Bali Considers Daily Tourist Tax to Attract Higher-Quality Visitors
Bali, Indonesia – As Bali continues to grapple with the challenges posed by overtourism, local authorities are contemplating a significant shift in their approach to tourist fees. The island, known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, is considering transitioning from a one-time tourist tax to a daily tax system aimed at attracting higher-quality tourists.
Approximately a year ago, Bali introduced a mandatory fee of IDR 150,000 (around $9) for all tourists. This fee is intended to support the sustainability of the island’s tourism industry. However, reports from The Bali Sun indicate that enforcement and communication regarding this policy have been lacking, resulting in fewer than 40% of international arrivals actually paying the fee.
Tourists are expected to settle this fee upon arrival at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport or through the LoveBali website and app. After completing the payment, visitors receive a QR-code voucher which serves as proof of payment. However, tourism officers, who are responsible for checking compliance with the fee, have struggled to enforce the payment process effectively.
In a conversation with a reporter from the South China Morning Post, Wayan Puspa Negara, head of the Bali Marginal Tourism Actors alliance and a lawmaker in the Badung regency, expressed a desire for Bali to adopt a more selective approach to tourism, similar to Bhutan’s model. Bhutan attracts significantly fewer visitors, with a cap on annual entries to less than one million. To visit, tourists must apply for a visa prior to travel, which costs about $40, in addition to a daily Sustainable Development Fee of $100. Puspa Negara suggested that by adopting a similar strategy, Bali could potentially reduce the number of ill-behaved tourists and better manage the effects of overtourism. Currently, the tourism sector constitutes a critical component of Bali’s economy, accounting for over half of its overall income. Nonetheless, the strain of increased tourist traffic has manifested in various challenges, including severe traffic congestion, rampant development, and a surge in incidents involving disruptive behaviors among visitors.
The discussions surrounding the potential implementation of a daily tax reflect ongoing efforts by Balinese officials to both sustain and enhance the island’s tourism industry while maintaining the integrity of its cultural and environmental heritage. The goal is to create a more balanced tourism model that not only supports the local economy but also fosters responsible travel practices among visitors. As Bali navigates these decisions, its future as a premier travel destination hangs in the balance, with a focused aim to retain its uniqueness and appeal for many years to come.
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