A powerful earthquake struck Indonesia’s popular resort island of Bali and other parts of the country, sparking panic but reportedly causing no immediate damage or casualties.

The U.S. Geological Survey registered the initial earthquake with a magnitude of 7.1.

The epicenter was situated in the Bali Sea, around 181 kilometers (112 miles) northeast of Gili Air, a small island near Lombok Island adjacent to Bali. The quake occurred at an estimated depth of 513.5 kilometers (319 miles). Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysical Agency indicated that while there was no tsunami threat, aftershocks remained a concern.

The first aftershock was measured 5.4 in magnitude, followed by another of 5.6, both striking the Bali Sea shortly after the initial tremor just before dawn. Though the quake prompted many residents and tourists to flee buildings in search of higher ground, reassurances that no tsunami danger existed led to a return to normalcy.

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 A minor earthquake jolted the island of Bali, catching many residents off guard as they slept. Fortunately, this tectonic disturbance caused no significant harm or injuries.

Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) reported that the earthquake registered a magnitude of 3.1. The event took place at 11:37 p.m. local time, with its epicenter located just 7 kilometers southwest of Badung. The tremors were felt in nearby areas such as Denpasar, Jimbaran, and Kuta.

Despite its relatively small scale, no coastal areas were issued a tsunami warning. At the time of this writing, Bali has not reported any casualties or significant structural damage stemming from the earthquake.

Normal activities on the island remain largely unaffected, and travel advisories have not been deemed necessary. However, the incident serves as a reminder of Bali’s vulnerability due to its geographical location atop a tectonic hotspot.

Both tourists and residents are strongly advised to remain vigilant and to adhere to any guidance provided by local authorities in the event of an emergency. As Bali navigates its beautiful landscapes and rich cultural experiences, it’s essential to acknowledge and respect the potential risks tied to its natural surroundings.

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The difficulty of troublesome travelers, which comprised a German lady stripping in a temple in Ubud town and an American who vandalized a Balinese police vessel, ha turned to be so immoral that Bali Governor Wayan Koster has issued an instruction to attach a list of obvious dos and don’ts for tourist passports. As a minimum, till now, 136 non-citizens have been expelled by the local experts this year for various wrongdoings.

Beginning in 2024, the region will start charging a levy from all out-of-country tourists equivalent to nearly $10 for every person, with the profits going for ecological and traditional conservation.

With 439,475 tourists testified as of May, Bali’s tourism business has nearly increased fourfold ever since it
reopened to global tourists last year. After opening again, nonetheless, travelers again mingled in a wide
range of publicly improper actions, like brawling with police and getting involved in sexual doings in the
presence of others.

Furthermore, because of several visitors constantly breaching local traffic limits, the administration has affirmed that travelers would no longer be permitted to hire motorcycles.

Moreover, tensions have been increasing as a consequence of the recurrent insolence exhibited by
tourists to the people and their customs.

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The Governor of Bali Wayan Koster declared last week that he would be launching a tourism tax next year.

This move was on the cards some time and the provincial administration has officially started the
procedure of generating the statutory changes essential for implementing a tourist levy.

However, some people are not very pleased regarding this move. 

Speaking at the regional capital of Denpasar on the 12^th of this month, Governor Koster established that the long-awaited tourism levy would be presented next year.

In his talking, Koster delineated the details regarding why he and his management feel that this is the best choice in the long run. 

The Governor affirmed that the draft provincial rule on fees for overseas travelers to the Bali DPRD has been submitted.

The judicial alterations, once signed off, will allow the local administration to apply a localized levy on all
overseas entrances to Bali, whether by flight or sea. 

Governor Koster added that this new levy would be utilized for backing the oppression of Balinese values
and natural backdrops.

He said that Bali’s nature has turned to be a chief nationwide and global tourism
destination.

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In its latest crackdown on misbehaving visitors, Bali has suggested a ban on mountain climbing.The planned prohibition is part of Bali Governor Wayan Koster’s aim to reduce debauchery on the island.

Following a string of rude occurrences involving nudity, visitors may now be refused entry to sunrise hikes on Mount Batur and 21 other summits.

According to CNN, Koster announced the mountain-climbing ban with “immediate effect” at a news conference on May 31. The prohibition is said to apply to both inhabitants and visitors, except during religious activities.

