Officials in Bali Urge Tourists to Prioritize Health and Fitness Before Traveling
Bali, Indonesia – In light of recent medical emergencies and challenging conditions on the island, Bali officials are urging tourists to thoroughly assess their health and fitness before embarking on their trips. The advisory comes amid a week marked by natural disasters, unseasonable weather, and several urgent rescue operations involving foreign visitors.
Medical Emergencies Highlight the Need for Preparedness
A series of medical incidents involving international tourists has prompted authorities to emphasize the importance of comprehensive travel and medical insurance as well as physical readiness. On July 6th, an Australian man suffered a serious head and neck injury after having a seizure and falling against a wall near baggage claim at Ngurah Rai International Airport. Airport police spokesperson I Gusti Ngurah Rai Ipda I Gede Suka Artana confirmed the incident and reported that the man had a history of hypertension. After receiving initial treatment on site, he was transferred to BIMC Kuta Hospital for further care.
Artana reassured the public that airport police and support teams remain vigilant to ensure passenger safety throughout the airport environment. He commented, “The I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport Regional Police are always on alert and work closely with related parties to maintain security and safety for all passengers.”
Hiking and Physical Fitness Concerns
Beyond health, the physical demands of popular activities such as hiking have also raised safety concerns. On July 8th, a mother and her teenage son became lost while hiking Mount Batukaru in Tabanan Regency. The pair, part of a group of seven, had separated and were found by search and rescue teams after leaving behind traces of food. Officials stressed that hiking Bali’s volcanoes or mountains without a licensed local guide is illegal for both domestic and international tourists.
I Nyoman Sidakarya, Head of Bali’s Search and Rescue agency (Basarnas), commented, “The team reached altitudes of 1,600 meters above sea level to locate them. The pair were found safe but suffering from cold conditions.” The mother and son were able to return down the trail following guidance from rescuers.
This incident was referenced by Indonesia’s Minister of Forestry, Raja Juli Antoni, while discussing recent fatalities on Lombok’s Mount Rinjani. He cautioned tourists against underestimating the physical and mental demands of mountain climbing, stating, “Climbing mountains requires physical exercise, proper equipment, and mental readiness. It is not comparable to a visit to the mall or office.”
Ongoing Rescue Operations and Safety Alerts
Search and rescue missions continue across Bali, including the efforts to locate a 29-year-old Saudi Arabian tourist swept out to sea at Batu Belig Beach. The search, hampered by poor underwater visibility, has progressed over several days with no sign yet of the missing swimmer.
Additionally, teams are still working to recover victims from the KMP Tunu Pratama Jaya ferry disaster on July 2nd. The shipwreck, located between Ketapang Port and Gilimanuk Harbour, has reportedly shifted 800 meters from its original sinking point, complicating rescue efforts.
Authorities Urge Tourists to Exercise Caution
Following the recent events, Bali tourism and safety officials call on all travelers to:
- Conduct honest health and fitness evaluations before travel
- Secure full coverage travel and medical insurance
- Respect local laws, including mandatory guides for mountain hikes
- Prepare adequately for physical challenges inherent in activities like climbing and swimming
With Bali welcoming visitors from around the world, these measures are essential to ensuring safe and enjoyable experiences on the island.
As Bali navigates these challenges, the island’s authorities remain committed to safeguarding all visitors. Tourists planning to visit are encouraged to stay informed and heed official advice to protect their well-being during their stay.
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