As of: January 30, 2024, 2:35 p.m
By: Franziska Kaindl
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Tourists in Bali are being asked to pay more and more strictly by the government.
The travel industry now fears that holidaymakers will switch to competing countries.
Fantastic beaches, tropical forests and impressive rice fields: Bali is a worthwhile travel destination for both active vacationers and those seeking relaxation and is on the bucket list of many globetrotters.
However, time out on the Indonesian island is becoming increasingly expensive: the government not only wants to introduce a tourist tax in February, but has now also increased the so-called entertainment tax.
Bali tourists incur some additional costs
The entertainment tax, or more precisely the goods and services tax for the entertainment sector (PBJT), has been increased nationwide from 10 to 35 percent to 40 to a maximum of 70 percent, as reported by the
Bali Sun
newspaper .
It has been in effect since January, among other things, for discos, karaoke bars, nightclubs, bars and spas and is added directly to holidaymakers' bills - wherever entertainment is on offer.
The tourism industry in Bali now fears that holidaymakers could look elsewhere.
Bali is a fascinating country - but it is becoming increasingly expensive for tourists.
© Matej Kastelic/Imago
They not only face the massively increased entertainment tax, but also a general tourist tax, which the government wants to introduce in mid-February.
From then on, every traveler has to pay 150,000 rupees (the equivalent of around 9 euros) if they want to travel to Bali, including children.
And this despite the fact that holidaymakers already have to shell out 500,000 rupees (around 30 euros) for a 30-day visa.
A trip to the neighboring islands of Gili Islands, Lombok and Java will also be more expensive because the tourist tax has to be paid again on the return trip to Bali.
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Tourist tax aims to solve Bali's garbage problem
The government has been discussing the introduction of a tourist tax for several months.
Initially there was even talk of the equivalent of up to 138 euros per traveler.
The proceeds will be used to make Bali a more lucrative destination for quality tourism.
Tourists looking for cheap entertainment are more likely to cause problems, Bali Tourism Board Chairman Ida Bagus Agung Partha Adnyana said during the discussions.
The island has a major garbage problem that it wants to finally get under control with the help of the additional funds.
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However, the tourism industry in Bali is watching this development with concern, particularly with regard to competition.
While taxes are being increased in the Indonesian holiday destination, Thailand is reducing taxes on wine and entertainment venues from ten to five percent.