- Indonesian authorities have imposed a 150,000 rupiah levy on foreign tourists entering Bali.
- The tax aims to protect the island’s environment and culture.
- Bali, known for its beaches, surfing waves, and landscapes, attracts millions of visitors annually.
Indonesian authorities have implemented a 150,000 rupiah (£7.60; $9.60) levy for foreign tourists entering Bali, one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. They assert that this measure is aimed at protecting the island’s environment and culture.
Bali, renowned for its pristine beaches, surfing waves, and beautiful landscapes, attracts millions of visitors annually. Official data indicates that almost 4.8 million tourists visited Bali between January and November last year.
The tourist tax, initially announced last year, became effective on Wednesday – Valentine’s Day. It applies to foreign tourists entering the province from abroad or other parts of the country, with domestic Indonesian tourists exempt. Travelers are encouraged to pay before arrival through the Love Bali website.
Before the pandemic, tourism accounted for approximately 60% of Bali’s annual GDP.
According to the province’s statistics bureau, Australia led as the largest contributor of foreign tourists to Bali in November 2023, with more than 100,000 arrivals. Following Australia were tourists from India, China, and Singapore.
However, locals in Bali have become increasingly agitated by misbehaving tourists in recent years.
In March of last year, authorities deported a Russian man from Bali after he stripped off on Mount Agung, a site believed by Hindus to be the home of the gods.
In the same month, authorities announced plans to ban foreign tourists from using motorbikes following a series of cases involving people breaking traffic laws.
In 2021, uproar ensued when a three-minute video circulated depicting a Russian couple having sex on Mount Batur, another holy site.
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