The Island of the Gods has seen a jump in flights by more than 50% after opening to domestic tourism some four months back. Photo Credit: Wonderful Indonesia
Bali is on track for a much-anticipated open to international tourism
— and that might come as soon as Christmas this year, according to The
World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) following a visit to the Indonesian
destination last week.
The UNWTO delegation, led by the Asia and Pacific director Harry
Hwang, visited Bali for an on-site assessment of the health and safety
measures implemented by the Indonesian government and the Bali
administration to prepare the reopening of the island for international
tourists.
The UN body found the safety standards and protocol to be
"excellent", Hwang told reporters while in Nusu Dua on 10 December. "You
guys are ready to open for tourism soon, or next year. I wouldn't be
surprised if the government announced that Bali is open before
Christmas."
"I hope our collaboration with the government of Indonesia can be a
good example that neighbouring countries, other countries in Asia, can
learn (from)," according to a report from The Straits Times.
On the ground, MoTCE has reinforced the Cleanliness, Health, Safety,
and Environmental Sustainability (CHSE) protocols as part of
IndonesiaCare, as international flights await to reopen.
"These protocols ensure a smooth travel experience, while
prioritising the health and safety for all domestic and global visitors
who are coming to Bali. We believe that the tourism and creative economy
sector can return to productivity, but most importantly remain safe
from Covid-19," said MoTCE's director of communication, Agustini Rahayu.
The new protocols include regular disinfectant procedures, safe
physical distancing, and temperature checking at every relevant venue,
including pick up and transfer services. Before entering Bali, visitors
are required to present a negative swab test result and provide a
QR-code for verification by a Ministry of Health officer at immigration
stations.
The CHSE protocols have also tapped on digital services to minimise
physical contact throughout the airport exit experience and upon arrival
at their accommodation. Visitors' baggage will also be disinfected. For
further assurance, every place, destination, or any tourism businesses
that has passed the CHSE's assessment will earn an official certified
sign of IndonesiaCare.
According to state-owned airport operator, PT Angkasa Pura I, the
Island of the Gods has seen a jump in flights by more than 50% after
opening to domestic tourism some four months back. Compared to 2019,
tourism had dropped by 12% in 3Q this year.