News & Updates

Bali, the fabled paradise island of Indonesia, offers a rich diversity of experiences that you’ll never forget. What are the latest news and updates about Bali?
following up on the foreign tourist levy regulation, the bali government tourism office conducts monitoring at the uluwatu tourist destination.

In response to Bali Provincial Regulation Number 6 of 2023 Regarding Levies for Foreign Tourists for the Protection of Balinese Culture and Environment and Bali Governor Regulation Number 2 of 2024 Regarding Procedures for Payment of Levies for Foreign Tourists, the Bali Government Tourism Office conducted monitoring of tourists at the Uluwatu Tourist Attraction in Badung on Tuesday (3/26) afternoon. Tjok Bagus Pemayun, the Head of the Bali Government Tourism Office who directly led this monitoring, stated that this activity is part of both monitoring and socialization regarding the levy program for foreign tourists, which has been in effect since February 14, 2024. Such monitoring will be routinely carried out in tourist destinations. According to him, there are still foreign tourists who are unaware of the foreign tourist levy policy.   "In terms of regulation, monitoring or checking of levy vouchers is not only conducted at airports but also implemented in tourist destinations, accommodations, and other places visited by foreign tourists. Not all foreign tourists are aware that Bali has implemented this foreign tourist levy. We realize that the socialization efforts we have made so far have been insufficient, and we will intensify our socialization activities by disseminating information about this Foreign Tourist Levy on social media and collaborating with tourism stakeholders to help spread the information about Foreign Tourist Levy to their guests and clients" he explained.   For this reason, Tjok Pemayun admitted that the Bali provincial tourism office would continue to socialize, the response of foreign tourists was considered very good to this foreign tourist levy policy. "They welcome this policy, but it must be transparent and its use must be clear. We have conveyed that it will be used for environmental conservation and the strengthening of Balinese culture," he added. Meanwhile, Chairman of the Indonesian Recreation Park Business Association (PUTRI) I Gusti Ayu Agung Inda Trimafo Yudha also welcomed the foreign tourist levy policy. She said, she was ready to support and succeed the policy which she said was very good. “We welcome this policy and are ready to help the government, especially to assist the levy officers in carrying out their duties in the field. We must provide good services and explanations to tourists, do not let them be uncomfortable, we hope that the funds collected can also be used for the tourism sector in addition to the environment and culture,” She said. Chairman of the Bali Tourism Industry Association (GIPI) Ida Bagus Agung Parta Adnyana also said that he would continue to oversee the foreign tourist levy policy so as not to cause new problems in the tourism industry in the future. “We will definitely continue to guard, not to cause new problems in the tourism industry. The funds that have been collected at this time may be used immediately. Of course, I hope that the funds that have entered can also be returned for the tourism sector,” explained Gus Agung, the nickname of this Sanur tourism figure. Also present on this occasion were, the Manager of Tourist destination Management of the Outer Area of Uluwatu temple, Wayan Wijana Manager, Civil Service Police Unit of Bali Province, Civil Service Police Unit of Badung Regency, Indonesian Tourist Association (HPI) Bali, Association of The Indonesian Tours And Travel Agencies (ASITA) Bali.

starting at the end of march the bali provincial government holds inspection of tourist levy in tourism destinations.

The Bali Provincial Government is observing  and monitoring the Foreign Tourist Levy payment amount of IDR 150,000 since the policy started on 14th February, 2024. The policy is implemented according to the The Regulation of Bali Provincial Government Number 6 of 2023 on the Foreign Tourists Levy for the Protection of Bali Culture and Natural Environment.    The observation and monitoring initiative takes place on March 26, 2024, in popular tourist destinations in Bali such as Uluwatu, Tanah Lot, Ulun Danu Beratan, and Tampaksiring. The Bali Government Tourism Office along with the Tourism Police of Bali Provincial Government, Bali Tourism Board, ASITA (Association of The Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies) Bali and Bali Guide Association will actively collaborate to visit the tourist attractions. The observations and monitoring initiative is performed by asking foreign tourists on their obligations to the regulations yet to inform the foreign tourist by completing the registration online through the official website https://lovebali.baliprov.go.id.    The Head of the Bali Provincial Tourism Office, Tjok Bagus Pemayun, clarified that the observation and monitoring  initiative aims to spread the information on foreign tourists levy implementation.    "We are conducting an observation and monitoring initiative, to spread the information about the foreign tourist levy in tourist attractions since the policy is quite new to be implemented in Bali," he stated. It has been reported that only 40 percent of foreign tourists arriving in Bali have made payments for the tourist levy. "Since the implementation of the Foreign Tourist Levy, an average of 5,000 foreign tourists have been paying per day," he remarked.   The tourist levy observation and monitoring initiative will be held at least twice a month, as an effort to introduce this new policy to foreign tourists in Bali. The initiative will be conducted at the gate of tourism destinations to avoid the possibility of tourists inconvenience during their stay in Bali.

