Foreign tourists arriving in Bali will need to pay the fee electronically through the “Love Bali” online portal.
Are you thinking about a getaway to Bali, the charming Indonesian paradise? Well, a new development could affect your travel plans.
Bali has recently introduced a 150,000 rupees ($10) tax on incoming tourists, a measure aimed at preserving the unique cultural and environmental treasures that earned the island its nickname, the “Island of the Gods.”
“Why this tax?” you will ask yourself.
Bali's acting governor, Sang Made Mahendra Jaya, explains that this is a strategic effort to safeguard the island's rich cultural fabric and its pristine environment. In his words, “This tax aims to protect culture and the environment in Bali.”
To comply with this new regulation, foreign tourists arriving in Bali will have to pay the fee electronically through the “Love Bali” online portal. This tax applies to international tourists and those entering from other parts of Indonesia. However, domestic Indonesian tourists are exempt from this financial addition to their travel expenses.
Bali, known for its picturesque beaches and vibrant cultural scene, has been grappling with the delicate balance between preserving its appeal and managing the influx of tourists. With almost 4.8 million visitors between January and November last year, the island is taking advantage of its popularity to strengthen its financial resources.
The move to impose a tax on tourists also comes in the wake of the island's commitment to upholding cultural respect. Recent incidents, including tourists posing inappropriately at sacred sites and behaving disrespectfully, have prompted local authorities to take action. Last year, in response to these challenges, the local government published an etiquette guide for tourists.
As the island recovers from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, Bali is determined to ensure that visitors contribute not only to its economic prosperity but also to the preservation of its unique identity.
So if you're planning a trip to Bali, prepare to accept this new tax as a small but significant step toward the continued protection of the “Island of the Gods.”
