Bali tourism better than ever... Almost

The first four months have show that Bali tourism figures are at some of their highest ever with these figures not even seen prior to the calamities brought on by disasters either natural or man-made.

The January to April period has seen a 472,000 strong foreign inbound figure, and is the highest statistic since the turn of the century. This strong demand has been reflected in the 12.5% year-on-year growth in hotel room rates.

Strong growth has been seen recently in the Russia and India regions, and has been largely attributed to stronger air links and a more streamlined visa process, with the new Visa on Arrival (VOA) scheme.

But it seems from all this happy news, Australian tourism figures – traditionally one of Bali’s biggest source markets – are still down and the recovery pace is still slow. Recent diplomatic issues have seemingly rendered a rift that is becoming difficult to overcome.
“For Indonesia and Bali in particular, the Mart is just what the doctor ordered: a leading, global travel trade event to remind the travel trade that Bali is one of the world's great destinations,” said Peter de Jong, PATA President and CEO.

e-Travel Blackboard (press release), Australia