The Indonesian island of Bali is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and lush landscapes. However, in recent years, the island has experienced issues related to overtourism, leading to overcrowding and strain on local resources. To address this problem, the Balinese government has introduced a new tourist tax that will be implemented starting from February 14th.
The new tourist tax aims to regulate the number of visitors to Bali and generate funds for tourism management, environmental cleanup efforts, and disaster management. The fee, which costs 150,000 rupiahs (approximately $9.50), will be in addition to any other visa fees that travelers are required to pay upon entry.
It is important to note that the tourist tax will only be enforced in Bali and not in other parts of Indonesia. However, travelers must pay the fee during each visit to Bali, even if they leave the island to visit another Indonesian destination and return during the same trip.
International travelers, including children, who possess specific non-tourist visas such as Kartu Izin Tinggal Tetap (Indonesia’s permanent stay permit card), family unification, golden or student visas, will be exempt from paying the tax. This exemption is aimed at encouraging long-term visitors and individuals who have a vested interest in the country.
To facilitate the payment of the tourist tax, the Balinese government has introduced two options for travelers. Desktop users can visit the Love Bali website (lovebali.baliprov.go.id) to access information about the charge and payment options. Mobile users, on the other hand, can download the Love Bali app (available on iOS and Android) to learn more about the tax and make the necessary payments.
Both platforms offer various payment methods, including credit cards like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. After providing the required details such as name, email, passport number, and arrival date, travelers can complete the payment process. A confirmation email will be sent to verify the successful payment.
It is essential for travelers to be aware of this new tourist tax to avoid any issues or delays during their visit to Bali. By paying the fee, visitors can contribute to the preservation of Balinese culture, the improvement of tourism management, and the protection of the environment.
In conclusion, the introduction of the new tourist tax in Bali is a step towards addressing the issue of overtourism on the island. By implementing this fee, the Balinese government aims to regulate the number of visitors, generate funds for tourism management, and protect the environment. Travelers planning a trip to Bali should be aware of this tax and make the necessary arrangements to pay it in advance. By doing so, they can contribute to sustainable tourism and help preserve the beauty and culture of the island.