One of the most mystical destinations in Asia is the beloved island of Bali.
Indonesia’s most sought-after treasure has seen changes over the years, but travelers continue coming in droves.
Not all travelers feel their expectations are being met anymore, however. Many of the same draws remain, but it no longer fits the mold as the same Eat. Pray. Love. destination you might imagine.
Very popular among digital nomads, solo travelers and those in search of an exotic beach escape, here are 7 new things travelers need to know about visiting Bali in 2024:
Taxi Safety
While you may picture yourself scooting around on a moped like a local, there may come a time when you need to hitch a ride.
Bali has made efforts to improve taxi safety for tourists, but new reports are warning of fake blue taxis operating in and around top resorts.
In particular, Bluebird-branded taxis are seeing fraudulent copycats. Dawning the same color-scheme, tourists should see if the driver is wearing an official uniform and make sure there are clear fares and a meter.
Spike In Prices Across The Board
Travelers typically view Southeast Asia as an affordable adventure, but Bali is changing that perception.
One recent post on social media went viral from a tourist showing a receipt for bottled water, being charged $15 for two.
Those are Dubai prices! Ranging from resorts, restaurants, yoga classes and massages, prices are spiking across the board.
Tourists are advised to avoid ‘tourist traps’ to stretch their travel budget.
Traffic Nightmares
One popular area in Bali is Canggu, but travelers have been complaining of traffic nightmares. While we love Bali, we recommend avoiding this side of Bali this year for a variety of annoyances.
The bottom line is Canggu just isn’t passing the vibe check right now. Although, Bali officials have promised to alleviate road congestion with a newly opened ‘shortcut’.
Time will tell if that’s a viable solution, but we still recommend checking out Seminyak as an alternative until further notice.
Visa Changes
Just last month, Indonesia announced a new 5-year multi-entry visa catered to Bali travelers. Tourists and business travelers can stay 60 days at a time during a 5-year span with a price tag of IDR 15,000,000.
For visas on arrival, tourists are encouraged to use the e-visa platform for speedy service.
Travelers from 97 countries are eligible for visas on arrival for a lesser free of IDR 500,000.
Talks are ongoing about visa-free travel entirely, but no official word has been announced just yet.
Indonesian Law
Travelers may venture off to Bali to let loose, but they need to be aware of some strict laws when visiting. Recent updates to these laws affect how travelers can post about their trip.
The country’s Information and Electronic Transaction Laws (ITE) determine what can be displayed online or in the media.
Portraying the country in a bad light can put travelers in a serious pickle. Additionally, it’s best to stay away from the topics of hate speech, defamation, nudity, all illegal activities, and any critique of culture or government entirely.
Wildlife Encounters
One unique aspect of Bali trips is the up close and personal interactions with wildlife you can’t experience back home.
Sometimes travelers get a little too comfortable, however. Especially when monkey thieves are on the loose!
Bali officials are again warning tourists of close interactions with monkeys, in particular, after a monkey ripped apart a tourist’s passport. How do you explain that at the Embassy?
Elephant sanctuaries are a popular attraction on the island, but reports are conflicting if animal welfare is held to high standards.
Tourists are encouraged to do their due diligence when visiting these types of attractions.
Beach Caution
Beyond price hikes and traffic frustrations, the beach is always the ultimate place to recharge, no matter where you are.
Unfortunately, safety and awareness go to the wayside, as not all beaches are the same. The sheer beauty of Bali’s beaches can be distracting, and we forget it’s important for beachgoers to remain aware of water conditions.
Tragically, multiple tourists have lost their lives to drowning. Officials are urging tourists to be cautious when swimming in Bali’s waters anywhere along the island’s stunning coastlines.
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