Under Koster’s suggestion, tourists visiting Bali might soon be given instructions on how to dress modestly and conduct responsibly at holy areas.

However, tourism minister SandiagaUnoi subsequently stated that the plan was still under consideration and would need to be authorized by the local government, according to the UK publication The Independent.

A Russian influencer was deported last year after posing nude on a historic holy tree. Another traveler was detained in March when a semi-naked photo of him on Mount Agung went viral.

In June, a mountain hiking trip operator told National Geographic that he had not yet noticed any changes on the terrain.

Other steps to limit harmful and rude visitor behavior have already been implemented on the island.
Following a string of traffic violations by foreigners, officials stopped visitors from hiring motorcycles earlier this year. Instead, visitors are now urged to hire vehicles.

However, controversial plans to outlaw extramarital sex in Indonesia will not apply to foreigners.

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The Governor of Bali Koster has said that he will be initiating a tourism charge for all foreign tourists
coming to the island.

This plan has been thought about for months, and was finally established by the Governor in Denpasar on 12th July. 

Governor Koster has said that he and his local administration have submitted the Draft Regional
Regulation regarding charges for overseas travelers to the Bali DPRD.

The draft regulation is a sequence of jurisdictive alterations that will let Bali impose a tourism levy that
will offer reserves for safeguarding Balinese values and the atmosphere. 

The draft rules have been submitted and need to be officially signed off before they can be applied.

It appears that tourism levy will be in effect in 2024; however, there is a prospect that the jurisdictive alterations could be accelerated and implemented quicker than that. 

The charge of IDR 150,000 would be applied for every global tourist coming to Bali. Governor Koster said that the charge will be applicable in Indonesian Rupiah for staying sincere to global exchange charges.

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The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali is thrilled to announce the appointment of Sander Looijen as its new General Manager. With an impressive track record of success in the hospitality industry, Sander brings a wealth of experience and a refreshing perspective to the Resort.

His leadership skills and unwavering commitment to guest satisfaction make him the ideal candidate to elevate the reputation of The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali as the leading destination for travelers from around the globe. Under his guidance, the entire team of the Resort is ready to reach new heights of excellence in service, guest experience, and overall operational efficiency.

 Sander possesses exceptional people management skills refined through years of experience. His expertise extends beyond team leadership, encompassing brand execution and strategic planning, while his keen eye for culinary trends and food and beverage concept development will elevate the dining experiences offered within the Resort. Additionally, his proficiency in overseeing event management guarantees that the Resort’s adjacent, Bali International Convention Centre will remain the island’s pride for successfully rising above convention.

This inspiring leader began his journey with Marriott International in 2002 as Management Intern with The St. Regis Shanghai. Driven by consistency and passion for the Food and Beverage industry, he embarked on an impressive journey that led him to secure the positions in the Food and Beverage Operations departments of various esteemed Marriott International hotels scattered across the Asia Pacific.

In 2012, Sander undertook the position of Director of Restaurants & Bars for Marriott International in the Asia Pacific region. Entrusted with overseeing the Food and Beverage operations of an portfolio of over 100 hotels, his leadership and expertise propelled him to new heights. Soon after, Sander’s achievements led to his appointment as Area Director of Operations in South Korea, where he oversaw operational excellence and fostered growth within the region. As his leadership skill solidified, Sander successfully claimed the position as General Manager in Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa where his dedication is reflected in the awards that the resort received, such as The Top 20 Hotels in Thailand for Luxury and Service.

Sander’s most recent venture brought him to the role of Cluster General Manager at Sheraton Hong Kong Tung Chung Hotel and Four Points by Sheraton Hong Kong Tung Chung. Showcasing his leadership skills and dedication. He successfully set the stage for extraordinary guest experiences which then led the property to be awarded with “Hotel of the Year 2021” for Greater China region and “Best New Hotel” by Ctrip. He also left footprints by establishing the complex as a hotspot in Hong Kong for drinking and dining.

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The World Tourism Network worldwide conference – TIME 2023 will take place in Bali from September 29 to October 1.

Gearing up for the same, WTN united with Tourism Webinar planner and host of Bali’s ‘The journey of the heart, international symposium with expert panel.’

