confidence in bali's tourism boosted after government cancels plans to level-up restrictions during christmas and new year

Confidence has risen in Bali's tourism industry as officials and businesses expect a 50% increase in visitor numbers and hotel occupancy for the upcoming Christmas and New Year holidays, after that the central government withdrew from plans to tighten restrictions during the period.

The Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI) welcomed the government's decision to remove the stricter restrictions, which it said would increase hotel occupancy rates.

“We are very supportive, because we have already suggested it, because the situation in Indonesia, especially in Bali, is very favorable,” said I Gusti Ngurah Rai Suryawijaya of PHRI Bali.

“I hope that with the cancellation of PPKM Level 3 [Enforcement of restrictions on public activities], there will be an increase in hotel bookings,” Rai said.

According to PHRI data, around 10,000 domestic tourists have visited Bali every day over the past week. Rai estimates that number will rise to at least 15,000 tourists per day during the Christmas and New Year holidays.

Similar optimism has emerged from the Bali provincial government, with an official also expecting more visitors in the coming weeks.

“We remain focused on domestic tourists, as in previous years. Even if this year there will be no excessive activities for New Years Eve. I have no doubt that [the holiday period] will increase the number of visitors by around 50 percent, ”Bali Vice Governor Tjokorda Oka Artha Ardhana Sukawati or Cok Ace said.