Bali has been a hot spot among millennial travelers and Instagrammers over the past few years. Travelers flock to the Indonesian island for relaxation and a chance to take photos at iconic locations like the Pura Luhur Lempuyang and the Bali swing. 

Although tourism had to come to a complete stop earlier this year because of the COVID-19 pandemic, things are looking up again and tourists will be able to return to the island this year. The Governor of Bali announced earlier this week that borders will reopen to international travelers on September 11, 2020. 

Governor Koster made the announcement after a mass prayer, asking for the blessing, guidance and protection of God. After the worship, Governor Koster said, “For this reason, we surrender completely and sincerely, while pleading with Him to be pleased to give the best gift to all of us.”

The Governor also said, “I ask all Bali manners to carry out activities in these three stages by applying the New Era of Life Order Protocol in an orderly, disciplined, and with a full sense of responsibility, such as: always wearing a mask/ face shield, keeping a distance, not crowding, diligently washing hands, and Clean and Healthy Behaviour, as well as maintaining endurance.”

The reopening will consist of three phases before fully being back in full swing on September 11th. 

Phase 1 – July 9th, 2020

In phase 1, businesses will reopen to local. The businesses cleared by the National Task Force for the Acceleration of Handing COVID-19 are health services, government offices, finance, transportation, restaurants, markets and agriculture. 

Tourist activities will remain closed during this time. 

Phase 2 – July 31st, 2020

Domestic tourism will be opened during phase 2. Indonesian travelers will be able to visit the island for vacation and attractions, tours and other tourism activities will reopen. 

Phase 3 – September 11th, 2020

Bali will reopen to International tourists during phase 3. It is unclear whether or not all International countries will be allowed to enter and if testing will be required or not. 

The ‘New Era of Life Order,’ set in place by Governor Koster will help locals who have been out of work since March because of the closing of Bali’s tourism industry. 

Please note that these phases are subject to change if COVID-19 cases rise.