Food
Exciting Farm-to-Table Trends Transform Culinary Culture in Bali
Exploring the Aromatic Spices of Indonesian Cuisine
Celebrating Bali’s Wine Culture: A Guide to Balinese Wineries and Vineyards
Exploring the Aromatic Spices of Indonesian Cuisine
Exploring the Richness of Indonesian Cuisine: A Fusion of Flavors and Cultural Influences
The Latest Buzz: Food Critics Unveil Bali’s Trendiest Restaurants
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News
Indonesia’s immigration innovation : online visa extensions and 5-year multiple-entry visas
Indonesia’s Immigration Department, under the leadership of Director General Silmy Karim, is dedicated to enhancing the quality of services provided by the department. Karim envisions establishing a world-class immigration service that benefits Indonesian citizens, expatriates, and tourists. In recent months, the Department of Immigration, in collaboration with Karim, has unveiled various new services, visas, and strategies poised to transform the foreigner’s experience with immigration in Indonesia. In a recent announcement, Karim disclosed the launch of an online visa permit extension service through the website evisa.imigration.go.id. Emphasizing the department’s commitment to digitalization strategies, he stated, “Immigration continues to improve services through digitalization strategies. We launched this new service to simplify and expedite the stay permit extension process, eliminating the need for foreigners to physically visit the immigration office.” “Now, it can be done online, and there is no longer a need to stamp the stay permit on the passport because it is sent directly to the applicant’s email. Starting from applying for a visa and extending a stay permit, a foreigner can do it online through the Directorate General of Immigration official website.” Visa categories eligible for online extension include Holiday, Family, Transit Single-Entry Visitor Visa (index C1), Medical Treatment Single-Entry Visitor Visa (index C3), Foreign Government Official Trips Single-Entry Visitor Visa (index C4), Short Courses and Training Single-Entry Visitor Visa (index C9), and International Exhibition Single-Entry Visitor Visa (index C11). Karim assured that the new online extension feature, after successful trials, would be implemented starting December 31, 2023. This initiative aims to provide foreigners in Indonesia with a more convenient and efficient experience in processing visas and residence permits. Karim emphasized the Directorate General of Immigration’s commitment to continuous development in the online immigration service system, stating, “The continuous development of the online immigration service system carried out by Immigration is our commitment to digitalization. Our team continues to conduct studies, observations, and evaluations of developments in public needs to provide the best.” Tourists, business travelers, and expats in Bali can anticipate further updates to the immigration system in 2024. Notably, the department recently introduced the new 5-year multiple-entry visa for tourism and business purposes, known as D1 and D2 visas, which can be applied for online via the visa.imigration.go.id website. These visas, priced at IDR 15,000,000 (approx USD 970), offer unlimited entries and remain valid throughout the five-year period. Karim highlighted the department’s efforts to streamline the visa application process, stating, “The Directorate General of Immigration is trying to make it easier for foreigners to apply for an Indonesian visa online… The President’s direction is clear that digitalization is a solution to make services faster, easier, and better.” Looking ahead, tourists planning to visit Bali are encouraged to apply for their tourism visa before arrival. The eVisa on Arrival, available for travelers from 97 countries, costs IDR 500,000, is valid for 30 days, and can be extended once online or at immigration for an additional 30 days. Despite discussions about the potential return of visa-free travel for Bali’s top foreign arrivals, no legislative changes have been implemented thus far, according to the Tourism Minister.
