Newly released travel data reveals that tourists visiting Bali are spending less time on the island compared to previous years. This trend has raised questions about the reasons behind this change.
According to Tjokorda Bagus Pemayun, the Head of the Bali Provincial Tourism Office, there are several factors contributing to the shorter stays. He emphasized the importance of attracting “quality and dignified tourists” who respect Balinese cultural customs. One example of a quality tourist, as suggested by Pemayun, is someone who travels with the assistance of a travel agent and a private driver. This aligns with Governor Koster’s proposal to ban tourists from driving in Bali, which would require them to hire a government-approved travel agent for transportation.
Despite different interpretations of a quality tourist, the travel data clearly indicates that the average international visitor to Bali is spending less time on the island. Pemayun revealed that based on immigration data, the average stay is now seven days, whereas in 1990, it was 21 days.
One factor influencing this change is the increased accessibility of travel and the normalization of international tourism. In the past, visiting Bali was a more challenging endeavor, but with the introduction of low-cost airlines in Southeast Asia and improved transportation hubs, it has become easier for travelers from various regions to visit the island.
While the data shows that travelers are spending less time in Bali, it could also indicate that there is a greater number of overall visitors compared to the 1990s. This has been a goal for Bali’s tourism leaders, who have worked to promote the island through social media and travel content creators.
The reduction in the average stay of tourists in Bali can be attributed, in part, to the increased ease of travel to and from the island. Both long-haul and short-haul flights have become quicker and more affordable than ever before. As a result, international travelers, including expats, are taking advantage of this convenience and visiting Bali for shorter trips, such as weekend getaways or week-long vacations.
Australian travelers, who are the most frequent international visitors to Bali, benefit from regular flight deals and promotions, making it easier for them to visit for shorter durations. Additionally, Bali’s officials have expressed their desire to attract more tourists from countries like China, Japan, and India. Travel data indicates that visitors from these countries typically spend 4-6 days in Bali before returning home.
While tourism stakeholders in Bali would prefer longer stays to increase tourist spending, it is now more feasible for visitors to extend their time on the island. Indonesia offers a visa on arrival for international arrivals, costing IDR 500,000, which is valid for 30 days. This visa can be extended for an additional 30 days, allowing tourists to explore Bali and other Indonesian islands for up to two months.
