Traveling to the renowned Indonesian destination of Bali has become pricier with the recent implementation of a tourist tax starting this Wednesday.
The new tax, priced at 150,000 Rupiah ($9.61), can be paid online through the Love Bali website prior to arrival. Travelers who don’t pay in advance have the option to settle the fee at a cashless bank counter upon reaching the airport or harbor.
Officials, expressing optimism for the revitalization of the tourism industry, stated that the tax aims to contribute to the sustainability and maintenance of tourism. The funds collected will be allocated towards conservation efforts, protection of cultural heritage, implementation of quality tourism governance, and the development of public transportation facilities and infrastructure.
Online payment requires travelers to input credit card or bank information, along with passport details and arrival date. Certain exemptions to the tax include individuals with diplomatic or official visas, student visa holders, and those with temporary or permanent stay permits.
Bali is not the only destination enforcing a tourist tax. Venice plans to introduce a fee for day trippers, Iceland intends to charge travelers to support climate and sustainability goals, and cities like Paris and Amsterdam have raised existing taxes.
Despite the increased cost, the implementation coincides with Bali’s low season, typically spanning from January to March. Travelers visiting during this period can enjoy reduced crowds and overall lower prices, although they may encounter humid and rainy weather.