European Cities Flipping The Script On Overtourism Could Inspire New Approach For Bali

Understanding Overtourism’s Growing Impact

The phenomenon of overtourism is rapidly becoming a pressing issue around the globe, affecting popular destinations from Barcelona and Lisbon in Europe to the picturesque landscapes of the Galapagos Islands and Boracay. This surge in tourism has led to overcrowding, environmental degradation, and disruption to local communities, prompting authorities to rethink their tourism strategies. Bali, renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture, is now facing similar challenges, particularly in its central southern resorts, which are nearing the tipping point of overtourism.

Looking to Europe for Solutions

As Bali grapples with these challenges, there is an opportunity to learn from the effective strategies implemented by various European cities. Copenhagen, for example, has pioneered an innovative program called CopenPay, designed not only to curb the impacts of overtourism but also to encourage tourists to positively contribute to the local community.

Launched in 2024, the CopenPay initiative was created with the intent of fostering environmentally sustainable behaviors among visitors. According to Rikke Holm Petersen, the Director of Marketing at Wonderful Copenhagen, the goal is to transform tourism into "a force for positive change" rather than an environmental burden. The program encourages tourists to engage in environmentally friendly activities, including picking up litter and volunteering in community gardens, in exchange for complimentary or discounted access to various attractions throughout the city.

Community Engagement Through Volunteerism

Participants in the CopenPay program have the chance to participate in meaningful activities that allow them to connect with the local culture and community. Livia Urban Swart Haaland, the founder of Oens Have Gardens in Copenhagen, expressed the positive outcomes of having tourists volunteer in her organization. "We’re just happy that people have the opportunity to join in who wouldn’t have heard about it. I think it’s really nice when you travel to contribute and go a little deeper into the culture," she noted, illustrating the potential for tourists to play a significant role in uplifting local communities.

With CopenPay proving successful, the solutions explored in Denmark may hold promise for Bali as it seeks to promote a tourism model that encourages cultural respect and sustainable practices.

Bali’s Current Measures Against Overtourism

Presently, one of the primary measures Bali has enacted to counteract overtourism is the Bali Tourism Tax Levy, which was instituted in 2024. The mandatory fee of IDR 150,000 per international tourist aims to support initiatives that nurture the island’s natural environment, preserve its rich culture, and enhance local infrastructure. However, data reveals that compliance with the levy has been low, with only about 35% of international arrivals contributing during its initial year.

Tourism officials in Bali have acknowledged the need for improvements in both collecting and communicating about the tax levy. Many tourists find it inconvenient to pay the fee upon arrival at Bali Airport or through the LoveBali app and website, which are not widely known. Furthermore, without any legal ramifications for not paying, many visitors lack the impetus to ensure they comply with the requirement.

The Path Forward for Bali Tourism

As the second year of the Bali Tourism Tax approaches, tourism leaders are emphasizing the importance of reminding visitors to pay the fee in advance of their travels. Tourists are encouraged to retain their QR-code voucher for easy presentation to Tourism Task Force Officers during spot checks.

While the Bali Tourism Tax is a step toward sustainability, the island may benefit from exploring more proactive and community-driven approaches like those in Copenhagen. If implemented effectively, innovative programs could help mitigate the effects of overtourism, ensuring that both tourists and locals share in a mutually beneficial experience.

As Bali continues to navigate the complexities of tourism, the lessons learned from global counterparts may help shape a more sustainable future for both the island and its visitors.