Travelers hoping to visit Bali will have to wait for a while because according to a press conference last weekend, the popular tourist spot won’t open to international travelers until the end of 2020.
Governor Wayan Koster says, “After considering all the current factors that are of serious concern, it can’t be done.”
Bali had plans of reopening on September 11th but did not receive permission from Indonesia’s government officials.
The Governor of Bali reveals in an official press release, “The situation in Indonesia is not yet conducive to allow foreign tourists to visit Indonesia, including Bali”
According to the Indonesian government, COVID-19 cases are still rising, making it impossible to allow international borders to reopen.
“This must not be rushed and requires very careful preparation. This is due to Bali’s position as one of the world’s main tourist destinations,” says Governor Koster.
The Governor goes on to say, “Bali must not fail because it will have a negative impact on the image of Indonesia, including Bali in the eyes of the world, which could have counter-productive consequences for tourism recovery efforts.”
Bali’s government will continue to encourage domestic tourism to help boost the economy until the end of 2020.