Thailand-Cambodia Conflict Redirects Tourists to Bali, Boosting Indonesia’s Tourism Industry
The recent border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia have unexpectedly benefited Indonesia’s popular tourist destination, Bali, as travelers reroute their holidays away from the conflict zone. Industry experts on the island report an early surge in visitor numbers, estimated between 10 to 15 percent, attributed largely to tourists seeking safer alternatives following the outbreak of hostilities near the Thailand-Cambodia border.
Border Clashes Drive Regional Tourism Shifts
The conflict began on July 25, 2025, when military clashes broke out near Preah Vihear temple in Cambodia and Ubon Ratchathani province in Thailand. The fighting resulted in at least 38 fatalities and displaced over 300,000 people. A ceasefire was agreed upon and went into effect on the night of July 28, but reports of violations and subsequent stalled negotiations have left the situation tense. In response, several governments, including Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom, revised their travel advisories, cautioning tourists against traveling within 50 kilometers of the disputed border region.
Although major Thai tourism destinations like Bangkok and Phuket remain unaffected by the violence, the widespread perception of instability has led some travelers to reconsider their plans. Many have opted to trade temple visits traditionally associated with Thailand and Cambodia for the beaches and safety of Bali.
Bali Poised to Welcome More Tourists
Local tourism officials and hotel operators in Bali are witnessing early signs of this shift. I Gusti Agung Ngurah Rai Suryawijaya, Deputy Chair of the Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI) in Bali, shared insights with local news outlet NusaBali, highlighting the island’s reputation as a safe and welcoming destination. “Because Bali is considered safe and conducive, we are seeing a spillover from tourists who initially planned to visit Thailand,” he said. While definitive statistics on re-routed flights are not yet available, Ngurah Rai Suryawijaya estimates a rise in visitor numbers ranging from 10 to 15 percent.
Similarly, Perry Markus, PHRI Secretary, expressed optimism about the potential for extended tourist stays amid the increased arrivals. Speaking to the Indonesian news site Republika, he emphasized that travelers prioritize destinations where they feel secure and comfortable. “This pattern could occur because tourists want to travel in safe and comfortable places,” Markus explained, adding that the industry hopes this trend translates into longer visits and sustained tourism growth.
Looking Ahead
Indonesia’s tourism sector is closely monitoring developments surrounding the Thailand-Cambodia conflict, aware that the current situation remains fluid. However, Bali’s position as a serene beach destination with strong safety credentials has already begun to attract tourists facing uncertainty elsewhere in Southeast Asia.
As the region navigates these geopolitical challenges, Bali’s tourism industry is preparing for increased demand, aiming to accommodate and benefit from travelers seeking refuge from instability while enjoying Indonesia’s renowned hospitality and natural beauty.
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