Bali Implements a New Tourist Tax

April 3, 2024 TruthUSA

The Bali government implemented a tax to address the negative impact of international tourists’ behavior and the environment.

Australians planning to visit Bali, Indonesia’s most famous tourism spot, must be aware of a new levy imposed by the local government to address issues caused by international visitors.

This levy, unveiled in 2023 and initiated in February, requires travelers, including children, to pay approximately $15 (US$9.85) per person during their visit to Bali.

After a series of high-profile incidents in 2023 involving the bad behavior of international tourists, local authorities introduced this tax to generate around $80 million annually. The revenue will support cultural preservation and environmental initiatives.

While the levy is now in effect, its strict enforcement by Bali authorities has not been consistent.

According to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), many Australian tourists visiting Bali during the Easter holiday did not have to pay the tax, while some paid when encountering police checks.

Ketut Yadnya, a tourism official, expressed that the Bali government aims to raise awareness among tourists regarding the tax to manage tourism better.

“There’s no fine if you don’t pay, and tourists can still leave Bali at the airport. There’s no problem,” he said, as reported by the ABC.

Over 5.2 million international tourists visited Bali in 2023, with an average of 439,000 visitors per month. Australians comprised the largest group, representing 27.8% of visitors (123,766) in December 2023.

International Tourist Incidents in Bali

While misbehavior by tourists is not new in Bali, a series of events in 2023 compelled the local government to take action.

In April 2023, a Russian national garnered attention for posing nude under the sacred Kayu Putih Banyan Tree in the Tabanan district, leading to her deportation.

A month later, a 28-year-old German tourist disrupted a sacred dance performance at a local temple by stripping naked and storming the stage.

The tourist was arrested and sent to a mental hospital due to her history of mental health issues.

Some Australian tourists were involved in altercations at a local bar while intoxicated.

In addition to the new tax, Bali authorities introduced rules in 2023 to address unruly behavior. Tourists were reminded to respect religious sites, customs, and traditions, dress modestly, adhere to local regulations, and use the Indonesian currency for transactions.

Aldgra Fredly contributed to this article.

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