As opposed to earlier reports that said, Bali may reopen for international tourists from September 2020, the new developments hint at the fact that the Indonesian haven could very well remain off-limits for international travellers this year. By Kumar Shree
Given the number of rising COVID-19 cases in the country, it seems unlikely that Bali will reopen anytime soon for international tourists. It is also likely that all non-essential travel to the country will be barred until the end of 2020. Even though the Indonesian government is still considering whether to reopen Bali for international travellers in September or not, the chances seem pretty slim. Especially looking at the fact that despite being shut since April, Coronavirus cases are still on a steady rise in the country.
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As per the Head of the Bali Provincial Tourism Office, Putu Astawa, the Minister of Law and Human Rights has not allowed the entry of foreign tourists in the country yet. And until a go-ahead comes from that front, it will not be possible to resume international tourism in Bali.
Despite knowing that reopening Bali for tourism will be a positive move, the government is in no mood to compromise with the safety of people. On the other hand, since tourism forms an integral part of the economy for Bali, the government is also trying to establish travel bubbles.
While speculations suggest that Bali will be one of the Indonesia tourist hotspots under the travel bubble scheme, islands such as Belitung in Bangka Belitung, Lombok in West Nusa Tenggara, and Bintan in Riau come across as probable contenders for the final list too.
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Those who were planning a trip to Bali, don’t lose hope just yet because the Indonesian government is working on another plan, which might make it possible to not only visit the country but stay there for some time as well.
The government is planning to introduce a new regulation that will enable travellers to stay in the country and work remotely. If such regulation comes into effect, it will enable easy stay on the island with fewer visa hassles.
Related: Christ The Redeemer Gets A Deep Cleaning Before Reopening For Visitors