Dr. Taleb Rifai, WTN vice chair, who was the previous UNWTO Secretary-General, will be there in the panel,
in cooperation with Mr. Tjok Bagus Pemayun, the chief of the Bali Tourism Board, the chief of ASITA Bali, Mr. Putu Winatra and the Chairman of PATA, Mr. Peter Semone. They would be taking part under the
originator and director of tourism webinar, Dr. Reza Soltani.

Dr. Birgit Trauer, tourism social psychologist and a WTN member from Australia, will be controlling the
panel Central European Time on June 2, 08.00 a.m.

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The BaliSpirit Festival, Southeast Asia’s most anticipated event, is set to return in 2023 for its 15th edition. The festival, which is held annually in Ubud, Bali, celebrates the intersection of yoga, music, and dance, with a focus on fostering community and promoting sustainable living.

This year’s festival promises to be bigger and better than ever, with an exciting lineup of more than 100 world-class musicians, DJs, and artists from across the globe. Attendees can expect a diverse range of performances, from traditional Balinese music and dance to contemporary electronic music and fusion sounds.

In addition to the music, the festival also offers a wide variety of yoga and movement classes, as well as workshops on topics such as sustainability, wellness, and social activism. With a focus on mindfulness and personal growth, the BaliSpirit Festival is a unique opportunity to deepen one’s practice and connect with like-minded individuals from around the world.

The festival also prioritizes environmental sustainability and social responsibility, with efforts to minimize waste and promote eco-friendly practices. In line with this ethos, the festival organizers partner with local community organizations to support a range of social initiatives, including education and healthcare programs.

As the world emerges from the pandemic, the BaliSpirit Festival offers a much-needed opportunity for people to come together in celebration and solidarity. With its vibrant energy, diverse programming, and commitment to sustainability, the festival promises to be an unforgettable experience for all who attend.

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The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) and Visa are delighted to announce the completion of the Informal Workers Programme in Bali, Indonesia. The programme was created in 2021 as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic to support one of the most important – but often overlooked – stakeholders in the tourism industry: the informal workers. Having been successfully implemented in Bangkok, Thailand, PATA and Visa came together to expand the programme in another important destination in Southeast Asia: Indonesia.

The programme took place in Bali throughout March, and April and will continue in Jakarta in May. On International Women’s Day, March 8th, the first capacity building session began in Bali, at Kedonganan Beach, south of the island. The session was attended by 24 informal workers, including street food sellers, freelance photographers, parking attendants and fishermen. Participants learned about basic principles of service delivery, cross-cultural communication, and health and safety standards.

In the following days, the informal workers received training on business skills, financial management, business marketing and communication. They also learned the basics of mobile photography to better promote their services and products online.

The Informal Workers Programme in Indonesia is developed by PATA and Visa and implemented by our valuable member Wise Steps Consulting. Wise Steps is a consulting firm that works on national and regional projects to support sustainable development and responsible tourism.

According to PATA Chair Peter Semone, “We are delighted to be collaborating with Wise Steps again following the successful development and implementation of the Tourism Destination Resilience Programme. PATA sees great value in building the capacity of informal workers in Indonesia and across the Pacific Asia Region. After all, tourism is everybody’s business and with improved skills, livelihoods of marginalized people can grow.”

About the training programme in Bali, Riko Abdurrahman, Country Manager, Indonesia at Visa, adds, “Visa is proud to provide digital literacy and financial education specifically tailored to the needs of informal tourism workers, such as tour guides and transport drivers, who are an integral part of Bali’s tourism industry. As travel and tourism continue to accelerate post-COVID-19, our partnership with PATA will help enable individuals, businesses, and economies to thrive and deliver on our purpose to uplift everyone, everywhere by being the best way to pay and be paid.”

Pavnesh Kumar, PATA’s Sustainability and Social Responsibility Programme Head, who attended the programme in Bali, noted, “We are very excited to be able to assist in the recovery of the tourism sector in Bali by empowering these crucial players in the industry, which are the informal workers. It is also great to see that despite all challenges faced during this time, the informal workers are enthusiastic about learning new skills and reinventing themselves for the post-COVID tourism era.”

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