex gloves in some foreign tattoo shops and you’re better safe than sorry. Secondarily, in some countries it can be wise to bring your own tattoo ink, which can be easily ordered through online and mail-order outlets. Yes, it sounds funny to bring your own ink to the tattoo artists, but you'll want the highest quality ink and tattoo artists abroad have asked me to bring along my shades of choice on more than one occasion.

Another warning, be aware that if you need a touch up, you’re going to have to pay a local artist back home to help you out, which can lead to extra expense. But considering that tattoos in some countries cost less than back home, you may still come out ahead.

Last but not least, be aware that getting a tattoo can limit your activities for the rest of your vacation. Plan your tattoo for a time when you can avoid exposure to water and sunlight. This means, don’t get a tattoo at the beginning of your trip if your main purpose of the trip was hitting the waves on a surfing safari. Save it for the end of your journey when all you’ll have to contend with is the long ride home.

(Pictured above: my tattoo by Indonesian artist Durga. To see more of Durga's work, visit his website.)

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