Bali Hotels Directed to Maintain Prices Amid Tourists’ Hunt for Deals

Bali, Indonesia – April 18, 2025: In a recent development concerning the island’s hospitality sector, Bali’s tourism leaders have issued a strong directive to hotels, resorts, and guesthouses, urging them not to lower room rates amidst an ongoing low season and shifting travel trends. The Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI) is advocating for a unified front against price wars, which they argue could harm the local economy and degrade the overall tourist experience.

Concerns Over Competitive Pricing

I Gusti Agung Ngurah Rai Suryawijaya, the Chairman of the PHRI for Badung Regency, expressed to reporters that while the island welcomes substantial tourist footfall—with approximately 17,000 visitors arriving daily—the competition for pricing should not compromise the sustainability of local businesses. “If we look at international tourists, those who come are still in the normal category with 42 direct flights and plus one from Saudi Arabia, bringing the total to 43 flights per day. The average arrival is between 16,000-17,000 people,” Suryawijaya stated.

Travel demographics are increasingly shifting, with more middle-class tourists appearing on the island. These visitors typically prefer affordable accommodations over luxury hotels, opting for private rental villas, guesthouses, and homestays. While this trend is beneficial for locally-operated lower-cost establishments, Suryawijaya cautioned against illegal accommodations that do not comply with regulations and taxation requirements.

The Implications of Undercutting Prices

Suryawijaya raised concerns about the adverse effects of these price wars. He warned that if legal businesses reduce their prices to stay competitive, tax revenue from the tourism sector could dwindle, negatively affecting local services. “We must work together with stakeholders, including immigration, police, and local associations, to monitor this situation,” he urged, expressing worry that lower prices might entice individuals to come to Bali not as tourists but as jobseekers, exacerbating local employment and social issues.

Further emphasizing the economic implications, he noted that budget cuts in accommodation prices could lead to higher crime rates if more individuals move to the island seeking unregulated work. Suryawijaya observed that tax targets in Badung were not met in the first quarter of 2025, indicating the challenges confronting Bali’s tourism barometer.

Affordable Accommodation Options Await

Despite the directive against lowering prices, tourists visiting Bali can still uncover significant deals. Several hotels across the island are promoting tempting packages that provide considerable value without compromising quality. For instance, the Padma Legian, a prominent beachfront hotel, is currently offering an advance booking discount of up to 40% for stays between April and June 2025, which also includes complimentary breakfast and airport transfers for longer stays.

Other establishments, such as the Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort, are delivering enticing offers that include family-friendly amenities and discounts at on-site restaurants. The Suite Experience package provides accommodation for families with children, including a daily buffet breakfast and access to various activities tailored for visitors of all ages.

Tourists are encouraged to explore these promotional deals throughout the island’s popular destinations as they plan their trips to Bali in 2025. Although nightly rates may remain steady, the availability of attractive packages presents a valuable opportunity for budget-conscious travelers.

Conclusion

As Bali navigates the complexities of changing tourism trends while safeguarding its local economy, both industry leaders and visitors must adapt to evolving conditions. While prices may hold firm in the face of competition, the creativity displayed in promotional offers ensures that travelers still have a rich array of options for an enjoyable stay on the enchanting island of Bali.