In response to Amsterdam’s recent measures targeting rowdy British tourists, Bali is now considering implementing a cap on the number of visitors to the popular holiday destination.
Bali, known as the “Island of the Gods,” has long been a beloved spot for backpackers. However, due to a series of controversies and disruptive incidents involving tourists, the Indonesian government is reevaluating its approach and prioritizing quality over quantity.
Instances such as a tourist filming himself naked at a sacred Hindu site, another tourist causing a disturbance during a religious ritual, and a complaint filed by tourists about roosters crowing at dawn have prompted the government to explore imposing restrictions on tourism.
Under the proposed regulations, tourists would need to meet specific criteria and demonstrate sufficient funds for their stay before entering the island. Bali aims to limit the number of tourists to seven million per year. With a population of 4.3 million, the island experienced 6.3 million visitors in 2019, up from 2.2 million a decade prior.
The surge in tourism has resulted in increased congestion, traffic violations, and a significant amount of waste, placing a strain on the local community. Governor Wayan Koster highlighted the need for a comprehensive evaluation to regulate the entry of foreign tourists, emphasizing the importance of maintaining Balinese culture and local values.
In addition to considering the tourism cap, Bali recently implemented a ban on tourists driving mopeds due to antisocial behavior.
This move by Bali follows Amsterdam’s campaign warning rowdy British tourists, particularly those engaging in disruptive behavior related to sex and drugs, to stay away from the city. The digital campaign specifically targeted men aged 18 to 35 from the UK.
As tourist destinations around the world grapple with the challenges posed by large visitor numbers and inappropriate behavior, Bali’s potential tourism cap and Amsterdam’s measures demonstrate a growing trend of prioritizing responsible and respectful tourism practices.