nyepi, balinese new year: day of silence

   Nyepi is a Balinese "Day of Silence" that marks the start of the Balinese Saka New Year. It is a Hindu celebration mainly observed in Bali, Indonesia. Nyepi is a day of silence, fasting, and meditation for the Balinese. The day is observed from 6 a.m. until 6 a.m. the next morning. During Nyepi, the entire island of Bali comes to a standstill: 1.    No Work: All daily activities cease; people stay at home, and no one works. This includes the tourists, who are encouraged to remain in their hotels. 2.    No Fire/Light: There are restrictions on the use of lights and fire, which means no cooking. The island significantly reduces electricity use, and streets are dark, with minimal or no lighting. 3.    No Travel: The streets are empty. No one is allowed outside, including tourists. Airports are closed, and there's no incoming or outgoing travel from Bali. 4.    No Entertainment: There's no form of entertainment or pleasure observed. Radios, TVs, the internet, and other forms of entertainment are turned off, and people are encouraged to reflect, meditate, and fast. The philosophy behind Nyepi is to dedicate an entire day to self-reflection, fasting, and meditation, contemplating human values of tolerance, love, patience, and kindness. It's also thought to be a day for the island to rest and recharge. Nyepi is preceded by several rituals: ·         Melasti or Mekiis: A purification ceremony that usually takes place several days before Nyepi, involving processions to the sea or a water source to cleanse sacred objects and the soul. ·         Tawur Kesanga: The day before Nyepi, large and colorful effigies known as ogoh-ogoh, which represent demons or evil spirits, are paraded and then burned in the evening to drive away evil spirits. Tourists and visitors are welcome to watch the parades, take pictures and witness this unique spectacle. Some of these ogoh-ogoh are burnt after the parade. Although these rituals take place over the entire island. Each village makes at least one spectacular Ogoh-Ogoh and takes pride in the entire process. ·         The day of: Nyepi The entire island is “closed”, including the airport as there will be no incoming or outgoing flights. The roads are off limited, as everyone is expected to stay indoors for 24 hours. Because no one should be out and about, you’re prohibited from entering any beaches, and all restaurants, grocery stores, and other types of shops will be closed for everyone. ·         The day after: Ngembak Geni Social activity picks up again very quickly the next day. As families and friends come together and socialize after staying indoors for 24 hours, they ask for forgiveness from one another as a way of letting go the past. Different areas have different ways they celebrate Ngembak Agni, which is a day to rejoice and spend the day outside. The observance of Nyepi also has environmental impacts, as the day of silence contributes to a noticeable drop in pollution levels due to the cessation of normal human activity.     

