Bali to Reopen to Foreign Tourists Early Next Year, Says Official

Foreign tourists are still unable to travel to Bali until now as the government ban international travel to the popular island destination.

Deputy governor of Bali Tjokorda Oka Artha Ardana Sukawati, also known as Cok Ace, thwarted rumours that Bali will reopen on December 1.

"There are no plans to open (tours for foreign tourists) on December 1. It looks like it will be early next year (it will only open for foreign tourists)," says Cok Ace.

However, this must be taken with a grain of salt as the island paradise reopening has floated many times in the past but failed since the national government did not fully reopen its borders.

He explained that there were several conditions that must be met to push forward the reopening. "Because apart from all our efforts in Bali, the decision of the central government, as well as the condition of the market country is also very influential," Cok Ace said.

Bali is closely monitoring the COVID situation to ensure the safety of tourists and residents. Currently, the island reopened for domestic tourists since July and even encouraged more local travellers by offering free trips.