Starting next year, Bali, Indonesia's resort destination, will impose a 150,000 rupiah ($10) tax on tourists entering the island in an effort to preserve its culture and raise funds. Bali, known as the 'Island of Gods,' relies heavily on tourism and seeks to capitalize on its appeal while safeguarding its tropical allure.
Governor I Wayan Koster explained that the fee will be a one-time payment for foreign tourists visiting Bali. The tax must be paid electronically and will be applicable to international tourists arriving in Bali from abroad or other parts of Indonesia. However, domestic Indonesian tourists will be exempt from this levy.
Official statistics show that over two million tourists visited Bali last year, indicating a strong recovery from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. Bali's zero-tolerance policy on rule-breakers contributed to its successful rebound. Governor Koster expressed confidence that the new tax would not deter visitors, emphasizing that the funds collected would be utilized to improve the environment, preserve the island's culture, and enhance infrastructure, ensuring a more comfortable and safe travel experience for those visiting Bali.
In recent times, Bali has faced challenges related to misbehaving tourists who have shown disrespect towards the predominantly Hindu island's culture. Incidents such as a Danish woman flashing in public while riding a motorbike and a Russian woman posting a nude photo in front of a sacred tree led to their deportation by Bali immigration authorities. To address these concerns, the local government released a guide in June to educate tourists about proper behavior while visiting Bali, following pressure from the island's immigration office.
The implementation of the tourist tax reflects Bali's commitment to preserving its cultural heritage and maintaining the pristine beauty that has attracted millions of visitors each year. By investing the funds raised through this tax, Bali aims to enhance its infrastructure, protect the environment, and ensure that tourists can enjoy a memorable and respectful experience on the 'Island of Gods.'
https://m.economictimes.com/nri/vis...reserve-culture/amp_articleshow/101714799.cms