honeymoon in bali: romantic experience on the island of the gods

Bali a piece of heaven in Indonesia has stayed one of the world's best destinations and best honeymoon spots in 2024. TripAdvisor has crowned Bali as the best honeymoon destination in the Travelers’ Choice awards Best of the Best 2024. Winners needed to receive and sustain lots of amazing reviews at key destinations like hotels, restaurants and activities, as reviewed by individuals from the TripAdvisor community over 12 months. Bali defeated other honeymoon destinations such as the Maldives, Santorini, and Bora Bora. Adding to the pride, Bali won in two categories at once, ranking first in the Best Honeymoon Destination category and second in the Best of The Best Destination category. It's no surprise that Bali is considered the best honeymoon destination, offering an extraordinary experience for newlywed couples. The charm of Bali lies not only in its stunning beaches but also in its rich culture, luxury accommodations, and the diverse and unique Balinese cuisine. The beaches in Bali, such as Seminyak, Kuta, and Nusa Dua, provide a captivating beachside experience. The soft white sand, gentle waves, and stunning sunsets create the perfect backdrop for romantic moments. Meanwhile, more secluded beaches like Padang Padang or Bias Tugel offer the perfect peace and privacy for couples seeking tranquility. In addition to Ubud, areas like Candidasa, Tulamben, and West Bali have also started to attract tourists. Bali has also been chosen as a favourite location for pre-wedding photo sessions. The increasing popularity of this has even led to hotels being fully booked in Bali. There are also a number of activities that can be done together as a couple while in Bali. Starting from enjoying the sunrise at Mount Batur, strolling through the Ubud Monkey Forest which is home to more than 700 monkeys, enjoying the beauty of the underwater world at Nusa Lembongan Island, to witnessing the stunning sunset at Uluwatu Temple. Ending the day in Bali is incomplete without exploring its nightlife. Romantic restaurants with beautiful views, beachside bars, and local art performances add a profound impression to the honeymoon journey. Bali is also known for its culinary richness and local crafts. Enjoying traditional Balinese dishes at local restaurants or choosing unique souvenirs from local markets can be an experience for newlywed couples. With all its natural beauty, luxurious accommodations, and cultural richness, Bali is not just a honeymoon destination but an extraordinary experience that will weave unforgettable memories for couples celebrating love and togetherness on this island.

bali tourism office will carry out routine checks for "levy vouchers" at tourist destinations

Checking tourist levy vouchers will not only be checked through Bali's entry points, such as airports and several sea ports, but in accordance with applicable regional regulations and governor regulations, checks will also be carried out at tourist destinations in Bali.   This was conveyed by the Head of the Bali Provincial Tourism Office, Tjok Bagus Pemayun, at his office, Bali Provincial Tourism Office Monday, (26/2) after a preparatory meeting for Checking Tourist Levy Vouchers which was attended by representatives of related agencies and tourism associations.   It was further explained that this activity would be carried out after the tourist levy program had been running for three months. So checks at tourist destinations will be carried out regularly starting in May 2024, at least once a week, simultaneously in several destinations.   "We will carry out regular monitoring, as a form of enforcing existing regulations, to check whether tourists have paid or not," stressed Tjok Bagus. "For those who have paid, they will be allowed to enjoy their trip comfortably, and for those who have not, they will be directed to make payment at the location," he added.   By carrying out checking activities at destinations, Tjok Bagus urges all foreign tourists who will come to Bali to make payments in advance from their countries, through the available system, namely "lovebali.baliprov.go.id" so that their holidays are not disturbed by levy payments in Bali .   Travel agents who handle foreign tourists should always urge their tourists to prepare their levy vouchers while they are in Bali, because at any time there will be random checks from the Bali Province Tourism Civil Service Police Unit at tourist destinations or other places.   Tour guides are also expected to be able to provide clear information regarding tourists levy to the tourists they handle, and facilitate tourists in making Tourist Levy payment, he explained.

galungan: celebrating unity, spirituality, and cultural heritage in bali

Hari Raya Galungan is a significant Hindu holiday celebrated by the Balinese community every six months on the Balinese calendar, precisely on the day of Buddha Kliwon Dungulan (Wednesday Kliwon in the Dungulan week). It is a time for spiritual unity and reflection, aiming to achieve peaceful thoughts and convictions. Additionally, it celebrates the victory of dharma (truth) over adharma (evil).   The celebration involves offerings to Sang Hyang Widhi (the Supreme God) and Dewa Bhatara (the gods and goddesses in their various manifestations) as expressions of gratitude. In 2024, Hari Raya Galungan falls on Wednesday, February 28th, and Wednesday, September 25th.   One of the distinctive features of the Galungan celebration is the installation of penjor, tall bamboo poles decorated with offerings, lining the streets and creating a natural ambiance. Bali, known for its beauty and religious significance, often attracts attention as a tourist destination, especially during religious festivities like Galungan.   The penjor erected along the roadsides are considered a significant icon closely associated with the celebration of Hari Raya Galungan. They adorn the streets with a natural ambiance, enhancing the beauty of Bali. Such celebrations play a crucial role in preserving Bali's cultural heritage and religious practices, while also enriching the tourism experience for visitors to the island.   It's important to remember that festivities like Hari Raya Galungan are not merely religious events but integral parts of Bali's identity and communal life. As such, these celebrations are eagerly anticipated and enthusiastically celebrated each time they occur.

