Travelers planning a visit to the renowned Indonesian island of Bali should be aware of a new tourist tax recently put into effect, beginning this Wednesday.
According to officials, this newly introduced tax, amounting to 150,000 Rupiah ($9.61),Alternatively, those who haven’t paid in advance can settle the fee at cashless bank counters upon arrival at the airport or harbor.
In an official statement upon the announcement of the tax, officials expressed hopes that this measure would stimulate the revival of the tourism industry and associated creative activities. Additionally, they emphasized the tax’s role in ensuring the sustainability and preservation of tourism in the region.
The revenue generated from this tax is earmarked for various purposes, including conservation efforts, the preservation of Bali’s rich cultural heritage, the enhancement of tourism governance, and the development of quality public transportation infrastructure.
Travelers opting to pay the tax online will be required to provide their credit card or bank details along with their passport number and arrival date. However, certain exemptions apply, such as for individuals holding diplomatic or official visas, student visa holders, and those with temporary or permanent stay permits.
Bali’s adoption of a tourist tax is not an isolated occurrence. This year, Venice is set to introduce a fee for day trippers in addition to its existing overnight guest tax, while Iceland has announced plans to levy charges on travelers to support its environmental and sustainability objectives. Similarly, cities like Paris and Amsterdam, which already impose tourist taxes, have revised their tariffs upwards.
Despite the increased cost associated with visiting Bali, the implementation of the tax coincides with the island’s low season, typically spanning from January to March. Travelers venturing during this period can benefit from fewer crowds and potentially reduced prices, albeit alongside the challenges of humid and rainy weather conditions.