The innovation of tourism taxes in Bali : how the island paradise is reinventing its revenues for local well being
Around the world, many tourist resorts are adopting an innovative approach by charging entrance fees, raising millions of euros in the process. At the heart of this trend, Indonesia recently introduced a tourist tax on the popular island of Bali. Foreign visitors attracted to this corner of paradise must now pay 150,000 Indonesian rupiahs (around nine euros). This article explores how Bali is using these funds to protect its natural and cultural environment, while addressing local challenges. Bali's new tourist tax, introduced in mid-February, aims to preserve the island's environment and culture. Inspired by practices adopted worldwide, this lucrative measure will enable Bali to reinvest these millions of euros to continue its efforts to improve the natural and cultural environment. The authorities are also focusing on improving services, safety and comfort for tourists, while developing integrated and connected infrastructures. Faced with problems such as traffic jams and waste management, Bali's tourism and hotel industry leaders are calling for transparency in the use of these funds. They want the revenue to benefit Bali's villages, which have become must-sees for tourists seeking authentic cultural and heritage experiences. Local initiatives in the villages aim to preserve customs and create economic opportunities for local people who are less directly affected by the economic impact of tourism. The test period preceding the implementation of the tax has already raised more than $100,000, underlining its positive potential. In Europe, Venice recently introduced a five-euro entrance fee, effective at weekends and on certain days from April to mid-July. This tax, designed to limit over-visitation and encourage longer visits, also funds services for local residents. By registering tourists on a dedicated website, the municipality can tailor public services to the number of visitors, while generating funds to improve the local quality of life. Councillor Simone Venturini assures us that this tax is not a way of making money, but an instrument for financing services for citizens, such as maintenance, cleaning and reducing the cost of living, including the possibility of reducing taxes on waste. The revenue from the tourist tax in Venice, estimated at 37 million euros in 2023, is legally earmarked to finance tourism-related facilities and services. This includes security staff, maintenance of the architectural heritage and support for annual cultural events such as the 'Festival of the Redeemer'. In Barcelona, the two-year increase in tourist tax is intended to fund the city's infrastructure, including roads, bus services and escalators. Revenues from the tourist tax finance innovative projects such as "Viu la vela", which promotes sailing among young people, and initiatives linked to the blue economy. In conclusion, Bali has distinguished itself by reinventing its approach to tourism taxes to protect its environment and support its local communities. Like Venice and Barcelona, these tourist destinations are strengthening their commitment to sustainable tourism management, marking a shift towards ethical and responsible initiatives. These innovative practices underline the importance of maximising the economic benefits of tourism while preserving cultural identity and environmental balance.
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Travel
Bali’s hidden waterfalls between jungle and crystal water
Looking for unforgettable adventures and breathtaking scenery? Let yourself be seduced by Bali's hidden waterfalls, where lush jungle and crystal-clear water offer a true paradise on earth. In this article, we take you on a tour of these magical places that are well worth a visit. The must-sees: Tegenungan, Gitgit and Munduk** Tegenungan:* Located near Ubud, this waterfall is easily accessible and offers an ideal place to cool off after a day of sightseeing. Gitgit : In the heart of the mountains of northern Bali, this impressive waterfall is surrounded by lush green vegetation and offers an exotic experience. Munduk: This small mountain village is home to several magnificent waterfalls, including Melanting, not to be missed during a stay in the region. Hidden Treasures: Nungnung, Banyumala Twin Waterfall and Sekumpul Nungnung: Lost in the middle of the jungle, this spectacular waterfall is often less frequented than the others, making it an ideal place to enjoy total immersion in nature. Banyumala Twin Waterfall: Two twin waterfalls join to form a natural pool where you can swim and relax. A true haven of peace! Sekumpul: Considered one of Bali's most beautiful waterfalls, Sekumpul is in fact a group of seven waterfalls spread over several levels. A hike in this part of the island is an unforgettable experience. Practical tips for visiting Bali's Hidden Waterfalls Before setting off on your adventure, here are a few practical tips to make the most of your discovery of Bali's hidden waterfalls: - Remember to bring shoes suitable for slippery and muddy terrain. - Respect nature and don't leave any rubbish behind. - Be aware of the local climate and avoid periods of heavy rain. Let yourself be charmed by the Wild Beauty of Bali's Hidden Waterfalls With their enchanting setting and crystal-clear water, Bali's hidden waterfalls are an invitation to get away from it all. Don't hesitate to get off the beaten track to discover these natural treasures and experience unforgettable moments in the heart of the Balinese jungle.
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