juneyao airlines inaugural flight in bali

Juneyao Airlines Inaugural Flight in Bali   I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport has again increased the frequency of routes and airlines in operation. The latest increase in international route connectivity was marked by the opening of direct flights to and from Pudong International Airport, Shanghai, People's Republic of China by Juneyao Airlines which flew first on Saturday (20/1). The Pudong (PVG) - Denpasar (DPS) direct route flight is the first additional international route frequency in 2024.   Currently, the number of foreign passenger arrivals from China has increased after previously in 2020 to 2021 being affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. The increase is in line with the projections of the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy (Kemenparekraf) which estimates that the number of foreign tourist arrivals from China to Indonesia will recover above 2025.   Chinese tourists coming to the island of Bali was in the third ranked with 265,805 tourists or contributing approximately 5 percent of the total number of tourists arriving through I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport throughout 2023 which recorded 5,317,287 tourists.   Juneyao Airlines with flight number HO 1355 on the Pudong (PVG) - Denpasar (DPS) route operates using an Airbus A320 type aircraft landing at I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport on Saturday (20/1) at 15.35 WITA, greeted by a water salute, carrying 153 passengers.   Currently, I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport - Bali has 21 domestic routes served by 11 airlines. As for international routes, with the addition of Juneyao Airlines, there are currently 38 airlines serving international routes with 36 routes at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport. Meanwhile, for routes to China at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport has previously been served by three airlines namely Xiamen Airlines, China Southern Airlines, and China Eastern Airlines with routes to and from Guangzhou, Fuzhou, Xiamen, and Shanghai.

the bali government tourism office officially released the bali calendar of events 2024.

The Bali Government Tourism Office officially released the Bali Calendar of Events 2024. The Bali Government Tourism Office officially launched the Bali Calendar of Events 2024 at the Etna Room, Bali Tourism Office in Denpasar, on Tuesday (23/1/2024). Bali Calendar of Events 2024 Is a compilation of information about events scheduled to take place in Bali throughout the year. The creation of CoE 2024 aims to provide information and references regarding the events that will be held in Bali in the year 2024. Throughout 2024, a total of 58 events will be held, comprising 48 cultural events, 4 sports events, and 6 MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) events. These events will take place across 9 regencies/cities in Bali. With numerous internationally acclaimed events scheduled in Bali, it is hoped that there will be an increase in both international and domestic tourists come to visit Bali, aligning with the campaign tagline #marikeBaliaja (let’s visit Bali).

penglipuran village wins unwto 2023 awards

Penglipuran Village won an award as one of the best tourist villages in 2023 according to the United Nation World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).  Penglipuran village is one of 54 villages on the list of "Best Tourism Village by UNWTO" in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. This year is the third edition of this award. In this third edition, 54 villages from all over the territory were selected out of 260 villages that applied. Another 20 villages have joined the Enhancement Programme, and all 74 villages are now part of the UNWTO Best Tourist Villages Network. This proud achievement was announced on Monday 23 October 2023 by the Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, Mr. Sandiaga Uno, that the Penglipuran Tourism Village from Bangli Regency, Bali Province was selected as the "Best Tourism Village 2023". This is not the first time Penglipuran Tourism Village has received an award. Several awards received by Penglipuran Village include: 1st Place in the 2013 Cipta Awards, followed by 1st Place in the 2014 National Tourism Village. The 3rd cleanest village in the world according to the international magazine Boombastic in 2016. ISTA (Indonesia Sustainable Tourism Award) 2017 with the best ranking for cultural preservation category. ASEAN Standard Tourism Village in the same year. 1st Place in Provincial Homestay, Asian Homestay Standard, Green Destination Sustainable 2019 and won the Non-Tourism award as a Climate Village.  "Best Tourism Village" from UNWTO is an extraordinary international award for the development of the Penglipuran Tourism Village. This award is not only for Penglipuran, but for Indonesian tourism in general. This achievement will also further elevate the Penglipuran Tourism Village at the international level. Apart from that, this award is a motivation for the Penglipuran community to maintain and preserve traditions and culture so that tourism in the Penglipuran Tourism Village can be sustainable.   Photo Source: kemenparekraf


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Love Bali Application as the Implementation of Bali Province Regional Regulation Number 6 of 2023 concerning Levy for Foreign Tourists for the Protection of Balinese Culture and Natural Environment.