The enchanting island of Bali is bustling with excitement as it welcomes the holiday season, marked by a significant influx of travelers. According to the Bali Transportation Agency (Dinas Perhubungan), a staggering 47,000 vehicles entered the island from the Gilimanuk and Padangbai ports in anticipation of the Christmas and New Year (Nataru) festivities. This surge, recorded from December 19 to 24, 2023, paints a vivid picture of the island’s popularity during this joyous time.
The head of Bali’s Transportation Agency, I Gde Wayan Samsi Gunarta, reported that 43,934 vehicles arrived through the Gilimanuk port during the specified period, representing a notable 32.7% increase compared to the previous Nataru holiday. Not only did the vehicles increase, but the number of passengers also saw a substantial rise, with 181,000 people making their way to Bali from Gilimanuk, marking a 31% surge or 43,178 individuals.
The Padangbai port in Karangasem also experienced a surge in arrivals, recording 3,849 vehicles, a remarkable 124% increase from the previous Nataru holiday. The number of passengers arriving through Padangbai reached 9,123, witnessing a 28.2% increase or 2,000 more individuals compared to the previous year.
Additionally, the Bali Transportation Agency noted a spike in the arrivals of intercity and interprovince buses (AKAP) through the Mengwi Terminal in Badung. The count reached 430 vehicles from December 19 to 24, 2023, representing a significant 62.3% increase compared to the Nataru holiday in 2022/2023, which only saw 265 vehicles.
Simultaneously, Pelabuhan Ketapang in Banyuwangi, East Java, contributed significantly to the surge, with 125,799 passengers and 32,000 vehicles crossing to the Gilimanuk port during the Christmas and New Year period from December 18 to 22, 2023. This marked a 17% increase in passengers and a 20% increase in two- and four-wheeled vehicles compared to the previous year.
As the festive season brings this wave of travelers, the ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero) emphasizes the importance of planning ahead. Shelvy Arifin, Corporate Secretary of ASDP, urges travelers to purchase tickets at least a day before departure, emphasizing the convenience of using the Ferizy application for ticket transactions.
Conclusion: The surge in holiday travel to Bali reflects the island’s enduring charm as a favored destination during festive seasons. While the increased numbers bring vitality to the tourism industry, it is crucial for both authorities and travelers to prioritize safety and efficient travel planning. As Bali continues to be a sought-after holiday haven, managing the influx of visitors becomes a shared responsibility to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
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