Bali Will Reopen To U.S. and UK Travelers in October

Officials representing Bali, Indonesia, announced that the island destination will begin welcoming some international tourists next month. The island’s reopening will start with travelers from four countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom.

Denpasar, Bali Island, Indonesia. Aircrafts of national Indonesian air carrier Garuda in front of passenger terminal of Denpasar International Airport Ngurah Rai.

Bali’s Reopening Will Begin With 4 Countries

In a statement on Monday, Bali’s Vice Governor Tjokorda Oka Artha Ardhana Sukawati (Cok Ace) clarified that the destination’s reopening process is going to be measured by the length of stay of tourists from other countries.

“We have selected multiple countries such as Russia, America, Germany and England to start implementing the travel bubble program based on their length of stay in Bali. And visitors from those countries usually spend around 2 weeks on the island,” the Vice Governor remarked.

A young Bali female dancer is performing the Ramayana dance in a temple of Bali, in Indonesia. The Hindu culture in Bali is still preserved today and attracts millions of visitors in the Island of Gods for its the culture and natural beauty

Indonesia Loosening Travel Restrictions

The announcement follows a travel restrictions update this week from the Indonesian Government. From September 28th, 2021, more international visitors are now allowed into Indonesia, including:

  • Diplomatic and Official visa holders
  • Diplomatic and Official stay permit
  • Holders of Indonesia Temporary Residence Card (KITAS) and Indonesia Permanent Residence Card (KITAP)
  • Visitor and limited stay visas

You can find more information about visas on the official government website.

surfer girl in Bali

Vice Governor Cok Ace also mentioned during his announcement that Bali is prepared to welcome international travelers once again because a significant amount of the island’s eligible population is fully inoculated against Covid-19.

“According to the recent data, around 97% of Bali residents have received their first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine and 75% of people have completed the second dose. The vaccination program is expected to finish in the beginning of October.”

The Island Is Prepped For A Reopening

As reported in the Bali Sun, the island has prepared over 60 hospitals on the island for potential Covid patients. Labs throughout the island are ready to administer molecular tests for travelers, at a capacity of approximately 4,000 tests/day.

Uluwatu Temple (Pura Luhur Uluwatu) is a Balinese Hindu sea temple located in Uluwatu. One of six key temples believed to be Bali's spiritual pillars, is renowned for its magnificent location, perched on top of a cliff.

Indonesia Entry Restrictions Update: Vaccinations and Pre-Departure Tests Required

All travelers entering Indonesia (Bali included) must be fully vaccinated against Covid-19. A coronavirus vaccine card displaying the traveler’s dosage information and dates must be shown at departure and arrival in Indonesia. Vaccinations that are accepted for travel to Indonesia are Pfizer, Moderna, Sinovac, AstraZeneca, Sinopharm and Johnson & Johnson.

Eligible travelers to Indonesia must also provide proof of a negative Covid PCR test result taken no later than 72 hours from departure, as well as a barcode from their electronic Indonesia Health Certificate (e-HAC) to show airport officials during the check-in process and after arrival.

To get the barcode for travel, you can fill out the form by downloading the “Pedull Lindungi” app to your smartphone. Once the form is completed you will receive a barcode to show at check-in and upon arrival in Bali. If you are traveling with kids, you can put your children’s names on the e-HAC form so you don’t need to create multiple accounts.

Bali safety protocols tourists

Check The Requirements For Any Stopovers

With limited direct flights available from the U.S. and the UK to Bali, many travelers will have to transit through a third country on a stopover. If you are planning your trip to Bali or somewhere else in Indonesia in the next few weeks or months, make sure to check the entry requirements for any countries you will be passing through on your trip.

Singapore, for instance, mandates that all travelers must show proof of a negative Covid test taken only 48 hours before departure. Always double check with your airline as well as any transiting countries prior to travel.

woman from behind with a backpack looking out at the rice fields in Bali, Indonesia

A New Type Of Tourist In Bali

Over the past few months, there have been reports that the island paradise is working to rebrand itself as a tourist destination. After decades of being a sought-after hub for 20-something backpackers as well as a quick long weekend getaway destination for visitors from nearby Australia, officials in Indonesia want to attract a more upscale type of tourist towards Bali as travel starts to reopen.

bali couple

Source link