Bali fights back: Locals push for radical tourism restrictions

Bali is a veritable paradise on earth, considered one of the trendiest destinations. It's no wonder that tourists are so eager to fly there. The problem, however, is that travellers are increasingly disturbing the locals. They plan to take radical steps to combat excessive tourism.

Influencers and celebrities love the Indonesian island, and for many tourists, it is a dream holiday. It is primarily associated with an Asian climate, exotic greenery, and paradisiacal beaches with breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. Such flights will start as early as January 9, 2025. However, the question arises: Are tourists still as welcome in Bali as they were a few years ago?

According to Reuters, Bali authorities are considering a temporary ban on constructing new hotels, villas, and nightclubs in certain parts of the island. They explain their decision by citing the necessity of fighting excessive tourism.

Hermin Esti, a high-ranking official in the Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment of Bali, told Reuters that the government agreed to such a ban. However, the exact details are still being discussed. Moreover, the officials declare they are open to any proposals in the face of the island being flooded by tourists. Some politicians believe the temporary ban should be introduced for at least ten years. They unanimously stated that the changes they intend to teach are aimed at protecting their country's culture and heritage.

Notably, at the beginning of 2024, the island introduced a mandatory fee for visitors from abroad. The tax, around $12 CAD, is intended to provide new revenue for the budget and help combat the excessive number of visitors.