Bali mulls tourist crackdown: New hotel ban and fees considered
Bali is a true paradise on earth, known as one of the trendiest destinations. It is no wonder that tourists are so eager to fly there. However, travelers are becoming increasingly bothersome to locals, prompting them to consider radical steps to combat overtourism.
1:29 PM EDT, September 13, 2024
Influencers and celebrities love the Indonesian island; for many tourists, it is a dream vacation. It is primarily associated with an Asian climate, exotic greenery, and paradise beaches with breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. However, the question arises: Are tourists still as welcome in Bali as they were a few years ago?
Considering radical changes
As reported by Reuters, the Bali authorities are considering a temporary ban on the construction of new hotels, villas, and nightclubs in certain parts of the island. They explain their decision as necessary to combat overtourism.
Hermin Esti, a high-ranking official in Bali's Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment, told Reuters that the government agreed to implement such a ban. However, the exact details are still being discussed. Additionally, the leaders declare that they are open to any proposals in the face of battling the flooding of the island by tourists. Some politicians believe that, in their opinion, the temporary ban should be imposed for a minimum of 10 years. They unanimously claim that the changes they intend to introduce aim to protect the culture and heritage of their country.
Bali has had enough of tourists
Notably, at the beginning of 2024, the paradise island decided to introduce a mandatory fee for incoming foreigners. The tax of about $10 is intended to provide a new revenue stream to the budget but also help combat the excessive number of arrivals.
