Bali, a paradise for beach lovers has given hope to all wanderers out there amid the gloom of the current pandemic. While we are relying on our travel throwbacks on Instagram and wish lists to cure our itchy feet, the latest news is certainly a cause of celebration. And it is because the Indonesian government has expressed the possibility of opening its borders to tourists in October.
Bali remains one of the top destinations for backpackers in the Indonesian archipelago. With its scuba sites, active volcanoes, crystal clear beaches and cultural sites, it is one a bucket list destination for many people. Last year, Bali was a hit with an arrival of 16.1 million foreign tourists flocking to it, according to The Jakarta Post. Moreover, its economy is relies on tourism with about 80% of the population directly or indirectly dependent on this sector.
A ray of hope for tourists
In the wake of COVID-19 pandemic, Bali closed its borders and halted its policy of visa-on-arrival. However, the current good news is that as of Friday, the country has shown signs of recovery and managing the crisis well. A total of 343 cases and four deaths only have been reported from here which is well below the fatality rate on a national level of 16,496 cases and 1,076 deaths, as per Reuters.
If the curve continues to flatten and the spread of infection is curbed, it is expected that the tourism industry will start welcoming international tourists from October. It also aims to set a standard in the tourism industry across the world by implementing a concept of health protocols called CHS (Cleanliness, Health, Safety) as suggested by its tourism ministry. This program will be aimed at ensuring sustainable tourism in current times with focus on health and hygiene.
Way forward
In a press statement from Ministry of Tourism, it is stated that Bali is set as the pilot project on the implementation of CHS program, to later be implemented to other destinations in Indonesia. The first place proposed to be blessed with this movement in Bali is the island of Nusa Dua because of its strategic location and lavish resorts.
Tourism Secretary, Ni Wayan Giri Adnyani, said that the CHS movement is intended to win the trust of tourists and tourist destinations during the pandemic. The Ministry shall set out comprehensive guidelines for post-COVID-19 tourism in Bali between June and October. If everything goes according to the plan, tourists can start prepare to the head to the sun, sea and sands of Bali from October onward.