Bali closed to foreign tourists until end of 2020
Travel Biz News —
Indonesia’s tourism jewel Bali will be closed for international tourism until the end of 2020.
According to Bali’s Governor Wayan Koster , the decision to restrict tourists to Bali this year was taken after considering all the factors of serious concern.
Bali will delay its reopening until 2021 in line with the policy of the government of Indonesia.
“The situation in Indonesia is not yet conducive to allow foreign tourists to visit Indonesia, including Bali.”
Bali had originally planned on reopening its borders for international tourism starting on September 11th but had not received the go ahead from Indonesian government.
Citing an increase in COVID-19 cases and a high death rate in Indonesia, the Indonesian government will not allow foreign tourists explained Koster, the Bali Sun reported.
Governor Koster focused on the importance of Bali’s reopening stating that the island is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations.
“This must not be rushed, and requires very careful preparation. This is due to Bali’s position as one of the world’s main tourist destinations.”
“Until the end of 2020, the Provincial Government of Bali will optimize efforts to bring domestic tourists to Bali in order to restore tourism and the economy of Bali, ” he added.
The decision comes as the number of coronavirus cases in Indonesia continues to rise, officially standing at 157,800 cases and 6,800 deaths on Wednesday, according to figures from Johns Hopkins University.
A total of 16.1 million foreign tourists visited Indonesia in 2019, including 6.3 million tourists in Bali.
Image : A popular beach of Bali – Bali Sun
Aug. 26 , 2020
